Scrubbing paint on with a brush as in the photo above is very harsh on the bristles. It bends them out against the brush ferrule, and with extended abuse the brush will be reluctant to reshape itself into its 'normal' shape.
Keep an old brush for doing this, or buy a cheap one. Don't waste your expensive Kolinsky sable brush by using it for this.
See Also: Know Your Painting Brushes: Hairs and Bristles
5 Ways to Ruin an Art Paint Brush
By Marion Boddy-Evans, About.com Guide
Use It as a Scrubbing Brush
Image: ©2007 Marion Boddy-Evans. Licensed to About.com, Inc.
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