So, I’ve been out for about a week sick! But before I became ill, I did this fun little project. You see, my cats stole my other vintage Stratton compact from atop my dresser and I have yet to find it. My boyfriend and I have looked under all the furniture, etc. We are completely mystified! I decided to get another compact, this time something to keep in my purse. This one is modern and holds pressed powder. It’s a bit thicker so it will hold a modern powder puff (it did come with one that fits in the sifter, but I prefer the velour puffs). It just so happens that there are only a few powders that fit in these and the ones that are actual refill types didn’t look light enough for me. The two types that looked like they would work for my pale skin are Estée Lauder Lucidity and Rimmel Stay Matte. Seeing as how the Rimmel has great reviews and is $3.99, it was the obvious choice.
So, here’s my lovely Stratton compact in the Art Deco design.
Here’s my towel laid down to cushion my powder when I pop it out of the pan. I used the candle method to depot my powder. I don’t have to tell you to open a window and turn on a fan when you do this, right? We are talking melted plastic fumes, here. Hell, do it outside! And BE CAREFUL. I seriously have a friend who’s house burned down this week. Be vigilant when messing around with fire! Ok, Mom Moment over.
You can see on the back of the Rimmel Stay Matte that there are a couple of pin holes. These aren’t really going to do a whole lot of good though. The glue is in one blob right in the very center, so you can’t really push it out with the pin hole.
I held the candle over the label for a few minutes, using metal tongs. DO NOT hold it with your fingers. Burns hurt.
WTF? These old grilling tongs should be replaced, LOL! Anyway, they’re good for something.
I was able to peel the label off with ease.
Then, I held the compact over the flame. I was REALLY surprised at how fast it melted! The glue is all one big dot under that cross area in the center. You want to melt around that, and then you can slip a knife in under it and pop the pan out. Don’t burn yourself!
All out. Nicked it with my nail, heh! Pretty perfect, though.
The circle of glue popped right off the back.
A perfect fit! My velour powder puff sits on top and when the compact is closed, it holds the pan perfectly in place, so there is no need for a magnet.
These compacts seem to sell for $60-100, so I was shocked to find this new one on eBay for $10. Total cost for this project was just under $15.00. Depotting is a pain, but this piece is so unique and fun to use! And this huge pan of powder will last ages, as I am just using for touch ups.
Have you depotted any powder makeup products before? I also have done this with many eyeshadows and blushes, so I’m kind of a pro at it by now. Putting stuff in palettes really saves room!
A Bad Homance 