Beginner’s Guide to Face Charts

Close up of face chart with blush applied, showing an example of how face charts are used

Face charts are a secret weapon.

We’re about to learn what face charts are and how to use them.

If you’ve never heard of face charts, these babies are everything. Especially for a self-taught artist.

We’re such perfectionists when it comes to our creative makeup. Using these is a great way to plan out the perfect makeup.

Professionals use face charts to plan, practice, and document the looks they create. You can use face charts in place of an actual face, using real makeup to execute your idea on paper.

Imagine having a folder full of your ideas, all completed with real makeup, but using much less makeup than if you’d practiced on your face. I absolutely love the idea.

I was late to the party. I didn’t know anything about them until I saw designs on Instagram. I was like, how do I get my hands on these face charts???

The paper is a special kind of art paper that has absorbing properties that make the makeup stay put much like on skin.

For planning a creative look, face charts are a real gem. You can practice using your makeup of choice and really plan out how to execute a look.

How can you get your hands on a face chart?

So all this research led to me making my own face chart. You can download a copy of it here. This is the first one I made for myself, so I hope you find it useful.

If printing your own, you can head over to Amazon and get art paper, or visit your local craft supply store.

If you’re feeling really fancy and want a truly personalized face chart, check out this video tutorial on how to make one from your own face.

How to use face charts

Using them is pretty simple. Here’s a short step-by-step guide. Scroll down if you prefer watching a video.

Carve out the facial structure.

Just apply makeup to the chart as you would your face, using highlights and shadows to carve out a facial structure.

Build up the eyes.

Build eyeshadows to carve out eyes and blush to bring out cheeks. It’s a great way to practice color blends and plan out your more creative looks.

Store finished charts in a presentation folder (portfolio).

This is the best part. You get to keep all your creations. Physically, not just a picture. Show them to potential clients like a portfolio. They become a great resource and social proof of your talents.

Video Tutorial on How to Shade and Contour

This video explains the steps you take to shade and contour to create the face shape.

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I’d love to hear about your experience with face charts and how you use them. And leave any tips you may have!

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