How to Apply Temporary Tattoos and Make Glitter Tattoos for Kids

A tiny rainbow on the back of a hand can make an ordinary Saturday feel like a party. Temporary transfer tattoos and glitter tattoos are both easy activities for birthdays, small celebrations or a weekend at home.

Transfer tattoos come with a ready-made design that you apply with water. Glitter tattoos are made with a stencil, a product to hold the glitter in place and the colours your child picks. An adult should help with application and check the age guidance on the packaging.

How to Apply a Temporary Transfer Tattoo

Choose a design and a spot on clean, dry skin. The back of the hand or the forearm is an easy place to start. Peel off the protective film, place the design face down and press a damp cloth against the backing. Follow the timing on the packaging, then gently peel away the paper and let the design dry.

Transfer tattoos are handy if you’re setting up a party activity with very little prep. For more ideas, explore Shop the Look: Kids’ Party Sets.

What Do You Need to Make a Glitter Tattoo?

You’ll need a stencil, cosmetic glitter, a small brush and something to hold the glitter in place. The Glitter Party Glitter Tattoo Set brings those supplies together. You can also pick individual glitter tattoo stencils to match the party theme.

Fine cosmetic glitter is especially easy to work with. The small particles fill in details like star points and butterfly wings and give the design crisp edges. A dedicated glitter brush is handy, too. Once a brush has had a taste of glitter, it tends to sparkle long after the party.

How to Prepare Your Child’s Skin

Choose a patch of clean, dry, healthy skin. The back of the hand, forearm or shin is easy to work on. Designs on areas that bend or rub against clothing may wear away faster. For children under five, Glitternisti applies glitter tattoos to the hands only.

Use glitter glue on children’s hands and body only. For a cheek design, use petroleum jelly or another water-free balm to hold the glitter in place, and choose a cosmetic glitter suitable for the area. Check the product instructions and ingredients before you start, especially if your child has a known allergy.

How to Make a Glitter Tattoo With a Stencil

1. Place the stencil flat against the skin and press gently around the edges.
2. Apply a thin, even layer of your chosen base inside the stencil. Keep it within the cut-out so the edges stay crisp.
3. Gently pat on the glitter with a small brush until the design is covered.
4. Slowly peel away the stencil to reveal the design.

How to Mix Glitter Colours

Let your child pick two or three colours. Try pink and purple on a butterfly, turquoise and silver on a mermaid or gold at the tips of a crown. For a soft gradient, apply one shade to each side of the stencil, then lightly overlap them in the middle.

How Long Do the Tattoos Last, and How Do You Remove Them?

A glitter tattoo made with glitter glue can last a few days. Wear time varies depending on where it’s placed and how often it gets wet or rubs against clothing. For transfer tattoos, follow the care and removal instructions on the packaging.

To remove a glitter tattoo, gently lift off as much glitter as you can with a damp cotton pad or wipe. Put it in the bin before washing the skin with water and a mild cleanser to help keep loose glitter out of the drain. For a cheek design made with petroleum jelly, an oil-based cleanser can help loosen the balm so you can wipe it away gently.

When Should You Book a Glitter Artist?

For a small group, a few stencils and colours can be enough for a DIY glitter tattoo station. At a larger birthday party or family event, a glitter artist can run the station while children choose their own designs and colours.

Explore Glitternisti’s services for children’s events for glitter tattoos and other party activities.