If you are planning a really wild time over Christmas, you might want to put a good face on it.

Fun and Party Face Painting from Focus Multimedia allows you to use your computer and digital camera to create exciting face paint designs that will definitely get you noticed.

The problem with face painting is it is hard to create an effective look without a pattern to work from. We don't all want to look like a clown.

To get the best results, scan in a photo or use a digital camera to create a picture of your face.

Then, using the software tools provided and following a simple set of instructions, you can experiment with colours and textures to create your own personal paint design.

Having developed the face on your monitor, it is easy to add virtual glitter wigs and the trimmings to create an individual look.

I drew the line at creating a software image as I find it really hard to get face paint out of my whiskers.

Those who experimented more extensively with the programme said it was easy to transfer the design to their faces as photographs made it simple to see where the paint should be applied.

This package isn't just for kids. Fancy dress parties are popular with everyone and it is really hard to be original.

Perhaps you could try going as a colourful, traditional deity from Thailand.

The idea of paint might not appeal to everyone but there is no doubt this package would enable anyone to make a good job of face painting.

Price: £12.99.

Contact: 01889 570156.

Feel good factor: 8 out of 10.