How to Glue on Fake Nails

Fake nails look beautiful for any occasion!

Fake nails are a great way to give yourself a manicure or pedicure with very little effort. The most important element of wearing fake nails is ensuring you properly apply the glue to your nails and then correctly attach the nails to your own natural nail.

Things You'll Need

• Fake nails kit or individual fake nails and nail glue
• Newspaper or paper towels
• Nail polish remover
• Cotton balls
• Nail clippers
• Nail file
• Orangewood stick

Instructions

1. Place paper towels or newspaper down on your work surface to avoid getting glue on your furniture.

2. Open the package of nails and read the instructions to be sure all steps are accurate.

3. Remove any old nail polish on fingers and toes using nail polish remover.

4. 

   Get rid of old nail polish before applying the fake nails.

   Trim and file your nails to be smooth. Your natural nails should be shorter than the fake nails you plan to apply.

5. Push back cuticles gently with orangewood stick if desired.

6. Match up the sizes of fake nails that best match with your natural nails. It helps to set them aside where you can easily remember which fake nail goes on which finger.

7. File fake nails at the cuticle and sides for a better fit if needed.

8. Remove the cap from your nail glue. If this is the first time using this nail glue, you may need to puncture the bottle to allow the glue to flow freely.

9. Apply a small dab of glue to the back of one fake nail and spread it evenly.

10. Apply a small amount of glue onto your natural nail, too.

11. Lower the fake nail onto your natural nail, using your cuticle as a pivot point.

12. Press down the fake nail on top of your natural nail evenly and hold until set.

13. Repeat steps 10 through 13 for all remaining natural nails.

14. Allow nails to dry completely.

15. File nails to shape them according to your preferences.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply glue to only one nail at a time for best results.

• File your fake nails once applied to shape the edges to your liking.

• Wipe away excess nail glue with an orangewood stick.

• Avoid contact with the nail glue on your skin.

• Do not apply too much nail glue to the fake nails.

References

• KISS USA: Glue-on Nails Instructions
• Nails Guide: Putting On Fake Nails

Resources

• USPedicureSpa.com: Artificial Nails