I purchased this brush from Apothica on August 9, 2009. By November, it had completely fallen apart, with the brush head detaching from the handle. Upon inspection, it was clear that there was insufficient surface area for the bottom of the brush knot to make contact with the handle. Additionally, there was only a minute amount of glue used. I tried to use an epoxy that is water-proof, resistant to chemicals, and can withstand 212F temperatures but the lack of any contact surface for the brush resulted in a failure of the attempt to repair. The materials are fine and the brush lathered quite well but the build quality is simply abysmal.