face-painting-ideas

Attention - All children crave attention. Come to think of it, most adults do too. When a child is sitting in the chair, the face painter is completely focused on that child. You can just see how special that child feels at that moment.

Creativity - Any kind of painting is an expression of creativity. When kids choose the design they wish to have painted on their face, they take command of their own creativity and self-expression.

Individuality - Kids are expected to have the right toys%u2026the right clothes. Generation after generation, youngsters are encouraged to conform to be socially accepted. Face Painting is one way to express individuality.

Fun - Let's face it. Having your face painted is just plain fun. And is there any sweeter look than the quick glances that kids take of themselves in the mirror after a face painting session? That little smirk on their face is priceless!

Unfortunately, most craft stores do not carry the appropriate tools and supplies for face painting.

All skin is sensitive, especially children's skin. To truly have a successful and safe event (which means happy kids), using the proper products can make all the difference in the world.

The only type of paint that is truly appropriate to use for face painting is FDA-compliant, water-based face paint. The package will actually say "Face Paint" as opposed to "craft paint," "acrylic paint," or "tempera paint." Craft paints can cause serious allergic reactions to the skin including burning and redness.

Water based face paints are easy to use, dry quickly and wash off easily with water and soap. Craft paints could stain the skin.

The same principal applies to glitter. Craft store glitters usually contain metal particles that can get lodged in the eye and cause abrasions and redness. When using glitter at your face painting events, choose cosmetic grade polyester glitter. An alternative to glitter is to purchase sparkle face paint (where the glitter is actually in the face paint.)

Although some major cities may have theatre supply retailers that sell face paint, the best place to find and purchase face paint is the Internet.

Face Painting can be a memorable experience for children at birthday parties, community festivals, school picnics or at any family event. By using the proper tools and supplies, you can ensure that the children will be participating in a safe and fun activity.

Here are a few things I learned from my friend, the professional face painter:

1. Do use the right paints. Don't use any paints that are not specifically designed for use on skin.
2. Don't use cheap brushes. Spend at least $3.00 apiece on a few brushes and they will last a long time.
3. Don't try to be all things to all people. It isn't necessary to paint 100 perfect designs. A small collection of 10 or 20 simple designs will make you look like a hero to the children.
4. Do practice as much as you can%u2026on people or on paper. With practice comes speed.
5. Don't be afraid of making a mistake. Children are very forgiving, as is the paint. It's easily 'erasable'.
6. Don't be nervous about fidgety kids. Speak calmly and quietly and they'll usually stay still.
7. Do have fun. Face painting is a therapeutic, creative outlet.
8. Do share your newfound talent. Volunteer your services at events and before you know it, someone may offer to pay you!

GHOST
In my opinion, the simplest design to paint is that of a ghost. The basic shape of the ghost is that of a triangle. With a brush loaded with white paint, paint a loose triangle by creating a wavy line to outline the ghost. Fill in with more white paint, dot on black eyes and a smile and the ghost is complete.

CANDY CORN
Nothing is "sweeter" than a face dotted with painted candy corn. The basic shape is a pyramid, with yellow on the bottom third, orange on the middle third and white at the peak. You can create a candy corn crown by painting the candies in succession along the forehead.

JACK-O-LANTERN
To paint a jack-o-lantern, begin with a circle or oval of orange paint. When the orange paint dries, add small triangles in black paint for the eyes and nose and paint a toothy smile in black as well. Add a green stem and your jack-o-lantern is complete.