How to Make a Spider Web on Your Nails

Painting nails is an activity that can be done with friends.

Many women pay a professional to add complex designs to their nails, but with a little practice, it is possible to paint your own nails for much less money. Your nails then become wearable art that is your own creation. Some designs are relatively simple. A spiderweb is an easy way to add to a Halloween costume or to enhance a gothic look. Although it requires practice to paint with your non-dominant hand, a spiderweb design is not difficult.

Things You'll Need

• Colored nail polish
• Fine brush
• Acetone
• Clear nail polish

Instructions

1. Paint your nails with a base color. Choose a color that will be striking with the spiderweb. For instance, black nails with a white spiderweb would show well. Wait for the base color to dry, and add another coat if needed.

2. Dip your brush into your web color. Only a thin coat of nail polish is needed. A scroll brush is a good brush to use for this.

3. Paint a line vertically down your nail. It's best to start with the thumb. Draw two lines that cross the initial line in the middle, creating six even "spokes."

4. Paint a curved line from one "spoke" to the next, starting close to the middle and slowly spiraling outward. The line should curve inward toward the middle of the "spokes." Don't make the lines too dense or close together. Continue until you have reached the top of the spokes, then draw a line that runs from the top of each to make a complete, circular web.

5. Repeat for each nail.

6. Clean the brush in acetone or other nail polish remover immediately to avoid ruining the brush. Do not put your nails in the cleaner, however. You may find it helpful to pour a small amount of acetone into a cup before you begin so that you can clean your brush without touching it.

7. Wait for your nails to dry completely, then add a layer of clear topcoat. Let the topcoat dry completely before letting your nails touch anything.

Tips & Warnings

• Try practicing on a piece of paper first to get the feel of the design.

References

• The Nail Directory
• KookyNails: Step-by-Step for Nail Art
• Schmucknaegel: Nail Art 001