How to create a unique negative-space manicure

At first glance, you might think creating a negative-space nail design requires an extremely steady hand and expert precision. In reality, though, it's far easier than you probably believe it to be. This at-home manicure won't take too much time or effort but will leave others looking in awe as though you paid big bucks for your trendy nails. All you need is some creativity and a few extra minutes to nail the look.
The minimalist, chic design can be executed in many ways, from heart tips to geometric shards. This example features an unusual magical design with sand timer-like shapes and gold stars. Ditch the plain, block-color manicure and go for something that stands out from the crowd with the help of the tutorial below.
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Materials
- Liner tape
- Perfect Summer Chameleon Color Gel Polish in 001
- Lumcrissy Gel Lamp
- Gelish Soak-Off Foundation Gel Polish
- Tweezers
- Nicole Diary iridescent holograms
- Gold holographic quasars
- Gelish Top It Off Nail Polish
Fierce League
Instructions
1. Create the desired negative-space shape on your nails using the liner tape. This manicure uses a design that resembles a sand timer. To achieve this, simply cross two pieces of liner tape on your nail, ensuring they meet in the middle of the nail. Add two more strips of tape to both ends of the X shape you created. Make sure the tape is securely stuck to the nail, with enough overhang to remove it aftward.
2. Paint your entire nail with the Perfect Summer Chameleon Color Gel Polish in 001. Because of the glittery consistency of the polish, you may need to apply two or more coats. If the consistency isn't quite right, dab the polish into any places that aren't pigmented enough.
3. Gently remove the tape, starting with the last piece you applied.
4. Cure the gel polish under the gel lamp for at least 30 seconds until completely dry.
5. Apply the Gelish Soak-Off Foundation Gel Polish to the entire nail.
6. While the nail is still wet, apply the iridescent holograms
and gold holographic quasars by pinching them with tweezers and placing them around the negative space to tie together the theme.
7. Cure the design under the gel lamp.
8. Finally, apply the Gelish Top It Off Nail Polish and dry the manicure under the gel lamp to secure the design.
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