A mahlstick is a long sturdy stick with a soft leather or padded head at one end. The padded end can be placed anywhere on, or around the work, to prevent slip, slide, or damaging the work, the other end of the mahl stick is held by your free hand. This gives you a simple and stable surface to rest your paintbrush holding hand. Mahlsticks have been used by signwriters and artists alike for hundreds of years. They can be purchased from artists suppliers but they are easily made.