Five Easy Nail Art Ideas for Your Manicure

You’ll Need These Nail Art Tips to Make Your Manicure Look Better Than Ever

According to Tracy Gallagher, professional nail artist and founder of Nine Colors Nail Design, some of her most impressive nail art work has occurred when clients try her out one step too soon. “This is, hands down, the easiest thing to do when you begin to create your own nail art,” she said. “Instead of starting with a bandana as a base, use the stem to apply a shimmer or glitter to create a jewel pattern or soften one of my iconic designs.”

Learn what else Tracy suggested when you keep reading.

1. Add Some Sparkle With the Nerve of a Swing Dancer

For the sophisticated look, Gallagher makes use of the Spring Velour. “The Velour is a great base because it features a metallic texture that adds shimmer for a beautiful, refined look. It’s a shade of translucent gold, and can be applied all over or just in a ring of shape, such as the red bow behind the ear.”

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2. Let the Lumps Know It’s Christmas Time

For festive flair, Gallagher recommends using the Elf on the Shelf color, Alden, to create that perfect festive Christmas edge. “You can arrange it on your fingers, go all the way around your finger, and loop it around the nail for that charming surprise look.”

3. Opt for One Sweeter Shade of Gold Than Black

For a more delicate, refined look, Gallagher recommends looking for one shade of gold — somewhere between silver and gold — that matches the softer hue of your nail polish. “It can be applied in shape that accentuates your nails, or then added to your client’s existing designs to make them even more unique.”

4. Use Mirror, Mirror on Your Workpiece

Gallagher loves the reflective glitter look that makes such a statement in so many nail art masterpieces. “Sparkly silver and gold is a great gold theme to start with.”

5. Add Fun Posters, Prints, and Words — Right on Your Nails

For a fun graphic touch, opt for something a little deeper. “A painting of a word, word balloons, or a picture can be applied,” said Gallagher. “Try arranging your nails and creating your image as a journal or postcard.”