When painting with acrylic paint, it is important to be careful not to get any water on the brush. This can cause the paint to dry prematurely and make the painting look unfinished. To clean the brush, fill a pot with water and place it next to the brush. Hold the brush in one hand and use the other hand to pour water onto the bristles of the brush. Swish around the bristles for a few seconds, then let go of the brush and dry off your hands.