How to Apply Nail Polish for Nail Art

If you want to ensure your nail art looks its absolute best, make the polish it is sitting on look great first. Your base color of choice is essentially the canvas for your nail art, so you want it to look smooth and even. Learn to apply nail polish correctly so your nail art looks fabulous each and every time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Base coat polish
• Nail polish

1. Remove any old polish completely before polishing your nails for nail art. Avoid the temptation to paint over old polish; this creates a bumpy surface.

2. Apply a base coat and let it dry. Nail art lasts longer when you use a base coat. Use a polish formulated specifically for base coats and cover each nail completely. Brush long, smooth strokes on each nail. Start from the base of the nail, near the cuticle, and work your way up. Make sure each nail is adequately covered with the base coat and let it dry. This usually takes about 2 minutes.

3. Apply your first coat of color. The first layer needs to be thin. Begin with the pinkie finger of your left hand and work your way toward your thumb. Brush long, sweeping strokes of polish from the base of your nail, near the center. Work your way to the outsides of each nail by carefully rolling your fingers from side to side as you paint.

4. Apply a second coat of polish. Your second coat needs to be thicker than the first to even out your "canvas" for the nail art. Brush on the second coat in the same manner that you did the first, but use a larger amount of polish on each nail.

5. Let your polish dry completely. It should not be sticky or tacky to the touch when you apply your nail art.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your nail polish in the refrigerator. This helps it last longer and makes it easier to brush on.