This excellent Japanese Hake brush, made by Michihamono of Japan, has horse hair bristles, which are stiff bristles at the base but smooth at the tips, perfect for applying pigment and paste around a woodblock relief. Also available in 15mm & 24mm sizes (sold separately).Approximate Dimension & Product Data:• Bristles (Horse Hair) - 20mm• Wooden HandleTo use this Woodblock Printing Brush, place the paint and the paste on the woodblock, then using the brush, mix the paint and paste on the surface of the woodblock. Spread the paint and paste in a small, side to side, or backward and forward stroke (depending on what is a more comfortable motion for you), then gradually moving around the woodblock until the paint is spread throughout the woodblock.To split the ends of this brush, first, singe the ends of the bristles using a pan over a hot plate. Hold the brush with its bristles touching the pan surface. After singeing, dip the ends of the bristles in water then run it firmly over a dragon skin sanding sheet or any similar sanding sheet. This will help soften the bristles. Finally, wash the brush with soap and water, then rinse thoroughly. Make sure to dry the brush before storing it. Hang the brush to dry or place it on a solid surface with the bristles hanging over the edge of the surface.Please note: Use gloves when rubbing the brush along the sanding sheet and singeing the tool.