How To: Ocean Waves Gradient Nails

How was your weekend? I was in a cabin in the woods, with an occasional cell signal & no internet! If you follow me on Instagram (ElleSees) you saw my pictures. It was relaxing and nice to have a, albeit forced, technology break!

While I loved the pond and creek near the cabin, I'm a beach girl at heart. I thought I'd share this nail tutorial with you that reminds me of ocean waves, but oddly enough was inspired by my Tilex bottle! Seriously, but Tilex Nails doesn't sound nearly as fun as Ocean Waves. And they're easier than you think to achieve! Here's how to:

T O O L S:

• Mint Polish (I used Wet n Wild's I Need a Refreshmint $1.50)
• White Polish (NYC .50)
• Sponge (I used make up applicators=free)
• Clear Coat ($1)
• Polish remover ($1)

M E T H O D:

• Apply a white base coat and let it completely dry.

• Since I have tons of makeup applicators I don't use, I decided to recycle them. You could also use a makeup sponge, but these makeup applicators are smaller, so there's less clean up, and easier to use.
• Paint the mint polish on about 1/3 of the nail. You can either apply paint to the applicator, or dip the applicator into a small pour of paint.

• Dip the applicator in the white paint. 
• Next, start at the bottom of the mint color and dab the white paint onto it. The mint paint doesn't have to be dry.
• Stop a little over halfway up the nail.
• Repeat this with the mint paint, just trying to blend and create that gradient effect.

• To finish, dab the applicator into the mint and then the white to blend them together.
• Apply this to about the midpoint of the nail, to help blend and create the gradient effect.
• The bottom of the nail should be white, the middle a blend of both colors, and the tip of the nail is mint, with no white mixed in. Play around with it. Too much white? Add mint! And vice versa.

• Since you're using a sponge, you'll notice sponge marks. Once you've achieved the effect you want, paint the wet nail with a quick-dry or clear coat. This will further help blend and smooth out the bumps or marks. Let dry, and apply another clear coat if desired!
• Clean up edges with polish remover.

T I P S:

• Keep playing with the colors--too much white? Add mint. And vice versa.
• Don't use too thick of coats or paint. Try dabbing the applicator or sponge on paper before applying to nail.

Ocean Waves Gradient Nails

The inspiration: a bottle of Tilex!

Yes, I'm weird.

PS: I have MANY more nail tutorials in the weeks to come!

Now, tell me about your weekend!