KOLINSKY:

Red sable comes from the tails of the Kolinsky or the Red Tartar Marten. These animals are from Siberia, the Republic of Korea, Upper China or Mongolia. The red sable is the thickest at the belly, which is halfway between the root and the tip of the hair. The tip tapers to a natural point and the belly portion gives the brush elasticity or “spring”. Sign painters refer to this as “snap” The root portion of the hair goes into the ferrule of the brush. The highest quality will be labeled “100% pure Kolinsky Red Sable”, the next lower grade will be labeled “Red Sable”, and lower grades will be labeled :Red Sable Blend”. The best grades of Red Sable are expensive, but last a lifetime, thus worth the price.