Stain log 💄 👛 what’s in my makeup bag

After my initial post about starting a 'Stain Log' in my Wreck This Journal, I’ve had so many questions and seen such enthusiasm! It really is a fantastic way to organize your makeup and get more creative with your collection. If you're someone who loves makeup but sometimes feels overwhelmed by what you own, or just wants a fun new project, creating your own makeup journal or swatch book is an absolute game-changer. You might be wondering, why bother with a physical makeup swatch book when you can just look at your products? For me, it's about seeing all those beautiful shades laid out side-by-side, truly understanding my collection, and finding new inspiration. It’s like creating a personalized makeup encyclopedia! I've found it incredibly helpful for spotting similar shades I might have accidentally repurchased, or for mixing and matching colors I wouldn't usually pair together. Plus, the act of swatching is surprisingly therapeutic. To start your own Wreck This Journal Stain Log – or any kind of makeup journal – here are a few tips I've picked up. First, don't overthink it! The beauty of a Wreck This Journal is that it's okay to be imperfect. Grab your existing journal or even a simple notebook. Then, gather your makeup. I like to go through my entire makeup bag, pulling out everything from foundations and concealers to blushes, lipsticks, and of course, all my fun eye shadows. I usually dedicate a page or a section to a specific product type. For example, one page for all my red lipsticks, another for cool-toned blushes. When I swatch, I try to add a small label next to each swatch with the product name and shade. This makes it a true reference guide. Seeing all my different blush shades, from peachy to rosy, or comparing the undertones of various foundations has been eye-opening. Don't forget those smaller items like setting powder or even brow gels – you can swatch anything that leaves a mark! Beyond just swatches, this stain log has become a creative outlet. I sometimes draw little makeup bags or bottles next to my swatches, or add notes about how I feel about specific products. You could even write mini-reviews, note down the purchase date, or jot down favorite combinations. It's not just a record; it's a living document of your makeup journey. For those with a larger collection, imagining a whole book of makeup swatches might seem daunting, but you can approach it slowly. Maybe swatch just one category a week, or focus on new purchases. The goal is to make it an enjoyable, practical tool, not another chore. Happy swatching – I can't wait to see what creative makeup journals you come up with!