How to Face Paint
Purchase the right face paint., Get the right brushes., Purchase makeup sponges., Purchase glitter to add some sparkle to your art., Purchase stencils, stamps, and temporary tattoos for variety., Gather other materials for special effects., Have the...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Purchase the right face paint.
Having the right face paint should be your first consideration.
Keeping an eye on safety, variety, and quality will help you paint the face of your dreams.
Put safety first.
Use face paint that is cosmetic grade and contains only FDA compliant materials so it does not cause damage to the person whose face you are painting.
Make sure the paint is cosmetic grade and contains a list of ingredients.
Improper face paint can cause rashes, allergic reactions, or may even do permanent damage in extreme cases.
If unsure of allergens and your client, have the client or parent read the ingredient listing.
Avoid the following items:
Watercolor pencils, markers, or pens.
They may be "washable" on fabric, but that does not mean they are OK for skin.
Acrylic craft paints.
They may be labeled "non-toxic" but that does not make them skin safe, or "to be used as a cosmetic".
Avoid oil-based paints.
They are difficult to remove and easily smear.
Gather a variety of colors.
At the very least, you'll need black, white, red, blue, and yellow paint.
You can mix these colors to create every color in the spectrum.
If you don't have the time to mix colors, choose a color palette with at least 8-14 colors. -
Step 2: Get the right brushes.
Without the right brushes, the hard work you've put into choosing the perfect colors won't pay off.
The right brush can go a long way in helping you paint a face with as much detail and precision as possible.
Variety is key.
At least three types of brushes are crucial for a balanced look:
A #2 round brush should be used for fine details.
A #4 round brush is necessary for larger details.
A 1-inch flat brush can help you pick up multiple colors.
As you expand your repertoire, brushes of different thickness can help fine-tune your design. , Makeup sponges are useful for quickly applying paint to a large area, or for adding a base color.
Start with at least three sponges.
You can cut them in half to make six.
Having different sponges for different colors can help you avoid having to wash the sponge during a painting session.
The same is true for brushes. , Gel glitters are recommended for their ease of use and controlled application.
However, keep in mind that glitter can get a bit messy and may get on your paints or parts of the face you did not intend to paint with glitter.
Remember safety.
Your glitter should be FDA-approved as well.
The only safe glitters for face painting are made of polyester and are round cut.
Never use craft glitters as they can be made of metal and can scratch sensitive skin and eyes. , Having these extra tools can add some pizzazz to your finished product.
Stencils are perfect if you're not confident about your painting skills, or if you're simply short on time.
Some classic stencils include hearts, flowers, and moons.
Make sure to have different sizes of stencils to accommodate different faces.
Face stamps can be filled in by using glitter and face paint and can be a great addition to a painted face.
Temporary tattoos can be used even more quickly than stencils.
However, some people's skin doesn't react well to them, and they can take longer to remove. , Sometimes the perfect look requires texture or something face paint alone cannot provide.
To create bumpy noses, soak a bit of cotton wool in the paint, place it on the face, and cover it with a tissue before you paint over it.
For warts, simply cover wheat or puffed rice with a bit of paint.
For an extra-ghostly effect, apply a light coat of flour to your subject's face after you're done painting. , It's important to have the right furniture to store your paints and to make you and your subject comfortable.
Have a flat surface, such as a table or desk, for your painting materials.
Also, have two chairs, one for the face painter, and one for the person being painted, so you are both comfortable during the process. , It's just as important to be ready to clean up a mess at it is to have the proper materials for painting faces.
To prevent your subject from getting splashed with excess paint or water, you can use a plastic trash bag with a holes cut in it to act for protection.
Simply cut the bag at the end of the process to avoid ruining your work.
Have trash bags and towels to clean up as you paint.
Have washcloths and makeup remover for your customers.
Have access to a sink or water so you can wash your hands in between customers to prevent the spread of disease.
Have soapy water or disinfectant to clean your brushes and sponges. , Your subject would like to see what your masterpiece looks like--a mirror is crucial not only for showing off your finished work, but also for helping your subject see your progress along the way. , It's crucial to get a sense of what your customer wants before you begin.
Clear communication about his or her needs is key for the success of your work. /images/thumb/3/38/Face-Paint-Step-10-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-10-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/3/38/Face-Paint-Step-10-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-10-Version-6.jpg Have a board that shows what you can offer.
This can help people make a decision and will save time as well as show off your skills.
If you're working with children, you should be ready to provide the child with ideas in case he or she is indecisive.
If you're working with a big group, you should make sure that the person who is next in line also knows what he or she wants to avoid delays. , Once your subject makes a decision, it's important to have an idea of what the finalized face will look like.
If you plan on using any glitter, special effects, or tattoos, make a note of this, so you don't end up adding them too late in the process.
Think fast.
Kids are impatient and may change their minds if you take too long. , Be sure to clean the skin of any existing makeup or product. /images/thumb/2/21/Face-Paint-Step-12-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-12-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/2/21/Face-Paint-Step-12-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-12-Version-6.jpg Never paint someone with open cuts or sores on their face because this can cause them harm and may spread infection to your other customers.
Opt to paint their arm instead.
Tie hair back and secure flyaway that might interfere with application.
Watch out for long earrings or any other jewelry that may interfere with your process.
Have your subject practice sitting still as you clean his or her face.
If it's a child, putting a hand on the back of his or head can be helpful. , It is much easier to paint over lighter colors than dark colors. /images/thumb/5/58/Face-Paint-Step-13-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-13-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/5/58/Face-Paint-Step-13-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-13-Version-6.jpg This will make it easier for you to add darker colors as you move forward, and to avoid having to start over. , You should apply a solid base of color before you move into the finer details of the face. /images/thumb/d/d1/Face-Paint-Step-14-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-14-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/d/d1/Face-Paint-Step-14-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-14-Version-6.jpg Use a sponge to cover a face in a certain color before you begin the details.
Thick brushes work for large swathes of color.
Thin brushes work best for fine details. , Don't forget to add these special effects early on so you can paint over them. /images/thumb/4/4e/Face-Paint-Step-15-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-15-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/4/4e/Face-Paint-Step-15-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-15-Version-6.jpg , Having patience will keep you from blending or smudging the paint you have worked so hard to apply.
Let the first color dry before you apply a second.
If you don't wait, then the two colors may mix together and you will have to begin again.
Fill in the colors slowly after you wait, making sure not to mix them, so you avoid smudging.
Instead of one thick coat of color, apply several thin coats of color to avoid cracking. , If you planned to use glitter or stamps, make sure you've worked them into your painting plan. /images/thumb/1/1e/Face-Paint-Step-17-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-17-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/1/1e/Face-Paint-Step-17-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-17-Version-6.jpg Glitter can be mixed with paint and applied any time.
If you're using stamps or tattoos, make sure to leave room on the face for them. , All the time you've spent on creating the perfect look will be ruined if you don't give it enough time to settle.
Instruct the person you’ve painted not touch their face for about 5 minutes to allow it dry Alternatively, use a hand held fan to dry the paint more quickly. , He or she will be impressed by your efforts and will be ready to show off his or her new look.
Take a photo of your subject to show future customers.
Have your subject show off his look for your customers, or potential customers.
This will help you gain credibility as a face painter, whether you're trying to make a living or just looking for more potential subjects for the fun of it. -
Step 3: Purchase makeup sponges.
-
Step 4: Purchase glitter to add some sparkle to your art.
-
Step 5: Purchase stencils
-
Step 6: stamps
-
Step 7: and temporary tattoos for variety.
-
Step 8: Gather other materials for special effects.
-
Step 9: Have the right furniture.
-
Step 10: Be prepared for cleanup.
-
Step 11: Don't forget the mirror.
-
Step 12: Ask the person being painted what design they want.
-
Step 13: Have a finished product in mind.
-
Step 14: Prepare your canvas (the person’s face).
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Step 15: Work from light to dark.
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Step 16: Work from broad to detailed.
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Step 17: If necessary
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Step 18: add bumps and warts.
-
Step 19: Wait for your paint to dry after every coat.
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Step 20: Apply extras when necessary.
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Step 21: When you're done
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Step 22: give the face time to dry.
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Step 23: Hold up a mirror to show your customer the result.
Detailed Guide
Having the right face paint should be your first consideration.
Keeping an eye on safety, variety, and quality will help you paint the face of your dreams.
Put safety first.
Use face paint that is cosmetic grade and contains only FDA compliant materials so it does not cause damage to the person whose face you are painting.
Make sure the paint is cosmetic grade and contains a list of ingredients.
Improper face paint can cause rashes, allergic reactions, or may even do permanent damage in extreme cases.
If unsure of allergens and your client, have the client or parent read the ingredient listing.
Avoid the following items:
Watercolor pencils, markers, or pens.
They may be "washable" on fabric, but that does not mean they are OK for skin.
Acrylic craft paints.
They may be labeled "non-toxic" but that does not make them skin safe, or "to be used as a cosmetic".
Avoid oil-based paints.
They are difficult to remove and easily smear.
Gather a variety of colors.
At the very least, you'll need black, white, red, blue, and yellow paint.
You can mix these colors to create every color in the spectrum.
If you don't have the time to mix colors, choose a color palette with at least 8-14 colors.
Without the right brushes, the hard work you've put into choosing the perfect colors won't pay off.
The right brush can go a long way in helping you paint a face with as much detail and precision as possible.
Variety is key.
At least three types of brushes are crucial for a balanced look:
A #2 round brush should be used for fine details.
A #4 round brush is necessary for larger details.
A 1-inch flat brush can help you pick up multiple colors.
As you expand your repertoire, brushes of different thickness can help fine-tune your design. , Makeup sponges are useful for quickly applying paint to a large area, or for adding a base color.
Start with at least three sponges.
You can cut them in half to make six.
Having different sponges for different colors can help you avoid having to wash the sponge during a painting session.
The same is true for brushes. , Gel glitters are recommended for their ease of use and controlled application.
However, keep in mind that glitter can get a bit messy and may get on your paints or parts of the face you did not intend to paint with glitter.
Remember safety.
Your glitter should be FDA-approved as well.
The only safe glitters for face painting are made of polyester and are round cut.
Never use craft glitters as they can be made of metal and can scratch sensitive skin and eyes. , Having these extra tools can add some pizzazz to your finished product.
Stencils are perfect if you're not confident about your painting skills, or if you're simply short on time.
Some classic stencils include hearts, flowers, and moons.
Make sure to have different sizes of stencils to accommodate different faces.
Face stamps can be filled in by using glitter and face paint and can be a great addition to a painted face.
Temporary tattoos can be used even more quickly than stencils.
However, some people's skin doesn't react well to them, and they can take longer to remove. , Sometimes the perfect look requires texture or something face paint alone cannot provide.
To create bumpy noses, soak a bit of cotton wool in the paint, place it on the face, and cover it with a tissue before you paint over it.
For warts, simply cover wheat or puffed rice with a bit of paint.
For an extra-ghostly effect, apply a light coat of flour to your subject's face after you're done painting. , It's important to have the right furniture to store your paints and to make you and your subject comfortable.
Have a flat surface, such as a table or desk, for your painting materials.
Also, have two chairs, one for the face painter, and one for the person being painted, so you are both comfortable during the process. , It's just as important to be ready to clean up a mess at it is to have the proper materials for painting faces.
To prevent your subject from getting splashed with excess paint or water, you can use a plastic trash bag with a holes cut in it to act for protection.
Simply cut the bag at the end of the process to avoid ruining your work.
Have trash bags and towels to clean up as you paint.
Have washcloths and makeup remover for your customers.
Have access to a sink or water so you can wash your hands in between customers to prevent the spread of disease.
Have soapy water or disinfectant to clean your brushes and sponges. , Your subject would like to see what your masterpiece looks like--a mirror is crucial not only for showing off your finished work, but also for helping your subject see your progress along the way. , It's crucial to get a sense of what your customer wants before you begin.
Clear communication about his or her needs is key for the success of your work. /images/thumb/3/38/Face-Paint-Step-10-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-10-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/3/38/Face-Paint-Step-10-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-10-Version-6.jpg Have a board that shows what you can offer.
This can help people make a decision and will save time as well as show off your skills.
If you're working with children, you should be ready to provide the child with ideas in case he or she is indecisive.
If you're working with a big group, you should make sure that the person who is next in line also knows what he or she wants to avoid delays. , Once your subject makes a decision, it's important to have an idea of what the finalized face will look like.
If you plan on using any glitter, special effects, or tattoos, make a note of this, so you don't end up adding them too late in the process.
Think fast.
Kids are impatient and may change their minds if you take too long. , Be sure to clean the skin of any existing makeup or product. /images/thumb/2/21/Face-Paint-Step-12-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-12-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/2/21/Face-Paint-Step-12-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-12-Version-6.jpg Never paint someone with open cuts or sores on their face because this can cause them harm and may spread infection to your other customers.
Opt to paint their arm instead.
Tie hair back and secure flyaway that might interfere with application.
Watch out for long earrings or any other jewelry that may interfere with your process.
Have your subject practice sitting still as you clean his or her face.
If it's a child, putting a hand on the back of his or head can be helpful. , It is much easier to paint over lighter colors than dark colors. /images/thumb/5/58/Face-Paint-Step-13-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-13-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/5/58/Face-Paint-Step-13-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-13-Version-6.jpg This will make it easier for you to add darker colors as you move forward, and to avoid having to start over. , You should apply a solid base of color before you move into the finer details of the face. /images/thumb/d/d1/Face-Paint-Step-14-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-14-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/d/d1/Face-Paint-Step-14-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-14-Version-6.jpg Use a sponge to cover a face in a certain color before you begin the details.
Thick brushes work for large swathes of color.
Thin brushes work best for fine details. , Don't forget to add these special effects early on so you can paint over them. /images/thumb/4/4e/Face-Paint-Step-15-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-15-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/4/4e/Face-Paint-Step-15-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-15-Version-6.jpg , Having patience will keep you from blending or smudging the paint you have worked so hard to apply.
Let the first color dry before you apply a second.
If you don't wait, then the two colors may mix together and you will have to begin again.
Fill in the colors slowly after you wait, making sure not to mix them, so you avoid smudging.
Instead of one thick coat of color, apply several thin coats of color to avoid cracking. , If you planned to use glitter or stamps, make sure you've worked them into your painting plan. /images/thumb/1/1e/Face-Paint-Step-17-Version-6.jpg/v4-550px-Face-Paint-Step-17-Version-6.jpg /images/thumb/1/1e/Face-Paint-Step-17-Version-6.jpg/v4-300px-Face-Paint-Step-17-Version-6.jpg Glitter can be mixed with paint and applied any time.
If you're using stamps or tattoos, make sure to leave room on the face for them. , All the time you've spent on creating the perfect look will be ruined if you don't give it enough time to settle.
Instruct the person you’ve painted not touch their face for about 5 minutes to allow it dry Alternatively, use a hand held fan to dry the paint more quickly. , He or she will be impressed by your efforts and will be ready to show off his or her new look.
Take a photo of your subject to show future customers.
Have your subject show off his look for your customers, or potential customers.
This will help you gain credibility as a face painter, whether you're trying to make a living or just looking for more potential subjects for the fun of it.
About the Author
Linda Anderson
Brings years of experience writing about hobbies and related subjects.
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