10 Ways to Use Over-Sized Makeup Pallets

Since everyone who knows me, knows my love for all things makeup. Every year for Christmas I inevitably receive a giant makeup pallet. You know, the ones that come with every color imaginable. You may find 52 eyeshadows, 13 blushes, 7 lipsticks, 4 bronzers, and 2 lip glosses. Or something like that. The colors all look so pretty! But what on earth do you do with them? Here's what I've discovered.

Use the colors that are similar to what you already use. Start by seeking out the colors you normally wear. There will undoubtedly be some neutrals, a few beige colors, some sparkle, etc. So you know you can use your regular colors, if nothing else.

Branch out by using colors that are a shade or two away from what you already use. These oversize pallets are great because you can compare the colors you always wear with shades just a bit different than what you're used to using. You'll be able to find some colors that are just a bit deeper, brighter, softer, or bolder than would typically wear, but still similar. It's a great way to experiment in a subtle way.

Blend colors you would never use to make new shades you would wear. Of course, you're going to find colors you would never, ever wear. But you can blend them together to make something new. Mix a dark and light color together to make a more neutral hue.

Experiment with colors you wouldn't normally purchase for yourself. This is the perfect way to try something new. Since it was a gift, you don't have to worry about wasting money on something that you aren't sure you'll like. But you might as well try it….. you never know, once you get a new color on your face, it just may become one of your new favorites. Especially if your family and friends like it, too.

Play with retro looks and retro colors. This is great for new years, parties, or even around the house. These blockbuster pallets usually have enough interesting shades that you can recreate any kind of fun, retro look. Go for a seventies blue, a rosy red eye shadow, a gothic black, or a New Year's sparkle. Have fun getting ready for a party or just play around when you're going to be home.

Turn dark shadows into eyeliners. If the dark eye shadows are just too dark for your lids, use them as liner. You can gently press a little powder shadow over top of your regular, cream liner to give it staying power. You can even dampen the shadow slightly (most brands will work this way) and use it as a liner itself.

Layer lipsticks and glosses until you get a great shade. Sometimes the lipstick colors in those pallets are really bright or orange. But you can layer them nicely together so they become something entirely new. Layer them with gloss for even more variety.

Use bright colors in small doses. Don't try to use all the bright colors at once. Instead, use just a thin line of bright shadow along your upper lashes for a cool, urban look. Or Keep your eyes and lip neutral and create a nice bright pop of color with blush. Give a fushia lip a whirl and see if you like wearing this new trend, as well.

Pop out the metal pans you will use and put them in a Z palette for easy use. If you've tried and you just don't find very many shadows you like, you can probably take them out. If the shadows are in small metal pans, you can usually pop them out with a butter knife or flathead screwdriver. Then store them in a Z pallet for safe keeping. A Z palette is a great beauty tool because it has a magnetic bottom, just right for holding onto your loose makeup pans.

Give the leftover colors to your daughter, niece, or neighbor to apply to her dolls. (Make sure you get her parent's permission first!). Girls love to play makeup! Share your bounty with your best loved girl to decorate her doll collection. Or create paper dolls on paper and teach her how to apply makeup - it's never too early to learn, and you'll get some great quality time, too.