diy: half moon nails

For years, I've been doing my nails at home every Sunday night. Not only am I saving money, but it's become such a routine for me that my week always feels a little off if I don't have freshly painted nails each Monday morning...not to mention that I know I do a better job than I would get at the nail salon! :)

Nail art has become increasingly popular over the past year, and thanks to Pinterest I've found dozen of inspirational photos. The "half moon" nail has become one of my favorite looks, and it's super easy to master!

To start off, you'll need two contrasting colors of nail polish...and yes, any brand will do...not just Essie ladies ;) You'll also need a top coat and sticky "hole reinforcers," which can be found at any office supply or dollar store. 

First, paint your entire nail with the color you want for the "half moon." Below you can see the gold on my nails, though I painted a second coat after I took the photo.

Next, wait about five minutes for your first color to dry then carefully place a hole reinforcer onto each nail and press down gently. Once they're on your nails go ahead and paint the second color onto your nails over the hole reinforcers. Please excuse the polish all over my cuticles...I've been doing this for years and I still can't color in the lines! ;)

I generally wait about 15 minutes for the second color to dry and then I carefully peel off the hole reinforcers. Occasionally, some of the first color will peel off with them, so you might have to do some minor touch ups. Note: I've found that the white paper reinforcers remove more easily than the clear ones I used in these photos.

Once they're removed go ahead and apply your favorite top coat polish. I like the Sally Hansen Insta-Dri because it's only $4, super shiny, and it's literally dry to the touch in minutes.

As for removing the excess polish on your cuticles, you can either use a cotton swab and nail polish remover, or my preferred method and wait until you take a shower and it will come right off!

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial...happy manicures!

xoxo,