> Here is what I do. I don't claim to be a pro, but this works for me:

> First I clean the container with thinner and a rag. I use plastic
> containers like cottage cheese cups. Then I put clean thinner in, about
> 1/2" in the bottom. I clean the brush in that, working it into the
> brush and shaking it out, usually onto the floor in a big mess, or
> outside. Have good ventilation. I repeat this process, using fresh thinner
> each time, until I can no longer get dirty thinner off the brush. It takes
> 6 to 8 times. The only good brush I have is several years old.

> I have read, and tried this, too, but eventually it dried anyway: Not to
> dry the brush, rather hang it such that the tips float in thinner not
> touching the bottom. The brush wont warp this way. I had trouble capping
> the jar so it could not evaporate, but it seemed to work. Perhaps a taller
> jar with it's lid would work.

> Careful with that rag, it'll start a fire if you let it.

> Also, I have been successful regenerating a stiff brush using paint
> remover.

In addition,I'ver been cleaning the brush with a degreasing cleaner and water,such as Simple Green,then rind=sing it well in water,and using a brush cleaning comb to straighten the bristles. Wrap in newspaper,and store on its side.I have the same varnish and paint brushes since 1967.Note that after a lot of use,the varnish brush will be demoted to paint.If you do this,it pays only if you use the best badger or china brushes.