One of the most common questions new face painters ask is:
How much should I charge?
Pricing your services correctly is essential — too low and you undervalue your work, too high and you price yourself out of the market. Here's how to get it right.
Know Your Worth
Face painting is a skilled profession. You've invested in training, quality supplies and your time. Never price yourself based on what you think people will pay — price yourself based on what it costs you to deliver a professional service, plus a fair profit.
Your Costs Can Add Up
They add up. Paints, brushes, practice boards, kit bags, travel, insurance, and any training or membership fees.
Research Your Local Market Find out what other professional face painters in your area are charging. You don't need to be the cheapest — in fact, being too cheap can put clients off. Position yourself in the mid-to-premium range and let your quality and professionalism justify the price.
Charge by Time, Not by Face The most professional and sustainable way to price is by the hour, not per face. This protects you at busy events, ensures you're paid fairly regardless of queue length, and sets clear expectations with clients from the start.
Consider a Minimum Booking Fee A minimum booking fee will cover your travel time and set-up. A two-hour minimum is standard for most professional face painters. Make this clear in your terms and conditions.
Factor in Travel Don't forget to charge for travel, especially for events further afield. A mileage rate or a flat travel fee added to your booking price ensures you're not out of pocket before you've even picked up a brush. Better still, hide it in your costs. Sometimes, travel costs could potentially put off a potential client.
Review Your Prices Regularly Costs go up — so should your prices. Review your rates at least once a year and don't be afraid to increase them. Loyal clients who value your work will understand. Those who don't were probably never your ideal clients anyway.
Be Confident in Your Pricing The biggest mistake new face painters make is apologising for their prices or dropping them at the first sign of resistance. Know your value, stand by your rates and attract clients who appreciate quality.
Good Terms & Conditions
Always have them. Always let your customers be aware of them and have this in writing. Whether this via messages, Whatsapp, email etc.
Remember, that verbal agreements are still legal, but much harder to prove. Put matters in writing as much as you can. For a full guide to setting up your professional working terms, read: Professional Face Painters Working Terms.
Invest in the best supplies to justify your premium pricing — browse Sally-Ann Lynch's online onestroke tuition, group training sessions, and one to one training.