How to Start a Face Painting Business

(Face Painter photograph, www.sxc.hu/photo/527297 by Bill Davenport, models unknown)

TIPS on How To Start a Face Painting Business

Safety comes first!

In an article by Gary Cole on the Snazaroo (face paint comany) website:

* "if you want to face paint children then you need to think FIRST of their safety. There are MANY FDA approved safe-for-children face paints, so there is no excuse for using acrylics or other non-safe paints."

Other Face Paint Tips from Snazaroo:

* Talk to other face painters for suggestions and help.
* Get or borrow at least 3 face painting books (Some are listed on this page; Scroll down the whole page).
* Find lots of face painting ideas online. There are many pictures to view.
* Practice! (On paper, on friends, for a charity event, etc.) A good goal is to be able to paint any design you offer in 5 minutes or less.
* "Know 15 full face and 10 cheek art designs by heart."
* Gather quality supplies. Snazaroo suggests:
- 12 colors of quality paint
- 15 good artist quality brushes
- a face painting 3 ring binder or face painting menu board
* Check out the competition

Snazaroo also offers this Good Advice for Starting a Face Painting Business:

"Invest in yourself - Once you start charging for painting, invest the money in yourself. Buy a more professional sized painting kit. Buy a good selection of brushes and develop a simple face painting set up from table to colorful outfit (even if it is just a snazzy hat or shirt)."

and

"Start acting like a professional face painter - When cash flow allows, consider running an ad, get business cards, get a dedicated phone line, think of getting a business license or insurance."

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K.J., a professional face painter, offers the following to other beginners:

"Practicing is the main key. Practice as much as you can, watch professionals do it (on videos or in person), read face painting books and find your style. Have fun with the kids, the designs, and the colors, and your business will be a success!"