Here are some tips for face painting, passed on to us by people who have painted thousands of children’s faces. Although Caran d’Ache water-soluble wax pastels do not have official cosmetic approval, they are accepted by the hobby and toy industry, which means kids can get them on their skin and even eat them without harm. Be aware they are not hypoallergenic and a child may still react to them, although in our 25+ years of experience, this has not happened. Obviously, care should be taken around the eye area.
Supply list for a face painting kit
To build a useful little kit of Caran d’Ache, put these items in a small lidded container and you are ready for face painting:
- Caran d’Ache Neocolour II set of 10 water soluble crayons.
- 2 or 3 extra black ones (the most used colour). Black outlines make designs stand out nicely.
- Sponges or other soft make-up applicators.
- A small water pot as your water must be changed often. (A Masterson Rinse Well is also handy. It dispenses clean water while draining away dirty water quickly and easily. This compact unit is ideal for outdoor events when no fresh water source is nearby.)
- Liner brush: for details and long, flowing lines.
- ¼” angle brush, which can produce interesting ribbon-like effects that appeal to children.
- At least one small mirror.
How to disinfect your crayons and tools
A pump dispenser of antibacterial soap to clean tools and pastels before starting the next fresh young face. When you first open your set, peel-back of each wax pastel. To remove the hard, waxy coating, take a slightly damp paper towel and gently rub the tip until you see colour. Now the pastels are activated and ready to use. Before painting, wash the child’s face or wipe with antibacterial hand wipes such as Wet Ones to remove oils and sun lotion. Note: Paper towels are more durable for wiping and cleaning than tissues.
How to sharpen a Caran d’Ache crayon
Caran d’Ache wax pastels can be sharpened with a regular pencil sharpener but only when the crayon is dry; otherwise, it may be too soft and break. Save your shavings from sharpening, broken pieces and small leftovers. Use them to create pans of colour.
Here is how to make your own pans of face paints from a Caran d’Ache crayon
Collect individual colours in a microwave-safe palette. (We have a suitable, heavy-duty plastic palette). Do you recall accidentally melting a box of wax crayons because they were left in a hot car in the summer? It does not take much heat to melt a crayon!
Microwave your palette for only about 10 – 15 seconds.
BE CAREFUL! The liquid wax pastel will be VERY HOT so resist the temptation to touch it
Use a plastic palette knife gently to shape the colour into a flat cake.
Voila, you have made your own pan set of face paints for use with brushes and sponges.
Are you seeking more traditional face paints? We have them too. See More: the amazing Ruby Red Face Paints.