When a face painting station is planned for an upcoming school fair or birthday party, adults begin searching for face painting ideas for kids. They want to have plenty of suggestions available for children who need inspiration. Having an idea of what kids might ask for also allows adults to practice their techniques before the event. The only tools needed to become a master face painter are face paint, brushes, and some creative ideas.
Superheroes like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman are always popular designs for young children. Little ones also love being painted to look like a dog, cat, frog, butterfly, or bumblebee. Fairy and princess themes are popular with little girls. There will definitely be a few little boys who request a tiger, bear, or pirate design. Make young children the stars of the show by adding glowing paint and glitter effects.
The coolness factor is the main concern for older children. Teen girls want to look like adults, not babies, so they request a rock star, gothic, or China doll theme. Older boys prefer to go creepy, selecting creatures, monsters, and skeleton designs. They love to repulse the girls and make the other boys jealous. The more realistic their face designs look, the better, because it makes them feel like a superstar.
A full-face design is not something every child wants. Some kids prefer artwork on one or both cheeks. They may ask for a smiling face, bunch of balloons, image of their favorite food, or picture of an animal. Let them see what one cheek looks like painted so they can make a decision about the second one. Also, take requests for special touches with designs because this makes the result unique.
Children enjoy having their faces done before a school or professional sporting event. They may ask for their team logo or number of their favorite player. Older children might want their whole face transformed into that of their favorite player or mascot for the team. Some base their outfit on the theme, drawing attention wherever they go.
Holidays and birthdays provide more face painting ideas for kids. Paint a piece of birthday cake or party hat on the cheek of the birthday boy or girl. Santa Claus, Rudolph, and the Easter bunny are great holiday face paint ideas for young children. Older kids might like a Thanksgiving turkey, flags, snowflakes, or fireworks featuring an assortment of colors.