Lettering Brush Comparison Guide
Compare the brushes working sign painters actually use — and choose the right one for the job.
Call 1-800-531-3359 — We’ll help you choose.
Most common starting point: Grey Quill 189L + Mack Jet-Stroke Flat + 1 Shot
The Main Lettering Brushes
Mack Jet-Stroke Flats (1962)
America’s favorite lettering flat. Heavy paint load for large letters and fills.
America’s favorite lettering flat. Heavy paint load for large letters and fills.
Soft Stroke Flats (1992)
Softer brown version of the classic Jet-Stroke. Sizes and full sets.
Softer brown version of the classic Jet-Stroke. Sizes and full sets.
Grey Quills 189L
Excellent all-around quill for medium to small lettering.
Excellent all-around quill for medium to small lettering.
Brown Quills 179L
Softer brown squirrel. Preferred for glass and smooth surfaces.
Softer brown squirrel. Preferred for glass and smooth surfaces.
Comparison Table
| Brush | Best for | Feel |
|---|---|---|
| Jet-Stroke Flats (1962) | Large letters, fills | Firm with snap |
| Soft Stroke Flats (1992) | Large letters, fills | Softer |
| Grey Quills 189L | General lettering | More snap, durable |
| Brown Quills 179L | Glass, smooth surfaces | Softer, flexible |
Starter Recommendations
New to sign painting
Grey Quill 189L + 1 Shot + Mastering Layout
Grey Quill 189L + 1 Shot + Mastering Layout
Glass or gold leaf work
Brown Quills 179L + gold leaf + size
Brown Quills 179L + gold leaf + size
Large letters & production
Mack Jet-Stroke Flats (1962 or 1992)
Mack Jet-Stroke Flats (1962 or 1992)
FAQ
Grey vs Brown quill?
Grey = better all-around. Brown = softer, preferred for glass.
Grey = better all-around. Brown = softer, preferred for glass.
1962 vs 1992 flats?
Both excellent. 1992 is slightly softer.
Both excellent. 1992 is slightly softer.
How to clean them?
Clean with proper thinner, then condition with light oil.
Clean with proper thinner, then condition with light oil.
Related
Sign Painting Supplies
Full selection of brushes, paint, and leaf.
Full selection of brushes, paint, and leaf.
All Brushes
Lettering, outlining, and pinstriping brushes.
Lettering, outlining, and pinstriping brushes.
1 Shot Enamel
The standard lettering enamel.
The standard lettering enamel.
Call 1-800-531-3359
Tell us the surface and letter size. We’ll recommend the right brush.