Caleb Foster
There are many ways to make your own fake nails at home, from using household items to creating your own press-ons. Before you start, it's important to prep your nails by removing any old nail polish and pushing back your cuticles to create a smooth base. If you're using an acrylic kit, you'll need to pour the liquid acrylic into the dish and work quickly as it dries fast. You can also use nail glue or adhesive tabs to attach your fake nails, but if you don't have any, a simple paste made from flour and water will do the trick! For a more durable option, try using a plastic straw cut into sections as your nail base. With some creativity and practice, you can achieve salon-quality nails at home.
How to Make Your Own Fake Nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Paper, plastic straws, nail glue/tabs, gel polish, dip powder, UV lamp, builder base gel, nail stand, nail forms, acrylic powder, monomer, top coat, primer, nail clippers, nail file, cuticle pusher, nail buffer, nail scissors, nail polish, nail polish remover, cotton pads, water |
| Preparation | Remove any old nail polish, cut and resize nails, push back cuticles, smooth surface of natural nails |
| Application | Attach fake nails with nail glue or tabs, press onto natural nail bed, use nail clippers and file to shape, buff to create an even surface, seal with nail polish, add top coat for shine |
| Removal | Soak off gel nails, use nail oil to help peel off gels, soak tabs in soapy water or use coconut/olive oil to loosen |
| Styles | Round, oval, square, stiletto, French, glam, natural |
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What You'll Learn
Using nail glue or nail tabs
Preparation:
Firstly, prepare your natural nails by removing any old nail polish with nail polish remover. Even if your nails are bare, wiping them with a cotton pad soaked in nail polish remover will ensure they are free of any natural oils that may prevent the glue or tabs from adhering properly. You can also use rubbing alcohol for this step. Next, trim and file your natural nails so that they are short and smooth. Keeping your natural nails short will ensure they don't interfere with the fake nails.
Applying the Fake Nails:
If using nail glue, start by applying a thin, even layer of glue to the back of each fake nail. You can also add a small dot of glue to your natural nail, but be careful not to use too much to avoid it running off the sides. Then, carefully align the fake nail with your natural nail, centering it on the cuticle, and press down firmly for a few seconds to secure the bond. Repeat this process for each nail.
If using nail tabs, select adhesive nail tabs that are the correct size and shape for your nails. These double-sided tabs are sticky on both sides and designed to fit your fingernails. Place the tab on your natural nail, ensuring there is a small gap between the tab and your cuticle, and then press the corresponding fake nail on top.
Finishing Touches:
Once all the fake nails are applied, use a Q-tip to wipe around the cuticles and remove any excess glue. Then, use a nail file to shape the fake nails to your desired length and style. Finally, decorate your fake nails with nail polish, glitter, or any other creative designs.
It is important to note that nail glue tends to provide a longer-lasting hold compared to nail tabs. Nail glue can keep your fake nails in place for up to two weeks if applied correctly, whereas nail tabs usually last for a few days.
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Shaping and buffing
Shaping:
Start by clipping your natural nails close to your fingertips. You can use nail clippers or scissors to trim them down. Keeping your natural nails short is essential, so they don't interfere with the artificial nails you're about to apply. Once your natural nails are trimmed, use a nail file to shape them into a smooth, desired shape. You can file them into a classic square or oval shape, or any shape you like. If you're happy with the shape of your natural nails, you can skip this step.
Buffing:
Buffing your nails creates a slightly rough surface, which helps the fake nails adhere better. Use a nail buffer to gently buff the surface of your natural nails. Buffing can also help if there is a noticeable line where the artificial nail is applied, creating a more even surface. Buffers come in a range of grit numbers, with lower numbers being coarser. It is recommended to use a buffer with no more than 180 grit for shaping and finishing. After buffing, remember to wipe off the dust with a makeup brush or a lint-free wipe.
Additional Tips:
Before shaping and buffing, ensure your natural nails are clean and dry. Remove any old nail polish and soak your nails in warm water to get rid of any residue. Push back your cuticles gently using an orange stick or a cuticle pusher. Be careful not to push them back too quickly, as it can cut your cuticles. After shaping and buffing, you can use nail tabs or nail glue to attach your fake nails securely.
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Applying a base coat
There are several methods for applying a base coat. The first method does not use a base coat at all. The second method incorporates a base coat, and the third method introduces a primer, which can smooth out the nail surface and decrease the number of unwanted particles that stick to the nail.
If you choose to use a base coat, first, buff your nails to create a more even surface. Then, clean your nail beds with rubbing alcohol to remove any oils or residue. Once your nails are clean and dry, apply the base coat and let it air dry.
After applying the base coat, you can apply the adhesive tab or glue. Attach the fake nail using a downward angle. If using glue, try applying thin layers to both your natural nail and the fake nail.
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Painting the nails
Painting your fake nails is an important step in achieving your desired look. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:
Firstly, ensure your natural nails are clean and dry. Remove any old nail polish or gel residue, taking the time to soak them off gently if needed. This step is crucial as it prepares your nails for the application of fake nails and ensures the adhesive will stick well.
Next, you can begin painting your fake nails. Start by applying a clear base coat to each nail and letting it dry completely. This base coat will provide a smooth surface for the colour polish to adhere to. It is important to note that if you appreciate the look of the paper nails, you may skip the base coat and proceed to polish. However, if you wish to conceal the pattern underneath, opt for an opaque nail polish.
After the base coat has dried, it's time to add colour! Choose your favourite nail polish shade and carefully apply it to each nail, following the same direction as the base coat. Allow the first coat to dry before deciding if you want to add another layer for a more vibrant and opaque finish. You can also experiment with different colours and designs to create a unique look.
Once you are happy with the colour, finish your fake nails with a glossy top coat to add shine and protect your manicure. This step will help seal in the colour and extend the longevity of your nail art. If you are using acrylic nails, you can finish with a thin encapsulation layer of acrylic mixture for a shiny appearance. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area when dealing with acrylics due to their strong fumes.
Additionally, if you are working with gel polishes, consider using a peel-off base coat. This innovative product allows you to easily remove the gel manicure when you are done enjoying it. Simply use an orange wood stick to gently peel off the polish after a day or two.
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Removing fake nails
One common method is to use an acetone soak. Before you start, it is recommended to file and buff the tops of your nails to remove any nail polish that was applied on top of the acrylics. You can then apply cuticle oil or petroleum jelly to the base of your nail beds and your fingers to prevent your cuticles from drying out. Next, saturate a cotton ball with acetone nail polish remover and place it on your nail, covering it completely. Wrap a piece of aluminium foil around the tip of your finger and leave it for around 20 minutes. After this time, the acetone should have broken down the fake nail, and you can gently push or flake off the acrylic/gel.
If you do not want to use acetone, there are other methods that take a little more time. One option is to clip your nails as short as possible and then, using a pair of tweezers or a cuticle stick, gently pry and lift the edges of your acrylics. You can then soak your nails in acetone-free nail polish remover for 30-40 minutes, or until the acrylics loosen, before gently pulling them off.
Another option is to use nail glue remover. Put a bit of remover around the edges of the nail until the glue starts to dissolve, and you can gently wiggle and lift the nail.
After removing your fake nails, it is important to care for your natural nails. Wash your hands and apply cuticle oil and moisturiser, as acetone can be very drying. It is a good idea to give your nails a break and focus on caring for your natural nails before your next manicure.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need nail glue or tabs, gel polish or dip powder, a UV lamp, a builder base gel, a regular base coat, and a top coat. You can also use nail clippers, a nail file, a cuticle pusher, a nail buffer, nail scissors, nail polish, nail polish remover, cotton pads, and a nail stand.
First, cut your nails and resize the fake nails. Push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher to create a smooth base. Then, attach the fake nails with nail tabs or nail glue. Finally, paint your nails with the colour of your choice.
You can make your own glue by mixing one spoon of flour with one spoon of water to make a paste. Brush the paste onto paper cutouts of your nails and let them dry overnight. Then, attach them to your nails using nail tabs.
Cut the shape of each of your nails out of thick paper. Cut out 6-10 additional cutouts for each nail. Then, follow the steps outlined above to make your own glue and attach the paper nails to your natural nails.
