Abstract: A synthetic bristle including a substantially continuous phase of polymer with spaced-apart microparticles in the interior thereof, at least some of said microparticles being close to the surface thereof for creating rough and irregular surface regions. The bristle can include a blowing agent in it, in addition to the microparticles, and the microparticles preferably are hollow glass beads. Brushes employing at least 5% by weight of the bristles of this invention also constitute a part of this invention, with the preferred brushes being applicator brushes, such as paintbrushes.

Abstract: A polymer bristle (100) for a liquid-applying brush such as a paint brush includes in cross section a central bore (95), an annulus (96) and preferably three radiating spokes (97) with parallel sides and rounded tips. The bristle is tapered from a thick end (101) that is bundled into the ferrule of a brush toward a thin end (103). The bristle may be flagged by slits (130).