DIY ACRYLIC NAILS: SKIP THE SALON AND DO IT YOURSELF

Is the salon taking up too much of your time and costing you too much money? Save time and money with DIY acrylic nails! Our step-by-step tutorial will guide you through creating salon-quality results right at home.

HOW TO DO DIY ACRYLIC NAILS

DIY ACRYLIC NAILS: SAVE TIME AND MONEY

Most women have their beauty indulgences. Some need weekly hair appointments, others collect shoes, and for me, it’s all about nails.

I absolutely love visiting the salon for a fresh set of acrylics or gels. However, with each visit costing around $50 or more depending on the “extras” I chose, it became quite the expense.

What we’ll do for our guilty pleasures! Unfortunately, with a tight budget, I had to curb this indulgence.

So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and learn DIY acrylic nails. Given my knack for crafting and creating beautiful nail art, I figured I could master it with some practice.

I should warn you—doing your own acrylics can be tricky. Don’t rush the process.

It might take a few attempts to get it just right, but if you stick with it, I promise it’s worth the effort.

My beauty weakness has transformed into a fantastic new DIY skill. Now, I’m a pro at doing acrylic nails for myself and my friends!

Let’s dive into the world of DIY acrylic nails!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED FOR YOUR DIY ACRYLIC NAIL SET UP

  • Cuticle remover
  • Nail pusher
  • Polishing block/buffer
  • Nail tip
  • Nail glue
  • Clipper
  • Nail file
  • Nail dehydrator
  • Acid-free primer
  • Acrylic liquid
  • Acrylic powder
  • Little glass jar
  • Synthetic brush
  • Paper towel
  • Topcoat
  • Cuticle balm

DIY ACRYLIC NAILS: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

Step 1. Prep Your Nails First

Before diving into your DIY acrylic nails, it’s crucial to start with a clean base. Thoroughly clean your nails to remove any dirt or oil, then gently buff the surface to create a smooth, even texture. This essential step ensures better adhesion for your acrylics.

Step 2: Applying Nail Tips

The first step is to choose a nail tip that suits your nail shape and personal style. For this tutorial, we’ll be using a classic French tip shape.

Step 3: Adhering the Nail Tips

Apply nail glue to the tips of your nails and attach the nail tips. (Note: The glue dries quickly, so you’ll need to work fast!)

Step 4: Shaping Your Nails

Use a clipper to trim the nail tip to your desired length. Then, file the edges and buff the surface once more after filing.

Step 5: Dehydrate Your Nails

Apply a nail dehydrator to remove excess oils from your nails. This will help the acrylic adhere more effectively.

Step 6. Acid-Free Primer

After applying the nail dehydrator, follow up with an acid primer. This will help the acrylic nails adhere better and last longer.

Step 7: Preparing the Acrylic Mixture

Gather the acrylic liquid, acrylic powder, a small jar or container, a synthetic brush, and a paper towel.

Step 8: Applying the Acrylic Mixture

Dip your brush into the acrylic liquid, then into the acrylic powder. Apply the mixture to your nail, covering the entire surface gradually.

For stronger, thicker nails, apply an additional coat. Repeat this process for all your nails.

Allow your nails to dry for 2-5 minutes, then buff and file them once they are completely dry.

Step 9. Finishing

Apply a hardening topcoat for a glossy finish. Finally, use cuticle balm to keep your nails soft and healthy.

CONCLUSION

Doing your own nails can be tricky, but it’s also a lot of fun, don’t you think? This DIY acrylic nails guide should help you get started.

In the comfort of your own home and within your budget, you can experiment with different nail arts and even design your own. Enjoy the process!

Will you be trying DIY acrylic nails this weekend? Share your plans in the comments section below!

60+ STUNNING WEDDING NAILS FOR BRIDE: A 2024 GUIDE

Your wedding day is all about the details, and your nails are no exception. They’re a small but significant part of your overall look, and choosing the perfect design can be both exciting and overwhelming. From classic elegance to modern chic, there’s a wedding nail style to complement every bride.

This guide is your ultimate inspiration for finding the perfect bridal nails. We’ve curated a collection of over 60 stunning nail designs, perfect for the modern bride. Whether you’re dreaming of delicate lace accents, sparkling crystals, or a minimalist manicure, you’ll find something to inspire your special day. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the nail art that will make your wedding photos even more magical!

SQUARE-SHAPED NAIL IDEAS

Square-shaped bridal nails are ideal for brides seeking a distinctive twist on traditional designs like rhinestone studs or bumps. If you’re wearing an all-white dress, consider a classic pale nude shade that complements your skin tone. These elegant square-shaped Pinterest-inspired bridal nails are perfect for formal weddings, especially when paired with a long veil.

COFFIN PINTEREST NAILS

Brides will adore coffin-shaped wedding nails design for their big day! These Pinterest-inspired coffin nails create the illusion of nails encased in a chic, elegant box rather than just bare fingers. Coffin nails are versatile and can complement any wedding color palette, from soft pinks to vibrant fuchsias and oranges. This design pairs beautifully with short-length dresses, ensuring it doesn’t clash with the hemline at the waistline.

ALMOND NAILS FOR A WEDDING

Almond nails are a timeless and elegant choice for a bride. Their soft, tapered shape complements most hand shapes and offers a versatile canvas for various nail art designs. Whether you prefer a classic French manicure, a subtle shimmer, or intricate lace detailing, almond nails can be customized to match your wedding theme and personal style. This nail shape exudes sophistication and femininity, making it a popular choice for brides seeking a touch of glamour on their special day.

SHORT PINTEREST NAIL IDEAS

Short nails can be incredibly stylish! For brides who want polished hands without sacrificing time for other activities, short Pinterest wedding nails are an excellent choice. These nails are ideal for any wedding theme, as they are simple to apply and require no special tools beyond what you have on hand. Opting for clear polish instead of bold colors like black or burgundy will highlight the natural beauty of your nails.

VALENTINE’S DAY NAILS DESIGNS

If you’re considering a heart-shaped nail design, ensure your nail shape complements the heart shape for a harmonious look. This design is truly beautiful and offers a lovely feminine touch. Heart-shaped Pinterest wedding nails are ideal for Valentine’s Day weddings or for brides who want a cute design without it becoming overly girly or tacky. Adding a touch of gold glitter can make this design even more special.

MATTE PINTEREST NAILS

We adore this nail look! It’s simple, chic, and exudes a sophisticated, expensive feel. Matte nails are perfect for achieving a natural look, making them an excellent choice for brides with oily skin or those who struggle with long, easily broken nails. However, keep in mind that matte Pinterest nails can be challenging to clean if not properly maintained.

STYLISH WEDDING MANICURE

Stylish weddings are a fantastic opportunity to dress up in chic outfits and complement them with fashionable nails. These nails are ideal for such occasions, offering a unique touch that enhances your wedding look. Opt for shades of orange and red or softer pastel hues to coordinate with your overall bridal style. Adding white accents, such as dots or glitter, can further elevate the design.

PINTEREST NAILS WITH GOLD ACCENT

Pinterest is a treasure trove of nail inspiration, and gold accents are a popular choice for adding a touch of luxury and elegance to any manicure. From subtle gold flakes to bold gold stripes, there’s a gold accent to suit every style. Whether you pair it with a neutral base, a vibrant color, or a classic French tip, gold can elevate your nail design to new heights. This versatile metallic shade is perfect for special occasions or everyday glam, making it a timeless and trendy choice for nail art enthusiasts.

BRIGHT AND ELEGANT WEDDING MANICURE

A bright and elegant wedding manicure can feel like a dream come true for your big day. These chic Pinterest nail designs are versatile enough to complement any wedding theme, even a casual destination wedding where you might skip makeup. The focus of this design is to make your nails truly stand out. You can choose a striking look with black nails adorned with silver sparkles or go for a more natural option with white nails embellished with gold glitter.

WEDDING NAILS WITH GOLDEN LEAVES

Gold leaf accents are a trendy choice for wedding Pinterest nails, offering both elegance and style. However, be cautious as these designs can be quite delicate, so make sure to protect your nails with shellac or a gentle nail polish remover. Wedding nails featuring gold leaf manicures are ideal for daring brides who value sophistication and class. Whether you prefer a classic look or want to go bold with a more creative design, gold leaves can add a stunning touch to your bridal ensemble.

FALL PINTEREST NAILS

Fall wedding nails add a fun and funky touch to your look while remaining elegant and classic. They complement any bridal dress or outfit, making them a versatile choice for your big day. One of the best things about fall Pinterest nails is their adaptability. You can use darker shades to match the season and achieve the look at home with just basic polish and a bit of patience, without needing special supplies or tools.

SPRING NAIL FOR A BRIDE

With spring’s arrival, flowers begin to bloom, making it a perfect time to dress up your nails for a spring wedding. Spring Pinterest nails offer a fun and vibrant way to enhance your look, with color choices ranging from light pastels to bold hues. Consider using pastel shades with a touch of glitter, or opt for bright neon green for a striking look. You can also experiment with a bright manicure featuring dotted designs and an accent nail adorned with purple flowers.

WINTER NAIL IDEAS

Winter nails are a fantastic way to embrace the season’s spirit. Start with a clear base coat, then apply a layer of white polish for a classic winter look. For added sparkle, consider incorporating blue or silver glitter into your Pinterest nails, which enhances their shine during the colder months. Winter nails can be both adorable and chic, especially when finished off with charming holiday accessories.

SUMMER PINTEREST NAILS

Summer nails are vibrant and often feature long Pinterest designs, making them perfect for beach or tropical-themed weddings. To create a summer wedding nail look, consider painting your nails in bright, bold colors and adding glitter or tiny beads for extra flair. Alternatively, start with a white base and use nail polish pens to add patterns or designs. Summer nails typically require minimal accessories to keep the look fresh and lively.

GENTLE DESIGNS FOR WEDDING NAILS

Brides who prefer subtle nail designs often opt for natural-looking manicures or pastel Pinterest nails. Consider nude shades like white, cream, or off-white with black tips for a refined contrast against your skin tone. If you’re looking for bolder hues, try red, pink, or orange for a striking effect. Gel polish is a great choice for these vibrant colors as it lasts longer and resists chipping better than regular nail polish.

LACE WEDDING NAIL ART

This design features delicate lace appliqué on your nails, offering a beautiful blend of elegance and sophistication. You can either find lace patterns online or create your own design using various lace materials such as Leavers, Venice lace, or fabric strips. For a more colorful and vibrant look, experiment with different colors in your lace patterns. Just ensure that the chosen color complements the rest of your outfit.

MINIMALISTIC PINTEREST NAILS

White, nude, and black are timeless minimalist wedding nail colors. Brides can use these shades to achieve a classic, understated look or add a subtle touch to their nails. For a more dramatic effect, consider dark purple or deep blue tones for your minimalist Pinterest nails. These rich colors will add an elegant touch to your look, making you feel like a princess on your special day.

MANICURE WITH RHINESTONES

For an elegant manicure, start with a quality polish base coat to ensure your nails remain chip-free, and add some rhinestones for a touch of glamour. If you prefer a more feminine touch, rhinestone stickers are a great option.

These stickers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them versatile for any design. To coordinate your cute Pinterest nails with your jewelry or dress, consider incorporating gold accents alongside silver and white polishes. This combination adds sparkle to your look without being overwhelming.

REFLECTIVE FOIL NAILS

Reflective foil nails are a fantastic choice for brides who adore glittery looks, offering both ease of application and stunning results. Available in a variety of colors, this design can be enhanced with rhinestones or additional decorations for extra sparkle. For a unique twist, incorporate reflective foil into your natural nails by applying a single base coat followed by three coats of top coat. For fall Pinterest nails, opt for brown or nude shades to complement the season.

NAILS WITH HAND-DRAWN DETAILS

Nails with hand-drawn details offer a unique and artistic touch to your nail art. The intricate designs can be a lot of fun to create and look stunning on both short and long Pinterest nails. This nail art features hand-drawn flowers, leaves, and other shapes to outline each nail. Many brides favor “Firecracker Red,” which combines a red base with black lines for a striking effect. The best part is that these nails are both quick and easy to achieve.

GLITTER PINTEREST NAILS

Brilliant glitter wedding nails are a playful and dazzling choice, offering a shiny and eye-catching finish. These cute Pinterest nails look fantastic in a variety of colors, particularly red and pink, and serve as a vibrant alternative to traditional white wedding colors. The brilliant glitter has an iridescent finish with small silver particles, adding a touch of sparkle. For a unique twist, consider using “Mint Ice,” which features a light mint green base adorned with silver holographic hexagon glitter particles.

CONCLUSION

Choosing the perfect nail design for your wedding day is an exciting and important step in completing your bridal look. We hope this guide has inspired you with countless options to suit your personal style and wedding theme. Remember, your nails are a reflection of your individuality, so don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your nail art. Ultimately, the most important thing is that you feel confident and beautiful on your special day. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!