A rotational viscometer is described which operates in the range of high shear velocities encountered in the brushing of paints. Because the centering of the inner cylinder is handled automatically, the construction is rather simple, and clearances of 100 μ are maintained easily. At these clearances, shear velocities in the order of 20,000 reciprocal seconds are attainable, while at smaller clearances these values may be increased substantially without excessive temperature rise. Good correlation of brushability of paints was found between qualified painter opinion and ratings based on viscosity characteristics determined at the high shear velocities of about 12,000 to 35,000 reciprocal seconds established during brushing application. Corroboration of practical experience was obtained that painters have different standards of acceptable brushing qualifies for different types of paints. Temperature also strongly affects relative ease of brushing. A one-point method of rating brushability of paints on an absolute basis is feasible through proper design of a viscometer which measures within the shear velocity range of brush application.