Kraum’s Brushes Took Over My Vanity Are They Worth $149
We all have our rituals in beauty, but for me, it’s a firm belief: if you’re going to apply makeup, you need the right tools. I’m not one to dabble with fingering; brushes have always been my preferred method. As I’ve grown into a beauty editor, I’ve started paying serious attention to the tools I invest in, recognizing that a truly excellent brush doesn’t just make makeup application easier—it fundamentally changes the outcome.
This pursuit of perfection led me to Kraum, a makeup brush line that has quickly carved out a niche defined by exquisite design and meticulous engineering. The brand is visually stunning, with chic black-and-white packaging, but the real magic lies in the pedigree behind the creation. Kraum was brought to life by Annie Kreighbaum, a name already synonymous with beauty innovation, having served as the executive editor and VP of brand development at Glossier before co-founding Soft Services.
Kreighbaum channeled her attention to the smallest details into the craft of brushes, focusing on precision that transforms the experience of applying color. The collection is intentionally curated, featuring just seven brushes, each designed with a very specific, targeted purpose rather than endless variations.
Five of these tools belong to the highly functional “Micro” family, designed specifically with makeup artists in mind. These brushes are handmade in Kumano, Japan—a region renowned for its centuries-old tradition of brushmaking—giving them a rich history and unparalleled quality. While most utilize synthetic bristles, some, like the Swab, incorporate goat hair alongside synthetic fibers, ensuring both luxurious feel and exceptional performance.
The range covers specialized needs. The Micro set includes brushes like the Angle, Saber, Swab, Square, and Taper, perfect for tasks ranging from precise liner application and concealing to defining the lash line. Beyond these, the collection includes larger tools, such as the Midi Flat Brush, ideal for cream and liquid formulas, and the Eye Shaper Brush, crafted from natural goat hair, designed for delicate powder work.
The commitment to quality extends far beyond the physical product. Kraum places enormous emphasis on longevity and care, positioning their brushes not just as tools, but as investments meant to last a lifetime. To ensure this longevity, they recommend avoiding submersion and instead focusing on gentle cleaning with their conditioning Brush Soap. For brushes used frequently, a weekly wash is recommended, followed by drying horizontally to preserve their shape.
The results speak for themselves. Using the Micro brushes, I found that achieving intricate looks, like a flawless smokey eye, became effortlessly precise. The tiny angles and tapered tips allowed for incredibly accurate placement, making complex details—like blending liner into a soft wing—ridiculously easy. The difference wasn’t just faster application; it was the confidence that came from achieving exactly the shape I envisioned on the very first try.
Ultimately, while the cost of Kraum brushes might seem steeper than mainstream options, the investment reflects the superior craftsmanship and the potential for decades of use. When you consider the materials, the handmade origin, and the enduring quality, these tools move beyond simple accessories. They become essential instruments that elevate the entire makeup ritual, proving that investing in the right tools truly pays off.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
