Acrylic Nails for Beginners: How to Build a Bead in 7 Steps

Acrylic · 7 steps · no lamp for the build

Acrylic is liquid and powder mixed on the brush into a bead. You place the bead, shape it and let it set on its own. The steps below show the order, from prep to top coat.

1. 1

   Set up a ventilated station

   Work in a well-ventilated area, away from heat and flames, as the monomer label advises. Pour a small amount of monomer into a dappen dish and open your powder.

   TipPour only what you need for one set, and cover the dish when you pause.

2. 2

   Prep the nail

   Push back the cuticle, buff the shine off the nail and wipe away dust. Apply pH Bond, then No Burn Primer on the nail plate only.

   TipKeep primer off the skin.

3. 3

   Fit a tip or a form

   Apply a tip, or slide a form such as the PVC Clear Nail Form under the free edge for sculpting.

   TipCheck that the form sits straight and snug.

4. 4

   Load the bead

   Dip a Kolinsky brush in the monomer, wipe one side on the dish edge, then press the tip into the powder and roll to pick up a small bead.

   TipPractice the bead size on a practice hand or tip before a client set.

5. 5

   Place and press

   Set the bead where the nail needs the most structure, then press it toward the cuticle and the free edge with the flat of the brush. Add a second bead if the shape needs it.

   TipWork one nail at a time, so the bead stays workable.

6. 6

   Let it set, then file

   Allow the acrylic to set fully, then file the shape and the surface smooth, buff, and wipe away the dust.

   TipShape the free edge first, then smooth the surface.

7. 7

   Seal and finish

   Apply a no wipe top coat, cure under your LED lamp, and finish with cuticle oil. Clean the brush with brush cleaner.

   TipClean your brush after each set.

Beginner kits

ACRYLIC BASIC KitMSRP $59.50

"ACRYLIC" Starter KitMSRP $232.50

Powders

Acrylic Powder Crystal ClearMSRP from $13.25

Acrylic Powder Cover PinkMSRP from $13.25

Acrylic Powder Super WhiteMSRP from $13.25

Acrylic Powder Natural MixMSRP from $13.25

Liquid, brushes and tools

Signature Monomer LiquidMSRP from $13.25

Odorless Acrylic Nail Liquid - Student 4ozMSRP $13.50

Glass Dappen DishMSRP from $0.75

Kolinsky Acrylic Brush - Yellow Wood HandleMSRP from $25.00

Student Sable Square Flat Acrylic BrushMSRP from $14.50

Brush Cleaner 8ozMSRP $15.50