MacPherson art easels recalled

WASHINGTON, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- Several thousand art easels imported to the United States from China are being recalled because of lead paint concerns, a federal watchdog agency said Thursday.

The Young Artist Easels, imported from China by MacPherson's of Emeryville, Calif., have surface paint that contains high levels of lead, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said in a statement.

About 10,000 easels were sold at art supply stores nationwide from July 2004 through this past June for about $75 each.

The easels, designed with a green chalkboard surface on one side and a white board surface on the other, are being recalled voluntarily.

Consumers were advised to take the easels from children and contact MacPherson's for a free replacement of the chalk board panel.

Consumers can call 866-319-5335 for information.