The butterfly is one of the most requested face painting designs of all time — and for good reason. It's versatile, beautiful and absolutely perfect for showcasing the one stroke technique. Here's how to create stunning butterfly designs every time.
What is the One Stroke Technique? Onestroke face painting involves loading two or more colours onto a flat/angled brush at the same time, allowing you to create blended, multi-coloured strokes in a single movement. It's the technique that Sally-Ann Lynch has built her career on — and it's what makes butterfly designs look truly magical. Sally's designs are not 'generic' and she teaches you to appreciate your own style. Not sure how to load your brush correctly? Read our full guide: How to Load a One Stroke Brush for Perfect Results.
Choose Your Colours Wisely Butterflies look best with complementary or contrasting colour combinations. Popular choices include purple and pink, blue and turquoise, orange and yellow, or black and white for a dramatic effect.
However, thanks to this wonderful versatile technique, we can creatively add and move these boundaries. You will however, first need to master the technique and the principles involved.
Load your flat/angled brush with your chosen colours side by side, moving across the paint backwards and forwards to coat the brush. It does not need to be down the ferrule. This will just waste paint. You do not want the brush to be too wet, but neither too dry. You will know instantly if it is too wet, as the paint will pool with water and muddy the colours. DO NOT REACH FOR THE WIPES! Instead, dab your brush on your towel (a small towel is vital with onestroke). Not paper towels or wipes. These will just get saturated and dirty. If your brush is too dry, it will drag on the paints and the bristles will split.
Start with the Upper Wings The upper wings are the largest and most impactful part of the design. Using a loaded flat/angled brush, create two large, sweeping petal strokes away from the eyes and across the eye brows (not too high). Do the top wings first for continuity and muscle memory. The brain usually understands what it has just performed. Another way is to start inwards and work your way out. To appreciate this method you should view my videos on social media. Or join my online onestroke membership group. This contains over 190 easy to follow tutorials.
Add the Lower Wings The lower wings are smaller and sit below the upper wings. Use the same brush technique but with a shorter stroke. These wings balance the design and give it a realistic, finished look. These too should not drop low but instead sweep across the cheek bones.
Going too low with designs on older faces, can emphasise drooping and jowls. Just a normal sign of ageing. Also children are less likely to ruin their design.
Add Detail and Definition Once your wings are in place, use a fine liner brush to add detail — veining, dots, swirls and outlines all add depth and make the design pop. Black is often the classic choice for outlining, but don't be afraid to use dark versions of your wing colours for a softer look. Or why not outline with white?
Finish with the Body A simple elongated teardrop or series of dots down the centre of the face creates the butterfly's body. Keep it neat and proportional to the wings. I usually opt for a rose, but this is for another day and a different blog. As you go along remember to sparkle with a little cosmetic dry glitter. Make sure your customer has their eyes closed. You can also finish off with a little chunkier gel type glitter for that added sparkle. Remember not to use too much. Even biodegradable glitter takes a long time to leave our planet. Try putting it around the design rather than on it. Or just put a little on the outer part of the wings. This also protects the eyes from any potential harm. I stay away from vaseline based glitter gels. These can damage the cornea.
Practise on Your Practice Board First Before attempting a butterfly on a face, practise the wing strokes on your Sally-Ann Lynch practice board. Focus on consistent pressure, smooth brush loading and symmetry. The more you practise, the more confident and fluid your strokes will become.
You can always message me as I do have butterfly templates that can be put under your clear type practice boards.
Always remember the three P's. PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE
Ready to master the butterfly? Browse Sally-Ann Lynch's bespoke one stroke palettes and practice boards — everything you need to create stunning designs.