Are you searching for an affordable yet high-quality acrylic brush that delivers professional results? Look no further! This review dives deep into my experience with the CADS Kolinsky Sable brush, a surprisingly inexpensive find on Amazon that exceeded my expectations. I'll walk you through the unboxing, the crucial starch removal process, and a comparison to my previous brushes to highlight the significant difference in quality. Get ready to see this budget-friendly brush in action as I demonstrate its performance in creating a flawless acrylic nail application.This detailed review covers everything from the initial packaging and brush inspection to the actual application process. I'll share tips on preparing the brush, including the essential step of removing the factory starch. You'll see a comparison between this CADS Kolinsky Sable brush and a less-expensive option, illustrating the superior quality and performance of the Kolinsky Sable hair. Finally, I’ll reveal my overall verdict on whether this brush truly lives up to the hype and deserves a spot in your nail kit.
Pros And Cons
- Much better quality than a number eight brush
- Makes application easier
- Comes with starch that needs to be removed before use
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The CADS Kolinsky Sable brush arrived in a simple package. I was eager to get started, so I opened it right away to confirm the brush was inside. The packaging was pretty standard, nothing fancy.
The brush itself is labeled as a CADS Kolinsky Sable acrylic nail art manicure tool, number 12. Made in China, it's a decent-looking brush. The handle feels sturdy enough, promising durability.
Removing the Starch
New brushes often contain starch to maintain their shape during shipping. This one was no exception; a noticeable white powder was present. I used a wooden stick and monomer (Mia Secret Monomer, linked in the description) to carefully remove the starch, ensuring the brush was clean and ready for use.
The process of removing the starch is crucial for preparing the brush for application. It prevents any unwanted residue from affecting the final result.
Brush Quality and Comparison
Compared to my previous number eight brush, this number twelve Kolinsky Sable brush is significantly better in quality. The quality difference was immediately noticeable.
When buying acrylic brushes, look for 100% Kolinsky Sable for the best results. These have a darker tip and sometimes a few stray hairs; this is how they differ from synthetic nylon brushes. Nylon brushes are not suitable for acrylics as the acrylic will get stuck.
Application Demo
I prepped a nail using MKDR 3XL square nail tips (number four). I used Glamour Nails brush-on glue to apply the tip, ensuring a smooth, even fit from sidewall to sidewall. Remember to blend tips for a natural, seamless appearance.
After applying two layers of Q-Touch primer, I began applying acrylic using the CADS Kolinsky Sable brush. The video shows a sped-up version of the application process.
Final Results and Conclusion
After shaping, filing, and buffing, the finished nail looked significantly improved. While I still have room for improvement in my application techniques, the brush made the process much easier.
Overall, the CADS Kolinsky Sable brush is a fantastic option for acrylic nail application. It’s inexpensive, high-quality, and provides a superior application compared to other brushes I’ve used. I highly recommend it!
