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
Technique
What is a time-efficient one-ball method acrylic?
February 22, 2005
More FAQ
When using tack-free sealer over acrylics or gels, what causes the noticeable bumps and bubbles?
When using tack-free sealer over acrylics or gels, what causes the noticeable bumps and bubbles? This turns a time-saver into a time-consumer.... read more
What’s the difference between a “competition nail” and a “client nail”?
What’s the difference between a “competition nail” and a “client nail”? Is it the length? the C-curve? the thickness?... read more
How can I stop lifting around the cuticle area?
I’m starting to try new acrylic systems because I keep having a problem with lifting around the cuticle area. Can you give me some advice?... read more
Is it true that it’s common for cross country runners to lose their toenails?
Is it true that it’s common for cross country runners to lose their toenails? Will they grow back? How do you handle this situation with a pedicure client?... read more
Are there any special considerations when performing a pedicures on a client with Parkinsons?
I have a client with Parkinson’s disease. Are there any special considerations or things I should avoid when performing manicures and pedicures on this client? Her one hand is significantly closed, but we manage.... read more
Is it common for cross country runners to lose their toenails?
Is it true that it’s common for cross country runners to lose their toenails? Will they grow back? How do you handle this situation with a pedicure client?... read more
How do I reassure my clients that my electric filing is safe?
My teaching has taken me all over the world, most recently to Amsterdam to teach electric filing techniques. I was asked a question that is quite universal, “How do I reassure my clients that my electric filing is safe?”... read more
Do you have a cheat sheet for the specific use of each drill bits?
Do you have a cheat sheet for the specific use of each drill bits? One of my clients asks what every bit is for every time she comes in.... read more
Why does my precut self-adhesive silk curl away from the nail plate after I apply glue to the entire nail?
Sometimes my precut self-adhesive silk curls away from the nail plate after I apply glue to the entire nail. Here’s how I do it: 1) prep nail, 2) apply self stick silk, 3) apply glue to make silk stick to the nail (this is when my silk curls from nail plate), 4) apply gel, 5) dip in powder, 6) apply gel again, 7) dip in powder, 8) apply gel, 9) spray activator, and 10) file and shape. Please tell me what’s going wrong and point me in the right direction.... read more
Why does gel turn yellow on some people (and not on others) in the summer?
Why does gel turn yellow on some people (and not on others) in the summer?... read more
What should I tell my clients who want to let their cuticles grow up over their nails?
I always stress to my clients the importance of keeping their cuticles healthy by pushing them back and moisturizing. Most of them agree and comply, but some want more information. I have had several ask me why they should keep their cuticles pushed back. They want to know why it’s such a bad thing to allow the cuticle to grow up with their nail. I really don’t have a good answer. What should I tell them?... read more
How do I handle using a UV gel with a client’s natural nails and polish?
How do I handle using a UV gel with a client’s natural nails and polish? What if the client already has gel on her nails?... read more