Born-Again Brushes

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-829 -- More Projects »
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Small, angled brushes (on left) are wonderful for applying eyeliner, shadow or cream kohl.
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The shape on the left is the best shape for an eyeliner brush.
Stylist Julia Teachey suggests recutting worn-out makeup brushes to create new products.

  • When buying brushes, look for those that are very soft, preferably sable. Also, look for well-made brushes whose bristles will not come out when they are gently pulled.

  • Clean brushes with baby shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Lukewarm water is best.

  • You can use any type of scissors to reshape brushes. Cut them over a large bowl to catch the cut hairs. Use many small cuts instead of cutting large chunks at one time.
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  • To reshape a large powder brush into a blush brush, round the outside edges all the way around with small snips. Next, cut the brush on an angle (see photo at right). This creates a large, flat surface to pick up pigment and lay it on the skin evenly. Use a darker contour color under the cheekbone and a lighter color in the apple of the cheek with this brush.

  • To create a good angle brush for applying shadows and liners, take a regular shadow brush and cut across at an angle. Taper down the edges on both sides. When applying liner, keep the long edge of the brush to the outside of the eye. To convert eye shadow to eyeliner, just add a little water to the powder.

  • To change of lip brush to an eyeliner brush, start with a small brush whose ends flare out a bit. Clip in tapered cuts so that only a few long bristles remain in the center of the brush.
    • Guests
    Julia Teachey
    Stylist, Julieri
    Phone: 310-450-6162
    Also in this Episode
    Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-829
    •Born-Again Brushes
    •Patio Oasis
    •Organizing Craft Supplies
    •Smart Solution of the Day