Brush scripts are informal scripts. They are 20th century inventions inspired by the work of sign writers and commercial lettering artists. Most are based on pointed brush lettering rather than broad brush lettering. Some are not cursive and thus are more properly called brush lettering (e.g. Dom Casual).

There are often clear distinctions between European brush scripts and American ones, due to their different lettering and handwriting traditions. Examples of the former are Balzac and Sunetta; of the former, Brody and Spring. More recent brush scripts, such as ITC Puamana or Banshee, reflect the influence of modern calligraphic practice. Some have ragged edges, implying the use of a "dry brush".