face painting 411

story by | kelly smith

Picture it. A mother is beaming with pride as she scoots her little Amy out of the bathroom, very proud of her latest mom accomplishment. Could it have something to do with potty training? Nope. It’s the Halloween season and she has just created a face painting masterpiece on her little kiddie kitten—or so she thinks.

“Allen, come see! Look how cute she is,” shouts super proud Mom.

“Daddy, guess what Mommy made me into?” chimes in little Amy.

Slightly scared and apprehensive Dad responds, “You are the cutest little, um…..ah….BUG?”

“No Daddy, I’m a kitten! Can’t you see my whiskers? My ears? Why is Mommy crying?”

Ok, so maybe Mom isn’t crying, but we have all seen [or experienced] failed attempts in putting on those final face painting details. With just a few painting tips you will be on your way to creating piles of smiles from your kids and others.

All you need is high quality, safe, fresh face paint, followed by some painting practice before the big event and lastly, some confidence. Most major craft stores in the area now carry high end face paints at a reasonable price that will apply and remove with ease. No more markers and craft paint are necessary or recommended—there are too many reasons to list why they are an unsafe choice to use on human skin.

Creamy, water based paints made by brands like Snazaroo, Wolfe Brothers and Tulip are available here in the Red River Valley and have very little chance of an allergic reaction. If your child seems to have sensitive skin, be sure to not only test the paint in a small area prior to painting their face, but consider modifying the design to be simpler as it will be easier to remove later. Removal of face paint should never require more than a washcloth, mild soap and water. Do not reach for your make up remover as many children can have a reaction.

Remember, face painting can not only be an enjoyable experience, but a magical one when done correctly. Here are a couple designs every mom can accomplish: step-by-step how to

[All materials used in photos were purchased at Michaels craft store]

1. Sponge on base white—keep sponge a little dry.

2. Sponge on one or two colors leaving mouth area open.

3. Add details with black and red paint.

1. Sponge base white around eyes.

2. Sponge red on face leaving mouth area open. Add black line down the middle and black line around the eyes.

3. Apply additional black lines and then add webbing.

Looking for guidance or have questions? All emails are welcome at pilesofsmilesentertainment@yahoo.com or visit Pile of Smiles Entertainment on Facebook for face painting ideas.