Isla Bennett
With the rising popularity of 3D nail art, there is a wide range of gel options available. Polygel, also known as hybrid gel, is a popular choice for 3D nail art as it comes in various colours and has a dense, buildable, and non-drip formula. Other options include 3D art mixing gel, which has a unique viscous and self-leveling texture, making it easy to create designs such as seashells and angel wings. For those who prefer to sculpt their charms from scratch, polymer clay is a good option, although it requires an extra step of baking in an oven. Sculpture gels are also widely used and come in different colours, with white being a popular choice for beginners as it is great for mixing colours.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Gel Type | Polygel, Soft Gel, Hard Gel, Sculpture Gel, 3D Art Mixing Gel, Clear 3D Studio Gel |
| Application | Can be used with gel colours, or on its own |
| Features | Viscous, self-levelling, dense, buildable, non-drip formula |
| Removal | Some gels need to be filed off, while others can be soaked off |
| Colours | Available in a variety of colours, including white, pastel shades, and clear |
| Ease of Use | Some gels are easier to use than others due to their texture and tackiness |
| Sculpting | Can be sculpted by hand or with tools |
| Molds | Some gels are suitable for mold-making |
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Polygel (hybrid gel)
Polygel, also known as hybrid gel, is a great option for creating 3D nail art. It is a versatile material that can be used for both nail extensions and the nail structure itself. One of the key advantages of polygel is the ability to combine it with other materials, such as a rubber base coat, to enhance the durability and flexibility of the nails. This hybrid technique results in stronger, more natural-looking nails that are less prone to breaking.
When using polygel for 3D nail art, it's important to properly prepare the natural nail. This includes cleaning and disinfecting the nails, pushing back and trimming the cuticles, and gently filing the nail surface to improve product adhesion. Unlike soft gel, polygel does not soak off and must be filed off when removing it.
Polygel is available in a wide range of colours, offering plenty of options for creative nail designs. It is a dense, buildable material that can be used on its own or with gel colours to create 3D and textured effects. With its non-drip formula, polygel makes it easier to achieve the desired nail art look without creating a mess.
Additionally, polygel is known for its durability and long-lasting results. To ensure the best outcome, it is recommended to store the product away from direct sunlight and follow the application guides and aftercare instructions provided by the manufacturer. By using polygel and exploring the hybrid technique, nail artists can create strong, aesthetically pleasing nails that meet their clients' expectations.
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Clear 3D Studio Gel
One of the standout features of Clear 3D Studio Gel is its ability to be used with or without additional gel colours. This flexibility allows creators to design intricate 3D nail art that can be as vibrant or subtle as desired. The gel's translucent quality adds to its versatility, making it a perfect base for a wide range of nail art styles.
The long-lasting nature of Clear 3D Studio Gel is another advantage. By avoiding product exposure and storage in direct sunlight, creators can ensure that their nail art designs remain intact and vibrant for an extended period. This feature is especially beneficial for those who want to showcase their nail art for special occasions or events.
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Sculpture gels
One popular option for 3D nail art is the Jin.B Seoriyam clay gels, which are known for their ease of use. The texture of these gels is slightly oilier, which prevents them from becoming tacky and allows for free sculpting with hands and tools. However, the softness of the gel can make it challenging to sculpt intricate details.
Another option is the affordable plasticine gel, which is great for practicing 3D nail art. This gel is workable and can be used for sculpting 3D characters or filling molds. However, it tends to get tacky, and it is important to dip your fingers or brushes in water frequently to prevent the gel from adhering to them.
For those comfortable with polymer clay, this can also be used for 3D nail art. However, it requires baking in an oven to cure, adding an extra step to the process. Polymer clay also needs to be carefully smoothed out to avoid fingerprints and blemishes.
When purchasing sculpture gels, it is advisable to buy from reputable brands and retailers, such as Vettsy, to ensure quality and avoid potential headaches. Additionally, reading reviews and watching tutorials can provide valuable insights and recommendations for creating stunning 3D nail art designs.
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Polymer clay
- Nail Powders: Nail powders can be used on partially cured UV nail polish. They come in various types, such as mica powder, synthetic mica, glitter, or metal oxide-coated flakes. These powders can also be used on unbaked polymer clay, offering a range of decorative options. However, it is important to note that dipping powders should not be baked since they contain acrylic.
- UV Nail Polish: Also known as gel polish, UV nail polish cures under a UV lamp or nail dryer. The same brush-on coating used for UV nail polish can be applied as a glossy top coat for polymer clay.
- Gems and Sequins: Small gems and sequins meant for nail art can be used with polymer clay. Sequins can usually be baked with the clay, while gemstones and crystals should be added after baking, unless they are made of glass.
- Stamping Plates: Etched metal stamping plates can be used to create designs on your nails using rubber or silicone stamps. The same technique can be applied to polymer clay, but instead of nail polish, use acrylic or oil paint. These plates can also be used to add texture to your clay creations.
- Shaping and Smoothing: Nail files, emery boards, nail blocks, and electric nail shapers can be used to shape and smooth baked polymer clay. For a super glassy finish, ultra-fine sandpaper and buffing tools are needed.
- Resin: Resin can be brushed onto baked polymer clay, left to self-level, and then cured with a UV light or nail dryer light.
When working with polymer clay, it is important to remember that regular nail polish should not be used, as it is not compatible. Additionally, always follow the specific instructions and recommendations provided by the manufacturer of the products you are using.
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3D modelling gel
3D nail art is an increasingly popular trend, and there are a variety of 3D modelling gels available to help you achieve this look. One option is to use a clear 3D studio gel, which can be used on its own or with gel colours to create 3D and textured effects. This type of gel is dense, buildable, and non-drip, making it easy to work with. Another option is to use a 3D art mixing gel, which has a unique viscous and self-leveling texture that makes it simple to create 3D designs like seashells, unicorn horns, and angel wings. This type of gel can be mixed with pigmented gel colours to create endless possibilities.
If you're looking for a coloured option, sculpture gels are a great choice and come in a variety of shades. White is a popular colour for 3D nail art, as it can be used on its own or mixed with other colours to create pastel shades. Jin.B Seoriyam clay gels are a good option for beginners, as they are easy to work with and have a non-tacky texture that makes sculpting by hand or with tools a breeze. If you're comfortable with polymer clay, you can also use it to make your nail charms, although this requires an extra step of baking in an oven.
For those who want to try something more advanced, you can use hard or soft gel with a mold to create custom-made 3D nail charms. This method may require some trial and error to find the right products and techniques, but it offers a lot of creative freedom. You can find 3D modelling gels and moulds on Amazon, AliExpress, and YouTube, where you'll also discover numerous videos and recommendations for creating your own unique 3D nail art designs.
Additionally, polygel, also known as hybrid gel, is another option for 3D nail art. Polygel comes in a variety of colours and can be used to sculpt charms from scratch. However, it's important to note that polygel doesn't soak off and must be filed off. With so many options available, you can explore and experiment with different 3D modelling gels to find the ones that best suit your nail art needs and preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many gels that can be used for 3D nail art, including hard gel, soft gel, polygel, polymer clay, and sculpture gel. The best gel for you will depend on your desired outcome and level of expertise.
The Jin.B Seoriyam clay gels are significantly easier to use compared to the E&A gel. The texture of the gel feels oilier, which prevents it from becoming tacky and allows you to sculpt it with your hands and tools without it sticking everywhere.
A set of sculpture gels in different colours is a good option for beginners. The white colour, in particular, is a good starting point as it can be used to mix colours into the right shades.
