How To Get Started As A Face Painter

Face Painting 101

Welcome to the vibrant world of face painting, where creativity meets joy! If you're a beginner looking to dive into this colorful practice, this is a quick and easy guide to get you started. My name is Daze, I am the founder of Moonlight Body Art and have been face painting for many years. If you need any help or advice, or want to hire a professional please don’t hesitate to reach out via the ‘book me’ page.

What paints are used for face printing?

The first step in your face painting adventure is selecting the right paints. Opt for water-based, non-toxic paints specifically designed for face and body painting. These are safe for skin, easy to apply and remove, and come in a variety of vibrant colors. Brands like Snazaroo, Mehron, and TAG are popular choices among professionals and beginners alike.

Can I use any paint for face painting?

The answer to this is a big NO! Acrylic paint, craft paints and even other washable paints are not safe for face and body painting and should be avoided. Acrylic paints have a lot of pigments that are not meant to be used on the skin and can cause serious irritations. Especially when our canvases are often young and have delicate, sensitive skin.

Essential Tools

Aside from paints, a few essential tools will make your face painting journey smoother:

Brushes: A selection of brushes in different sizes for detailed work and broader strokes.

Sponges: Perfect for covering large areas quickly or creating a textured look.

Stencils: Great for beginners or to achieve precise designs quickly.

Glitters: Cosmetic-grade glitter adds sparkle and is safe for use on the face.

Face painting for beginners

Mastering a few basic techniques can elevate your face painting game:

Blending: Use a sponge to blend colors seamlessly on the skin.

Layering: Wait for the first layer to dry before applying another color on top to avoid smudging.

Outlining: Use a fine brush and a contrasting color to outline designs and add definition.

Is face painting easy? Unfortunately it’s not as effortless as it looks, however it's such a fun art practice that if you have a creative flair and some time to work on it the designs can become almost automatic in no time.

Most popular face paint designs

Some designs are timeless favorites; butterflies, unicorns, superheroes, princess crowns, tigers, and flowers are my most requested. Practice these designs, as they're not only popular but also versatile, allowing for variations in color and detail.

Safety and Hygiene

Safety first! Always use hypoallergenic paints to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. Clean your tools after each use, and never paint over broken skin or near the eyes and mouth. Having a clean workstation and practicing good hygiene ensures a safe experience for everyone.

Tips for Beginners

Practice makes perfect: Start by practicing on paper or your own arm before moving on to faces. Printer paper is absolutely fine to begin with, no need for fancy tools.

Keep it simple: Begin with simple designs and gradually add complexity as you gain confidence. Start by practicing blending from one colour to the other, and seeing how stable your brush control is by painting really thin smooth lines in various shapes.

Use a visual reference: Having a picture of the design you're attempting can be incredibly helpful. Pinterest is a great tool for this!

Engage with your canvas: Whether it's a child or an adult, talking to them and making them feel comfortable can enhance the experience. I always ask what their favourite colour is to begin with so I can make their design more personal.

Taking It Further

As you grow more confident in your skills, consider exploring more advanced techniques, such as using airbrush systems for a more professional finish or incorporating special effects makeup for more dramatic creations.

Conclusion

Face painting is a delightful art that brings smiles to faces and adds a magical touch to any event. By starting with the right tools, practicing basic techniques, and prioritizing safety and hygiene, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful, vibrant designs. Remember, the key to great face painting is not just skill but also the joy and creativity you bring to your work. So, grab your paints and brushes, and let the colorful adventure begin!

If you need any help or advice, or fancy hiring a professional to make sure all the designs look picture-perfect for your party or event, feel free to get in touch. You can always fill in a booking enquiry form for a no obligation quote here

Happy painting!

Daze

Moonlight Body Art

07551750316