I always apply them wet(with a mixing medium) over a sturdy base, if I don't, I use a sponge applicator and press on my lid gently smoothing it out otherwise you get so much fallout under the eyes. I use them over other shadows / water activated makeup too, just to add a sparkle seal and color to whatever I'm using, which can be fun if you get bored of the same old shadow but don't want to alter the color too much. Most use a sticky base, like the LA Splash base (which I do believe is specifically designed for their loose shadows), or Pixie Epoxy(sp?). I haven't tried the Epoxy, but the LA Splash works to a certain extent, if you don't mind that it won't look as foiled as when applied wet. NYX's lid base in the tube works somewhat.