Chikuhodo-which ones to get?

Oct 17, 2015

Mar F.

So, I'm thinking about buying my first Chikuhodo brushes, which I'm super excited about. But, let's face it, it's a big investment to make, so I need to think it through!

I'm leaning more towards the Z line: definitely getting the Z-2 brush. However, I am a bit more confused when it comes to picking a powder brush and a blush one. For blush I'm torn between a Z-4 and a Z-8. For powder I'm considering the Z-1 vs. Z-9 (the MK-2 even) I'd love to know what kind of hair are the bristles of the MK, since it doesn't say in the description.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Oct 18, 2015

Kitty K.

Chikuhodo brushes are the bomb! They definitely have a luxurious feel to them and don't feel like brushes at all- they feel like silk.

From the Z-Line I own the Z-4. I choose the Z-4 over the Z-8 due to the fact that it's smaller and allows me to place product more accurately. The size of the Z-4 also allows me to use it as a highlighter as well!
For my powder brush I actually ended up choosing the Powder brush by Rae Morris which uses Blue Squirrel hair. It's softer than gray squirrel but feels a tad bit less silkier than gray squirrel.
The difference between the Z-1, Z-9, and the MK-2 are the length of the bristles.
The Z-1 is 45mm, the Z-9 is 52mm, and the MK-2 is also 52mm but the only difference between the MK-2 and the Z-9 is the design on the handle.
The Makie series also uses Gray squirrel hair like the Z- Series! Do let us know which ones you end up choosing!

Oct 18, 2015

Mar F.

Thank you so much for your feedback!!
I've just added the Rae Morris to my wish list :) however I don't think it substitutes a Chikuhodo powder brush, since they are a bit more flat shaped (correct me if I'm wrong, since I only have the pictures to go on)
I still would like to know the difference between the Z-1 and Z-9 on a more practical level. I get the feeling, however, if I do get the Rae Morris powder brush, that the Z-9 would be a bit more complimentary.
As far as the blush brush goes, I'm still torn... I've read so much about the Z-2+Z-8 combo!

Oct 20, 2015

Mar F.

Hello Jacqueline!! That was very informational! I can say I learned a bit more about japanese handcrafted brushes 😊 seriously, your knowledge us deeply appreciated. However, I think I'm going to stick to the Z-line. The fact that it is my first venture into the brand doesn't mean that it's my first set of japanese brushes. I understand that Chikuhodo is a very special brand, that's why when it got to the point in my career when I wanted a squirrel brush I turned straight to it. I do want to make that investment, so any advice on how to take special proper care will be deeply appreciated! My brushes are among my dearest possessions, and I plan to treat them with the respect they deserve.