Snakeskin Nails

I came across a tutorial for python nails in a recent issue of Cosmopolitan magazine, and while I enjoyed the concept and the uniqueness behind rocking textured nails, I found that I had to do some serious tweaking to the original tutorial in order to get it to look right instead of turning out like a blotchy, chunky mess.

For this design, you’ll need an old pair of fishnets (I use a pair of fishnet gloves from an old Halloween costume), a nude nail polish (I just used a pinkish nude that I usually use for French manicures), a dark base (Cosmo used black, I’ve used a dark coral and a brown), and a lighter, shimmery accent color (Cosmo used gray, I’ve used a lighter coral with a hint of gold shimmer and a coppery gold). A clear polish for a top coat and base coat is optional.

I really enjoy this look, though it can be time consuming, because it’s really customizable. I used the variations of coral to match a coral faux crocodile purse I carry, and I’ve used the brown tones because I felt like it looked more like real snakeskin. If you play around with different color combinations, the possibilities are endless. A quick word of warning, you probably want to do this tutorial before you do anything with your fingernails. One time, I did this look on my toes after I French manicured my fingernails, and it ended up ruining my not-completely-dried manicure.

Step One

Apply a clear base coat, then follow with a thin layer of nude polish. Allow polish to dry.

Step Two

After the base coats have dried, carefully wrap the fishnets around the nail you’re starting with, securing with a rubber band or hair tie. Be sure to place the tie around the lower part of your finger or toe so that it doesn’t hike up and interfere with the nail you’re polishing.

If you want more of a snakeskin pattern, make sure the fishnet pattern is tilted to form diamonds. If you want more of an alligator/crocodile skin look, tilt the fishnet pattern to form squares.

Step Three

Starting with your darker color, carefully paint the polish in every hole of the fishnets. Allow the polish to completely dry (I usually give my nails at least ten minutes, just to be sure).

Step Four

Now, using the lighter accent color, paint random holes in the fishnet over the darker color. The more calculated you use the accent color (for example, painting every other hole), the less realistic it looks. Allow this layer of polish to completely dry.

Step Five

Carefully remove the fishnet and tie, then follow with a clear top coat.

Step Six

Repeat steps one through five with the next nail until you’re finished.

Source

April 2012 issue of Cosmopolitan magazine