Royal Zebra

  The other day as I was admiring my latest nail polish color and ogling over my color collecting addiction, I told my boyfriend I had enough nail polishes to paint my nails a different color every week for an entire year. To which he responded, "You should do that! And make a blog about it!"

WEEK 9: Royal Zebra

Last week I mentioned picking up some nail polish in Ireland, but what I didn't mention was the other nail related purchase I made. This particular item was something I have always seen around, but never actually thought to get for myself. But now, here they were, staring me in the face, priced too cheaply to resist at least trying them out... I was in Ireland for goodness sake. I was ready for adventure. Maybe it was the variety that caught my eye, or maybe it was the beauty of the different shapes, sizes, and colors, sorted into perfectly separate compartments that tugged on the heartstrings of my OCD. Whatever it was, it worked. I caved. I am now the proud owner of metal nail studs.

 As much as I loved the crazy assortment, I decided for my first 'adventure' I would stick to something basic and easy to work with. Small silver circles. In order to perfectly contrast these simple studs I wanted to pick some bold colors and patterns for the underlying polish.

After laying out my design I created a base using multiple coats of my two main colors, two colors that would contrast each other well, a vibrant navy blue and an almost mother of pearl like white. After these coats were done and dried I began to create a zebra pattern using my fine nail art brush and a lighter shade of blue. I then used silver to accent each stripe and add more texture to the pattern.

Once I had created the foundation of the design I wanted, I used a clear top coat and quickly, but carefully, placed each nail stud where I wanted it. The top coat worked as a glue securing the decal to the nail. In order to create a smooth and sturdy finish I put on a few more coats of top coat, letting it dry between layers.

I have to admit, pictures do not do this design or these polishes justice, but I tried. While the camera washes out the colors and makes what would be metallic look rather flat, in person I am continually distracted by the mesmerizing shimmer every time I move my hands. But I guess you'll have to take my word for it... Or maybe you can try it out for yourself!

In case you've never noticed, I always end my post by listing out exactly what I have used for that design. So always feel free to copy me designs or tweak them to your liking. That's why I'm here, to inspire, to instruct, to make a fool of myself. I'm here for you. So whether you're a nail art enthusiast looking for inspiration, a friend looking to support my crazy endeavors, or just a stalker following my every move... thank you. Your views make a difference.

Products Used:
 

- Candie's - Royal Navy
- Sally Hansen Diamond Strength - Platinum
- Personal Accents -Evening Sky
- Nail Art Brush Set
- 3D Metal Nail Art Studs