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How Can I Make Stubble With Makeup?

Many male characters require a good coat of stubble, from pirates to action heroes. If growing real stubble is not an option for a play or movie, you must add the stubble with makeup. You will do this with a technique called stippling, which is a fancy way of saying dabbing makeup onto your face. You need a special stipple sponge for this, which is available at most costume shops.

Things You'll Need

  • Coarse black stipple sponge
  • Scissors
  • Dark gray makeup
  • Artist's palette
  • Palette knife
  • Makeup powder
  • Powder brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut a 1-inch cube of coarse black stipple sponge using scissors.

    • 2

      Cut the corners and edges off of the sponge, creating a rounded shape.

    • 3

      Scoop some dark gray cream makeup onto an artist's pallet with a pallet knife. Some makeup companies sell shades of makeup specifically designed to simulate stubble.

    • 4

      Dip the rounded end of the stipple sponge into the scooped makeup, then blot it on a tissue to remove any excess blobs.

    • 5

      Pat the stipple sponge gently onto your face, leaving tiny dots of makeup behind.

    • 6

      Stipple makeup over your entire beard area, including the upper neck.

    • 7

      Powder the makeup lightly with translucent powder and a powder brush. You must use a light touch or you will smear the dots.

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