A method, system, and computer-readable storage medium are disclosed for simulating brush behavior. In one embodiment, user input may be received to modify an image using a brush model, wherein the brush model comprises data stored in a memory of a computer system. The brush model may comprise a plurality of bristle representations. The user input may comprise a motion of the brush model. An effect of each of the plurality of bristle representations on the image throughout the motion may be determined. The image may be modified based on the determined effect of each of the plurality of bristle representations on the image throughout the motion.