Washi Tape Nail Art is an easy way to get creative with your manicure! And the best part is that no special techniques are required for this fun washi tape idea!
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I love nail art. It's such a fun way to add a unique touch to a manicure.
My skills aren't that great though. I can handle a simple heart or stripes (skinny and wide) nail art design, but that is about it. Nothing fancy for me!
I'm not sure where I first saw a washi tape manicure, but it immediately caught my attention. So cute + so many possibilites.
Washi Tape Nails are such an ingenious way to add intricate designs to your nails. You're basically creating DIY nail art stickers with washi tape, and it's super simple to do!
Easy Washi Tape Nail Art
For these Washi Tape Nails, I covered one nail on each hand with washi tape and painted the other nails a coordinating shade.
However, you could cut out strips of washi tape or even part of the design, such as a flower. The possibilities are endless.
And will all the fun tapes out there, I can't wait to experiment with other patterns!
How to Create Washi Tape Nail Art
Want to try your own Washi Tape Nail Art? Here's what you'll need:
- nail file
- base coat (I love Orly Bonder.)
- scissors
- washi tape
- quick dry top coat (I use Seche Vite.)
- nail polish (I used Zoya Kendal.)
Start by shaping your nails with the nail file. If necessary, gently push back your cuticles. Then cover your nails with the base coat.
Next, you'll great the DIY nail art tape.
Start by trimming a piece of washi tape to fit the base of your nail. Make sure to take the design into account when cutting out the tape.
Carefully apply the washi tape to your nail. Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles with a fingernail, making sure the tape is completely adhered to your nail.
Don't worry if it's not 100% perfect, because the top coat will disguise minor flaws.
Cut the washi tape even with the top of your nail.
Smooth any rough tape edges with a nail file, if needed.
Tip: it's really important that the tape sticks to your nail, especially around the edges. If the tape loses its stickiness, take a new piece and start over.
Apply a couple coats of the quick dry top coat.
Make sure to go over the edges of the washi tape. The tape needs to be completely coated and sealed to your nail. That way it won't come off when you wash your hands.
Apply nail polish to your other nails, then finish with another layer of top coat.
I just love how this Washi Tape Nail Art turned out. It's so easy!
How Long Does Washi Tape Last on Nails?
Okay, so you may be wondering how long this washi tape manicure will last.
It's really going to depend on you well the washi tape is adhered to your nail. If there's any gap that can catch on things or where water can get under, your mani probably won't last more than a day or two.
But, if you are really careful when applying the tape, it will last longer. I also recommend applying a new layer of top coat ever other day or so (just like you would with a regular manicure).
Love this Easy Nail Art and want more ideas?
If you like this fun idea, check out all my nail art tutorial!
- Easy At-Home Manicure ... start with the basics!
- Edgy Glitter Manicure
- Easy Striped Nail Art
- Polka Dot Nail Art
- Wide Stripe Nail Art
- Easy Manicure with Nail Art Pens
I hope you enjoyed this fun nail art tutorial ... let me know if you try it!
Personally, I'd like to try a floral pattern next, or maybe polka dots, or stripes.
There are so many possibilities with this easy Washi Tape Nail Art technique!
Have you ever attempted nail art?
Hi Ginnie. Like you my nail skills are not that great. I've tried my DIY fancy nail designs that just don't turn out right. But, I can and I successfully do the Washi Tape designs. Such a wonderful, easy and beautiful idea. Looking forward to learning more from you.
I'm so glad you enjoyed the tutorial, Karen! It definitely makes doing fun designs a lot easier. 🙂
What a great idea. Have trouble doing my nails because of rheumatoid arthritis. Maybe this will help me out.
Thanks, Nancy! I hope you're able to try it. If you haven't already tried them, you might also like nail stickers. They're already cut in the shape of your nails, so it may be easier with your arthritis.
Joann's has an amazing assortment of Washi tape! Plus they always have great coupons!
Yes, love those coupons! 🙂
I wanted to try this method but I'm worried about toxins do to medical problems. If I use polish it chips right away literally within 24 of application. Do you know if washi tape is toxic?
Hi, Lacey! I believe that washi tape is less toxic than other tapes, but I don't have a definite answer on this. You can read a little more about washi tape here: http://www.wishywashi.com/what-is-washi-tape Try searching for non-toxic washi-tape on Amazon, and you might have some luck. If you're looking for a great polish, try Julep. I've had luck with it lasting about a week (use a base and top coat, then reapply the top coat every other day or so), plus it's 5-free and vegan-friendly: https://www.julep.com/nail/polish.html Hope this helps! 🙂
Does it come off easily with nail polish remover?
Hi, Melissa! Use nail polish to remove the top coat, then the washi tape should peel right off. Hope that helps!
How clever! I can't wait to give this a try!