Las Vegas-based Ashton Harlan has been doing nails for 10 years. She began blowing up Instagram feeds two years ago with her hand-painted extended sets. Harlan entered NAILS Next Top Nail Artist Season 5 and made it oh so close to the finale, coming in fourth place. Determined to do better, Harlan entered again in Season 6. This time, she took home the title. Harlan is the first NTNA champion to receive a crystal trophy from Swarovski, as well as a trip to NAILS’ headquarters for the cover shoot after her win. 

Her cover design is inspired by two of her final NTNA sets showcasing her signature hand-painting. One set showed her nail art journey, while the other had a kaleidoscope feel. These two sets were blended together for the final cover look. Follow Harlan on Instagram @misashton and keep up with her as she judges NTNA Season 7, beginning later this month.

Here are Harlan’s steps for this month’s cover look:

1. Use Aprés Nail Gel-X Extensions to elongate the nail. Add line work with Light Elegance Gel Paint. 

2. Fill in some of the diamonds with neon gel paint. Leave others blank, allowing for the clarity of the negative space to show through.

3. Create flower detailing with gel paint.

4. Complete shading. Top coat and cure.