A good tech knows her hand files like a golfer knows his clubs. She has a specific tool to fit every situation, and she develops her own ways of using them to fit her style. For the beginner tech, it can be hard to get a collection started because there are so many kinds of files out there. But here are some good, basic files that can serve as a solid foundation.

Cindy Tanico of Flowery Beauty Products offers this insight:

When choosing the grit for a nail file, first consider whether the service is for natural or artificial nails. A finer grit should be used for natural nails and a more aggressive grit is appropriate for artificial nails as they are stronger and thicker than natural nails. The higher the grit number, the finer the abrasive of the nail file. Many nail files have two grits, a coarse side to shape nails and a fine side for finishing nails.

 Here are some general guidelines:

 

Shapers

Coarse Grit 80-150

For shaping rough edges or adjusting the lengths of artificial and strong natural nails.

 

Smoothers

Medium Grit 150-320

Great for shaping and smoothing all types of nails.

 

Finishers

Fine Grit 320-900

Used in preparation for artificial nail application and final finishing steps.

 

Buffers

Extra Fine Grit 900-2400

Smoothes nail beds and removes ridges and polish stains; shines the nail without polishes or creams.

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