Suggestions for Those New to Face Painting

Are you new to face painting? Welcome to a fun adventure that provides a little bit of simple joy to everyone! Even people who don't want to have their own faces painted get a kick out of seeing the artwork on the faces of those who do. Not to mention the satisfaction the true artist will get by seeing his work on those in the crowd around him or her.

A newer addition to the face painting supply family is the powder based paint stick. It activates with the use of a wet paintbrush, dries quickly, and doesn't melt. Melting is a disappointment to both the artist and the receiver of the artwork!

Here are some suggestions for supplies:

• A bowl of clean water
• 3 paint brushes (from tiny detail, medium size, and a wider flat end)
• 3 face sponges (do not clean with alcohol, this can cause bacterial growth)
• Cloth for the painter's lap
• Basic colors, plus orange, gray, and purple if you can't mix your ow
• Paper towels
• Face painting patterns
• Wet wipes (antibacterial is better)
• A display of your work

It helps to have at least 2 to 3 people to help with your booth if you'll be serving a large crowd. This will give you someone to handle money if you'll be charging for your services. One person can get supplies, such as clean water, or a drink for the thirsty artist. If you use stencils for patterns, they may need to be wiped off between faces.

A painter must enjoy interacting with children of all ages. It helps to give the young child an idea of what to expect before you do each step so as not to startle. A wiggle could damage the artwork in progress!

Experience and skill will set you apart, along with attention to detail combined with your own style. Patterns are one of the most important steps. But you also must decide if you need to set a minimum time limit for parties and events. Will you wear a costume for effect? Will you want to specialize in whole face patterns or small face painting patterns that just cover part of a cheek area? It is good to practice your timing so you can get the most out of it and warn your customers how long to expect to sit there. Using a timer with children could be helpful. They should enjoy having their picture taken as well, for addition to your portfolio and to use as an example for other customers. Will you want to learn how to accept credit cards for payment with bigger crowds and more involved artwork?


Even when using face painting patterns rather than freestyle take care when painting around the eye area. Besides it being a sensitive area with thinner skin and not wanting to get too close to the eye itself with the paint, a squirmy recipient could create a poke in the eye with your brush if you aren't paying close attention.

For supplies you could try a costume and face painting store.