The first thing to keep in mind when switching from acrylics to gels is to lighten up. Most of us diehard acrylic users are accustomed to the heavy handed patting and pulling of acrylic. But if you’re finding that your gels are running, bubbling, getting lumpy and bumpy, are not strong enough, and just plain out of control — you need to lighten up on that brush. For instance, as you stroke your gel into place, use a light touch with your brush as if you were stroking the air — no pressure. The gentler you are, the more control you will have over your gel; the heavier the hand, the less control and the bigger the mess. Also try using more of the tip of the brush rather than the body of the brush. If your brush is covered in gel it is difficult to keep control. So lighten up and use the tip to gain control.
-Laura Sloggat, educator for American International Studies