To do nail art, start with clean, well-shaped nails, then apply a base coat to protect your nails. There are several basic techniques to explore such as polka dots (using a dotting tool), stripes (with striping tape or freehand), gradient nails (blending colors with a sponge), French manicure, and marbling effects. After applying your design, finish with a top coat to protect and seal the nail art.
Basic Steps for Nail Art
- Prepare nails: soak, trim, file, buff, and moisturize cuticles.
- Apply base coat and wait for it to dry.
- Use tools like dotting tools, striping tape, sponges, or brushes for design.
- Create your desired design using different colors and techniques.
- Clean up edges using a cotton swab dipped in remover if needed.
- Apply a top coat to finish.
Beginner-Friendly Nail Art Ideas
- Polka dots with contrasting colors.
- Stripes or lines using tape or fine brush.
- Gradient effects by dabbing with a sponge.
- Simple French manicure tips.
- Marbling by swirling multiple colors.
Nail art can be simple and fun using household tools like toothpicks or paper towels for special effects like dots or gradients. Practice and patience will improve skill over time.
