I had never heard about this company until TheMakeupChair (on YouTube) started mentioning them. I wanted a specific type of brush, but I didn't want to purchase it from Sigma because I'm getting a little sick of how big-headed the company has become. Blank Canvas Cosmetics is based in Ireland, and this being my first purchase them, I'm impressed. They ship worldwide too, and at VERY reasonable prices. The quality of the brush is great -- I haven't experienced any shedding, it's super soft & has held it's shape.