Do you have good synthetic brushes with curled back ends?
Here is something that may help *if they are not beyond repair.
- Clean the brush thoroughly to remove any mediums or paint
- Get a Pyrex measuring cup, fill with about an inch and a half of water - or enough that you can dip the full length of the bristles.
- WITHOUT the brush, bring the water just to a boil
- Carefully remove Pyrex cup from Microwave (water can flash boil when moved)
- dip the tip of the afflicted brush into the hot water for a few seconds
- Squeeze out the water with a pad of paper towels over your fingers (careful, it is HOT)
- Dip your warm brush into Gum Arabic - smooth and shape the warm bristles with your fingers
- Allow to dry