DIY Glitter Nail Art Tutorial

Posted by Alexandra C. | Tuesday October 25, 201116 comments

Repeat after me: "There is no such thing as too much glitter". Why should glitter be restricted to only your outfit or accessories? Why not try glittery nail art? Get maximum "sparklige" by using creafting glitter instead of glitter nail polish. It's surprisingly easy and pretty long lasting. You get a unique 3-D, textured effect that gives an extra something to matte or even metallic polish. (Also- this nail art costs about $1- compare that to glitter nail stickers at about $10- talk about a bargain!) 


What you need: 
- Coloured Nail Polish (of your choice) 
- Top Coat (optional base coat) 
- Orange stick or nail file
- Glitter 
- Tape (optional)

This art is a bit on the messy side too and to avoid looking like a Twilight vampire (i.e. sparkles, literally, all over your body), you will need nail polish remover and you may want to use a paper plate, paper towels and protect your working area with plastic. You can also try taping around your cuticle to avoid excess glitter. 


Step 1: Start with either a base layer in nail polish colour of your choice or a clean nail. Paint over with a top coat or base coat (either will do). 

Step 2: Dip your finger into glitter- it is easiest to pour out a same amount on a paper plate or easy to clean work area. Roll in glitter, from side to side. Make sure to cover your nail entirely.

Step 3: Let dry, using an orange stick or file, tap off any excess glitter.  

Step 4: Apply your top coat over this layer and let dry. 



For a more gradient glitter or french mani glitter manicure, the process is pretty much the same. Paint your nails first in a colour of your choice. You can try taping off the rest of your nail and applying top coat only on a certain section. Alternatively, apply the top coat, dip the end of your nail in glitter and use your orange stick or finger to move the glitter around. 


Here is a final look with a few different glitter nail options- remember to have fun and let your creativity run wild! We all need a bit of glitter in our lives!


Are you also a glitter freak? How do you use glitter? 
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16 Comments

on October 25, 2011  Becky  13,128 said:

wow love the glitter look!! I especially love the glitter french tips :) :) And so easy to do compared to some of the other projects you ladies undertake!
@alexjc: totally agree with you on the glitter, gf! We all need some in our lives

on October 25, 2011  AlexJC  50 said:

That's understandable- also if you don't tap off the excess well (like I didn't :P) then it kind of gets everywhere- cooking with glitter not so yummy lol!

on October 25, 2011  takoda  28,648 said:

Now that I would do, a little is always nice. I just meant that I
wouldn't go to the extent that you are showing here at my age. On a
special occasion a little would be nice. But like I said my husband
would think I flipped my lid if I went all out like this.LOL

on October 25, 2011  AlexJC  50 said:

I LOVE GLITTER. I firmly believe that everyone needs more glitter in their life!

@takoda- it is kind of a young look, but I think a little sparkle here and there (even just on your nails) is kind of fun for a day or two. Have you considered maybe a metallic polish or a glitter top coat?

on October 25, 2011  mamaluv  STAFF said:

Glitter french tips are such a fun idea! Great party or halloween look, though I don't know I'd go for this as an everyday manicure.

on October 25, 2011  takoda  28,648 said:


Nope this just isn't for me. If I were to do this to my nails I think my husband would be looking for a nut house to put me in.LOL
But it would be fun for younger girl's.

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