You balked at that post-school secretarial course. You avoided Leiths like the plague.

Instead, you just make it up as you go along.

But when it comes to your face, you might not want to take such a chance. Make-up artist Netia Hibbert — who trained at Greasepaint before working on various films and BBC dramas — now works with the famous, the infamous and those who shun the spotlight at all times.

She’ll show you the basics from her own home, and since she’s not out to sell anything but her expertise, her advice is impartial. She’ll run through what to apply and how to apply it, for both a light day look and full-on evening camouflage.

Book in for a general one-off lesson or bag her for special events — from weddings to stage debuts. (She’s also patient, so if you’re looking for an original present for someone, you could easily leave a nervous mummy or granny in her capable hands.)

Pay attention, and you’ll have more time to worry about other things.

Like how to make a three-course dinner for ten.

Netia Hibbert (020 7795 1604 or netiahibbert.com).