Can you provide more than one face painter / tattooist / balloon twister?
Whilst I do not employ anyone in my business I can certainly source a team of professionals from local colleagues, or for full day bookings those who travel from further afield who can attend as part of my team. Please contact me to discuss your requirements.
Do you have an age limit?
Due to insurance stipulations I am unable to provide services for anyone under the age of 3 years.
I will only paint those who can sit still on their own, or if nervous, on their parent's knee (without restraining), and when they can speak or point to select a design for themselves. Absolutely no under 3s, no babies.
There is no upper age limit!
Are you insured? Are you DBS checked?
Yes. I have £10m public liability insurance cover as a member of Equity. I can provide a copy of this upon request, along with a risk assessment if required.
I do hold a DBS for my volunteering work, however face painters are not required by law to hold one as we should not be left in sole charge of children. The majority of the time we do not come under the eligible persons category (see www.gov.uk/government/publications/dbs-check-eligible-positions-guidance)
What type of paints do you use? Is there a risk of allergy?
I use professional brands such as Superstar, TAG, Global and Face Paints Australia. All paints and tattoo products are manufactured for cosmetic use and as such as designed to be safe for use on skin.
Note however, some people will experience allergic reactions, and it is your responsibility to request to check MSDS ingredient information, ask for a patch test, or to refrain from participating if at all unsure how you may react.
Allergies associated with glitter tattoos are linked to the glue used on the stencil and the body glue used to apply the glitter, and are similar to that of reactions to medicinal plasters.
Are there some people you won't paint?
Yes. I won't paint anyone under the age of 3 years, nor anyone showing signs of contagious illness or skin infections (conjunctivitis, chicken pox etc) that would pose a risk of cross infection to others, or antagonise a problem for themselves (e.g. eczema, acne).
In cases of eczema or acne an area away from the affected part, such as an arm, may be painted instead - this is to make sure they can still participate where possible, and the minimise distress and discomfort.
I also will not paint any child who needs to be held still be their guardian, who is restrained in a pushchair (wheelchair users the obvious exception who can be painted in situ), or who is in any distress whilst participating. Face painting should be any enjoyable experience, for the CHILD'S benefit, and not for adult amusement.
How do I remove face paint, or a tattoo?
To remove face paint simply use good old soap and water, and a flannel or sponge. I do not recommend using baby wipes - they can cause skin irritation, redness, push paint into the pores causing staining, and risk an interaction between wipe and paint ingredients and possible allergic reaction.
Note some skin staining may occur, this is perfectly normal and will fade after a couple of washes - some colours are simply more stubborn than other, particularly on dry skin.
Glitter tattoos can be removed using baby oil or rubbing alcohol, or simply by soaking in warm water to allow the glue to soften then gently rubbing with a soapy cloth.
Will you work outdoors?
Yes, providing there is suitable shelter or shade such as a gazebo, secured safely, and providing adequate protection from rain and sunshine. I retain the right to refuse to work (with full fee due) if you do not provide suitable protection from the elements for myself and my equipment. Please contact me to discuss.
Do you provide your own table and chairs?
Yes, I can provide my own, if required, with advance notice. Please note due to my own travel arrangements, it is appreciated if you are able to provide these for me (2 adult chairs and a large square or rectangular table). Please indicate on the booking form.
Can we book you for multiple services?
Yes, of course. But this does depend on the number of guests and amount of time available during your event. In some instances I will suggest sticking to just face painting, or hiring multiple artists or booking extra time. Please contact me to discuss so I can suggest a suitable package.
Do you do balloons?
Yes, I offer balloon modelling as part of a package of multiple services, or as a stand-alone offering. I usually work from a set menu of popular designs, providing a wide range of options.
How much do you charge?
My standard fee for up to two hours face painting only is currently £100. There may be a small additional charge for travel cost/time depending on location etc - this will be made clear, and quoted at the time of your enquiry.
£100 is my minimum charge, unless you are very local to me in which case I may be able to offer a shorter amount of time at a reduced rate - please contact me to discuss.
Other package options are available including glitter tattoos, balloon modelling, festival glitter and gem clusters including unicorn/monster horns for an additional fee.
Do you do pay-per-face or charity bookings?
Yes, no and maybe... I will choose to work with a few charities each year, please do not be offended if I have to say no - unfortunately working for a non-guaranteed income, or for free or a reduced rate, does not keep my business afloat nor pay my bills. I am happy to discuss your event with you to see if it is something I am able to help with.
Other options include finding a business sponsor from your local area to pay my fee on your behalf in exchange for advertising at the event, or paying my hourly fee then charging the public a set fee or ask for donations to recoup some/all of your costs.
What are your safety precautions?
I follow strict hygiene measures to minimise risk and chance of cross infection of all contagious illnesses, including covid. I use a multi-pot system for water for cleaning, rinsing, and fresh water which means the brush that touches your skin is always clean. I use a clean sponge for each person, and clean brushes thoroughly between each person.
Lids remain on paints when not in use to minimise any contaminants landing on them.
I follow all government guidance, which unfortunately means there may be the need to cancel your booking at short notice if further restrictions are applied as was the case with covid - please note in the event of government closure your non-refundable booking fee will become completely refundable, or can be moved to a new date within 6 months.
If for any reason I need to cancel due to personal reasons, I will do my best to find a replacement artist for you, or again offer a refund or change of date.
