Have you ever wanted to have beautiful, long nails but didn’t want to spend the money and time going to a salon? Or perhaps you have an event coming up and need a quick solution to enhance your nails? Well, look no further! In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you a DIY method to make fake nails out of glue, right in the comfort of your own home. Get ready to impress everyone with your new set of custom-made, fabulous-looking nails!
Supplies Needed
Before jumping into the steps of making fake nails out of glue, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary supplies. Some of the items you’ll need for this DIY project might already be in your beauty toolbox. However, if you’re missing any of the following supplies, you can easily find them at your local beauty supply store or online. Make sure to grab some white glue, acrylic powder, nail polish, scissors, and clear tape. And if you need some advice on how to store your nail glue or how to glue on acrylic nails, we’ve got you covered with some helpful resources.
1. White glue
One of the essential supplies needed for making fake nails out of glue is white glue. It is also known as school glue or PVA (polyvinyl acetate) glue. White glue is readily available at any craft store or general store near you (source).
White glue is one of the best options for making fake nails because it dries clear and can be painted over with nail polish. Besides, it is easy to work with and clean up. Here are some of the advantages of using white glue for fake nail making:
- It is non-toxic and safe to use on nails.
- It dries clear, so you can paint over it with any color of your choice.
- It is readily available, affordable, and easy to find at any craft store or general store.
- It is water-soluble, so it can be easily cleaned up with warm soapy water if you make a mess.
One thing to keep in mind when using white glue is that it takes some time to dry, so you may have to be patient while waiting for it to dry completely. If you want to speed up the drying process, you can use a fan, blow dryer, or nail dryer to dry the glue quickly.
It is also crucial to store your white glue correctly to ensure that it remains effective and lasts longer. You can learn how to store your nail glue to maintain its quality and effectiveness (source).
White glue is an excellent option for making fake nails, and it is easy to work with and safe to use. However, it takes time to dry, so you need to be patient. You also have to keep it stored correctly to preserve its quality.
2. Acrylic powder
Acrylic powder is a crucial supply needed in making fake nails out of glue. Its purpose is to add a layer of thickness and strength to the fake nail. Acrylic nails made with acrylic powder are known to be more durable than those made without. When choosing acrylic powder, ensure that it is made for nails as other types may be harmful and damage your nails.
Here are some tips when choosing the best acrylic powder:
- Choose a powder with a fine texture to create a smooth finish.
- Make sure the powder is easy to mix with the glue and does not clump.
- Choose a powder with a slow drying time to allow for shaping before it sets.
- Consider the color of the powder, as it should blend well with your natural nails or nail polish.
If you’re new to making fake nails with acrylic powder, it’s essential to practice the right technique and use the correct materials to prevent damaging your natural nails. You can visit this article to learn more about the proper way of gluing nails.
Before using acrylic powder, ensure that the glue has dried entirely on the tape. Then, dip the nail shape into the acrylic powder and tap off any excess powder. The powder reacts with the glue to create a hard, durable layer. Applying the powder multiple times can make the nails thicker and stronger. However, be careful not to overdo it as it may result in a bulky or uneven appearance.
To remove any dust or loose powder from the nail, you can wipe it lightly with a lint-free cloth. Then, you can proceed to apply more glue to the back of the fake nail and press it onto your natural nail. Press down on the nail for a few seconds to ensure it sticks firmly.
If you want to learn more about the types of glue available for fake nails, you can visit this article. Similarly, this article can give you more information about applying acrylic nails using glue.
It’s essential to follow the recommended steps when making fake nails out of glue to ensure that they look presentable and last longer. So, if you’re looking for a DIY solution that can save you time and money, you can try making fake nails out of glue and acrylic powder.
3. Nail polish
Nail polish is an important part of creating fake nails. It not only makes the nails look aesthetically pleasing but also helps to make the fake nails last longer. When selecting a nail polish, it is essential to choose a high-quality product that is long-wearing and chip-resistant, preferably in the color of your choice.
The first step in using nail polish is to apply a base coat to the natural nails before attaching the fake nails. The base coat works as a primer for the nails and helps to create a smooth surface for the fake nails to adhere to. One great option is Kiss Nail Glue, which can provide a strong and long-lasting hold for fake nails.
After the base coat has dried, apply the nail polish of your choice to the fake nails, making sure to use thin and even coats. It is important to wait for each layer to dry before applying the next coat. Generally, 2-3 coats are enough to create an opaque and vibrant color. If you want to add some sparkle to your nails, experimenting with nail art foil glue, such as the one produced by Beetles, can create a unique and eye-catching effect.
Once the nail polish has dried, apply a top coat to lock in the color and provide extra protection against chipping and fading. A great tip is to use clear nail polish to create a glossy finish and enhance the color of the polish. Using the right nail polish can help to ensure that your fake nails stay in place for a long time, maintaining a flawless and fashionable appearance.
If you face difficulties with a glue or fake nails falling off, check out our other helpful guides how to make super glue for fake nails and why do my glue-on nails keep falling off. You can also learn how to glue a nail with our step-by-step guide or find out what is the best Kiss nail glue available on the market.
4. Scissors
When it comes to creating fake nails from glue, scissors can come in handy during the shaping process. It’s important to have a reliable pair of scissors that can easily cut through the tape and glue without causing any jagged edges. Here are some tips for choosing the right scissors:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Sharpness | Choose a pair of scissors that is sharp enough to cut through the tape and glue. Dull scissors can cause uneven edges and make it difficult to achieve the desired nail shape. |
| Length | Consider the length of the scissors. Longer scissors may provide better control during the cutting process, but they can also be harder to handle. Shorter scissors, on the other hand, may be more maneuverable but provide less control. |
| Comfort | Choose scissors that feel comfortable in your hand, with ergonomic handles and a balanced weight distribution. This will help prevent hand fatigue during the cutting process. |
Keep in mind that dull or poorly made scissors can lead to jagged edges, which can ruin the final look of your DIY fake nails. By choosing a reliable pair of scissors and using them properly, you can achieve a clean and polished final product.
In addition to scissors, there are other essential supplies needed to make fake nails out of glue, including white glue, acrylic powder, nail polish, and clear tape. If you’re unsure about how to use these supplies, check out our step-by-step guide for creating DIY fake nails out of glue. And if you’re looking for tips on choosing the right glue or how to apply the finished nails, be sure to check out some of our other articles, such as “What is the Best Kiss Nail Glue?” and “How to Glue a Nail.”
5. Clear tape
To make fake nails out of glue, one essential material is clear tape. This tape will be the foundation of the nail since it will hold the glue and acrylic powder in place.
But why clear tape? Clear tape is the ideal choice because it is transparent, making it easy to see through and allowing you to create the perfect nail shape. Additionally, it is flexible and durable, which means that it can withstand the shaping and cutting process.
When picking the clear tape for this DIY project, choose one that is reliable and has a strong hold. It should stick firmly to your natural nail and peel off easily without damaging your nail bed. One great option is the Scotch Brand Transparent Tape.
Here is a table of the different types of clear tape that you can consider for this project:
| Type of Tape | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Invisible tape | Clear tape that is water-resistant and has a matte finish | Beetles Nail Art Foil Glue |
| Double-sided tape | Clear tape with one adhesive side and one non-adhesive side that is perfect for attaching the fake nail | N/A |
| Clear packing tape | A heavy-duty clear tape that is perfect for large nails | N/A |
No matter which type of clear tape you choose, ensure that it is transparent, durable, and holds well. This way, you can be confident that your fake nails will stay in place and look incredible.
Steps
Now that you have gathered all the necessary supplies, you can start creating your own fake nails using glue. This DIY method is a budget-friendly way to achieve salon-quality manicures at the comfort of your home. With a little bit of patience and creativity, you can have a set of gorgeous artificial nails that are perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making fake nails out of glue.
1. Measure and cut out a piece of tape
Before beginning the process of making your own fake nails out of glue, it’s important to measure and cut out a piece of clear tape to the desired length for each nail. The tape provides the base for the nail shape and ensures that the glue and acrylic powder adhere properly. Follow these steps to properly measure and cut out the tape for each nail:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Take a piece of tape and wrap it around your finger, leaving a small gap at the tip where the nail will end. |
| Step 2 | With a pair of scissors, carefully cut the piece of tape at the point where the nail bed meets your finger. |
| Step 3 | Gently remove the tape from your finger and place it with the sticky side up on a flat surface. |
| Step 4 | Repeat steps 1-3 for each nail you wish to create. |
By properly measuring and cutting out the tape, your homemade fake nails will be the perfect shape and length for your natural nails. Remember to take your time with this step to ensure the best results possible.
2. Apply glue to tape and let dry
After cutting and measuring a piece of tape according to your nail size, the next step is to apply glue. For making artificial nails, white glue works best.
Below is a table that showcases the benefits of using white glue for making fake nails:
| Benefits of using white glue for making fake nails |
|---|
| White glue dries quickly |
| It forms a strong bond between the tape and natural nail, ensuring that the artificial nail stays in place for an extended period |
| White glue can be easily shaped and buffed to give a natural nail shape |
| It is readily available and cost-effective |
Now, it’s time to apply the glue to the tape. Squeeze a small amount of white glue onto the tape and spread it evenly using a toothpick or any other pointed object to ensure that the glue is distributed equally across the tape’s surface.
Once you have applied the glue, let it dry naturally. It is important to ensure that the tape does not come in contact with any surface as the glue dries. You can hold the tape up and allow it to dry for about 20-30 minutes.
Note: If you live in a humid environment, it may take longer for the glue to dry completely. It’s best to avoid touching or manipulating the glue until it has set completely.
3. Peel off the tape and shape to desired nail shape
After the glue has fully dried, the next step is to peel off the tape and shape it to your desired nail shape.
Here are the steps to shape the nail:
- Use a pair of scissors to cut out the glue and tape into a nail shape. Take your time and be precise – this will determine the overall look of your fake nails.
- Using a nail file, gently file the edges to refine the shape and smooth out any rough edges.
- Round the tip of the nail shape and shape the sides to match the curve of your natural nails. This will help the fake nails look more natural and blend in seamlessly with your real nails.
- If you want square-shaped nails, simply file the edges straight across.
Remember that the shape you choose will determine the overall look of your fake nails. Take your time and experiment with different shapes to find the one that suits you best. Once you are happy with the shape, you can move on to the next step of the process – dipping the nail shape into the acrylic powder.
4. Dip the nail shape into acrylic powder
Dipping the nail shape into acrylic powder is a crucial step in creating long-lasting and durable fake nails. Here’s how to do it correctly:
First, pour some acrylic powder into a small container. Make sure the container is clean and dry before pouring.
Next, use a small brush to apply a thin layer of white glue onto your nail shape. Be sure to apply the glue evenly all over.
Then, take the nail shape and dip it into the acrylic powder. Gently tap off any excess powder and make sure that the nail shape is evenly coated with the powder.
Tip: It’s recommended to use a fine-grain acrylic powder for a smooth and natural finish.
Repeat the process of applying glue and dipping into acrylic powder for each nail shape.
Once you have finished applying the acrylic powder to all of your nail shapes, leave them to dry for a few minutes. The glue should dry clear, and the acrylic powder will harden onto the nail shape, creating a strong and sturdy base for your fake nails.
Perplexity: In this step, we apply a thin layer of white glue to the nail shape and dip it into acrylic powder to create a durable base. Remember to use a fine-grain acrylic powder and tap off any excess powder. Allow a few minutes for the glue to dry clear and the acrylic powder to harden onto the nail shape.
5. Apply more glue to the back of the nail shape and press onto natural nail
Step 5: Applying the Fake Nails onto Natural Nails
After shaping your fake nails into your desired shape and length, it’s time to apply them onto your natural nails. Here’s how to do it:
- Apply a thin layer of white glue onto the back of the fake nail using a small brush. You don’t need to apply too much glue, just enough to cover the surface.
- Press the fake nail onto your natural nail, starting from the cuticle and pressing gently towards the tip. Hold the fake nail in place for a few seconds to ensure that the glue adheres to your natural nail properly.
- Repeat the same process for all of your other fingernails, making sure that the size of the fake nail matches your natural nail perfectly.
It’s important to avoid applying too much glue onto your natural nails, as this could cause damage to your nails in the long term. Additionally, applying too much glue could result in the fake nail popping off easily.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can create beautiful and stylish fake nails right at home with just a few simple supplies. Remember to take your time and be patient during the process, as creating the perfect fake nails can take some practice.
6. Clip and file nail to desired length and shape
After pressing the fake nail onto your natural nail using glue, it is important to clip and file it down to your desired length and shape. Follow these steps for a beautiful finish:
- Clip: Use a nail clipper to trim the length of your newly applied fake nail. Be sure to cut straight across and avoid making the nail too short.
- File: Take a nail file and gently shape your nail to your desired shape. Whether you want a square, round, or pointed nail, a nail file can help you achieve a flawless look. Be sure to file in one direction, not back and forth, to prevent damage to the nail.
- Smooth: After shaping your nail, use a buffer block to smooth out any rough edges. This step is crucial to achieving a natural-looking, salon-quality finish.
- Hydrate: Finish off this step by applying a cuticle oil to give your nails some extra hydration and shine.
These steps are essential for making sure you have a perfect finish with your DIY fake nails. Taking the time to carefully clip and shape your nails will ensure a professional and polished look that will last for days.
Finishing Touches
After following the steps for creating fake nails using glue and acrylic powder, your DIY set of nails is complete! However, the finishing touches are just as important as the process itself. It’s time to add some color and protect the nails with a base and top coat of nail polish. Let’s dive into the final steps to ensure your new fake nails look flawless and ready to show off.
1. Apply a base coat of nail polish
After completing the DIY fake nails with glue and acrylic powder, it’s time to add some color! To make the nails look even more authentic, we recommend applying a base coat of nail polish before adding any colors of your choice. Here are the steps to apply a base coat of nail polish:
Step 1: Get your base coat ready. You can use any clear nail polish as a base coat.
Step 2: Open the bottle and remove any excess polish from the brush. It’s important to have just enough polish on the brush to avoid any drips or clumps.
Step 3: Start by applying the polish to the center of the nail, and then work your way towards the sides. Use a steady hand and gentle strokes to cover the entire nail.
Step 4: Allow the base coat to dry completely. This may take a few minutes depending on the brand and thickness of the polish.
Step 5: Once the base coat is dry, you can apply your desired colors and designs on top. Remember to let each layer of polish dry completely before moving on to the next step.
By adding a base coat of nail polish, not only will your fake nails look more polished, but the color will also last longer and stay intact for a longer period of time. Follow these easy steps and your fake nails will look like you’ve just came out of a salon!
2. Apply a top coat of nail polish
Once you have successfully applied the fake nails made from glue, it’s time to give them a finishing touch with a top coat of polish. This will not only enhance the appearance of your DIY fake nails but will also help to protect and seal the glue.
Here are the steps to apply a top coat of nail polish:
- Clean the nails: Before applying the top coat, make sure to clean the nails thoroughly. Remove any excess glue or powder that may have accumulated on the nails.
- Apply base coat: Apply a base coat of clear nail polish to the nails. This will provide a smooth surface for the top coat to adhere to and also prevent any staining or discoloration of the fake nails.
- Apply top coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a generous layer of top coat nail polish to the fake nails. Be sure to cover the entire nail surface and extend the polish to the tips of the nails for maximum protection.
- Allow to dry: Allow the top coat to dry completely. This may take a few minutes, so be patient and avoid touching the nails during this time. For best results, apply a second layer of top coat once the first layer is dry.
By following these simple steps, you can give your DIY fake nails a professional-looking finish that will last for days. Just remember to take care of your nails and avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals or excessive water, as this can cause the polish to chip or peel. With a little practice and patience, you can create beautiful and long-lasting fake nails using just glue and a few other supplies.
Conclusion
After following these simple steps, you now know how to make fake nails out of glue. Not only is it a cost-effective way to have lovely nails, but it’s also a fun DIY project to do at home.
Remember, be careful when handling scissors and nail files to avoid any injuries. And make sure to fully let each step dry before moving on to the next one to achieve best results.
Now, you can show off your beautiful DIY nails to your friends and family. Experiment with different nail shapes and colors to suit your preferences and create a unique look.
Enjoy your new set of DIY nails and don’t forget to share your experience with others. Happy crafting!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you use any type of glue to make fake nails?
No, it’s important to use white craft glue specifically for this tutorial. Regular household glue won’t work as well.
2. Is it necessary to use acrylic powder?
Yes, the acrylic powder creates a more durable finish for the fake nails. Skipping this step may cause the nails to fall off easily.
3. Can I use real nail polish instead of craft paint?
Yes, you can use real nail polish instead of craft paint for this tutorial. Just make sure to let it dry completely before applying the top coat.
4. How do I know if the glue is dry enough?
You should let the glue dry for at least 30 minutes before peeling it off the tape. It should be completely dry and not tacky to the touch.
5. What should I do if the nail shape doesn’t fit my natural nail?
You can trim and shape the fake nail using scissors and a nail file until it fits your natural nail properly.
6. How long do these fake nails last?
These fake nails can last up to a week with proper care and maintenance.
7. Can I reuse the fake nails?
Technically, you can reuse the fake nails by soaking them in warm water to remove the glue. However, it’s not recommended as they may lose their shape and durability after the first use.
8. Can I use this tutorial to make fake toenails?
Yes, you can use this tutorial to make fake toenails as well. Just be sure to adjust the size of the nail shape accordingly.
9. Can I decorate the fake nails with designs?
Yes, you can decorate the fake nails with designs using nail polish or decals. Just make sure to apply a top coat to seal in the design.
10. Can I use this tutorial to make fake nails for a child?
We do not recommend making fake nails for children as they may accidentally swallow or inhale small pieces. This tutorial is intended for adults only.