Taking on the art of face painting can be quite the challenge, even for the most professional artists. Having the right tools and the right setup are two things that cross the minds of artists everywhere. If you’re looking for some tips and tricks, you’re in the right place! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, we’re going to help you create a beautiful setup with the most perfect tools. Here are the top 10 must-have tools for face painters and how you can use them for maximum efficiency:
1. Portable Organizer Case: Face painters, whether they’re new to the face painting world, or have been in the industry for a while, deserve a portable organizer that looks professional and takes their efficiency to the next level. A Craft-n-Go Case is the perfect solution! It keeps your tools organized, visible, and easily accessible. Pro tip: choose a size that works best for you. At Craft-n-Go, we offer three different sizes: mini, standard, and XL. Each of these cases have their own unique strengths, and to find the one that works for you, take a look at the diagram below.
2. Split Cakes and Rainbow Cakes: Split cakes and rainbow cakes are so vibrant, and perfect for maximum coverage. Not to mention, they’re great for painting butterflies, rainbows, and tigers. Pro tip: create a Design Board based on speed. Split/rainbow cakes are great for creating speedy designs; so, during busy gigs, make sure to have them ready to go for quick designs – such as the ones listed above. For maximum efficiency, use the magnets to adhere the cakes to your Craft-n-Go Case lid.
3. High Quality Brushes: High-quality brushes are essential for smooth application, and they last longer than traditional brushes. Examples of brushes include: Flat, round, filbert, and line detailer. Pro tip: have at least one of the brushes listed above, and any others that you may need so that you’re prepared to do any design at any given time. Use the Craft-n-Go Brush Bin to store your brushes for easy access.
4. Water Activated Paints (for solids): Water activated paints dry quickly and are useful for all designs. A few brands include: TAG, Fusion, Diamond FX. Use the magnets to adhere the paints to the upper lid for easy access. Pro tip: Organize in rainbow order for an aesthetically pleasing setup. Not to mention, it’s efficient too!
5. Stencils: Stencils are perfect for elevating any design; they’re quick, easy, and can be used for a variety of designs. They’re perfect for creating stars, mermaid scales, and even snowflakes if you’re doing a winter event! Pro tip: store the stencils flat in a Craft-n-Go using magnet panels.
6. Sponges: Sponges are essential for blending. They help create a smooth effect that leave designs looking professional and effortless. Remember when we talked about the Design Board? For quick and busy gigs, be sure to have a lot of sponges to help blend looks when using rainbow cakes. Pro tip: use a mesh bag to store your dirty sponges. Have a bag for both light and dark sponges. While at the gig, store the mesh bag on the latches on the front of your case.
7. Glitter: Glitter is a face painter’s best friend! Glitter helps to elevate any design, and that makes for a very happy client. However, it is essential to only use glitter that is skin safe and for cosmetic use. Pro-tip: have a variety of glitter colors that can be used for multiple designs.
8. Spray Bottle: A spray bottle is essential for any face painter. It helps keep brushes clean and sponge’s damp; not to mention, they’re perfect for activating water-based paints quickly. Pro tip: keep a second bottle of water in your kit in case your spray bottle runs out and you don’t have time to find water elsewhere. Store you spray bottle in the Expansion Tray of the Craft-n-Go Case, that way, it stays out of the way but still ready to be used at all times.
9. Mirror: A mirror is compact and essential for revealing a final look. Pro tip: choose a lightweight mirror that can travel easily between gigs. Put your mirror right next to your spray bottle in the Expansion Tray so that again, it’s out if the way but still easily accessible when the final look is complete.
10. Wipes/towelettes: Cleanliness first! Wipes are essential for cleaning hands, accidental smudges, and stencils after each use. Towels are great for cleaning your Craft-n-Go Case after a messy gig. Pro tip: use a cleaning solution such as dawn dish soap, fabuloso, etc; spray it on your towel to clean up after each event.
As you begin on your journey of collecting all the must-have tools you need for your setup, first think to yourself, “what kind of case would I need?” Is it the mini, standard, or XL? Always feel free to refer back to the diagram for help. After you’ve chosen the right setup, it’s time to invest in quality tools. Investing in quality tools can make quite the difference when it comes to elevating your face painting game. Ease and efficiency allow you more time to do what you love most – painting smiles on clients faces!