How to make a gradient on your nails. Gradient manicure

Gradient manicure is a type of French nail design, in which the smoothest possible transition is made between contrasting or closest tones of varnish. A gradient on nails always has boundaries, but they should be blurry and almost invisible. This technique is very simple to perform, but the end result is truly impressive and effective, and in terms of beauty is not inferior to designer work. A fashionable gradient on nails can be done horizontally, diagonally or vertically.

Ways to create a gradient on nails: classics and new items for 2019

The fashionable gradient on nails 2019 provides a unique opportunity to play with color and create unique pictures on the nails. The classic technique involves performing a horizontal gradient. You can also combine this design with additional decorative elements, patterns, abstract or floral designs. Vertical ombre manicure looks very interesting, in which it is recommended to choose contrasting shades of varnish.

Classic homemade gradient with a sponge or sponge

This is the easiest way to get a trendy manicure using a simple foam sponge. To achieve a gradient effect, it is enough to apply a base shade of varnish to the nail, and a second shade to the sponge, which will be imprinted on the free edge.

The technique for performing a gradient with a sponge is as follows: :

a base coat is applied to the previously prepared nail plate;
shades of varnishes are selected, which should be harmoniously combined with each other;
base varnish is applied and dried;
the sponge must be damp, otherwise it will absorb the polish and it will print poorly on the nail;
several colors of varnish are applied in strips to the sponge;
the sponge is applied to the nail and pressed lightly;
A top coat is applied to consolidate the result.

Gradient with a comb brush

A special flat brush called a “comb” will help you create a nail design with a gradient. Thanks to its use, you can create both horizontal and vertical ombre. A gradient with a brush has the main advantage; to master the technique, it is enough to study the step-by-step principle of operation.

So, how to make a gradient on your nails with a comb brush at home :

two colors of varnish are applied to the nail plate with a flat brush;
Using a comb brush, carefully brush along the border of the varnish, shading it;
you can move the brush to the sides, creating a more blurred background;
At the end, a colorless varnish is applied to consolidate the result.

Beige gradient gel “baby boomer”

Seeing a photo of a beautiful gradient on nails using the Baby boomer technique, no girl will remain indifferent. This is one of the varieties of French manicure, which simultaneously combines a classic design and a horizontal gradient with gel polish. This manicure is elegant and sophisticated, ideal for any look.

To create a gentle gradient with gel polish on long or short nails, you should follow these tips::

A gel polish base is applied to the nails and dried;
The surface is coated with white gel polish and dried;
apply beige gel polish with a fan brush and dry;
Smooth mixing of colors is obtained;

Gradient air puffing

Aeropuffing is a device for quickly applying a gradient, both classic and stencil, which can be done using an airbrush. The new trend for 2019 is a weightless multi-layer gradient consisting of small patterns. These could be autumn leaves, winter snowflakes, or anything at all. Aeropuffing is very convenient to use, although you will have to stock up on replacement sponges.

An airpuffing gradient can be done as follows: :

the first layers are base and colored gel polish;
selected shades of gel polish or special gel paint, which is often sold in a set with a pouf, are applied to a metal or plastic palette;
the pouf is dipped in gel polish or gel paint, printed on the palette a couple of times to remove excess paint, and only then applied to the nail;
the resulting gradient is dried in a lamp;
You can apply a top coat (glossy or matte) on top

The photo shows an example of a gradient using a pouf.

Photo step by step

Airbrush gradient

Airbrush is a simple artistic painting, for which a special device is used. It is used to spray paint over the nail plate, thereby creating a blurry image.

The airbrush gradient is performed according to the following scheme :

airbrush is applied to the nail in one color;
after the first layer has dried, apply the second using a varnish of a different shade;
a gradient on long nails can be done with 3-4 colors of varnish;
The design is fixed with colorless varnish.

Gradient glitter on nails (stretching glitter with a brush)

Gradient glitter on nails or stretching glitter with a brush is one of the varieties of ombre manicure. In this case, the base is glitter, which is distributed over the nail plate from top to bottom or bottom to top, creating a smooth transition.

A gradient manicure with glitter on gel polish is performed as follows: :

the nail plate is prepared, gel polish is applied in several layers, and dried;
for design you can use loose glitter or gel polish with glitter;
glitter is applied as close to the cuticle as possible;
take a flat brush, place it parallel to the nail and gently shade the glitter;
topcoat is applied and dried.

French gradient on nails

The French gradient looks interesting, stylish and sophisticated on nails, ideally complementing any look. This technique is suitable for beginners who are just mastering the ombre design technique.

To create it you must follow these steps: :

The nail plate is prepared;
the glossy coating is removed, the nail is degreased;
light gel polish is applied to the lower part of the nail and stretched towards the center with a brush to obtain a smooth transition;
the layer is dried;
take a beige gel and apply it to the rest of the nail, gently stretch it to the edge and dry it;
topcoat is applied and dried.

geometric gradient

The vertical geometric gradient was considered one of the most popular designs last year. It was sprinkled with glitter, powder, mixed with a pattern, etc. Now the love for this design has subsided slightly, but for some reason it seems that it will return to us, because the theme of the geometric gradient has not been fully explored.

How to make a gradient using this technique is described below. :

the most popular shades for creating a gradient in a geometric style are charcoal black, different shades of gray and blue, purple, blue or pink;
To apply the design you will need two brushes with fine bristles: long and short;
Initially, the nail plate is covered with a light shade of varnish;
then colored gel polish is applied to the palette and the drawing of the gradient begins with the main shade;
then, as the gradient is applied, white is mixed into the main color on the palette. This way the color is stretched. Those. in fact, a geometric gradient can be created with just two gel polishes – white and colored;
at the end the design is fixed with a transparent top.

Rubbed gradient

Fashion trends of 2019 did not ignore such universal nail decor as rubbing. Metallized pigments do not lose their relevance and are used to create almost every fifth manicure. Rubbing is indispensable for creating a home gradient, because it allows you to create something “beautiful” without any special skills or talents. Gradient rubbing is very simple. All you have to do is coat your nails with your favorite gel polish and choose a suitable shade of rub. On dark shades, mirror pigment looks more advantageous; for light shades, it is better to use pearl rubs. You can also choose other fashionable colors of varnish - for example, the black and red design option looks interesting.

The next lesson will help you create a beautiful gradient by rubbing yourself :

nails and cuticles are prepared;
apply the base and black base (on black nails the mirror effect will look bright and unusual);
Before applying any rubbing, it is better to degrease your nails;
the rub is applied using an applicator or finger and literally rubbed into the surface of the nail;
Remains of pigment are removed with a brush and the finish is applied.

Gradient with sand

The gradient design and velor effect are simply beautifully combined. This manicure design looks bright and unusual, and its implementation does not require special skills or knowledge. The ideal option would be to highlight one or two fingers with sand, and leave only the ombre coating on the rest.

Sand gradient technique :

nails are prepared, cuticles are removed;
a classic ombre manicure is performed;
sand is applied to the wet layer of gel polish and distributed evenly with a brush;
you can use sand of one color or make a smooth transition of several shades;
remove excess sand with a brush;
on nails where there is no sand, apply a finishing coat and dry.

Fashionable gradient in the form of a pattern

Drawings occupy a special place in nail design. Ombre in the form of patterns looks very impressive and becomes the main accent in the image. In combination with a gradient stretch, it is recommended to use pastel and light shades, so that the design will not be lost against the general background and will remain bright and expressive. The transition between colors can be used as a base or become a decoration for just a few fingers. The most relevant are geometric and floral designs.

Gradient with stencil

This design option is very simple to implement. Using special stencils, you can create a variety of patterns on your nails. To make the manicure look interesting and stylish, it is better to apply the design on one nail. The technique is very simple - a classic ombre is done, but a stencil is glued to one nail, which is filled with varnish of a contrasting color. Once the varnish has dried, the sticker is carefully removed and the design is fixed with colorless varnish.

Fashionable gradient colors

The modern fashion industry offers girls a huge selection of a wide variety of nail polish shades. Calm nude and pastel shades (milk, coffee, pink, mint, blue, sand, yellow) and their combinations do not lose their relevance. Bright colors of varnishes, play on contrast and the most unusual combinations look interesting and stylish - for example, rich green tones, black, blue and different shades of red. To meet the latest fashion trends, don’t be afraid to experiment and feel free to combine a wide variety of shades, getting an unusual and bright manicure that will definitely not go unnoticed.

Pastel

Bright

Dark

Gradient nail design ideas

Today, fashionistas are presented with a huge variety of gradient manicure design ideas. Ombre can be combined with stickers, glitter, rhinestones and designs. Several gradient techniques can be used simultaneously in one design - horizontal, vertical, diagonal, geometric. Don’t be afraid to improvise and use your imagination, and then you can create a unique and inimitable nail design.

Gradient with stickers

Drawings with colored sand

Gradient design options with drawings

The gradient on nails is a new product that gained popularity in 2016−2017. It is based on a combination of several shades, which is achieved through color transitions, similar to the ombre technique. You can do this manicure with gel polish in a beauty salon or at home.

Gradient technique on nails with gel polish

A gradient on nails with gel polish can be done in several ways. There are the following types of manicure performed using this technique:

Each girl has the right to decide for herself which gradient to prefer. It all depends on your mood and personal preferences. As a rule, many people choose a horizontal gradient on their nails made with gel polish. For a formal setting, a French-designed manicure is more appropriate.

A gradient on nails with gel polish is quite easy to do at home. The use of two to four shades is allowed. If your nails are short, there is unlikely to be enough space for several color transitions. In this case, you can make a gradient with two or three shades of gel polish.

On a note! Before performing a manicure, you need to put your nails in order: get rid of the cuticles, give them the correct shape, and also polish the nail plate to better fix the base.

Method 1: Vertical Gradient with a Flat Brush

To create a vertical gradient using a flat brush, you will need to follow these steps:

First, a primer is applied to the nail plate to ensure a strong bond of the varnish to the surface. After this, the nail is covered with a base coat and dried in an LED or UV lamp. In the first case, it is enough to hold the nails for about 25 seconds, in the second it will take longer, up to three minutes.
Then the nail is covered with one of the selected shades of gel polish. It shouldn't be dark. Next, the nails are dried again in the lamp.
A stripe is made with the same color of gel polish, and another vertical line is made next to it, but using a different shade.
A flat brush is lightly dipped in clinser, and then the brush is brushed several times along the nail, along the line of contact of the gel polish shades. There is no need to press on the brush; it should be positioned parallel to the nail plate. The flat brush ensures smooth smoothing. After making a smooth transition, the nails with gel polish are dried in a lamp.
In the same way, use a brush to cover the nail with another layer of gel polish. In this case, it is necessary to make the color transition even smoother. To do this, dip the brush in degreaser and periodically clean it with a cloth. After this, the nail polish is dried again in a lamp.
To make the gradient brighter and more saturated, the nail is covered with a third layer of gel polish. As in previous cases, the nails are dried in a lamp.
The nail polish is coated with a fixative and kept in a lamp. The sticky layer of gradient manicure is removed using a special product.

We can say that it doesn’t take much time to create a gradient on your nails with gel polish. The procedure is lengthy due to periodic drying in a lamp.

Method 2: original gradient with mesh

This method of creating a manicure with a gradient will appeal to those who have already tried a lot and are hungry for something new. An unusual pattern obtained using a mesh gives this manicure freshness and originality. Moreover, you can create a pattern not only on gel polish, but also on the most ordinary one. If you cover it in cool colors, you will get a seaside summer look. While the choice of warm colors will be relevant in the fall.

The gradient in this technique is performed in several stages:

First, the nails are covered with a single tone.
A suitable mesh is selected. You can use old fishnet tights as a net. An interesting solution would also be to replace the mesh with lace.
You need to cover the nail with mesh (or lace). In this case, the mesh should be fixed with a plaster at the base of the nail so that the pattern does not move.
After this, the selected varnish is applied to the sponge. In our case, these are shades of “khaki” and “indigo”. Using a sponge, a gradient pattern is applied over the mesh.
Next, the mesh is removed and a fixing varnish is applied over the nail.

Method 3: gradient using pigments

Making a pigment gradient on your nails is quite simple. It is necessary to “stretch” the layer of pigments from the edge of the nail plate to the color transition line. With a little practice, you can quickly and efficiently do a gradient manicure with pigments.

Step-by-step instructions for performing a manicure using the ombre-pigment technique:

The nail is covered with a base layer, which is then dried in a lamp.
Using a petal brush, pigments are applied using a gel of a different color from the cuticle. It is important to stretch them to the border of the color transition. You don't need to press too hard on the brush, as you might accidentally pull off the sticky component and ruin your gradient manicure. It is necessary to achieve a density of color at the base and a matte shade in the central part of the nail plate.
The brush is cleaned and similar steps are performed to apply a second layer of a different color of pigment. Dry in a lamp. The work starts from the tip of the nail and gradually moves to the middle. The layer should be thick but thin.
At the end, a fixative is applied to the gradient manicure, which is dried in a lamp.

Method 4: gradient with a sponge or sponge

To create such a gradient on your nails, you need to use part of an ordinary sponge intended for washing dishes, or use a cosmetic sponge. First you need to do a manicure and polish the nail plate so that the base sticks better.

The algorithm of actions for performing a gradient manicure is as follows:

The base is applied in a thin layer to the nails and then dried in a lamp.
Gel polish of the selected shade is applied to the nail plate and dried again in the lamp.
Gel polish of the second shade is applied to the tip of the nail, and then blot the border between the two colors with a sponge or sponge. Next, you need to perform a similar action with a clean edge, but closer to the cuticle. Nails are dried in a lamp.
If the gradient is made using gel polishes of three shades, the last color is applied to the very tip of the nail. Each layer of varnish must be dried in a lamp.
At the end, a top coat is applied to the resulting gradient and dried again. Excess coating is removed using a cotton swab, after moistening it in nail polish remover.

You can make a gradient using a sponge or sponge in another way:

Apply base to the prepared nail plate and dry it in a lamp.
Apply two gel polishes of different shades end to end onto a palette or any other surface. At the border, mix them with a stick to get a third color. This will be a transition between shades.
Dip a sponge or sponge and apply to each nail. Dry in a lamp.
At the end, a fixative is applied to the resulting gradient and the nails are dried again in the lamp.

An incredibly beautiful and fashionable manicure using a gradient has been in great demand for several seasons. And with the help of gel polish you can enjoy beautiful and well-groomed nails for up to half a month.

Basic techniques, necessary tools and bright ideas - all information is given in our article.

Gradient manicure and its varieties

There are many names for this manicure technique. The most common are ombre, stretch and degrade. Depending on the method of execution, a vertical and horizontal gradient are distinguished, but the essence remains the same - it is a gradual transition from one color to another.

To perform such a coating, you need at least two colors, between which there is a smooth transition in most cases. The great advantage of ombre manicure is its ability to visually lengthen nails, as well as its unusual and attractive appearance.

Sometimes several tones are used in a gradient, and their choice can be arbitrary. To make the transition as natural as possible, you need to select close “neighbors” along the color wheel.

Contrasting tones look no less attractive, especially when chosen correctly. The big advantage is the ability to use this design even on short nails, on which a manicure of this kind looks no less stunning.

Preliminary stage

Preparing the nail plate

The key to a successful manicure is a carefully prepared nail plate. It is necessary to treat the cuticle and perform all stages of manicure with gel polish before applying the base layer, inclusive: lightly sand the nail with a buffer, apply a dehydrator and primer, and then a thin layer of base coat, which must be dried in a UV or LED lamp.

It is advisable to apply a layer of light-colored varnish on top of the base coat. Against this background, the colors of the manicure will appear better, and the transition will be as successful as possible. If the colors used are quite intense, this step can be skipped.

Required Tools

In addition to the standard set for performing a gel manicure: a manicure set, nail files and a buff, you need to prepare additional equipment. This includes aluminum foil, lint-free wipes, a sponge or sponge, and a set of special brushes for nail design.

Methods for performing gradient manicure

Vertical gradient with flat brush

This method is used for two colors. The main tool will be a flat brush with a rounded tip.

Execution technology:

In the same way, a third and, if necessary, a fourth layer is applied, which is then fixed with a topcoat to provide additional durability.

When shading the border between colors, it is important not to press the brush too hard, not to start moving the brush from the middle of the nail and not to break it in any place. Movements should be smooth and continuous from the cuticle to the top edge.

Ombre using a fan brush

One of the easiest and most accessible methods for performing a horizontal gradient at home.

Technique:

The lightest tone in the gradient paints the entire surface of the nail plate. This layer must be dried in a lamp.
Separately, on a piece of foil or on a palette, mix the two colors used, which are applied with a regular gel polish brush to the middle of the nail.
A second color is applied to the tip, and then using a brush it is necessary to distribute the color from the tip to the middle of the nail.
The result obtained is fixed in the lamp.

In order for the gradient to look as attractive as possible, it is also necessary to repeat the operation for the second and third layers, each of which must be polymerized in a lamp.

A detailed master class on how to perform a gradient manicure with a fan brush is presented in this video.

Gradient pigments

Carrying out such a coating will also not cause difficulties. A layer of pigments is applied to the base coat, which must be “stretched” from the beginning of the nail to the border of a possible transition.

Towards it, from the tip of the nail to the border of the transition, apply pigments of the second color with gentle movements. The easiest way to create this design is with a petal brush.

Brush movements should be done gently, as if slapping the pigments, and not rubbing them into the nail coating.

The layer of pigments is fixed with a topcoat and polymerized in a lamp. At this stage, great care is important when applying the top; the brush must be wiped frequently so that the pigments are mixed on the nail or do not get into the bottle with the top.

Manicure using a sponge

This method can be called the most common. To do this, you can even take a small piece of a new kitchen sponge with small pores; a melamine sponge is also ideal. You need to cut pieces of sufficient size to fit your nail.

To prevent the gel polish from the sponge from imprinting on the cuticle, you can apply a special stamping manicure product to it or use regular PVA glue. It is not recommended to use oil or greasy cream for these purposes, as this will negatively affect the durability of the manicure.

Two drops of varnish of different shades are applied to the foil close to each other, the borders are mixed, and the resulting result is blotted with a sponge. The gel polish is transferred to the nail with several soft springy movements. For a beautiful manicure with a gradient effect, you need to perform several layers, each of which is dried in a lamp.

To ensure that there are no bubbles on the finished coating, it is better to leave the first two or three prints on foil.

At the end, a top coat is applied, which evens out minor imperfections and fixes the manicure.

You can also use a sponge another way. To do this, apply two varnishes back to back on the nail plate. Using a sponge, blot the transition area with several tapping movements, leveling the coating. As the color evens out, the pressure is gradually reduced.

After treating all nails, you need to wait a while for the coating to even out. Air bubbles at this stage are corrected by puncture with a toothpick. After a satisfactory result, the coating is dried, and then the algorithm is repeated for the next two layers.

The video showed step by step the entire process of performing an ombre manicure with a sponge.

Acrylic powder gradient

Acrylic powder is so fine that a gradient manicure with its help turns out smooth and neat. This manicure is very quick to do and again requires a fan brush.

Execution steps:

A thin layer of top coat is applied to the nail plate.
Dip a fan brush into the powder and, tapping over the nail, sprinkle half of the nail with powder. At the edge of the nail, the brush is held lower, so the powder lies more densely; at the intended border of color mixing, the brush is raised higher. Due to this, the dispersion area increases, and the powder lays down in a more transparent layer. From time to time you need to shake off the powder from the nail so that the pigment lies more evenly.
The same must be done with another color.
The manicure is polymerized in a lamp.
After drying, shake off excess powder with a thick brush.
To avoid cutting off the colored layer, sand the coating a little with a soft buff.
Shake off the dust from the nails, cover them with topcoat and dry them in a lamp.

The video tutorial shows another technique for applying acrylic powder.

Striped (linear) gradient

This manicure looks great on a white or light base. To complete this you will also need a contrasting varnish, a thin brush and a palette (foil) for mixing colors.

Execution algorithm:

Fashion trends in gradient

Having learned the basics of ombre manicure, most girls try to further diversify their skills. The most popular is the vertical gradient, as well as the horizontal one, which creates a French effect on the nails. The most extravagant ones choose an angular ombre.

A delicate smoky gradient manicure in pastel colors, decorated with rhinestones, sparkles or other decorative elements, is ideal for the winter season. To achieve perfect harmony, you should not use everything at once, but rather plan your preferred decor in advance.

Sequins also look great in combination with dense, rich colors: blue, purple, burgundy, emerald and others. These can be either colored pigments or gel polish with glitter.

In spring and summer, rainbow gradients are trending. To convey all the colors of the rainbow, such a manicure is performed either vertically or diagonally. A rainbow-style manicure looks amazing both on its own and in combination with designs made by stamping or painted with a brush.

The combination of a gradient with other manicure techniques, such as French manicure or moonlight French, is very popular. Patterns made using the stamping technique will adequately decorate darker shades of varnish, creating the effect of reptile skin or simply a geometric pattern on the nails.

Ombre manicure is always a popular and fresh idea for a new look. By following the instructions given in this article, you can easily make such beauty yourself at home, and knowledge of small tricks in this matter will ensure guaranteed success.

The image of a modern lady should be perfect: from the tips of her hair to the tips of her nails. That’s why it’s so important to follow fashion trends in hairstyles and manicure. The nails of a well-groomed girl should look neat and stylish. At the same time, you don’t have to do a discreet manicure; you can experiment with the design. Thanks to modern tools, you can create real masterpieces on your nails. A trendy way to draw attention to your hands is with a gradient manicure.

Types of gradient manicure

A gradient is a nail design that uses several shades of polish that smoothly flow from one to another. It looks impressive on paper, but even more impressive on nails.

Types of coating using gradient technique

There are several types of gradient manicure.

Their choice largely depends on the shape of the nails and their length:

Vertical is a traditional gradient option. It can be called universal, as it suits all nails. With a vertical manicure, the transition of shades occurs from the root part of the nail to the tip. A video tutorial on gradient gel polish on short nails can be seen below.
Horizontal. The color changes from the left side of the nail to the right. More suitable for medium-length nails. This manicure can visually lengthen your nails.
French. White is applied to the edges of the nails and made more transparent closer to the roots. This type of manicure is suitable exclusively for girls with graceful fingers and long and thin nails.
Gradient with transition. Fingernails are painted with different gel polishes, close to each other in tone. This creates an overall picture of the transition from dark colors to lighter ones. This option is the simplest and is suitable for short nails.
Linear. Thin lines, straight or curved, are drawn on the nails. Each new line is made a tone darker than the previous one.

For a gradient, both tones of the same color and completely different colors are used. Usually they take from 2 to 4 colors.

A manicure with a color transition can be done with regular varnishes, but everything will have to be done very quickly, before the varnish has time to dry. It is much more convenient to create a gradient on your nails with gel polish. This material does not dry in the air, and besides, such a manicure will last much longer than a traditional one.

Nail preparation

Before creating a gradient, you need to prepare your nails:

Sand the surface of the nails with a buff.
Adjust the length.
And . The primer makes the nails drier, improving their adhesion to the polish.
Apply base coat and dry it. Usually the base is transparent, but sometimes it can have a .

Nail preparation

After preparing your nails, you can proceed to their design.

Creating a gradient with a sponge

The most common way to create a gradient on your nails involves using a sponge or an ordinary kitchen sponge. This method is recommended for beginners.

Step-by-step design process:

Take a sponge and cut off a small piece, slightly larger than a nail.
Apply a couple of drops of varnish of different colors to the surface of the sponge. Mix drops of varnish with a brush to create a color stretch.
Apply the sponge to the nail so that the gel polish imprints on it. The sponge is applied with light, patting movements. To fix the color, the procedure can be repeated, but only after the first layer has dried.

In addition to the above, there is another way to make a gradient of gel polish with a sponge. It involves using a tablet on which gel polish is applied and the transition is shaded. You can use any surface as a tablet - plastic, glass, silicone. To create a transition, take an orange stick or a regular toothpick.

In the future, the sponge must be slightly moistened, pressed onto the resulting range, and then onto the nail. You shouldn’t rub your nail with a sponge for a long time, otherwise the varnishes will mix and give a dirty tint.

After the nails are completely dry, you need to remove any remaining polish from the skin. A cotton swab is suitable for this, which must be dipped in nail polish remover in advance. The process of creating a gradient using a sponge on short nails can be seen in the video.

Advice! To quickly clean the cuticle and side ridges of the skin, you can use a professional product - Defender. It is a quick-drying product that forms a film on the skin, which is easily removed from the skin after painting the nails.

Using a fine brush

Creating a gradient with a brush is not difficult, but for everything to work out successfully, you should first practice not on your nails, but on third-party objects.

Step by step creation of a gradient:

Two (or more) colors are selected and applied in two stripes to the sanded nail. Varnishes should be applied in equal proportions.
Take a brush (size zero), soak it in degreaser and squeeze it out.
The brush is passed along the junction of colors, forming a smooth transition between them. The procedure can be repeated several times.

After each stroke, the brush must be thoroughly wiped with a napkin. There should be no lint left on it.

Gradient using a fan brush

You can make a gradient with gel polish using a fan brush.

To do this you need:

Choose two colors: dark and light.
Apply gel polish of the background color to your nails. It will be visible at the roots. It is recommended to choose light colors as a base.
Mix both colors on a tablet to obtain a medium tone. Cover the middle of the nail with this tone, marking the transition point.
Apply a darker color to the tip of the nail plate.
Take a fan brush and start shading with light hand movements.
Dry the nail under the lamp.
Repeat the procedure to achieve brighter colors. In this case, the base color should be applied only to the root part of the nail.

The ombre effect on nails looks very attractive. It can be done in both pastel and bright colors. The process of creating a gradient on nails with a brush can be seen in the photo.

Gradient with glitter

An interesting option for nail design is creating a gradient with glitter. As a background, you can use a plain gel polish or a ready-made gradient. Sprinkle glitter onto the newly applied layer of varnish using a dry brush. More glitter is applied to one part, less glitter to the second. The glitter gradient can be made both vertical and horizontal. It will shimmer beautifully and look especially interesting on short nails.

In 2018, the trend is gradients with geometric patterns. To create it, you need to prepare a thin brush and two gel polishes: colored and white. The geometric gradient is drawn step by step, gradually diluting the bright color with white. This type of manicure can be challenging for beginners.

The varnish is applied in a thin layer so that it does not spread over the entire surface of the nail plate. They begin to draw from white to dark. When creating this type of manicure, there is no need to dry your nails after each step. Only when the drawing is completely ready are the hands placed under a UV lamp.

The most popular geometric manicure options are those with diamonds and circles. A spectacular gradient manicure design with geometric shapes can be seen in the photo.

The final stage of manicure

After creating the design, you need to dry your nails under the lamp for 4-5 minutes. After this, you should fix the gel polish with a top coat. After the nails are completely dry, the cuticle must be lubricated with a special oil.

Gradient gel polish manicure is a fashionable and practical way to decorate your nails. Many options for performing multi-color manicure allow you to find a suitable design for every woman. The technique of creating a gradient manicure is not complicated, but it does require patience and time. Step-by-step implementation of the technology for creating a gradient will make your nails beautiful even at home.

This year, the theme of gradient manicure has become very popular, both among nail service professionals and among ordinary manicure lovers. Many masters teach various technologies and options for its implementation, come up with their own “fast gradient” methods, and try to use all new materials and liquids to obtain an ideal smooth transition. So what is a gradient on nails, and how does it differ from an ombre manicure? Let's try to figure it out!

What is a manicure gradient? Types of design and their differences.

We come across different names and types of this design on the pages of magazines and on the Internet - gradient, ombre, Dip Dye and even striped manicure. What is this design?
Gradient manicure is a special nail coating technique in which one color smoothly transitions into another. This manicure is often called a fashionable ombre manicure. In part, this has become synonymous with the word gradient, but the ombre design on nails involves gradually lightening the tips by several tones, while the color remains in the same color range. There is a term Dip Dye, it is also a synonym and has a similar meaning, but it more reflects the essence of the gradient as such. Dip dye means dyeing it a completely different vibrant color.

There are several types of gradient, among them are gradient and. Of course, every year more and more variations of this fashionable nail coating appear, but the classics still remain in fashion. The gradient manicure technique is not complicated, but it will require a lot of patience and perseverance to perform.

Gradient with transition: how to quickly create a fashionable design.

Easiest to do gradient with transition. What colors are needed for this? We take 5 varnishes of the same color, but different in shades, and cover each nail from the little finger to the thumb in turn, the transition is from one finger to another. If you don’t have 5 shades of the same color, it’s easy to create them yourself. To do this, we need a primary color - for example blue, and an additional color - for example white.

We cover the first nail with a blue tint; on the second nail, in a separate container or simply on a plastic/glass palette, we mix a drop of blue varnish and a small amount of white, thus obtaining a shade that is a shade lighter. Cover the second nail with the resulting color. Next, mix in a little more white again, getting an even lighter blue tint, and cover the next nail. Next, we simply continue mixing polishes according to this scheme until we reach the last nail. At the same time, we can also show originality and creativity, cover all 10 fingers in a gradient from blue to absolutely white, or cover 1 hand from blue to the lightest blue, and cover the second hand as well, or mirror it.

Horizontal and vertical gradient: technical features.

What is horizontal gradient? In this case, a smooth transition of colors is created on the nail, starting from the cuticle area and moving towards the tips of the nails. The color scheme can be absolutely any, from close shades - then the manicure will turn out more delicate and “smooth”, to completely different, contrasting colors. In this case, the manicure will turn out bright and extravagant.

In this manicure you can combine two, three or even more colors. It should be noted that the more colors are used, the sharper the transition of colors in a contrasting gradient of nails will be and the smoother the gradient will be with similar shades of varnishes.

Vertical gradient It is also performed on the nail with a smooth transition from one shade to another. However, the technology differs in that the color changes from one side roller to another, vertically. You can also create different variations of this nail coating. For example, a manicure looks very original in which the little finger is painted entirely in one color, a gradient transition to another color is made on the ring finger, the middle finger is covered with the color we switched to on the ring finger, and a transition is made on the index finger again. This way, 3-4 or even 5 colors will be used in the gradient, and the manicure will become even more original.

Another interesting feature of ombre manicure is the use. You also do a manicure with color transitions, but instead of just polish or gel polish, you use thermo shades; at the slightest change in temperature, the polishes will change shades and the gradient will sparkle with new colors!

How to do a gradient manicure at home.

Here it is very important to consider the materials that you want to use for manicure: varnish or gel polish coating. Depending on your choice, the coating technology will change.

Let's look at the materials needed for the gradient.

When using quick-drying varnish you will need:
- several shades of varnish (gel polishes or),
- a soft sponge or a special one for gradient manicure,
- a few toothpicks or
- or cotton swabs with,
- .

Many people ask the question: which varnish is suitable for a gradient manicure?

We recommend using varnishes with a dense texture and good pigmentation - they are optimal for the design and require a minimum of coating layers. Next, you need to choose one of the gradient methods that is convenient for you:

Gradient is quick and easy. The two most popular methods of execution.

The first method is to apply several shades of varnish in strips directly onto a sponge. Immediately after application, you need to transfer the varnish onto the nail with light patting movements - due to this, the varnishes on the border will mix and give a soft transition. However, be careful! If you fiddle with the sponge for too long, the varnishes at the border of the transition may interfere with each other and give a dirty shade. To prevent this from happening, it is better to use different shades of the same color for this method. There is also a high probability that the varnishes will begin to dry out, since the layer of varnish on the sponge is very thin, and will begin to roll off on the sponge and nail, leaving stains and gaps. In this case, it is better to make a thin first layer, dry it, and then add a new varnish to the sponge and duplicate the layer again - this way it will be bright, and the sponge will not create any inconvenience for you :)

In order to easily and quickly clean the skin of excess paint after performing the ombre effect on your nails, you can use liquid tape (it’s called). This product for water and French gradient manicure is also popularly called pink tape or pink thing. It will allow you to remove excess from your fingers quickly and without the use of cleaning liquids, without drying out the skin of your hands and fingers.

The second method of applying gradient manicure with nail polish is to use any hard surface, plastic or glass. You can also mix polishes and make transitions using a special silicone nail polish.

We apply the lightest shade used in the gradient to the nail and let it dry. Next, we’ll dampen the polish sponge a little, so the polish won’t be absorbed into it too quickly and will allow us to do a manicure. On our glass surface we need to apply the dark shade used for the gradient, and next to it the same light shade that we applied to the nail. The shades should touch slightly. To make the border even smoother, we mix the varnishes at the junction with a toothpick or an orange stick, now we have our gradient in front of our eyes. This procedure must be done quickly enough so that the varnish does not have time to dry completely.

Next, we imprint our gradient onto the sponge with patting movements, slightly smearing it so that the borders of the colors blend a little and give a smooth transition, and apply the varnish from the sponge to the nail with the same movements. For each subsequent nail, you need to renew the varnishes, but with proper skill you can manage to apply the coating to several nails at once.

Geometric gradient: design features and method of implementation.

In the last season, geometric gradient (graphic) on nails gained enormous popularity. The geometric gradient design is done with a thin brush. For it you will need 2 gel polishes: rich colored and. Gradually diluting the colored shellac with white, we get an increasingly lighter shade and draw a geometric gradient step by step with a thin brush from the lightest shade, gradually moving to the darkest, applying a thin layer so that the gel polish does not spread. There is no need to dry each step. Only after finishing the entire drawing, we send the design to dry in the lamp. The most common and popular in 2016 was the geometric diamond gradient (diamonds, diamonds).

Source: website manikyr.ru

How can you create a geometric gradient on your nails with regular polish, since it dries very quickly?

For this purpose it is better to use it on nails. Stencils can also be used in gel polish manicure. But gel polishes tend to flow under the stencil, so you need to get used to it. For varnish, this is an excellent option, the varnish dries quickly in the air and does not spread, its excess can be easily removed with a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover. In addition, manufacturers now offer a large number of stencils and slider designs with a variety of geometric patterns that are suitable for creating an incredible geometric manicure.

Beautiful gradient manicure:

Ombre design with gel polish and gel paint: subtleties of application and methods of execution.

The technology for applying gradient manicure with gel polish is significantly different. For such a manicure, we must fully prepare the nails for coating, apply and remove the sticky layer from it. It is advisable that the base coat be leveled, especially when using gel paint. Otherwise, all the irregularities will be clearly visible on the surface of the nail, and the gel paint will only highlight them even more, since it is a very thin coating.

For the first method we need 2 shades of gel polish and. The simplest and most common method of creating a horizontal gradient is with a thin brush. It is necessary to apply 1 layer of colored gel polish to the entire nail and dry it in a lamp. Next, apply the second layer and, without drying it, apply a small drop of the second layer to the area near the cuticle. Be careful not to fill the cuticle with gel polish! Since gel polishes are thinner than gel paint, they flow more easily, so gel polish should be applied in a medium drop and slightly indented from the cuticle. We pre-painted the area near the cuticle with a brush in 1 layer so that there were no gaps in it.

Next, we distribute our drop with a thin brush, gradually “smearing” it down towards the end of the nail, but not reaching it. Depending on how well you blend your second shade, the smoothness of the gradient transition will depend. There are also special brushes for gradients; they are wider and make the process of creating a gradient much more enjoyable, speeding it up significantly.

The second method is similar to the method of applying a varnish gradient - with a sponge. However, it is better for gel paints, since they do not smear and have good pigmentation. We also apply the gradient to the nail with a sponge, without drying it, remove the excess from the side ridges and cuticle area, and send the design to the lamp to dry. If necessary, repeat the procedure 1-2 times and cover the finished manicure with a top coat for gel polish.

For vertical gradient technology, you can use a brush from the shellac bottle itself. It is better to use a brush of a darker shade, but you must always have a dry cloth on hand and often wipe the brush with it, so as not to introduce a different color into the bottle of gel polish. You can also use a flat square or oval brush. They are usually used for gel, but they are very convenient for creating a gradient. In this technology, a light shade of gel polish or gel paint is applied to half of the nail. Next, a dark color of paint is applied to the second half with a little spacing on the light part. After this, we wipe the brush and use a dry brush to walk along the border of the colors. This is our first base layer, put it in the lamp for 2 minutes. After this, we take a brush with half of the dark paint and the other half of the light paint at the same time, as if forming a gradient immediately on the brush. Using a brush with gel paints, apply the second layer with a brush strictly in the center of our nail, so that the middle of the gradient on the brush approximately coincides with the middle of the gradient on the nail. This way we form a soft vertical gradient.

"Air" gradient: features of using an airbrush to create a manicure.

Nowadays, creating gradients, especially horizontal ones, using an airbrush is gaining popularity. An airbrush is a special device that sprays a thin layer of paint using air pressure. We'll look at the pros and cons of brush and airbrush gradients.

A horizontal gradient with a brush on nails is quite difficult to perform; its careful execution is painstaking and time-consuming work. Many masters use an airbrush to simplify and speed up their work; thanks to the device, it takes about two minutes to create a gradient on 1 nail, while with a brush we spend about fifteen minutes shading gel polish or paint. The essence of the method is that we pour paint into the airbrush, turn on the compressor and simply spray the paint onto the nail. In this case, the paint is usually water-based or alcohol-based. In order to clean the client's handles and side rollers, there is no need to use special liquids; it is enough to cover the design with topcoat and send the client to wash their hands with soap. This not only saves liquids for the master, but also does not harm the skin of the client’s hands and eliminates allergies to liquids. The paint is sprayed in the thinnest layer, so paint consumption is minimal. The layer on the nail is thin and does not create “patty nails” that can be obtained by layering with a regular gradient.

What to choose, gradient manicure with shellac or varnish?

If you actively use gel polishes, then we recommend using gel polishes and paints, because the gradient effect in this case will remain on your nails for several weeks and will delight you every day. The nail polish gradient is quite simple to perform and can be completed faster, but it will last just like regular nail polish for 3-6 days.