I've had considerable painting and varnishing background starting many years before there were foam brushes. I resisted them for many years, but after hearing some people say what good jobs they got and how easy they were to use I tried them out...several times. I'm not denying that some people have done adequate...even good...jobs with foam brushes, but in my opinion foam brushes belong only in a handyman's toolkit for dobbing and touchup on objects one has no pride in. A fine quality bristle brush is by far the best painting/varnishing implement.