Behind the Cover: Spine-chilling Skeleton Nail Art

Meet our September/October 2024 cover artist Courtney Cantwell, a dedicated nail artist and VBP senior educator based in Hanford, California (@courtneycantwell_nails). Cantwell started her journey as a nail artist when she was just 14 years old. Throughout the years, Cantwell has expanded her skillset and specializes in nail art. She shared her experience with Nailpro and what inspired her skeleton nail design for this issue's cover. 

Nailpro [NP]: How did you get into the nail industry?

Courtney Cantwell [CC]:  My passion for nails started when I purchased my first small acrylic kit from Sally’s Beauty Supply at 14 years old, around 1999. Despite having no clue what I was doing—no YouTube tutorials to guide me—I dove in headfirst. I remember making a bloody mess and realizing that doing my nails was NOT as easy as my nail tech made it look! But I was determined to match my nails and toes to my Nokia cell phone cover, and I made it happen. The first design I taught myself was zebra print, which was huge in the early 2000s. Long liner brushes weren’t available for purchase at the time, so I improvised by making one out of a toothpick, masking tape, and some hair (times were tough, lol). I mastered that zebra print and wore it on my nails and toes every day during my senior year! As I improved, I started doing nails for friends and family for special events like prom. As soon as I was old enough, I went straight to beauty school and received my manicuring license in May 2002.

NP: What do you consider your specialty and why?

CC: Nail art is definitely my specialty! It was the first thing I really taught myself to do! Once I realized classes were available I didn’t waste time to take one! I took several all with different concepts. After each class I could see my nail art and application getting better and better! Even though I already had well over a decade under my belt and application was not an issue for me, I still took the classes to stay up-to-date with the new products and trends in the industry ! I fell in love with the entire process of nail art all over again. Learning to work with gel polish was a whole new world to me! I dove deep and even painted on press on daily to perfect my craft. Now, years later, nail art remains my favorite skill to teach. I love sharing my knowledge and passion with others and helping them develop their own unique style in this ever-evolving field. 

NP: What is your favorite design to do?

CC: If I had to pick one, and only one I would say marbeling is one of my favorite techniques. It’s never the same, very versatile, looks great in many different colors and it’s quick!! Win Win! But at the moment I am loving all of the chrome and 3/D trends that are out!

NP: Where do you get your inspiration for your creations?

CC: I find inspiration for my nail art in a variety of places. Decorative items, clothing, wallpaper and jewelry all have unique prints, textures and bold colors that spark my creativity. Whether I'm out shopping or just observing the world around me, I'm constantly on the lookout for anything that catches my eye and can be transformed into a stunning nail design. One of my favorite sources of inspiration is my clients themselves. I love when they bring in their ideas, especially for special events. Collaborating with them allows us to create something truly unique and personalized, making the nail art even more meaningful and memorable. The combination of these diverse influences fuels my passion for nail artistry and pushes me to experiment with new techniques and styles.  

NP: Where did you get the inspiration for this look?

CC: This is a look I created a couple of years ago that I absolutely fell in love with. I wanted to re-create it, add a little more fun, and make it glow! Every year in this industry, we progress and get better, and I enjoy seeing the side-by-side improvements in my nail application and artistry. This shoot was the perfect opportunity to showcase that growth!

NP: What are you hoping for in the future of the nail industry?

CC: As I look to the future of the nail industry, I'm filled with hope and excitement. I love how big and supportive this community has become, offering endless opportunities for creativity, growth and connection. This industry not only allows us to express ourselves through our artistry but also offers the potential to make a substantial income and build strong, lasting relationships with our clients. I hope to see the industry continue to thrive, with more innovative techniques and products that inspire both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. I also hope that we keep fostering an environment where support and collaboration are at the forefront, empowering each other to reach new heights and achieve our dreams. As I look to the future of the nail industry, I'm filled with hope and excitement. I love how big and supportive this community has become, offering endless opportunities for creativity, growth and connection. This industry not only allows us to express ourselves through our artistry but also offers the potential to make a substantial income and build strong, lasting relationships with our clients. I hope to see the industry continue to thrive, with more innovative techniques and products that inspire both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. I also hope that we keep fostering an environment where support and collaboration are at the forefront, empowering each other to reach new heights and achieve our dreams. Ultimately, my vision for the future is one where the nail industry remains a dynamic, inclusive space that celebrates diversity, encourages self-expression, and continues to evolve with the ever-changing world of beauty! Ultimately, my vision for the future is one where the nail industry remains a dynamic, inclusive space that celebrates diversity, encourages self-expression, and continues to evolve with the ever-changing world of beauty! 

Courtney's 5 Salon Must-Haves

1. My V Beauty Pure Gen 5 Desk Vent: Saves my lungs
2. My Daylight Lamp: Reaches all the way across my table—flexible and bright and great for photos! 
3. My VBP Nail Lamp: Cordless, portable, excellent cure every time—no bubbling/peeling thumbs!
4. My VBP Art Brushes and Gels: Brushes come in a handy travel kit that fits in my purse so I can take them everywhere if I’m at my salon or a class I always have them handy! The gels are highly pigmented & fantastic for nail art. Makes for smooth application.
5. My VBP E- File: The torque on this thing is awesome! I hardly have to apply pressure and the hand piece is light weight and thin so it does not feel heavy on my wrist! 

Skeleton Nail Tutorial

This design is simple yet striking, perfect for beginners and sure to grab attention!

1. On a clear nail (or any base color of your choice), use a large dotting tool and white gel polish (#045 by V Beauty Pure) to map out the bones. Place 8 dots along the nail and do not cure yet.
2. With a liner brush (L brush by V Beauty), connect the dots, creating definition between each bone. Once you’re satisfied with the look, cure under a UV/LED lamp for 60 seconds.
3. Apply V Beauty Pure Non-Wipe Topcoat over the entire nail and cure for another 60 seconds.
4. For an extra touch of fun, use a glow-in-the-dark topcoat. Apply 1 coat over each bone using the liner brush and dotting tool, then cure for 60 seconds. And you’re done!