Camel hair brushes are made from the hair of horses, goats, or a type of squirrel known as a kolinsky. The name "camel hair" is thought to have originated from the fact that these brushes were originally used for watercolor painting in the Middle East, where camels were commonly associated with the region.


Camel hair brushes are crafted from the hair of various animals, and despite the name, camels are not typically the source. Instead, the term "camel hair" is a traditional and somewhat misleading name for these brushes. The hair used in camel hair brushes is often sourced from animals such as horses, goats, or a specific type of squirrel called kolinsky. 

These brushes are popular among artists, especially watercolor painters, due to their softness, flexibility, and ability to hold and release water or paint effectively. The choice of hair type can influence the brush's performance and suitability for different artistic techniques. Whether made from horsehair, goat hair, or kolinsky hair, camel hair brushes continue to play a significant role in the world of art and painting.