FAQ

Are the Clear Handle Brush Tips interchangeable?

The collection of “Clear Handle” brushes is made from first choice and carefully controlled Kolinsky sable hair. This offers you the confidence of the best possible quality: a very sharp and stable point as well as a superior hair resilience.

With a concern for durability and rationalization, Smile Line has developed all sizes with exchangeable brush tips.

Are the Tips interchangeable? Tips are only interchangeable among the same size. For example, all three different #8 tips fit the #8 handle and a #6 fits a #6 handle, but a #6 will not fit a #8 handle.

What is the difference between the #8LT, #8BIG, and #8R?

The shape of your brush tip matches your build-up technique or style. This is the reason why we propose not one but three different shapes of #8 brush tips: The #8R, the “Regular Tip,” is a regular-sized tip and is the best seller; the #8LT, the “Long Tip,” has a longer and sharper tip for those who prefer it; and the #8BIG, the “Big Tip," is for those who want a thicker and more rigid tip.

How do I care for my Kolinsky brush tips?

Proper use, together with correct care and cleaning, will ensure your brushes have longer life.
   • Storage is important—always keep your brushes aired and, whenever possible, in the upright position. Natural hair needs to breathe in order to prevent mold growth.
   • Moulting or shedding hair from a new brush is a normal process. Once the brush is broken in and has followed a few porcelain build-up sessions the moulting will stop. Always thoroughly rinse a new brush before the first use, to remove the material used to set the head.
   • Always clean a good quality brush thoroughly after each porcelain build-up session. For fine hair, such as Kolinsky, rinse in cold water.  Remove as much moisture as possible from your brushes with a tissue and reshape them before storing. To increase the longevity of the  brush head and tip we recommend taking ordinary hair conditioner and applying just one or two drops to the heads, allowing the brushes to soak and then rinsing them well before storing again. This will greatly enhance the performance of the brush. Conditioning the brush hairs must be done at least once a month.
   • Expensive brushes, especially ones with a perfect, sharp, tapered point shouldn't be used to mix the porcelain powders. Instead buy a less expensive alternative and save your points.
   • Always have a set of brushes for each medium you use. It is false economy to use the same brushes for all applications. 'Crossing over' from one medium to another can prove expensive and disastrous when contamination occurs.

What is the porcelain Sampler and how does it work?

Porcelain Sampler: Personal Shade Tab Maker

This very precise tool allows you to produce porcelain tabs of a determined thickness from your personal blends in a very simple and professional way. It is also extremely useful for porcelain firing tests. Tabs are produced with a diameter of 10-10.5 mm (measured after firing and depending on the condensation and the brand of porcelain). By unscrewing the piston of the porcelain sampler, you determine the exact thickness of your porcelain tab. One 360 degree turn of the piston (or one engraved line on the side) corresponds to a thickness of 0.5mm.

Do I need a Porcelain Separator in order to use the Sampler?

Do I Need a Porcelain Separator In Order to Use the Porcelain Sampler?

The use of a porcelain separator is not necessary—the flat top of the sampler has been hi-gloss polished.

What is the proper care for my Membranes and Porcelain Plates?

Proper Care for Your Membranes and Porcelain Palates

How do I clean my membranes and how often?

How do I clean it? How often should I clean it?

In order to prolong the life of your membrane and brush tips, while maximizing the productivity and efficiency of your tray, it is recommended to follow these simple instructions:

How long will my membranes last?

The white and black membranes are high-tech products and, therefore, are delicate. Since the ceramic powders are self-humidified, the use of spatulas is unnecessary. DO NOT USE METALLIC spatulas on the membranes for mixing, they can damage the membranes. An agate spatula or glass rod is recommended.

U-mid membranes should be cleaned with tap water once a week. Lay the membrane on the palm of your hand and wash it under running water. Consistent cleaning and care will optimize the capillary action of the filter and will keep ceramic materials in excellent condition for your build-ups. The grain of the ceramic powders is abrasive and will slowly use up the membrance surface. The typical life cycle for optimum results is 3-4 months.

Special information on the black membranes?

The nature of the material used for manufacturing the black membrane is different from the white membranes. The black membrane is more delicate and has a lower resistance to tearing. It is advised to first place a white membrane on the ceramic plate and then a black one on top of it. Very careful handling when cleaning is required. For cleaning, the same process is used as the process for cleaning the white ones.

How do I clean the porcelain plate?

The ceramic base plate is designed for years of use; however, some care may be required. In order to work in a hygienic environment, it is necessary to clean the ceramic plate once a week with a light steam cleaning. No additional maintenance should be required. However, should you notice any bacterial build-up, accumulated ceramic, or a reduction in the amount of moisture being transported, we have a few suggestions:

1. Aggressive steam treatment and complete drying
2. Submersion in 10% bleach solution and water for 2 hours, steam cleaning, then complete drying.