Synthetic squirrel round for smooth watercolour work. Soft flow with a usable point.
The Raphael SoftAqua 845 is a synthetic squirrel round brush for watercolour painting. Unlike the 805 mop, the 845 is a more traditional round profile — still very soft and absorbent, but with a more conventional shape that offers versatility across wash work and general watercolour painting.
The SoftAqua fibres deliver a gentle, flowing stroke without the scratchy feel that cheaper synthetics can have. For watercolourists who want the softness of squirrel without the cost or ethical concerns, the 845 is a practical choice that handles everything from medium washes to soft background work.
What makes this brush special
Synthetic squirrel-imitation fibres in a round profile. Soft, flowing stroke character for gentle paint application. Better point than a mop for more versatile watercolour work. Good paint capacity with smooth, even release.
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
General watercolour painting with a soft, flowing brush
Medium-sized washes and backgrounds
Soft blending and graduated colour transitions
Vegan-friendly alternative to natural squirrel hair
Technique & use
General Painting
Glazing & Blending
Wash Application
Less ideal for
Precise detail or controlled line work
Miniature painting where firmer brushes give more control
Thick paints, acrylics, or oils
Painters who prefer a crisp, snappy brush response
Size chart coming soon — variant dimensions not yet populated for this series.
How to care for your brush
Rinse after each session. Clean with brush soap periodically. The soft fibres reshape easily — form the point gently after washing. Store horizontally or in a brush roll. Avoid rough handling that could permanently deform the soft fibres.
