In this article, we’ll explore the different techniques and tips for creating perfect nails using stencils or tips. You’ll learn how to choose the best material based on your preferences and experience level.

What is a stencil?

A stencil is a paper form that allows you to create artificial nails without using pre-formed tips. Professionals and nail enthusiasts can create as many extensions as they like using these adhesive paper templates. This type of method offers several advantages for customizing your nails and achieving professional results.

The Advantages of Stencils

• Personalization: With stencils, you can create custom extensions in the desired size, shape, and length.
• Natural: Unlike tips, nails created with stencils are thinner and have a more natural appearance.
• Comfort: By eliminating the need to glue tips, stencils offer a more comfortable application for both the client and the nail technician.
• Cost-effective: Using stencils eliminates the need to purchase tips for each nail size and shape, which saves money in the long run.

What is a tip?

A tip is a pre-formed, flexible plastic extension that sticks directly to the surface of the natural nail. It allows you to give your nails a specific shape and length in just a few moments. Tips are available in different sizes and shapes to suit all nail types and occasions.

Advantages of tips

• Simplicity: Pre-formed tips make your life easier with their quick application and no risk of bubbles or creases.
• Time-saving: With tips, you can achieve a final result much faster than if you were using stencils and gel or resin.
• Variety: Nail tips offer a wide selection of shapes and sizes to suit everyone’s tastes and needs.
• Durability: Nails done with tips generally last longer than those done with templates.

How to choose between templates and tips?

When deciding which method to use, you must weigh the pros and cons of each based on your preferences, skill level, and desired results.

If you’re a beginner or prefer quick and easy results, tips may be a good option. However, if you’re more experienced or want to create completely customized nails, templates may be a better solution for you.

A few tips for nail art with templates

Preparing the natural nail

Before applying the templates, it’s essential to properly prepare your natural nails. Here are a few essential steps:

1. Disinfect your hands and those of your client.

2. Gently push back the cuticles with a boxwood stick.

3. Lightly sand the surface of the nail with a buffing block to remove any irregularities and allow the product to adhere better.

4. Thoroughly clean your nails with a cotton ball soaked in isopropyl alcohol.

Applying the templates

Careful application of the template is essential to ensure a good hold at the free edge and a secure application. Here’s how:

1. Remove the protective paper and stick the template under the natural nail, making sure to align its center with that of the natural nail.

2. Make sure the template remains straight and parallel to the work surface.

3. Join the two wings at the base of the paper, avoiding any gaps or overlaps between them.

Some tips for successful nail extensions

Choosing the tip

It is essential to choose the tip that best matches the shape of your natural nail. Here are a few tips:

• Check that the tip covers the entire surface of the nail without extending beyond the sides.
• Make sure its curvature does not interfere with the comfort or aesthetics of the extension.

Preparing the natural nail

As with templates, prepare your natural nails before applying the tips:

1. Disinfect your hands and those of your client.

2. Gently push back the cuticles with a boxwood stick.

3. Lightly sand the surface of the nail with an e-file.

4. Thoroughly clean your nails with a cotton ball soaked in isopropyl alcohol.

Applying the tips

Follow these steps to ensure a perfect bond:

1. Apply a thin layer of glue to the bottom of the tip.

2. Hold it at a right angle and place it on the free edge of your natural nail. Be careful not to create air bubbles between the two surfaces.

3. Apply light pressure for a few seconds to firmly adhere the tip to your natural nail.

By following these tips, you’ll quickly master the techniques needed to create beautiful nail extensions with templates or tips. All that’s left is to choose the method that suits you best and get started on creating stunning custom extensions.

Read also: The Canvas at Your Fingertips: Exploring Nail Beauty