Making nails with duct tape is a very simple and fun project for kids. Plus, since you can easily apply nail polish to duct tape, it's perfect for adults who want to quickly try out different types of nail art before choosing the final one.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Doing the False Nails with Masking Tape
Step 1. Buy some clear, glossy adhesive tape
Single-sided adhesive tape is best used for this purpose. You can use fully transparent or slightly opaque tape, whichever suits you best.
Scotch tape is another commonly used name for duct tape, although it mostly refers to a specific brand
Step 2. Put a piece of adhesive tape on the nail
Tear off a strip that is twice the size of the nail. Put it on your finger, making sure to cover the entire nail to give it a shiny look and leave a small piece protruding. Squeeze the sides of the adhesive tape firmly so that they bend just like a fingernail would.
If the duct tape is too loose, ask an adult to cut it with scissors
Step 3. Cover the bottom with nail polish
Put the nail polish on the tacky underside to make the tape last longer and to prevent it from sticking to everything - however make sure you don't touch anything as the nail polish dries.
Step 4. File the tip of the tape (optional)
If you have a nail file available, use sides 3 and 4 to gently rub the base of the nail. File the bottom edge of the masking tape to wear it out slightly making the line less visible.
Part 2 of 2: Decorate the False Nails
Step 1. Use nail polish
You can use the nail polish on duct tape nails as you would on regular nails. You can make an infinite number of decorations without first having to apply a base polish. Choose your favorite colors and start decorating.
- Wait for one color to dry before applying another.
- Applying a transparent nail polish after the others have dried creates a more shiny effect.
Step 2. Test the method of applying sketches
Since you are already using adhesive tape, why not try a decorative method that requires its use? You will also need a small plastic straw and newspaper to protect the surfaces. This method works best if you use different colors of nail polishes.
- Apply more adhesive tape around the nail to protect it from nail polish. Be careful not to overlap the tape with the one used to make the nails otherwise you could tear it.
- Dip the straw into the nail polish and blow over the nail. The nail polish will splash on the false nail.
- Repeat with other colors. Since the tip of the straw will be coated with nail polish, place the next color on a plastic plate or newspaper, then dip the straw into the base of your choice instead of directly into the bottle.
- Let the nail polish dry and remove the tape used to protect your fingers.
Step 3. Decorate your nails with other methods
If you don't have nail polish, you can decorate the masking tape with small stickers. You can also try writing on it with a permanent marker, but remember to apply a second layer of scotch tape to avoid smudging.
