Nails
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Take a Tip from . . . Nail Tech Mary Wolf

Learn how this nail techs nails the color gradation. 

September 18, 2015
Take a Tip from . . . Nail Tech Mary Wolf

 

1 min to read


Color gradation, the shade fade, and the ombre are synonymous for a nail art technique that seamlessly blends two or more colors. The gradient effect, while subtle, offers maximum impact when executed well. “I find it much easier to make an ombre look great when I use the darker of the two colors as the base,” says Los Angeles-based nail tech, Mary Wolf. Follow these steps for the perfect blend of color.


1. Paint the base with two coats of the darker color. Cure.

Ad Loading...


2. Apply light strokes of the lighter color over the base starting a little more than halfway up the nail. The first layer should be barely visible. Cure.


3. Continue to build the lighter color by applying it toward the tip of the nail. Cure between coats. The lighter shade should be most opaque at the tip.

4. Apply top coat and cure.


For more tips and tricks from Wolf, visit her Instagram @nail_wolf

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

More Technique

Technique|Articles|May 11, 2026

Footlogix Powers Up Footcare with New Spiraleen+

Marine-exclusive antioxidants act as a natural biological shield for the feet to help protect skin, smooth cracks, hydrate roughness, calm inflammation and disrupt bacterial and fungal activity, leaving feet feeling softer, smoother, more hydrated and healthier.

Ad Loading...
Technique|Articles|Apr 22, 2025

What is a Medical Pedicure?

Nail technicians are embracing the Medical Pedicure as a service and placing it on their menus. But what is it? What training is required? Is it within our scope of practice as licensed nail technicians?

Ad Loading...
Wellness|Articles|Aug 28, 2023

What Are Neuromas?

When the weight of the body lands on a swollen nerve, it can be debilitating. Learn the symptoms and alert clients to this common problem that develops in the nerves of the foot.

Ad Loading...