If you're an artist, you've probably encountered a hardened paintbrush with paint dried in it at some point. But don't worry, there are a few things you can try to revive your brush and get it back in working order.

Here are some steps you can follow to revive a hardened paintbrush:

1. Soak the brush in hot water: One of the easiest ways to soften hardened paint in a brush is to soak the brush in hot water. You can fill a bowl or a jar with hot water and place the brush in it, making sure that the bristles are fully submerged. Leave the brush in the water for a few minutes until the paint starts to soften.

2. Use vinegar: If soaking the brush in hot water doesn't work, you can try soaking it in vinegar. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and hot water in a container and let the brush soak for several hours. This should loosen up the dried paint and make it easier to remove.

3. Use a paintbrush restorer: Another option is to use a paintbrush restorer, which is a product designed to remove dried paint from brushes. You can find this product at most art supply stores. Follow the instructions on the package to apply the restorer to the brush and let it sit for the recommended time.

4. Use a brush cleaner: If you have a brush cleaner, you can use that to remove the dried paint. Apply the cleaner to the brush and work it into the bristles with your fingers. Rinse the brush with warm water and repeat until the paint is fully removed.

5. Comb the bristles: After you've softened the paint, comb the bristles with a fine-tooth comb to remove any remaining paint. This will also help to reshape the bristles if they've become bent or misshapen.

In conclusion, there are several ways to revive a hardened paintbrush with paint dried in it. You can try soaking the brush in hot water, using vinegar, using a paintbrush restorer, using a brush cleaner, or combing the bristles. With a little patience and persistence, you can get your brush back in working order and create beautiful works of art.