Get creative with your nail tools. 5+ household items you can use as a dotting tool

There's something about polka dots that brings out the playful little girl in everyone, no matter how that person gets. Polka dots are cheerful, upbeat and easy to create, especially when it comes to nail polish, and you don't have to visit a salon to create a great look.
If you've never tried painting polka dots yourself, you're missing out on an easy way to customize a manicure. Dots don't require a perfectly steady hand, so don't worry if they're not all the same size. All you need are two colors of polish, a clear top coat and a tool to do the dotting. Here are five household items that make dotting nails a breeze.
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1. Sharpened pencil
What could be cuter than a pink and white manicure? A pink and white polka-dotted manicure. You probably have a #2 pencil around somewhere, so sharpen it. This tutorial shows you how to put the white polish on without mucking up the entire thing. Get the full tutorial here.
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2. Toothpick
Another way to dot up a manicure is to use a wooden toothpick. It doesn't matter if the toothpick is completely pointy because you're not going to make every dot exactly the same. Getting the right amount of polish on the tip takes a little practice, so check out this tutorial to see how to apply it perfectly. (Don't press too hard or you'll dent the primary color.) Get the full tutorial here.
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3. Top of a straight pin
For slightly bigger polka dots, you'll need a larger tool. A straight pin, the kind with a pretty round bead on the end, works beautifully. Be careful when using this technique because you'll be holding the sharp end between your fingers. Get the full tutorial here.
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4. Stem of an earring
For the tiniest, most precise dots, look no further than your jewelry box. Those pierced earrings you never wear are effective for making tiny polka dots. In this tutorial, you'll see how little polish is necessary to achieve a magnificent manicure. (Clean the earring thoroughly before and after so it'll be sanitary to wear again.) Get the full tutorial here.
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5. End of a bobby pin
Just when you think there are no more possible uses for bobby pins, another one comes along. Safety-coated bobby pins (the kind with a little rubber tip on the end) work as polka dot makers. They hold just the right amount of polish and are easier to control than longer instruments. Get the full tutorial here.
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