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
How do I get a high-gloss shine on my pink-and-whites?
One of my biggest problems with pink and- whites is achieving a high-gloss shine. Over the last few months I have tried all kinds of files and buffers, but I still cannot achieve what I want.... read more
Are there special considerations when cutting elderly clients' toenails?
The quick of the nail grows more closely to the nail tip as we age. Consequently, it becomes easier to nick a client if you cut too closely.... read more
How can I get the same results from a file versus a sanding band when prepping the nail?
How can I get the same results from a file versus a sanding band when prepping the nail?... read more
How can you help clients with deformities of the feet to feel comfortable about receiving procedures?
How can you help clients with deformities of the feet to feel comfortable about receiving procedures?... read more
How do I advise clients to care for their nails that were damaged by improper drill use?
How do I advise clients to care for their nails that were damaged by improper drill use?... read more
What causes the natural nail to separate from the acrylic at the free edge?
What causes the natural nail to separate from the acrylic at the free edge?... read more
My pedicure client has deep cracks in her heels. Is it safe to work on her?
I have had pedicure clients (usually elderly) who have deep cracks in their heels. The cracks don’t bleed or appear to be an open sore. Is it safe to work on these clients? Is there anything the client or I can do to start the healing process?... read more
Is it best to have a toenail removed completely if you suffer from chronic ingrown toenails?
Is it best to have a toenail removed completely if you suffer from chronic ingrown toenails?... read more
When applying small wet beads of acrylic in the cuticle area, wouldn’t this make your ratio off and cause lifting?
I’m a newbie and I’m confused. When applying small wet beads of acrylic in the cuticle area, wouldn’t this make your ratio off and cause lifting because of overly wet beads? Should I use the same ratio for all three beads?... read more
When starting a pedicure, do you soak the client’s feet in disinfectant for at least five minutes or just soapy water?
When starting a pedicure, do you soak the client’s feet in disinfectant for at least five minutes or just soapy water?... read more
I have a client who has been working on her feet for 36 years and is now developing painful calluses. How can I ease her pain?
I have a client who has been working on her feet for 36 years and is now developing painful calluses. How can I ease her pain? What’s best for calluses like these?... read more
I think I may have scaly skin that's caused by something called two foot/one hand syndrome. What do I do?
In the November 2002 issue you mentioned that scaly skin can be caused by something called two foot/one hand syndrome. I believe that I have just that. (It’s awful.) What do I do?... read more