– You need the right tools
Many of you truly believe makeup is magic – that it takes nothing but a powder brush and some colour. But, am, actually, it’s an artistic trade, and an intricately complex one; precision, accuracy, and efficiency are key.
Although every artist has their own tricks, skills and tools help in orchestrating the illusions.
Whenever I show up to a client’s home with all types of rings, scissors, pins, brushes, sticks, tapes, bracelets and metals…looking like MacGyver, they often ask “Kerry what’s that for?” Then we waste an extra minute explaining what it is…tragic! As a result I will explain for all aspiring makeup artists and enthusiasts alike, a few of my favourite beauty gadgets.
Just a refresher on what tools are, for a better understanding. Tools are defined by the Oxford Dictionary as “devices or instruments, especially ones held in hands used to carry out particular tasks.”
It shouldn’t be confused with the professional executing the task. It’s still the artist who has to know and operate the tools effectively – after all a good carpenter doesn’t blame his tools.
A job should always be done at its absolute best in the most resourceful manner. Time shouldn’t be wasted, money shouldn’t be wasted, product shouldn’t be wasted, consistency over flash. In this chaotic world, it’s important to be organized to create some sort of balance and Zen.
The Paw Palette: I have these in two forms– large and miniature, one is strapped around my wrist like bracelet, and the other is worn as arming on my left ring finger (signs that I’m married to makeup). It’s a mixing palette that moves with you. There’s no need to run back to the table, it makes for less mess, since there is no need to wonder, “Where did I put that palette?”
The Ear Swab: this is my go to tool in any makeup emergency. One day my trade secret (one of them) was let out of the bag when Stacy Ramcharran mentioned what happened when I forgot my entire brush collection at home! It was cause for panic, but I’ve been in that situation before. First time was on location at Splashmins Resort, so there was no turning back to Georgetown 40 mins away!
So instead of using my Mary Kay, MAC, and Sephora Professional brushes, I had to resort to good ole Johnson and Johnson cotton swabs for application. Result: smooth finish.
Stainless Steal Mixing Palette: This is perfect for mixing any solid to liquid product, and is perfect for applying heat. To warm up product, you’ll need a palette that delivers great piquancy in producing consistency while it’s being applied. Mixing palettes are an artist’s dream. It’s just as important as choosing the right canvas, and working with its textures. In order to blend, one must first properly mix. And a stainless steel palette (as a heat conductor) offers the right viscosity when low bouts of warmth are administered.
The Z-Palette: This is an empty magnetic palette that can be used for both storage and convenience, instead of carrying around a thousand palettes. Easily depot your favourite makeup from its original palette and customize them in the z-palette with ease.
Precision Brushes: These are tiny eye makeup brushes that fit in the small crevices of the face. Eye liner brushes, eye crease brushes, concealer brushes, all help in creating the perfect winged eyeliner look, or cut crease and makes for meticulous colour placement. It’s one of the best investments for makeup.
