How to Apply Art to Fingernails

You don't have to be an artist to apply designs to your fingernails. With a decent paint brush, some acrylic paint and a simple design, you can gain the confidence to apply lovely artwork. Apply artistic designs to any or all of your fingernails. Each time you paint a design, you will find it becomes easier. The paint brush should be a good one, but it needn't be expensive. Look at the number on the brush handle when buying a brush. Make sure the brush is for acrylic paint. The lower the number, the finer the brush hairs are.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• #1 Liner brush
• Acrylic paint (your choice of colors)
• Clear nail polish
• Colored nail polish
• Design of your choice
• Water bin
• Paper towel
• Wax paper
• Nail polish remover

1. Remove any old polish from your fingernails. Wash your hands with soap and water. Dry them thoroughly. If you plan to paint your design on a colored background, apply two coats of the polish of your choice to the fingernails. Let each coat dry before applying the next. If you are painting the design on a clear background, apply one coat of clear polish to the fingernails. Let it dry.

2. Pour drops of acrylic paint onto the wax paper. Moisten the paint brush with water. Blot it dry on a paper towel. Dip the brush into the paint. Sweep the brush back and forth on the wax paper to blend the color into the brush.

3. When working with any design, always start with the background color first. Add the details last. Apply the color to the area of the fingernail where you wish the design to be. Hold the brush upright instead of like a pen or pencil. You will have more control over the brush.

4. Rinse and blot the brush before adding each new color to the design. Use scant amounts of paint since you are working on such a small surface. When using more than one color of acrylic paint, allow each color to dry before proceeding to the next color.

5. Once the design is finished and completely dry, add a coat of clear polish over the design to bring out the colors and protect the design.

Tips & Warnings

• To keep the design crisp and protected for several days, apply a coat of clear polish every day.
• Most nail polish is toxic in content. Work in a ventilated area for your own protection.