When painting items that need several coats, instead of washing the brush out every time, while waiting for the paint to dry, or putting it in a damaging brush bin, or taking the time to wrap it in plastic, drop it brush side up into an empty water bottle. Cap the bottle and the brush will stay moist and supple. When you're ready to use it again, just open the bottle and tilt it a bit, until the brush handle comes out enough for you to grab it, without getting paint all over your fingers. Be sure to clean out the brush at the end of the day, as it will not stay moist in the bottle indefinitely.
