This question has come up before.

I've heard of dancers looking in hardware stores for simple small tool or fishing tackle boxes. They're sturdy, have compartments, etc. I personally haven't done that, but to each her own.

Hmmm...maybe check out a craft store for artist/hobby boxes?

I just think that anything "made for" makeup will be priced more than if it's designated for another purpose.

Try looking for some of the little girls make-up boxes...they might be a bit cheesy, but you can find some that are very workable and of course, all have mirrors...plus, alot of times they'll come with pots of glitter which are an added bonus...I looooves me some glitter! Oh...the best part...cheeeeeeeap!!!

I actually found a "soft" case (not made of plastic or other hard materials) at Target that was small and the top folded over and zipped up to close. Upon opening, there are pockets inside that I put in a round mirror (that I purchased separately), safety pins, scissors, a small notebook, double-sided tape and a little sewing box, in addition to make-up, some of my jewelry and my EyeKandy kit. It is small like I mentioned but it sure packs a lot in there! Plus, I believe I only paid something like $10! I spent time going to several stores looking for something small and inexpensive, and I have been happy with this purchase.

I have a make-up case that's like a little tool box, except it's light blue semi-opaque plastic. It has a handle on it and a tray that you can take out which means that it holds quite a lot. The only thing it doesn't have is a mirror but you can carry one in there too. I do, however want to get another one that I can take with me to functions which I can also put scissors, safety pins, etc. in for those moments where "just in case" becomes a reality!

As someone else mentioned, tackle boxes are great for this purpose. Also, vintage train cases are usually smaller than the big metal ones we have today and I've seen them very cheap on Ebay and at antique stores. Just a thought.

Now, before i say anything i want you to know that i realize that this suggestion maybe a bit large. i like the old hard case travel/train cases that women use to use when travelling. They usually have pockets or sewn in elastic bands to hold your things in place and a mirror. They have a large space so you can carry extra anything (shoes, hair thingies, veils, coin belts, bras, sewing kit, safety pins, etc). You can find them at flea markets, yard sales, craigslist, etc. The last one i got as a present (cause now i'm addicted to collecting them! <giggle!>) is a really nice brown leather case that the person got for $3's!

i really hope this helps (but now i'm thinking i should have kept my mouth shut cause everyone is going to be looking for them! <snicker!>)

safe journeys
michele

I found a second hand makeup box from a dancers group--You know the typical young girl who takes the combo ballet\tap\hip hop\lyrical dance lessons--check with a dance shop that specializes in recycling childrens costumes and dance stuff --It is the size of a small tackle box- and it has a mirror--works great even though it is pink and has sparkles and stars all over it---(think hannah montanna age group)

I bought this gigantoid box for my make-up! :-) Keep in mind that if you do continue to dance the list of makeup products you have will get lager and larger. At least that is my own personal experience, but the suggestions on here are correct-o! :-)