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: Multiple sheets spiral bound together as a unit by a continuous filament. The sheets have a plurality of closely spaced perforations aligned along an edge thereof. The filament is an elongated rod-like member having an outer surface and a centrally-located longitudinal axis. The filament is flexible and is disposed in spiral configuration through the perforations. The filament additionally comprises an inner surface defined by an internal elongate passage extending therethrough. The internal opening facilitates crimping of the inventive filament after it has been spiraled into a plurality of closely spaced perforations aligned along an edge of a stack of sheets. The internal opening in the filament also provides improved control over the outer dimension of the filament during manufacture.