How to Do Traditional French Manicures for Nails

Traditional french manicures can be done in the comfort of your home.

To give your fingernails an updated look, try doing a homemade traditional french manicure finish. A french manicure provides nails with a fresh neutral palette that is appropriate for both daytime or night time wear. Traditional french manicures can be expensive when done by pricey salon professionals but there is a cost effective way to achieve a similar look without the expense. In addition to saving money, doing a homemade french manicure will also allow you to customize your color scheme.

Things You'll Need

• Scotch tape
• White nail polish
• Sheer light-colored nail polish
• Clear nail polish

Instructions

1. Place a small piece of scotch tape across the bottom half of the nail bed. Be sure to leave the tip of the nail exposed.

2. Paint the exposed nail tips with white nail polish.

3. Allow the polish to dry for at least five minutes.

4. Remove the tape from the nail bed.

5. Paint the entire nail with a sheer light-colored nail polish. Allow the nail to dry for at least 10 minutes.

6. Paint the nails with a coat of clear nail polish to seal in the design of the french manicure. Allow the polish to dry completely.

Tips & Warnings

• To protect the work area from unwanted spills, cover the work area with newspaper or a cloth.

• Avoid using dark colored nail polish as a base coat. Dark nail polish may prevent the white tip of the nail from showing.

References

• Beauty Den: French Manicure
• Just Makeup Artist: DIY French Manicure