5 Questions to Ask a Face Painter Before You Hire Them

5 Questions to Ask a Face Painter Before You Hire Them

Face painting is one of the highest “smiles per pound” add-ons you can book. The only problem: when it goes wrong, it goes very wrong. A late arrival, slow painting speed, unclear pricing, or low-quality products can turn a fun corner of the party into a queue of frustrated kids (and parents).

These 5 questions help you book with confidence—whether you’re planning a birthday in a living room, a community hall party, or a bigger school fun day.

1) What products do you use, and are they skin-safe for children?

You’re not being awkward. You’re doing the basics.

What a good answer sounds like

• “We use professional cosmetic-grade face paints.”

• They can explain that the products are designed for skin (not craft paint).

• They’ll give simple aftercare advice (gentle removal, avoid rubbing eyes, etc.).

• If a child has very sensitive skin, they’ll suggest a quick patch test or offer an alternative (like arm designs).

Red flags

• Vague replies like “just normal paint”

• Anything that sounds like craft supplies

• No clear guidance for sensitive skin or allergies

Tip: If your party includes toddlers, ask if they can do fast, simple cheek designs. It keeps things calmer and reduces time in the chair.

2) Do you have public liability insurance, and are you used to kids’ parties?

A professional face painter should be insured and comfortable working around excited children.

What to listen for

• They confirm public liability insurance and can show proof if needed.

• They’re clear about the setup: they paint faces, but they’re not there to supervise kids.

• They have experience working in busy, noisy spaces (and don’t rely on “perfect conditions”).

Red flags

• “I’ve never needed insurance”

• Defensive attitude when asked

• No clear boundaries about supervision (that can create awkward moments on the day)

3) How many kids can you realistically paint per hour?

This is the question that decides whether face painting feels like a highlight… or a bottleneck.

A realistic guide

• Simple designs (small cheek/forehead): roughly 12–20 kids per hour

• Mid-detail designs: roughly 8–12 kids per hour

• Full-face / highly detailed: roughly 6–8 kids per hour

It varies by artist and by the designs you choose, so the best follow-up is:

Follow-up questions

• “Do you offer a ‘menu’ of designs so kids can pick quickly?”

• “Will you cap choices to keep the line moving?”

• “Do you use a queue system (numbers/cards) so kids aren’t hovering?”

Red flags

• Unrealistic claims (“30 kids an hour, easy”) without explaining how

• No plan for managing the queue

• They only do complex full-face designs (great for photos, risky for time)

4) What’s included in the price (and what could cost extra)?

Most booking stress comes from unclear pricing.

Ask specifically

• Travel costs (and what area they cover)

• Minimum booking time (e.g., 1 hour / 2 hours)

• Deposit amount + when the balance is due

• Glitter, gems, or temporary tattoos (included or add-on)

• What you need to provide (table/chairs, indoor space, lighting, access to water)

Red flags

• “We’ll sort payment later”

• Lots of add-ons mentioned only after you’ve agreed

• No written confirmation of what you’re actually getting

5) What’s your backup plan if you can’t make it?

People get sick. Cars break down. A pro plans for it.

What a good answer sounds like

• Clear cancellation policy

• A network of trusted local painters they can call on

• Communication standards (how early they’ll notify you)

Red flags

• No backup option at all

• No cancellation policy

• “You’ll know on the morning”

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Book a face painter in Northern Ireland

If you want to browse options quickly, use the PSD face painting listings page here:

(That link stays evergreen, so you can share it in your party WhatsApp group, a school PTA message, or your event planning notes.)

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FAQ

How long should I book a face painter for?

For an average kids’ party, 60–90 minutes often works well if you’re keeping designs simple. For bigger groups, aim for 2 hours or consider a second painter. Your painter’s “kids per hour” answer should drive this decision.

Should I book face painting at the start or middle of the party?

Middle is usually the sweet spot: kids have arrived, energy is up, and you avoid the “everyone queues instantly” problem. If you’re doing it at the start, use a queue system so late arrivals aren’t penalised.

What space does a face painter need?

Typically: a small table, two chairs, and a well-lit spot (near a window is ideal). If it’s outdoors, ask about wind/rain plans and whether they bring a gazebo or need cover.

How do I get listed on PartySuppliersDirect.com as a face painter?

Create your listing so parents can find you when they’re actively booking. Include:

• Your coverage area (towns/BT areas you’ll travel to)

• Clear packages (e.g., 1 hour / 2 hours) and what’s included

• Photos of a mix of quick designs and showstopper designs

• Your booking method (DM, WhatsApp, email) and typical response time
  Then direct people to your PSD mini-site link in your social bios.