For centuries, artisans have valued horsehair for its long-lasting strength, adaptable nature, and inherent shine—qualities that make it a go-to material for premium brushes. Two principal varieties exist: mane hair, which is softer and sourced from the horse’s neck or back, and tail hair, which is firmer and collected from the tail. Mane hair thrives in delicate settings like precise painting, while tail hair’s rigidity excels in brushes needing extra backbone.

To meet varied needs, horsehair is sorted into specific length groups: 4–8 inches, 9–12 inches, 13–15 inches, 16–17 inches, 18–21 inches, and 22–26 inches. This wide range allows brush makers and users alike to pick the exact size suited to each unique application.

Horsehair typically comes in three main shades—black, white, or a blended bicolor. Each shade not only presents a distinct look but may also feel slightly different in firmness or texture, influenced by the horse’s lineage and regional factors.

Most horsehair supplies hail from Inner Mongolia in China and neighboring Mongolia. Once collected, the hair is subjected to thorough boiling and disinfection for optimal cleanliness. It then passes through four crucial stages:

1.Pegboard Hanging: Eliminates debris and unwanted strands.

2.First Combing: Smooths out one side of the hair.

3.Second Combing: Aligns the opposite end.

4.Tying or Wrapping: Bunches the bristles for efficient storage.

This meticulous process creates clean, consistent bristles suited for high-quality brushes in painting, cleaning, and more.