Rylie Horrall  | Lifestyle Editor

Painting my nails has always been a fun activity for me to do; I think it’s relaxing and gives me an opportunity to explore my creativity. Generally, the most common thing that I do is just paint them a solid color and maybe use two alternating different shades. However, there are times that I want to do something more, but don’t want to spend money to get them done. Here’s a few DIY nail art styles that I do that others can feel free to try.

Note: I recommend throwing a clear coat on top of all the final looks to smooth them out.

Ombré

Be forewarned, nail polish remover is going to be needed to clean up the final look. Pick at least two different colors of nail polish — to go more drastic, use colors that aren’t similar in shade and/or hue. Take a square makeup sponge and paint the thicker end with both of the colors. The two colors don’t need to touch, but make sure there’s a plentiful amount on the sponge. Dab the makeup sponge onto the nail, adjusting the placement slightly to emphasize the ombré and get the colors to mix. Repeat this — adding a bit more nail polish each time — until it’s as pigmented as desired. 

Multi-toned

I’m going to suggest using two colors, but feel free to use more. For the base color that will go on the entire nail, I would recommend using something lighter, because it’ll be easier to put a darker tone on top of it. Depending on the brand, shade, etc., it could take a couple of coats. Let the first color dry completely. Using the second color, try to draw a straight line of nail polish horizontally across the nail. Using nail tape, scotch tape or drawing lightly with a pencil can help keep the line straight and clean. If tape was used, wait until the second color is dry before removing it. This can also be done vertically or diagonally, depending on preference. Try layering it up as well or swapping colors for different fingernails.

Small flowers

Multiple colors can be used for this one, so don’t be afraid to go crazy or just stick with something simple. Firstly, just paint the nails a base color of some sort. Next, take the next color that’s going to be used for the flowers and dab some of it onto a sandwich bag. Dip the end of a bobby pin into the polish and place a dot onto the dried nail. Repeat this process, placing dots close together to create a five petaled flower. Let it dry, then take another color — preferably something lighter, such as white or a pastel — and dab some of it on the sandwich bag as well. Repeat the step with the bobby pin, but only use it to dot the center of the flower.

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Photos by Rylie Horrall