15 Basic Nail Art Tools Every Aspiring Nail Artists Should Have
Published Aug 16, 2021
In an era where beautifully decorated nails fill our Instagram feeds, offering basic manicure services just won’t cut it. Nail art has been here for years and there are no signs of it going away anytime soon.
That said, if you want to be a nail artist, learning nail art is not enough. Even having drawing skills is not enough. You must also have the right tools for the trade.
But with so many nail art tools, buying all of it won’t be cheap. And if you haven’t started your business, you probably don’t have the funds to buy the complete set.
No worries. In this post, we list down the most basic nail art tools you’ll need to start your own nail art business. Ready? Let’s dig in!
1. Nail Art Tape
Also known as nail striping tape, this nail art tool adds sparkle to every ail art. It’s a narrow strip of sticky tape that usually comes in metallic colors. You can put it in the nail as part of the design or use it to make straight geometric lines.
2. Nail Art Brushes
You can’t properly do nail art if you don’t have the right brushes. Also known as detail brushes, nail art brushes are specially designed to create intricate designs, patterns, and shapes. The brushes have varying tips – from super-thin tips to fan-like ones. You can usually buy them in a set.
3. Dotting Tool
Nail art dotting tools look like pens except that they have rounded ends. They are typically used to created speckled designs. But you can also use them to make basically any design or pattern you want. Your creativity is the limit.
4. Glitter Powder/Polish
Glitters are a big part of nail art. I mean, what’s the point of having nail art if it doesn’t sparkle, right? That’s why glitter powders or glittery nail polishes are must-haves for every nail artist.
5. Matte Topcoat
A topcoat is a clear type of nail polish that protects the nail polish from getting damaged. It also helps the nail art last longer than it usually does. You can use a shiny topcoat but in most nail art designs, a matte topcoat usually works best.
6. Nail Crystals
Your nail art tool collection wouldn’t be complete without nail crystals. Nail studs bring any nail art design to a whole new level. The most common crystals used in nail art are rhinestones, glass gems, and pearls. But if you want a more luxurious look, you can always go for Swarovski crystals.
7. Nail Polish Correcting Pen
As the name suggests, nail polish corrector pens help get rid of nail art mistakes in one swipe. You can also use it to remove excess nail polish around the cuticles and nail edges. Instead of acetone and cotton buds, this tool has a much thinner tip making the clean-up a lot easier.
8. Cuticle Protector
If you don’t want to scrape excess nail polish around the edge of your nails, then you need a cuticle protector. From the name itself, it protects your nails from nail art messes. After applying the nail art, you just peel the cuticle protector off and it’s good to go.
9. Nail Foils
Nail art foils come in a variety of colors, designs, and patterns. You can wrap it around the entire nail, or just a portion of it. You can even splash it randomly across the nail to create a “sparkly” effect. Most types of nail foils, however, typically require the use of a special type of glue. But no worries. Nail foil kits usually contain both the foil and the glue.
10. UV Nail Lamp
Gel polish is one of the most popular mediums for nail art these days. And, as you know, gel nail polishes need a UV light to set.
11. Dip Powder Kit
SNS nails or dip powder nails are a recent innovation in nail design. But it has already gained a loyal following around the world. As such, a dip powder kit would be a good investment.
12. Nail Art Stickers
If you’re not blessed with drawing skills, nail art stickers can definitely save the day. It comes in a wide range of patterns, colors, designs, and themes. Some even come in 3D.
13. Basic Manicure Tools
This is obviously necessary for everyone making a living in the nail industry. I mean, how can you do nail art if you don’t even have a nail clipper or a buffer, right?
14. False Nails
Not everyone has long gorgeous nails ready for nail art. That’s why keeping a stash of fake nails would be very helpful.
15. Gel Polish Brushes
Basically, you can use any type of brush for gel polish. But you’ll achieve a much better result with a brush specifically designed for gel nails.
(Related: 5 Top Nail Printers For Your Small Salon Business)
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About The Author
Judy Ponio is the lead writer for the Salon Suites of Palm Beach website and blog. Her many years of blogging experience and passions for beauty trends helps her create content that has helped millions of people worldwide.
