In recent years, jelly nail polish has gained immense popularity due to its alluring translucent finish, making it a must-have for any nail polish enthusiast. But why settle for store-bought jelly nail polish when you can create your own? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making jelly nail polish from scratch. By doing so, you’ll have the freedom to experiment with various colors and ratios, resulting in a custom look that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Getting Started: Gathering Materials
Before we dive into the exciting world of DIY jelly nail polish, it’s essential to gather all the necessary materials. Luckily, most of these items can be easily obtained from your local craft store or purchased online. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Base
The base is the cornerstone of your jelly nail polish creation. While any clear nail polish can be used, we highly recommend opting for a clear gel polish for optimal results.
Color
Choose your desired nail polish color for your jelly creation. Keep in mind that the jelly effect will make the color appear lighter and more translucent, so consider selecting a shade slightly darker than your desired final result.
Gelatin
Gelatin serves as the magic ingredient that gives your jelly nail polish its distinctive texture. You can find unflavored gelatin at your local grocery store, making it easily accessible.
A clean and sterile container is essential for mixing your jelly nail polish. We suggest using a small glass jar with a lid, allowing for convenient storage and future use.
Mixing Tool
A reliable mixing tool is crucial for blending the ingredients seamlessly. You can utilize a toothpick or a small spatula for this purpose.
Nail Polish Remover
To err is human, and a little spillage or mistakes are expected during the creative process. That’s where nail polish remover comes in handy. Choose a non-acetone nail polish remover to gently and effectively clean up any mishaps without causing harm to your nails.
Now that you have all your materials ready, it’s time to prepare the base for your jelly nail polish. The base will provide the ultimate shine and durability to your creation. Here’s how to prepare it:
Step 1: Cleansing Your Nails
Start with clean nails as a foundation for your masterpiece. Prioritize removing any remnants of old polish using a gentle nail polish remover and thoroughly wash your hands.
Step 2: Applying the Base Coat
Apply a thin layer of clear gel polish to your nails and cure it under a UV or LED lamp, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This step ensures a smooth and even surface, allowing the jelly nail polish to adhere flawlessly.
Adding Color to the Mix
Once your base coat is cured, it’s time to infuse your creation with your chosen color. Here’s how to add color to the base:
Step 1: Choosing Your Color
Select the color that resonates with your creative vision. Remember, the jelly effect will lighten the shade, so opt for a color slightly darker than your desired final result.
Add a few drops of your colored nail polish to the mixing container and blend it with the clear gel polish using your preferred mixing tool. Gradually incorporate more color until you achieve the desired shade of jelly nail polish.
Tips for the Perfect Color
If you find that your color appears too sheer, add more colored nail polish to intensify the hue. Conversely, if the color seems too opaque, introduce more clear gel polish to the mixture. Always remember that the jelly effect will lighten the color, so it’s better to start with a slightly darker shade to achieve your desired final result.
With these steps and tips in mind, you’re well-equipped to embark on your jelly nail polish journey. Enjoy the process of experimentation and the thrill of creating a custom look that will leave your nails looking stunningly unique!
