DIY Professional French Tips in 3 Easy Steps
When we think of photo shoots, we often wonder #WhatToWear. Details like your nails can sometimes be forgotten. But when it comes to that sweet picture of you holding your loved one's hand, nicely polished nails will make a difference. However, you don't have to spend a fortune for your manicure- you can DIY right at home.
It's time to get that beautiful salon manicure in the comforts of your own home. I am going to show you 6 easy steps to french manicure your nails like a pro without having to pay for professional service. I love the french manicure because it is clean, polished, and classic. And when I want something with more spunk, I simply switch out that classic white for a fun color instead.
Let's get started:
Step 1: Clean nails and apply a base coat
Use nail polish remover to remove any nail paint you may have on.
Pro tip: if you had nail paint on all your nails, you can dip a Q-tip in the nail polish remover to get those harder areas around the cuticle and curves of the nail. Afterwards, wash your hands to start with fresh clean nails.
Apply a base coat (even when fully painting your nails it is always a good idea to use a base coat to prevent your nails from getting stained by the colored polishes).
Wait for the paint to dry. This is a hassle but a must. You can also use a UV or LED lamp to quicken the process. If you do not have a lamp, you can paint my nails while working online, reading, or watching TV to preoccupy yourself with something else as you wait for paint to dry. Have tape ready for next step.
Step 2: Place tape
The secret : tape. Take a small piece of tape (small enough to cover your nail width) and lay it across your nail where you'd like the french tip to start. Pull it tight against your nail so paint does not go under the tape. You can use your normal nail curve or place a tape a little above and make the shape you prefer.
Step 3: Apply the tip color of your choice and peel
Apply the tip color of your choice. I am using red so it is easier to see. Be careful not to overload your brush with too much paint. If you get some paint out of your nail it is okay but judging the right amount of paint can help prevent that.
Finally, simply peel the tape off (not too fast and not too slow-both can cause a funny looking line). I do not wait for the paint to dry, this can cause the paint to dry onto the tape and crack when you are taking it off. Simply apply and remove.
Then repeat Steps 2 and 3 with your other nails. If this is your first time let one hand dry first before applying the French tips to the other. From experience, there is nothing more frustrating than getting a prefect hand and accidentally brushing a finger against the other hand and messing it up.
That's it! A beautiful salon quality french tip.
So ladies, gather your gal pals and have yourselves a mani-party! Clean your nails, base them, tape them, paint them, and peel; then share your beautiful nail masterpieces below. Have any extra tips of your own? Let us know!
