Brushes
Size
The primary brush sizes you will need are 0, 1, and 2. While smaller sizes exist (such as 00 and 000), we generally don't recommend them. Precise detail work requires a sharp tip, not necessarily a smaller brush. Tiny brushes hold very little paint, causing it to dry on the bristles before you even touch the model.
For "surgical" tasks—like painting eyes or script on a purity seal—you might actually find more success using a toothpick or an ultra-fine pigment liner pen.
Material
Synthetic brushes: Cheap and perfect for beginners. Be warned that the plastic fibers tend to lose their shape over time, so you have to replace them after a while. We recommend the Munkácsy brand, it's affordable and has good quality.
Kolinsky Sable: Considered the gold standard of the hobby, these brushes are made from natural hair that possesses a unique "snap," allowing the bristles to spring back to a perfect point every time. They feature a larger belly that holds more paint and moisture. With some care, you will be using them for a long time.
IMPORTANT: Do not use expensive brushes with washes, one-coat and metallic paints. They permanently damage the brush, switch to synthetic instead.