NTNA 2014: The LA Manicure

Before you start your nail project, choose a good source photo for your design and have it as a reference while you are painting the nail. This is my reference picture for the Staple Center nail.  

Prep the nails and apply tips with an acrylic overlay.  

Start the image by painting the background first. You will work from the back of the image forward. First I painted the white tip. Next I used a makeup sponge to apply the pink and orange ombre background.  

Apply the details with a fine point paint brush. If you don't have a small enough brush, cut a few of the bristles down. Attention to the right level of detail is key in this step. I also used a lighted magnifying glass to ensure crisp fine lines.  

One all details are complete, apply a gel top coat and cure under UV light. Apply mini Swarovski crystals to accent each nail as desired. Repeat these steps for each individual nail to achieve your Los Angeles inspired French manicure.  

I wanted to share a few of my source photo and the final nail.\n\nThis is my Hollywood Walk of Fame nail.  

This is my Walt Disney Concert Hall nail.  

This is my Capitol Record building nail.  

This is my Grauman's Chinese Theater nail.  

This is Cinderella's castle at Disneyland nail.