Real Techniques Sam's Picks Set

As I've said before (and I'm sure I'll say again), Real Techniques seem to be able to do no wrong. Their previous new release, the Miracle Complexion Sponge, was a massive hit with with me; so much so that I haven't picked up a foundation brush since trying it and now have two so that I'll never be without a clean one. Imagine my excitement when I heard they were launching a new set in time for Christmas, which includes the Essential Crease Brush, a new eye brush exclusive to the collection.

Presented in a plastic box with shiny cardboard-covered foam insert, the Sam's Picks* set stands out against the others in the group, and looks quite festive with its bright colours. The set features 6 of Sam's favourite brushes for adding to any collection, 4 of which are face brushes and 2 are eye brushes, that are perfect to create a flawless finish from minimal makeup to a dramatic look.

Multitask Brush- This is so soft which makes it perfect for applying powder to the larger areas of face and has become my new favourite brush to set my makeup. While I find it a bit too big for blusher, it does a great job of sweeping bronzer over the cheeks and forehead for a sunkissed look.

Buffing Brush- A bloggers favourite for foundation and only previously available in the Core Collection. I love this brush to flawlessly apply foundation on days when I need less coverage, and it does a brilliant job of blending my base into my hairline and jawline. This is also perfect for buffing powder foundation seamlessly into the skin and creates a lovely finish with my mineral powder.

Essential Crease Brush- This is exclusive to the set, with no plans yet for it to be released on its own. The tapered end means it fits perfectly into the crease and applies shadow evenly while the rounded bristles at the sides blend it in easily. This has some of the softest bristles in my eye brush collection but their slight stiffness means you can use it lightly to get great definition.

Setting Brush- The perfect size and shape for the areas under the eyes and around the nose, this flat but fluffy brush applies loose powder perfectly to avoid creasing and shine. It's soft for delicate areas and doesn't leave the bristle marks that larger brushes can. It can also be flipped over and used to apply a dusting of highlighter precisely to the cheeks and nose.

Pointed Foundation Brush- This brush aims to layer foundation where more coverage is needed and to aid application in tight spots like around the nose and eyes. This is probably the brush that I reach for the least as I find it a bit too small and dense, but it does have its uses.

Fine Liner Brush- Its a rare occasion that I crack out my gel liner but this long thin brush makes it easy to get a sharp line and flick, even for those of us that are a bit clumsy with our fingers. Used with powder eyeshadow this brush creates a light thin line, and I find it really useful when I'm applying minimal make up in a rush in the morning as I can sweep along the lashline without worrying about any jolts in the line that I can sometimes get with hurried use of an angled brush.

This set combines the highlights of the whole of the Real Techniques collection, and would make the perfect Christmas present for any makeup fan. Even if you already own some of these brushes it's always useful to have another clean one at hand, and the Essential Crease Brush makes it a perfect addition to any collection.

The Real Techniques Sam's Picks set is available for £29.99 online from Precious About Makeup and Ula La Beauty.