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Technique

What is a time-efficient one-ball method acrylic?

February 22, 2005

A one-ball nail application just takes a little practice. Find someone willing to sit with you for an hour or so to practice. To avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary work, apply a thin layer of Vaseline to all 10 nails and gently wipe off any excess. This will prevent the acrylic from sticking to the nails while you practice. Assess the size of each nail individually and practice picking up a ball of powder to accommodate the nail you’re working on. Place it in the middle of the nail and press it up to the cuticle first, then pull it to the free edge shaping it as you go. If you find you need more product, get a bigger ball next time. If you have too much then try a slightly smaller ball next time. Soon you will be able to “feel” the right amount of liquid and powder. Assess, place, push, pull. Done. It just takes patience and practice. -- Linda Cusimano-Clemmons

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