Tips for restoring porcelain / ceramic brush handle

[Hirsute]

I have an inexpensive Burt's Bees boar brush that I used for several years that I'd like to restore.

It's the same brush pictured here:



I was wondering what method you'd recommend for removing the knot from a porcelain or ceramic brush handle, since I can't really drill it out without breaking the handle. I was thinking the steam method, but wanted to ask before I ruined it. FYI, the handle is white porcelain with a painted brass ring at the top (you can see that detail on the picture below). Also, the brush is freely shedding now, so I could also try just pulling hairs out and see how far I get. Any advice on my first restore would be appreciated! Thanks.

 

[Mike'sWorld]

The brass ring at the top is a dead giveaway that the knot sits in a cup. I'd try pulling or steaming the hair out then compressing the ring with pliers so it can be removed. Not responsible for terrible damage that may occur .

 

[Hirsute]

Not responsible for terrible damage that may occur .

LOL. Noted! I'll give it a go and post the results.