How to Make Miniature Nails

Make miniature nails out of larger-sized ones.

Fingernails come in many shapes and sizes. When it comes to applying fake, or acrylic, nails on top of natural ones, it is important to get the sizing right so the nails fit properly and do not peel off right away. For individuals who have small nail beds, or for children who are interested in putting on fake nails for costume purposes, miniature nails can be made by shaping and sizing the larger ones.

Things You'll Need

• Acrylic nail set
• Pen
• Acrylic clippers
• Nail file

Instructions

1. Place the acrylic nail next to the real corresponding nail. Look at the difference between the two sizes so you get a sense of how much smaller you need to make the acrylic nail.

2. Mark the place on the acrylic nail where you should cut the length. Set the acrylic nail on top of the real nail and mark where, on the acrylic nail, to make the width.

3. Use an acrylic clipper to cut down the nail length and width. This is called sizing the nail. You are taking the larger nail and making it into a miniature one.

4. File the edges of the acrylic nail after you are done clipping. Filing removes sharp edges and gives the acrylic nail a smoother finish on the sides, so it doesn't cut the person wearing the nail.

5. Hold the nail over the real nail again. See if it fits properly now. Make any adjustments to the miniature nail if more length or width needs to be taken off.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not make all of the nails the same size. Each natural nail has its own size. For instance, the pinky nail is not the same size as the nail on your middle finger. As such, measure every nail against your real nail to create miniature nails that fit.

References

• Beauty Soap and Bubbles; How to Apply Acrylic Nails; 2010