Based on all the conversations I’ve had with many of you, it’s become apparent that the most troublesome color in terms of getting it to show on the lid has to be blues.
And skintone doesn’t even play a factor when we’re talking about some of these eyeshadows, for instance, Steamy. I also have immense trouble getting it to show on the lid. If you’re in the same boat, allow me to share yet another fabulous paint pot that will make blue eyeshadows come alive: Blackground! I had originally planned to use Delft paint pot for this post (and you still could) but because it is a limited edition paint pot, I opted for something in MAC’s permanent collection. If you don’t have Blackground but would like to recreate the below technique, you can also use a black gel eyeliner (drugstore or high-end) for the same effect.
In today’s example, I’m using Shimmermoss, Deep Truth and Moon’s Reflection to show you how dramatic the colors can become with the simple addition of a paint pot:


And even though Moon’s Reflection was not used in today’s look, it’s still a great example of how Blackground makes the color so vibrant:

The Look!
Products Used
- Too Faced Eyeshadow Insurance
- MAC Blackground Paint Pot (on lid, below crease)
- MAC Shimmermoss (inner half of lid)
- MAC Deep Truth (outer half of lid)
- MAC Electric Eel (lightly in crease)
- MAC Gesso (blend)
- MAC Blacktrack Fluidline
- Covergirl brow pencil in ‘Soft Blonde’
- Too Faced Lash Injection Mascara
- Prestige Brow Perfection Clear Brow Gel
- Revlon false lashes #91428
Gina
I never thought to use Blackground PP with blues! Great idea and research on this Z! Blackground is like the mystery PP you never know what the result will be until you try it!
Gina
This PP just makes these colors come alive! Very pretty!
Gilia
Wow! Amazing! Like!
Saira
Wow! This is a great post, Zabrena (and a great series) – I would never have thought that those shades would look so good over Blackground paintpot. I’ve always been a bit scared of Blackground paintpot as it is so dark but it seems like it really intensifies and smokes out coloured eyeshadows.
I don’t have Blackground paintpot but I have Delft paintpot, so I will definitely have to experiment more with trying blue eyeshadows over it. I only ever use teals over it (like Steamy or Strike a Pose) so trying blues with it will be fun.
My Eyeshadow Consultant
You and me both! I thought using Blackground would make everything so dark on top of it, but turns out it’s amazing for every eyeshadow; especially the ones that don’t show up that well! I love it with purples too!
Saira
P.S. Do you think you will do a post at all using Blackground paintpot? It would be really interesting to see what other eyeshadow colours look like over it.
My Eyeshadow Consultant
I just might! 🙂
I’ve been asked a couple times what I plan to do after I’m done with the permanent collection in the Eyeshadow Directory.
I could go the route of pigments, or even paint pots! Sky’s the limit! 😀 Thanks for the idea!
Karah
Hi! Z,
Speaking of MAC’s permanent collection. I wanted to ask if you have ever used Purple Haze? I have it and I’ve never used it. Another eyeshadow I’ve bought and not used yet. LOL! 🙂
My Eyeshadow Consultant
Haha! No, I don’t own that one!
And it’s funny you mentioned it because every time I place an order, I ALWAYS mean to add it into my basket but I am constantly forgetting!
I’m writing it down now for next time! LOL!
Saira
Ooooh, I love the idea of going down the route of pigments. Would be great to get some ideas different looks using the pigments!
Have you ever used Bare Minerals eyeshadows? If you have, what are your thoughts on their eyeshadows? I just recently bought a gift set containing six mini loose eyeshadows – it was a great deal and I couldn’t resist trying it out.
Karah
Very nice Z!
What brush do you use to line your lower lash line? Yours is always perfect , but it’s not always easy to line with eyeshadows. Though, like you, I prefer using eyeshadows. It’s much softer and in my opinion, it looks better.
My Eyeshadow Consultant
Thank you! 🙂
I agree! Pencils have never been my favorite because they drag on the skin and just end up looking harsh. 🙁
I use either the MAC 266 or 263 brushes for the lower lashline – the 263 is a bit more of a defining brush where I feel the 266 is thicker.
Both are great! 🙂
Kelli
Hi Z! What Mac brush do you use to apply the paint pots? I have a few brushes I have attempted to use but they do not come out quite right. Thank you! Kelli
Zabrena
Hi Kelli!
I use the MAC 242 brush, great one for paint pots! 🙂