1st place – Advanced: Tracy Vinson

1st place – Advanced: Tracy Vinson

Recently, Exclusive Nail Couture CEO and director of education Max Estrada had the unique experience of seeing himself immortalized in a series of bobblehead dolls. Each month, members of the 3-D Fanatics Facebook group receive a challenge from moderator Kimberly Harr. In February, the challenge — issued by Estrada — was to capture his likeness in doll form.

“I didn’t want any rules. I wanted the artists to have the freedom to interpret the challenge in any way,” says Estrada, who was more than pleased with the results. “I thought the entries were amazing! I personally liked the ones that felt more anime than realistic. All the details made a huge difference and it was so cool to notice all the small but important touches that make each one unique.” 

2nd place – Advanced:  Denise Heavnor

2nd place – Advanced:  Denise Heavnor

The winners in each category received a selection of products from the Exclusive Nail Couture line and each entrant received a small gift as well. “It was very hard to choose a winner because everyone really pushed their limits,” he says.

To any 3-D artists who might be struggling, Estrada offers these words of encouragement: “Every day it gets better. Mastering 3-D nail art comes from repetition. Don’t lose your inspiration. Beautiful nails do not happen by accident; it is a science of precision and consistency.” 

3rd place – Advanced: (tie) Nora Bustos

3rd place – Advanced: (tie) Nora Bustos

3rd place – Advanced: (tie) Bella Martinelli

3rd place – Advanced: (tie) Bella Martinelli

1st place – Newbies: Xandia Greef

1st place – Newbies: Xandia Greef

2nd place – Newbies: Tabetha Mosel

2nd place – Newbies: Tabetha Mosel

3rd place – Newbies: Lynda Taing

3rd place – Newbies: Lynda Taing

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