Polka Dot Nails - Step by Step

Following my experience with the worst top coat ever, I decided to give my nails a little TLC by having a go at some nail art. Now, considering my artistic skills aren't too hot, I decided to go for something simple – polka dots.

What you need
Base colour
Colour for dots
Top coat - NOT this one
Toothpick
Patience

Here’s how to do it

1. Apply one (or two) coats of your base colour and let it dry

2. Take your toothpick and dip into your chosen dot colour

3. Using the toothpick, place the first dot in the center of your nail

4. Create a pattern - using the first dot as your guide

5. Leave to dry (this may take a while if the dots are large)

6. Finish with a top coat

Tips

• Always do your centre dot first – that way you can maintain the pattern across the nail
• Scrap some of the excess polish off toothpick so you don't end up with a big blob of polish on your nail
• If you don't have a steady hand don't try to double-dot. Chances are you’ll never hit the same spot twice and you'll end up ruining the pattern. I learnt the hard way
• Be patient – it will take a while for the dots to dry so make sure you’re comfortable and there is something good on TV.
• You will need a top coat – even it it’s just a clear nail varnish, the dots will be slightly raised so will need protecting.

Happy dotting!