In the life of every woman, sometimes particularly significant events happen, the memory of which is stored in photos and videos. On such days, girls make every effort to make their image perfect. Of course, a beautiful hairstyle and a spectacular dress are very important, but no less important is the manicure of a beautiful lady. For special occasions, professionals created a special type of nail art - nail sculpting.
An unusual design involves creating three-dimensional compositions using acrylic or gel. The manicure looks great both in photos and in life. Nail art turns out to be very beautiful, but impractical, since the volumetric elements cling to clothes and surrounding objects. If the design is created for everyday wear, the surface of the nails with the composition is covered with a special transparent gel, creating an “aquarium” effect, which makes them perfectly smooth. What is the difference between acrylic nail modeling and gel nail modeling? The completed compositions are similar. The difference lies only in the characteristics of the compositions and the technology for creating volumetric elements.
Acrylic modeling
To create a voluminous manicure using acrylic, you need to purchase special compounds and modeling brushes.
- The first thing to do is prepare the nail plate. Initially, modeling was intended to create a completed image of the extended coating. Today you can experiment with natural nails, which, however, should be long enough. In this case, it is necessary to have at least a base coat, and even better, a layer of colored varnish.
- Using a flat brush, grab a ball of acrylic and place it on the nail. Give the droplet the shape of the future decor, but do not sculpt, otherwise it will simply spread. Wait until the ball dries and loses its glossy shine. Only after this will sculpting on nails become possible. Using a brush, model the desired element. Proceed to the next part of the composition.
To clearly demonstrate the whole process to you, we suggest watching a video lesson in which you will see how a master performs acrylic modeling on a tip.
Gel modeling
Gel modeling appeared much later than acrylic. This was due to the liquid consistency of the composition. Today, special 3D gels for modeling have been created. Nail designs have become more diverse. Thanks to the flexible structure of the gel, you can create incredible compositions. Nail sculpting has become more comfortable. In addition, unlike acrylic, the gel has no odor, which makes the procedure more pleasant.
Design elements are applied to the prepared nail plate immediately in the form in which they will be fixed. Each part of the composition of a certain color must be polymerized in a UV lamp for 2-3 minutes. If the design elements do not harden sufficiently, a mixture of tones may occur.
To consolidate the knowledge gained, we suggest watching an interesting video lesson from which you will learn how to build and sculpt nails using a gel composition.
If you want to not only stand out, but also do it beautifully, we recommend that when creating a design, you do not overdo it in the number of volumetric elements. It is advisable to decorate only 1-2 nails, focusing attention on them. If you decide to decorate all your fingers, choose more delicate, earthy compositions, as in the photo. With the right approach, sculpting your nails will add sophistication and a touch of mystery to your look.
Finally, we’ll tell you a little secret. If you place compositions in the center of the nails, the sculpting will last much longer, never ceasing to delight you and those around you with its beauty. Always be irresistible, and let every style decision perfectly complement your image!
Fashion trends and the latest techniques in the world of nail art are updated from season to season: something goes into oblivion, something changes, adapting to new trends, and the sculpted nail design in the photo shows the final product of its own evolution. This technique is one of those that has been able to adapt to modern times. From large flowers and almost life-size butterflies, the sculpture has turned into a stylish design that sets the tone for your entire look.
Fashion trends for manicure with sculpting in 2018
The Internet is still awash with photos of tacky long stiletto claws or square plates with monstrous acrylic flowers. Oh, those 2000s... “Star Factory”, jeans with a low waist, and clumsy modeling on nails still won’t leave the minds of many masters.
It’s high time to notice that in 2018, all fashion trends in nail art are taking place under the auspices of minimalism, this also affected the sculptural decoration of nails. Nowadays, marigolds are decorated only with small-sized and not very convex decor; basically, one, or at most a couple of fingers are allocated for it.
Two types - two stars
Artistic masterpieces are sculpted from acrylic and special gel. If earlier creativity could only be done on artificial nails, now figures are often formed on natural plates coated with gel polish.
Acrylic systems
Realistic decorations are made from acrylic powder combined with a special liquid called monomer. By mixing powder with monomer, you get a plastic polymer from which you can fashion whatever your heart desires! Interestingly, this material was initially used in dentistry, and then became widely used in nail art.
It will be very difficult to independently obtain an elegant flower from polymer the first time. The fact is that it hardens quickly and therefore you will have to act extremely quickly and very, very carefully. Therefore, it is better to contact a certified specialist if you are not confident in your own abilities. All those stunning examples of sculpting flowers on nails that you saw on the pages of masters are the result of diligent study in courses and long practice.
One of the main disadvantages of acrylic is frequent allergic reactions to the material and its unpleasant odor, similar to what is felt when a dentist drills a tooth. Also, many are put off from “trying the pen” in this field by the length of the process. On average it takes 2-3 hours to sculpt.
Volume gel
Masters have been thinking about turning gel into magical sculptures for a long time, but, as luck would have it, the usual gels for extensions in volumetric art did not want to help! Their viscous nature did not want to turn into something formal.
But more recently, gels with a dense structure have appeared and decoration lovers have breathed new life into the art of sculpting.
This material, unlike acrylic, has no odor and does not have to be mixed with anything. To the touch it looks like pliable plasticine, from which imagination and skillful hands create nail art. A significant plus is that the gel hardens under the influence of ultraviolet light, so the amount of time and attempts in trying to form an idea out of a ball is not limited.
The most popular types are:
- 3D gel for sculpting nails. Its dense and flexible structure is quite easy to work with, and with the help of such a gel, excellent examples of volumetric modeling are obtained.
- 4D gel is more rigid. To the touch it is indistinguishable from clay or plasticine. From a small piece with a grain of rice, you can form three-dimensional compositions with a pusher or dots. Some inconvenience is caused by the fact that it sticks to metal and hands, so the tools will have to be constantly moistened with liquid to remove the sticky layer.
Sculpting with gel will take a very long time, since each element must be dried separately in a lamp. If you connect two undried petals, they will merge into one shapeless blob.
However, there are more positive aspects in this technique. If you are eager to try to sculpt your idea yourself, then start with the simplest figures.
Volumetric art in practice: how to sculpt nails
If you still have nostalgia for the wonderful sculpting on your nails, then you can easily show your creative impulses and remain a fashion winner with new items of wonderful design.
Nail masters are strikingly unanimous in teaching beginners: you can’t do your first experience with acrylic or gel on your nails! First, try making a flower or butterfly on paper or foil, or attach the material to tips.
Acrylic modeling master class
It is believed that it is better to master the art of sculpting first of all with acrylic.
You will need:
- Acrylic powder in several colors.
- Gel polish.
- Monomer.
- Sculpting brushes made of dense and elastic natural bristle.
- Tips.
- Cover the tip with gel polish and dry it.
- Dip the brush into the monomer and place the very tip into a jar of powder.
- An acrylic ball instantly forms on the brush.
- Put him on tips. This droplet can be given any shape with a brush.
- You need to act quickly: as soon as the drop loses its shine and becomes matte, polymerization will occur and the drawing can be considered complete. The substance reacts to the air temperature in the room - the warmer it is, the sooner it hardens.
You can see in detail how acrylic sculpting on nails occurs in this video:
Master class with 4-D gel
Just recently, you would have had to pay a lot of money and sit through painful hours with a master to get a beautiful design on your nails. With the advent of 4-D gel, the process has become so simplified that even a beginner can create his own unique design.
You will need:
- Sculpting gel.
- Gel polish, base and top coat.
- Dots.
- Pusher.
- Klinser.
- Prepare your nails for a manicure.
- Apply a layer of base and after drying, paint with gel polish.
- After drying the pigment, remove the sticky layer.
- Use a dot to scoop the gel out of the jar.
- Using your fingers moistened with a cleaner, roll the ball into a small “sausage” and press it against the plate.
- Take two more smaller pieces of gel and place them in the area near the cuticle on the other fingers.
- Stretch the gel well on the plates and move the “plasticine” with a dot, wiping the holes, stretching it into something like lace. Do not forget to periodically moisten the rod in a cleanser.
- If desired, you can complement the decor with rhinestones.
- When the entire composition is ready, send your creation to the lamp.
- Finally, cover the result with topcoat.
As you can see, the technology is simple, in just a few minutes, remembering your art lessons at school, you get original art!
With an obedient gel, over time you will learn to create luxurious masterpieces. In the meantime, enjoy how this is done in the video:
I made it from what I had: a beautiful nail design with sculpting in photo examples
So far, the most popular sculpting designs on nails are the notorious petal flowers, but even from them talented nail artists create far from banal ensembles. At a short length, small flowers create entire fields of chamomile, and on an almond-shaped form, craftsmen create stunningly beautiful silhouettes of roses covering the entire plate. If desired, you can build a single composition on two adjacent nails, decorate your design with rhinestones...
The uniqueness of the sculpting is that this decor is suitable for any shape and length. Admire the design examples below and choose the one you like.
Of course, voluminous art is not the most convenient for everyday use. Some elements will cling to your clothing and may cause inconvenience if, for example, your job requires you to wear gloves. Sculpted nail designs, as you can see from the photo, are more suitable for a holiday manicure. Modeling in nail art is adored by brides, graduates and simply creative people. Extraordinary 3D drawings will definitely give your image originality and sophistication!
Volumetric design of the nail plate appeared in the nail industry relatively recently.
Original patterns are modeled on natural or extended nails with transparent or colored gel.
The compositions are perfect as the final detail of a festive or wedding look at a special event.
Forms a three-dimensional pattern with a sculptural gel. The material has good ductility, holds the shape given by the master perfectly, does not spread and has no odor.
Creating such a composition is a labor-intensive process and takes a lot of time, but in the end the work looks truly fabulous.
- 3D gel belongs to the category of solid plastics, allowing you to create three-dimensional decorative elements of the nail plate. The material is easy to work with, and you can use it to get any desired fragment shape. The elements are made with a small brush with elastic bristles. Beginners can create simple compositions, but complex details require experience. Be sure to use finishing gel.
- The 4D gel is very thick in consistency, reminiscent of chewing gum, it does not dry out until it is placed under a UV lamp, you can sculpt it indefinitely - until you like the result. The colors are bright and saturated, but after the polymerization process is completed it becomes matte. Beginners love it. The material is applied directly to the top coat; it does not require covering with a topcoat.
Let's consider nail design options with sculpting on gel polish
It is necessary to work with sculptural gels with pinpoint precision so that the intended composition turns out flawless. The range of 3D and 4D gels is quite extensive, allowing you to combine colors and textures. 
A high-quality mass should not stretch, but separate freely into pieces.
Modeling technology allows the use of additional elements to satisfy the limitless imagination of clients. The following will help to complement the design: beads, shells, sparkles, broths.
Sculpting on nails with 4D gel slightly different. The palette consists of a base white and nine colored gels. White is intended to dilute neon shades - making them natural and muted. White gel is less flexible.
The blank ball is perfectly fixed on the nail.
The finished pattern is even more voluminous, bright and can be sculpted indefinitely, without rushing.
VIDEO DESCRIPTION
Applying 3D gel to nails - step-by-step instructions using flowers as an example
Gel sculpting on nails allowed us to achieve more varied designs, and the procedure itself became more enjoyable. Each detail is applied to the nail plate in the form in which it will ultimately be fixed.
Elements of the composition that differ in color are dried separately under a UV lamp, otherwise the shades will mix if they are not hardened enough.
Step-by-step instructions for sculpting with 3D gel To work you will need:
- A brush with artificial elastic bristles and a pointed tip;
- Varnish base;
- Gel polish of the selected tone;
- Top varnish;
- Ultraviolet lamp;
- Dots for collecting the desired amount of 3D gel.
Modeling technology:
- A base coat is applied to the nail plate;
- Gel polish of the selected tone is applied on top of it;
- Top is applied on top and the sticky layer is removed.
- Dots pick up a small drop of gel;
- Use your fingers to roll it into a ball;
- The ball is transferred to the nail in the place where the element will be sculpted.
- The tip of the brush is pressed in the place where the center of the flower will be located, simultaneously forming a petal;
- The molded petal is dried under a UV lamp for 2 minutes, under an LED lamp for 30 seconds;
- A second portion of gel is collected, and the second petal is formed in the same way. Subsequent petals are molded according to the same pattern.
- The resulting petals are slightly shaded with the same gel polish;
- To complete the decor, the core is decorated with broths or small beads;
- After drying under the lamp, the places where the gel was applied to add depth to the color must be covered with a topcoat, and then the sticky layer must be carefully removed.
VIDEO INSTRUCTION
When working with 3D gel, you should remember a few simple rules:
- Each part of a complex composition volume is dried separately under a UV lamp, the thicker the layer, the longer, on average 3-4 minutes;
- Despite the fact that the material is dense and does not spread, if handled insufficiently carefully, individual elements can merge - during work, you must carefully ensure that this does not happen;
- A novice master does not have to buy a large set; he can limit himself to a few basic colors, since they are easily mixed and it is possible to create spectacular images at minimal cost;
- The plasticity and viscosity of the consistency allows the use of various inclusions: sparkles, rhinestones, pebbles, shells.
Don’t forget to clean the brush with a special solution so that the remaining 3D gel particles on it do not mix with the next color.
Be sure to also protect your natural nails with a base coat, as gel can damage the nail plate. If the composition is created correctly, then it does not chip or fade, remaining in its original form until removal.
Today, acrylic nail sculpting is the most popular and relevant type of design. With the help of such non-trivial art, you can create entire compositions that will look impressive, accurately convey the creative intent of the author and complement the image. After all, every woman wants to look irresistible, especially on significant and festive occasions. Therefore, many representatives of the fair sex choose artistic decoration.
This technique of applying special material to the nail plates cannot be called easy, and not everyone can master it in a short period of time. You need to be patient and be prepared for the fact that you won’t be able to create a masterpiece the first time. Some people master this art in special courses, others get the necessary information from the Internet.
Acrylic sculpting on nails - design features
If you decide to master this technique, it is worth keeping in mind that the conceived image must first be carefully considered, and then begin to implement it. Moreover, sculpting acrylic nails for beginners is more difficult than for those who have already encountered a similar technique. Therefore, experienced craftsmen advise drawing the pattern first on a piece of paper with a regular pen, carefully drawing every dash and line. After all, such a manicure is noticeable immediately, so it must be done very carefully. Details play a big role here: they must be clear and have ideal contours. By the way, even experienced specialists, in order not to redo their work, first create a model of the future composition, because such creativity is a long and painstaking process that has its own difficulties.
Sculpting nails with acrylic, the photo is a clear confirmation of this, is a non-trivial way to design nail plates. All the figures seem to “rise” above the surface of the nail. Acrylic sculpting on nails is a catchy and bright NAIL ART in volumetric visualization, for which special materials are used: powder and liquid monomer (liquid). All work is done using a special brush, which applies the intended design. The whole process really resembles modeling and requires skill, since the “molded” elements freeze within 1-1.5 minutes.
When creating voluminous compositions, first extend your nails. Since its upper edge is mainly overloaded, it must be very strong. Otherwise, the composition may peel off and the natural plate itself may crack.
How to make a manicure with acrylic modeling?
For acrylic nail sculpting step by step you will need:
- Liquid (special liquid). It is better to choose a classic self-hardening one (necessarily based on ethyl methacrylate, but in no case methyl methacrylic, as it is bad for health and can cause allergies).
- various shades.
- Modeling brushes. Buy several brushes; the most convenient is considered to be round, with a sharp end. You should not neglect the small brush, it is also called a brush - “hair”. With its help, small details can be easily drawn (for example, the veins on the petals).
- Elements for decoration (rhinestones, beads, etc.).
A flawless manicure can only be achieved using high-quality materials from well-known and trusted companies. For example, high-quality acrylic never turns yellow or crystallizes.
Technique:
- Acrylic comes in bubbles, so the required amount needs to be poured into a small container for convenience.
- Decoration can be done both on (plastic plates) and directly on the nail itself. The latter must be prepared; they mainly use extensions, and a layer of gel polish is applied to strong nails (if the design is not too voluminous and heavy).
- First, the brush is dipped into the liquid, and then into the powder of the required color. After this, the brush must be slightly twisted to form a ball of the desired size. Keep in mind, it all depends on how deep you dip the brush - if only the very tip, then the ball will turn out small.
- After this, the lump needs to be transferred to the plate, directly to the place where the overall composition will be formed. Knead the ball and give it the desired shape. If part of the image requires more time, dip the brush in liquid and continue working.
For a beautiful ornament, perforation plays an important role. Therefore, when working with a brush, you need to press on the formed lump as clearly as possible, “developing” each contour.
- You need to form balls for each individual element, using different colors.
Form large elements first, then move on to small ones. Otherwise, you will not be able to control the creation of the overall drawing and subsequently it will differ from what was planned.
- Some craftsmen paint the elements after the figurine is formed, that is, they use powder at the final stage. In this case, you should wait until the acrylic dries and act as carefully as possible, since the powder can soften the acrylic.
- Depending on the creative concept, the figures can be located along the edge of the nail plate, on the top layer of the plate, or in the middle. But you shouldn’t place the composition near the cuticle, it won’t last long there. If desired, you can add decor: rhinestones or beads.
One of the main conditions for a high-quality manicure is the correct location of the image on the nail plate. The main element of the composition should not be “chaotically scattered” on the plate - this way the idea will lose its direct style and will look ridiculous.
In what cases can acrylic NAIL ART be used?
Sculpting on nails with acrylic, the photo demonstrates this, not for everyday wear. And it has its drawbacks: it is inconvenient for doing work with your hands, constantly clings to clothes, and loses its durability when in contact with water or chemicals. When agreeing to such a manicure, it is important to follow a number of mandatory rules, otherwise all the advantages will easily turn into unpleasant moments. Therefore, the beautiful half of humanity resorts to such a manicure exclusively on special occasions: weddings, anniversaries, social events.
Moreover, each event has its own unique design. Brides choose a delicate and touching design, replete with flowers, butterflies and hearts; business women may be asked to “sculpt” an interesting drawing with a predatory animal or reptile. Also, some women use acrylic modeling with additional decor to make an impression. Such a manicure will always lift your spirits and add self-confidence. When preparing for any event, you should not do acrylic modeling yourself, especially if you do not have enough experience. The result will definitely disappoint you, and it will take a lot of time. It’s better to entrust the work to professionals, and you can hone your skills using the original NAIL ART technique later.
Gels for modeling. Types, functions, purpose
The most commonly used materials for three-dimensional design modeling are gels, as well as sculptural ones. They have the following nuances:- 3D: differs from the classic gel in a denser and more flexible structure. This is what is chosen for baguette (frame) modeling.
- 4D: has a dense texture, similar to hard plasticine. Modeling with it is performed in tandem with (liquid for cleaning brushes) for processing (), since the gel sticks to the tool and hands.
- Sculptural: used to create artificial nails. These materials are viscous and not self-leveling. They require sanding to smooth the surface, but do not require a topcoat.
At the moment, the development of manicure techniques is aimed at simplifying work with any material. And it is 4D gels that are the type with which it is as simple and clear as possible to work even for self-taught masters. The technique of working with this dense mass that holds its shape perfectly is developed quickly. And the finished figures amaze with their stylish and spectacular execution, no worse than in an expensive salon. In order to create luxurious designs at home yourself, you need to know all the intricacies of gel plasticine. Namely…
Volumetric design: advantages of using 4D gel
The new generation of gels for nail design, as an alternative to classic acrylic sculpting, has many advantages in operation.- They allow you to create any shape without rushing to work out the details. This material does not dry instantly in the air and does not spread over the nail like water. That is why this is the best “training” product for those learning the basics of nail art.
- Since the creation process is quite time-consuming, the master doing the modeling will certainly appreciate such a bonus as the absence of a pungent odor. If you need to sculpt fragile elements, it is also convenient that you can make the thinnest details without spoiling the material. With this approach, the illusion of glass decor, as if glowing from within, is achieved.
3. The newest gels allow you to create jewelry that does not cling to clothing or hair with sharp tips and edges. 4D decor is stronger and more durable, resistant to external influences, and is not susceptible to chipping or color fading. The other side of the coin is the need to carefully and carefully create a dense pattern without damaging the nails.
4. Plasticine gels create maximum scope for creativity. They can create both ultra-thin and textured shapes (up to 5 mm thick). And the texture itself perfectly accepts any third-party decor: , . 4D nail gels also mix well with each other. And even in one image they are combined with and. You just need to supplement the main design product with decorations sparingly, so as not to excessively lengthen the polymerization process of the finished manicure.
Gel plasticine: features of performing and wearing volumetric manicure
In order to remain completely satisfied with this product, during the design process you need to remember and follow a few simple rules.- Depending on the thickness of the figure, each created element of the composition requires at least three to four minutes separately. In this case, during the laying out process, extreme care must be taken so that individual parts of the pattern do not merge with each other during polymerization.
- An eraser will serve as an eraser for correcting unevenness of a particular element. The alcohols in its composition will make the gel more plastic. However, you are not limited in the number of correction attempts. Because without baking (even in direct sunlight or a bright lamp on the table), the 4-D gel will not harden.
- Maintaining hygiene during the sculpting process will allow you to achieve an ideal result. Wash your hands thoroughly before creating decor. And treat the fingertips that you will use to knead and form the gel with a cleanser. Any foreign particles and dust can spoil the color of the sticky 4-D gel.
- When choosing a tool for work, give preference to a hard one, or, since a soft brush will not provide enough pressure for sculpting.
- If your painting consists of gels of different shades, then they should be polymerized one by one. And before drying, do not forget to check whether you have painted the ends of the free edge. Otherwise, your manicure, when examined closely, will not look as perfect as you want.
- A pleasant surprise of the new generation of gels is that they are absolutely not capricious when drying. Even the high density of the product and the hiding power of the color do not affect the quality of drying in the lamp. Manicurists did not report cases of incomplete baking or other problems.
- When resorting to modeling as decoration, observe moderation. An abundance of decor will not decorate your manicure. For a particularly important event, it is more appropriate to resort to such decor as an accent, for 1-2 fingers.
- Volumetric modeling is not the best companion for a beach holiday or everyday manicure, even despite its strength. If you still really want to decorate your nails in this way, place the sculpt on the nail according to safety rules.
How to correctly place 4D modeling and decorations on the nail. Features of molded manicure on natural nails
- The ideal location of volumetric decor on the nail is its highest point, the so-called stress zone. This is where the modeling will last as long as possible. The worst solution is the cuticle area and the free edge, since it is extremely difficult to secure such a composition well there. And the risk of breaking a nail increases significantly.
- It is functionally justified to decorate in this way not the entire surface of the nail plate, but only a certain part of it. This way the design will be easy and comfortable to wear. At the same time, to maintain compositional unity, it is better to decorate the nails on the remaining fingers with a coating, the color of which will be in harmony with the main character of the image.
- Modeling is combined not only with extended, but also with natural nails. For the latter, it is worth remembering an important rule: before applying volumetric decor, the natural nail plate must be “protected” with a layer of decorative material - or. And before that, as in the case of extensions, degrease the nail.
- For greater strength, fix the finished “picture” with a finishing coating in accordance with the selected product (or). Do not fill the decor too much - you will blur the contrast of the elements. But a slight gloss and blur will not harm the decor. To comply with the measure, apply the top with a brush pressed firmly against the edge of the bottle and only on the surface of the figure, without touching other decorations. This way you will reliably protect the drawing from mechanical damage. You will also make the colors of the selected volumetric gels brighter and more saturated.
- When supplementing the 4-D gel with rhinestones or other large decor, do not additionally fix it in the product itself. They will be baked monolithically in the lamp. By the way, you can dry your entire hand(s) at once, because the voluminous gel will not lose its shape while you decorate the rest of your nails.
Now you know about the latest generation of nail decorating gels absolutely everything you need for productive creativity. Wishing you beautiful and stylish manicures!
Materials used for sculpting are: