DIY: Beaded Nails for $5

• You'll need nail polish & microbeads--check your local craft store or online for these. Bead seeds will not work--trust me! ;) Edit: I also found them at the Dollar Tree, so check them out too.
• I think it looks best if the beads and polish match--so any gaps not filled by the beads will blend right on in. I used Wet N Wild's I Need a Refreshmint and microbeads from Martha Stewart.

• If your polish has really good coverage, all you'll need is one coat. If not, add a base coat and allow to dry.
• While polish is still wet, pour the beads on the wet nail over a container. You'll be able to pour the unused beads back into the bottle. Be liberal with the pouring. Go crazy! I used a small bottle and have most of it left.
• Tap off excess beads on the side of the container, gently pat any beady bumps down, and allow to dry thoroughly.
• Add a clear coat if desired.

it's like a bubbly mermaid tail! Ok, maybe only to me!

T I P S :

• Seed beads don't work--while small they're just not small enough. Microbeads are best.
• I really suggest the matching polish. I tried this on clear nails and it didn't look as good, plus I feel like the polish is thicker (maybe it's just me??).
• I tried dipping my nails, using a brush, and a couple of other methods, but pouring seemed to work the best.
• I've averaged around 5-7 days with the beads and didn't have bead fall out for most nails--this is with a clear coat. The clear coat with change the color of the beads, however. I merely peeled the nails off (which I took too much delight in) or put them in acetone for a minute when I was over them.
• Use caution if washing hair (I've not washed my hair with caviar nails, but I have had my fingers in my hair with no problem), eating with fingers, or if around small children/pets/plants (ok, I just made that last one up) etc. Just use gloves over your nails instead.
• To get the effect from my original inspiration, just buy different colors of beads and mix!
• Think of different color combinations. Try different designs, like stripes! Have fun.

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PS: Check out my VELVET NAILS tutorial. 

It's gonna be big this fall!