Long-haired Kolinsky sable round for watercolour and botanical work. Maximum flow and capacity.
The Raphael 8408 is the longest-haired variant in Raphael's Kolinsky sable round range. Where the 8404 balances belly and control, and the 8400 prioritises compactness, the 8408 maximises hair length for superior paint capacity and flowing, expressive strokes.
This is a brush designed primarily for watercolourists and botanical painters who need to lay down long, continuous strokes without reloading. The longer hair gives a softer, more flexible feel with beautiful flow characteristics. For miniature painters it may feel too flexible, but for watercolour work it is exceptional — carrying large washes smoothly to the paper with a responsive, natural point.
What makes this brush special
Longest hair length in the Raphael Kolinsky round range. Maximum paint capacity and flow for extended, uninterrupted strokes. Softer, more flexible feel than 8404 — designed for watercolour expressiveness. Excellent natural point that forms from the quality of the Kolinsky hair.
Medium compatibility
Watercolour
Smooth flow for washes, controlled lines and fine points.
Gouache
Handles opaque water-based paint when thinned to a brush-friendly consistency.
Ink
Good for fluid inks; clean promptly after use.
Great for
Watercolour painting where long, flowing strokes are essential
Large washes and glazes where paint capacity saves time
Painters who prefer a soft, expressive brush feel
Technique & use
Detail Work
Glazing & Blending
General Painting
Less ideal for
Miniature painting where shorter, firmer brushes give more control
Precise detail work requiring a stiff, compact brush
Drybrushing or rough techniques
Painters who prefer a firm, snappy brush response
Set contents coming soon — we're documenting every brush in this collection.
How to care for your brush
Rinse thoroughly after each session. The longer hairs need careful reshaping — work brush soap through gently and form the point before drying. Store horizontally in a brush roll or case. The longer profile is slightly more vulnerable to damage, so handle with care. Avoid leaving in water or using with thick, gritty paints.
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E
E.M.
Fabulous brushes
The best brushes I have found and Hobby Heaven has the best prices for them.
J
Jana Fewkes
Excellent brushes
Excellent brush set. Best price I found them for! I can not fault Hobby Heaven, despatch and delivery were super quick. The Raphael 8408 brush set is great value and amazing quality. I paint watercolour and these have amazing spring, brilliant point and excellent precision. And my husband bought me size 4 as a treat from hobby heaven too :) now I have the perfect set for all my needs. Will be definitely back for more brushes when needed. Thank you
S
Sarah Roberts
Top quality brushes at best price around
Professsional-quality sable watercolour brushes with a large belly for excellent coverage and a superfine tip for tight control of details and fine lines. Each brush is well-balanced and a joy to use. The perfect spring and snap for HP watercolour paper. These are fantastic value for money and postage was very quick.
