I do wish I'd used a different base color for this, but overall I still think it turned out really cute. This would be perfect for an accent nail, since placing all the stones does take a bit of time. Still, it's definitely something people can accomplish without a lot of stressful painting!
It's easy enough to create. While I'm going to mention brands, keep in mind you can use any color or brands you like better. I just happened to use what I have and what I like. Use what you have, and what works well for you.
First, I used a base coat. I can't repeat this enough: a good base coat and top coat are the most important part of your manicure. They protect your nails from staining (some, at least) and protect the polish on your nails. If you're going to splurge on something, splurge on top coat! Even the 98 cent Wet n Wild polishes can wear like iron if you use a good base coat and top coat!
... woops, I seem to have landed on a soapbox! How did that happen? Getting back to the manicure, it's simple. It goes like this:
- Base coat.
- Background color. Use 2-3 coats, whatever it takes to have a nice, solid background. I used a somewhat dusty metallic pink.
- Once this is totally dry, I painted China Glaze Broken Hearted (pink) crackle polish in a rough triangle on the top half of my nail. I then used Sally Hansen Vintage Violet (purple) crackle polish on the bottom half trangle.
- After the crackle polishes have dried, I used my white Art Deco striper to paint a somewhat thick line separating the two crackles.
- After everything had dried for a few minutes more, I placed the various rhinestones into place, using my clear topcoat as a glue to keep them in place. These rhinestones came from the Fingrs Flirt package, which I absolutely LOVE!
- Finally, I added a coat of top coat to seal everything into place and protect everything, and we were done!
Ah well... til next time!
Some polishes were provided by the manufacturers for consideration.
See my disclosure statement for more information.
