How to map lashes with Volume Lash Tray

Discover lash mapping techniques that truly work using a volume lash tray. Create flawless sets like wispy, cat-eye, and doll-eye with pro tips.

Intro

Volume lash tray is a popular type of eyelash extension used widely in the lash industry. It is highly favored by lash salon owners, lash artists, and even wholesalers. However, there is still a lot of confusion when it comes to choosing between a volume lash tray and a classic lash tray, especially when selecting the right type to create the desired lash style for clients. This article will help you clearly distinguish between the two and guide you in choosing the most suitable lash tray for your needs.

Why Lash Mapping Matters in Volume Lash Application

Lash mapping is the process of planning and designing where each eyelash extension will be placed to create a balanced and customized look. In volume lash application, this technique becomes especially important due to the complexity of working with multiple lash fans. 

  • Ensures symmetry across both eyes, resulting in a polished and harmonious appearance. It also helps lash artists control the fullness of the set by strategically placing volume fans to enhance specific areas. 
  • Allows for personalized designs tailored to the client’s eye shape, lash condition, and desired style. By placing each fan in the right position, lash artists can optimize retention, maintain lash health, and deliver stunning results that elevate the entire eyelash extension experience.

The Difference Between Classic Lash Trays and Volume Lash Traysvolume lash tray vs classic lash tray

Both classic lash trays and volume lash trays belong to the same category of pre-arranged lash strips, often referred to as lash trays or lash strips. As shown in most product images, these trays typically contain 16 lash lines or more, depending on the customization and supplier. Despite their similar appearance, the main differences between them lie in their thickness, application techniques, and final lash look.

Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the key differences between classic and volume lash trays:

Feature

Classic Lash Tray

Volume Lash Tray

Lash Thickness0.12 – 0.18 mm (single lashes)0.03 – 0.07 mm (ultra-fine lashes for fanning)
Application MethodOne extension per natural lash (1:1 ratio)Multiple lashes per natural lash (2D–10D fans)
Lash LookNatural, subtle enhancementFull, fluffy, and dramatic volume
Skill Level RequiredBeginner-friendlyRequires more advanced techniques or pre-made fan usage
Ideal ForClients wanting a natural lookClients seeking a fuller, more glamorous lash style
Popularity AmongBeginners, salons offering basic servicesProfessional lash artists, volume lash tray wholesalers, salons

Understanding these differences helps lash professionals and salon owners choose the right type of tray for each client’s needs. Whether you’re just starting or scaling your lash business, investing in the right volume lash tray can dramatically elevate your lash results and client satisfaction.

Fun fact: The volume lash tray is also known as easy fan lash due to its ability to form fans more easily than regular lash trays. Each lash strand has a light adhesive coating, which allows the lashes to stay together when fanned out, making the fan creation process quicker and more efficient.

Choosing the Right Volume Lash Tray for Mapping

  • Select the correct thickness:
    Choose between 0.03, 0.05, and 0.07 depending on the desired lash volume and fan size.

  • Pick the right curl:

volume lash tray in lash mapping
Use C, D, or L curls to complement different eye shapes and achieve the intended lash lift effect.

  • Use mixed-length trays:
    Mix-length volume lash tray options are ideal for creating depth and dimension in lash mapping.

  • Prioritize fan quality:
    High-quality volume lashes hold their form better during fanning and styling, enhancing your lash design with a volume tray.

Essential Tools for Lash Mapping with Volume Lashes

  • Mapping pens or gel pads with pre-lined guides:
    Help you mark lash zones accurately and speed up the mapping process.

  • Volume tweezers:
    Designed specifically for handling ultra-fine lashes from a volume lash tray without losing fan shape.

  • Lash mapping charts (eye design templates):
    Offer a visual guide for lash length, curl, and fan placement—great for consistency across clients.

  • Combine with the right volume lash tray:
    Ensures seamless coordination between tools and lash materials for perfect results.

Pro Tips to Maintain Mapping Consistency

  • Document your lash maps:
    Take notes or photos of your mapping styles for returning clients.

  • Use labeled volume lash trays:
    Organize by curl and length to avoid errors during application.

  • Create reusable mapping templates:
    Standardize popular styles (e.g., cat eye, doll eye) for faster application.

  • Stick to consistent lash quality:
    A well-crafted volume lash tray gives uniform results across different clients and sessions.

3 Popular Lash Mapping Styles Using Volume Lash Trays

Lash mapping plays a crucial role in creating the perfect lash set. When working with a volume lash tray, lash artists have more flexibility and creative freedom to customize designs. Here are three of the most popular lash mapping styles used today, especially with volume fans:

Wispy Volume Lash Set

This trending style is loved for its soft-yet-striking effect created by alternating long spike lashes with volume fans. It mimics a “messy glam” look, often referred to as the Kim Kardashian or Strip Lash Look.

To achieve this effect, choose a volume lash tray with a variety of lengths, allowing for bold spikes at specific focus points like the center or outer corners. The wispy volume lash set is ideal for clients who want a dramatic, defined, yet airy appearance.

Read more Unlock Secret to Stunning Wispy Lash Extensions: Tips and Techniques

Cat-Eye Volume Mapping

The cat-eye mapping style increases lash length gradually from the inner to the outer corner, creating a lifted and elongated eye effect.

To perfect this look, use a volume lash tray that includes lengths ranging from 8mm to 14mm. D or L curls can help elevate the outer corners but should be selected carefully to avoid making the eyes look droopy. This mapping works best for clients with round eyes or close-set eyes, helping to balance the face’s proportions.

Doll-Eye (Open Eye) Mapping

For clients with smaller eyes or hooded lids, the doll-eye mapping is an excellent choice. It places the longest lashes in the center of the eye (typically 11–13mm), tapering shorter lengths toward the inner and outer corners.

This creates the illusion of wider, more open eyes. A volume lash tray with mix-length options is especially useful here, allowing for smooth transitions across the lash line. This is one of the most effective lash mapping volume styles for enhancing brightness and roundness in the eyes.

Lash Mapping Mistakes to Avoid with Volume Lash Trays

Even with solid technique and a high-quality volume lash tray, certain lash mapping mistakes can lead to uneven or flat results. Avoid these common pitfalls:

  • Ignoring asymmetry in the client’s eyes
    Most clients don’t have perfectly symmetrical eyes. Using the same map for both eyes without adjustment may cause imbalance.

  • Using the same length throughout
    Applying only one lash length (e.g., all 11mm) results in a flat, unnatural lash set. Always incorporate varying lengths to build dimension.

  • Overly rigid mapping with no personalization
    Lash maps must be adapted to suit each client’s unique eye shape. One-size-fits-all templates often miss the mark.

Carefully adjusting your mapping while selecting the right volume lash tray ensures more flattering, long-lasting results.

Pro Tips to Level Up Your Lash Mapping Game

To elevate your lash mapping skills, it’s essential to go beyond technique and truly understand your client’s features. Here are some expert tips:

  • Perform an eye shape diagnosis
    Determine if the client has almond, hooded, round, or downturned eyes, and tailor the lash design accordingly.

  • Use before-and-after photos
    Taking pictures helps you identify subtle imbalances and improve mapping accuracy in future appointments.

  • Combine mapping with handmade fans
    Pairing your mapping strategy with handcrafted fans from a volume lash tray creates a softer, more natural finish—especially useful in wispy or hybrid sets.

FAQ for volume lash tray

To wrap up, here are some commonly asked questions about volume lash trays to help you choose and use them with more confidence—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lash artist.

❓ What’s the best thickness to use in a volume lash tray?

The most popular thicknesses for volume lash fans are 0.03mm, 0.05mm, and 0.07mm:

  • 0.03mm: Ideal for mega volume sets (up to 10D+)

  • 0.05mm: Great for soft volume or medium density sets

  • 0.07mm: Perfect for lighter volume or fuller classic hybrids

Choosing the right thickness depends on the look your client wants and the health of their natural lashes.

❓ Can I use one volume lash tray for multiple styles?

Absolutely. Many lash artists use mix-length volume lash trays, which include various lengths (e.g., 8mm–15mm) in one tray. This allows you to create different mapping styles like cat eye, doll eye, or wispy volume lash set without needing separate trays for each design.

❓ Do volume lash trays work with both handmade and pre-made fans?

Yes. Volume lash trays are primarily used to create handmade fans, but you can also combine them with pre-made fans depending on your workflow or client preference. Handmade fans offer more control in lash design, while pre-mades save time and ensure uniformity.

❓ Why are some volume lash trays called “easy fan lashes”?

Because they’re designed with a small amount of adhesive at the base of each lash strip, allowing the lashes to stick together when picked up—making fan creation quick and easy. This is perfect for lash artists who are still mastering the handmade fan technique.

❓ How many sets can I create from one volume lash tray?

It depends on the lash length, density, and how many fans you apply per client. On average, one volume lash tray can provide enough lashes for 10 to 15 full sets, depending on whether you’re doing light volume or mega volume.

Final Thoughts

A beautiful lash set doesn’t come from skill alone—it also relies on precise mapping and using the right volume lash tray. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned lash artist, consistent mapping practice and choosing quality trays will elevate your work and client satisfaction.

👉 Don’t just master lash techniques—practice lash mapping every day to become a standout artist in the industry.

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