Runway to NTNA: The Top 3 and the Bottom 3

Challenge 1 sponsored by CND, asked our Top 12 to show us runway-inspired nail looks that were complemented by off-the nail designs. The look on the nails had to be wearable and flat. The contestants then completed a video diary detailing their process. This week’s guest judge was CND co-founder Jan Arnold.

In alphabetical order, the top 3 are:

Ashton Harlan: Ashton made a dark design look absolutely lovely!

Jenna Jupin: Your approach this week was incredibly unique, complete with a full-blown shoot.

Valerie Ducharme: Your precision and patchwork were done in true Libertine style!

The following techs can breathe again. They are in the middle of this week’s pack and are safe.

Congratulations to:

Dana: Your handpainting impressed the judges with its precision. Zoom in more on your demos so we can savor the excellence.

Halley: Your video was a little dark and the judges found they couldn’t always see the nails, so watch your lighting. You and your artwork are beautiful (not to mention your stunning handpiece) so show it off!

Katie: Slow down a bit in your demo. Let’s see your nail creations up-close. Make sure and style your own nails as well as you do your competition work.

Kostadina: We saw new techniques from you that were fresh and exciting! Keep up the good work and make sure and zoom in tighter while working on your nails.

Liza: The judges were wowed by your abilities to do both top and underside nail art that was top-notch! We want to see more of your technique work, so zoom in tighter while painting.

Trish: Your ring creations blew the judges away. Great video but your voice over was a little too hurried at times. Slow down and take a breath — you’ve got this.

Unfortunately, there always has to be a bottom group. The bottom 3, in alphabetical order, are:

Hemi: The judges liked your nail designs, but your video needs editing. Get right to the demo, show more technique, and don’t move too fast. We know you’re trying to stay within the time limit, but let the judges really see and hear your excellent work at a steady pace.

Jennifer: Libertine is all about high-key graphics and colors, which the judges felt weren’t reflected in your design. Your teaching and professionalism were definitely on-point though.

Sammi: Your video proved you can teach how to do a set of nails, but overall the design lacked variety. The pill casings were a creative touch that the judges did like very much.