Liam Carter
Fake nails are a great way to achieve a salon-quality manicure at home. They come in various styles, from natural-looking round nails to bold stiletto nails, offering something for every occasion. Applying fake nails can be a straightforward process, but it requires patience and attention to detail. This tutorial will guide you through the steps to apply and customise fake nails, ensuring a secure fit that flatters your hands. You will learn how to prepare your natural nails, select the appropriate size of fake nails, apply them with or without glue, and finish with your choice of nail polish or nail art.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Nail glue/tabs, gel polish, dip powder, UV lamp, builder base gel, regular base coat, top coat, nail stand |
| Alternatives | Flour, water, paper, nail tabs, paint |
| Tutorials | Available on YouTube, WikiHow |
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What You'll Learn
Making fake nails without nail glue
There are several ways to apply fake nails without using nail glue. Here is one method that uses clear nail polish:
Start by washing your hands and wiping each of your nails with a cotton ball dipped in non-acetone nail polish remover. This will ensure your nails are clean and ready for the fake nails. Next, paint the back of the fake nail with a clear polish. Apply a relatively thick coat, but be careful not to use too much, as you don't want the polish to squish out when you press the nail into place. Allow the clear polish to dry for about 15 to 30 seconds. Once the polish is tacky, line up the bottom of the fake nail with your natural nail bed and press it firmly into place for 30 to 60 seconds. For the best results, apply the fake nails one at a time, and avoid sliding the fake nail around during this process, as this can affect the bond.
Another method to apply fake nails without glue is to use adhesive tape. This method is particularly suitable if you're looking for an easier removal process. Simply use a bit of cuticle oil to remove the nails when you're ready.
To remove fake nails applied with the clear polish method, soak your nails in nail polish remover for about 5 to 10 minutes, then gently peel off the fake nails. Avoid trying to peel or pop off the nails without soaking them first, as this could damage your natural nails.
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Using household materials to make fake nails
If you want to make fake nails at home without nail glue, you can use common household materials. Here is a step-by-step guide:
First, you will need to create the fake nails themselves. Cut a plastic straw into 10 sections, making each piece as long as you want your nails to be. Remember that the straw will cover your entire fingernail, from cuticle to tip, so cut with a little extra length for the nail tips. If you want very long nails, you may need to use more than one straw.
Once you have your straw pieces, trim and file them into the desired nail shape. Smooth out any rough edges with a nail file or buffer. If the nails are powdery after shaping and buffing, use a makeup brush to dust them off.
Now that your fake nails are ready, it's time to attach them to your natural nails. Ensure your natural nails are clean and dry. You can gently buff your natural nails to help the adhesive stick better. Use adhesive nail tabs or skin-safe double-sided tape, such as wig tape, to stick the fake nails onto your natural nails.
After all the fake nails are securely attached, you can paint them however you like. Start by adding a couple of layers of a clear base coat. Once the base coat is dry, paint on the colour of your choice.
Remember that even though a few layers of nail polish will make your fake nails more water-resistant, they might not be completely waterproof. It's best to wear gloves if you need to shower with the fake nails on, and be cautious when cleaning your hands.
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How to cut and shape fake nails
To cut and shape fake nails, you will need nail clippers and a nail file or motorized nail grinder.
Before you start cutting, determine how long you want your nails to be. If you only want to make small adjustments, you can skip using the nail clippers and go straight to filing.
To cut your fake nails, position the clippers on the outside of the nail and cut towards the middle. Then, do the same on the other side of the nail, mirroring the first cut. This two-step process will help to prevent your fake nails from breaking or shattering.
Remove the cut tip by gently pulling or bending it back. If you feel the nail starting to crack, stop and consider going to a nail technician.
After cutting, your nails will likely be thicker than you want. Thin them out using a motorized nail grinder or a regular nail file. File the tips of your nails into your desired shape. Common nail shapes include square, oval, and squoval (a mix between oval and square). To figure out the best shape for you, consider the shape of your cuticles. If they are rounded or curved, a round nail shape will look good. If they are more angled, try a square shape.
Finally, rinse and dry your hands to remove any acrylic dust. Use warm water to prevent a bumpy manicure and ensure your nails are fully dry to avoid moisture from getting trapped under the polish.
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The best products to use for fake nails
There are several types of fake nails available, including acrylics, gels, wraps, and Shellac. One of the most popular types is acrylic nails, which are full nail extensions made from a combination of liquid monomer and powder polymer. These create a solid yet lightweight nail that is hard to break and absorbs very little moisture.
If you're looking for an at-home solution, press-on nails are a great alternative to a salon manicure. They are cost-friendly, convenient, and can be applied in minutes. BTArtbox offers a wide range of designs, from solid colours to patterns, and their nails are known for being tough and long-lasting. Their press-on nails come with glue, but if you prefer to avoid it, they also offer adhesive tabs that are easier on your nails and perfect for quick changes.
For a more natural look, OPI's press-on nails are highly regarded for their comfort and durability. They come in various sizes, ensuring a snug fit, and the high-quality glue prevents lifting or chipping for at least seven days.
If you're feeling creative, you can purchase custom press-on nails from Etsy. These handmade nails allow you to choose the size, length, and design, offering a unique and personalised manicure experience.
When removing fake nails, it's important to be gentle on your natural nails. Soaking them in warm, soapy water and gently wiggling the nails will help release the adhesive. You can also use a machine that heats up acetone to gently soak off the product, but be mindful that this can dehydrate your nails. To counteract this, apply jojoba oil to your nails as often as possible.
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Attaching fake nails to your natural nails
Firstly, cut out the shape of each of your nails from a piece of thick paper. This paper nail will be your guide. Using the paper nail as a template, cut out 6-10 additional nail shapes for each natural nail. You can use various materials for this, such as newspaper, magazine pages, construction paper, printer paper, or even tissue.
Next, you will need to create a glue-like paste by mixing one spoon of flour with one spoon of water in a bowl. Brush this paste onto each of the paper cutouts and stick them together. Leave the glued paper nails to dry overnight.
Once they are dry, you can attach them to your natural nails. Use nail tabs to adhere the paper nails to your natural nails securely. Finally, paint your new fake nails with your chosen colour or design.
If you want a more durable option, you can use nail glue to attach the fake nails. Ensure you have the correct glue and follow the instructions on the product. You may also wish to use a gel polish or dip powder to achieve a longer-lasting manicure. Don't forget to finish with a top coat to add shine and protection.
There are many ways to create and attach fake nails at home, so get creative and enjoy your new nails!
Frequently asked questions
You will need nail glue or nail tabs, gel polish, and a UV lamp. You can also use dip powder instead of gel polish if you prefer.
Cut out the shape of your nails from thick paper. Use each cutout as a guide and cut 6-10 more for each nail. Mix equal parts flour and water to make a paste, then brush it onto the paper cutouts. Let them dry overnight, then attach them to your nails with nail tabs.
You can make a paste with flour and water as a substitute for nail glue.
You can use nail glue to attach press-ons that you can get multiple uses out of.
You can find tutorials on YouTube and WikiHow.
