DIY: Eyelash Extensions in Minutes

Eyelash extensions are great- capable of giving you doe eyes for days and allowing you to get up looking gorgeous. One problem. They can be pricey.

A decent (i.e 'full') set can set you back over £70. That's an expensive addition to your beauty regime even if it does save on mascara (and if like me you like big eye make up then you'll probably still pull out your wand for evening regardless.)

But never fear, there is a cheaper way to get plush peepers without busting the budget. Get thee to the beauty supply store and follow these simple steps to luscious lashes in a flash.

Firstly you'll need the lashes. I get mine from Sallys but you can also pick up individual lashes from Superdrug and Boots. the lashes come in clusters (each one is a tiny cluster of hirs in a sort of fan shape) or individuals (single or two hairs together). The individuals tend to last longer. I've worn individual lashes for weeks whereas clusters tend to shed on me within a fortnight.

Next is the glue. Sallys do a great eyelash extension glue for a bout a fiver. Shake the bottle up before application and tip a few drops at a time onto a square of foil or a saucer you don't mind getting messy.

Now use a pair of tweezers to remove one lash from the tray, dip in the extension glue and place on your lashes at the root. The extension should be attached to eyelash, not skin. If you can, sweep the glued part of the extension a little way up from the root of your eyelashes before placing it down. This will give more area for the glue to stick.

Hold the extension in place for a few seconds then use the end of the tweezers to gently push the fake lash so it's level with your own.

Repeat with as many lashes as you need to get your desired look.

For a feline effect, add a few lashes to the outer corners. To open up your eyes, try placing longer lashes in the centre (above your pupil) and getting smaller towards the outside. For a really full on look you can add individual lashes (upside down) to your lower ones, although this will requires a steady hand with the eyeliner to blend the lashes at the root, unless you want a piece-y Twiggy lash look.

These lashes can last for a good few weeks if you are careful and don't scrub at them. Use oil free make up remover or wipes to remove any shadow or liner. At first the process can seem fiddly but once you're used to it it takes almost no time- having had some practice I can now do a full set in 15 minutes without breaking a sweat.

Enjoy your new flirty flutter.