How to Get an Airbrushed Effect in Face Painting
Face painting has been a long-held tradition at carnivals, children's birthday parties and events, such as Mardi Gras. While water-based paints are most commonly used in face painting; they sometimes have a cakey look and feel. The airbrushed effect in face painting is achieved by using airbrush face paint in conjunction with an air compressor and an air brush. Often, these three components are sold as sets. No matter what type of face painting, it is important to ensure all makeup used on the face or body is cosmetic and approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA).
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Things You'll Need
- FDA-approved airbrush face and body paint
- Air compressor
- Air brush
- 2 face masks
- 2 face goggles
- Rubbing alcohol
- Stencils
Instructions
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1
Clean your airbrush thoroughly with rubbing alcohol. Do this to prevent clogging in the brush as well as keep the brush sanitary between each use.
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2
Follow the instructions on your airbrush kit to set up the air compressor, air brush and paint properly. Instructions vary by brand.
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3
Place a face mask and goggles on yourself and the person whose face is being painted. If the mask and goggles need to be removed because they get in the way of the design, be sure the person who is receiving the face painting has their eyes and mouth fully shut.
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4
Spray the area of the face you intend to paint lightly with a background color, such as white or tan to provide a solid canvas on which to work.
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5
Align a stencil directly up against the face where you would like it to go and hold in place with your left hand.
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6
Spray through the stencil with your airbrush approximately 1-inch away from the stencil until the stencil is filled in on the face.
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Remove the first stencil and repeat for additional stencils if you desire or create a free-hand design.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not inhale paint or fumes. Always wear eye coverings and mouth coverings or keep eyes and mouth closed when spray painting a face.
References
- Photo Credit Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
