Maximalism is a defining feature of 2024 nail trends, with clients wanting larger than life looks that dazzle and make a statement. One defining maximalist trend that is making waves in the nail industry is 3D nails. The technique/nail art trend relies on using sculpting gel, rhinestones, charms, etc. to create textured patterns that make nails pop and stand out. According to Fresha, 3D nail art is in the Top 10 Global Nail Trends at the moment, so you don't want to get left behind at adopting this trend when it's at its peak. Here, we share four tips for growing your 3D nail art skills!
1. Get educated on 3D nail art.
Before you can offer any service on your books, you want to make sure you have the proper knowledge and skillset. Whether you're a beginner or wanting to grow your 3D nail art skills, we have two recommendations of classes you can take!
Tina Zavala (@popstarnails_) and Thoa Nguyen (@blasian_nails) wil be teaching an Advanced Education class at the Nailpro Nail Show in Sacramento, CA on Sunday, Sept. 8 on Character Nail Art. Both artists have created gorgeous 3D nail art sets featuring some of our favorite pop culture characters. We are partial to the 3D nail art Zavala created for our July/August 2023 issue inspired by Barbie's dreamhouse in honor of the release of Greta Gerwig's Barbie movie!
Nethan Nguyen (@nailsbynethan) will be diving into working with 3D gel, alongside other trends, in his Advanced Education class at the Nailpro Show on Monday, Sept. 9. This is a great opportunity to learn about all the leading trends in the industry from an expert that knows how to push the boundaries
If this has you excited, make sure you register for the Nailpro Show now! Nailpro readers get 50% off Nailpro Nail Show registration with code XOXONailpro.
2. Seek out 3D nail art inspo.
There's so many talented nail artists who are leaders and trendsetters in the industry to follow and get inspiration from if you are interested in 3D nail art.
Some specific 3D nail art trends at the moment include fruit, citrus azul and picnic nails! We dive into these trends more in depth in our July/August issue with artists Joanna Pastorek (@nailsbyjoj0), Emily Meraki (@emily_meraki) and Chii (@setgyallery) sharing their top tips! Natalie Ulloa (@natulloanails) also shares her tutorial for creating a citrus azul set!
3. Invest in quality 3D gel products.
In order to create the best 3D nail designs, you are going to want quality products in your arsenal.
Dreamtime Creations has an amazing line of 3D nail art products in collaboration with Tino Vo that we can't recommend enough. Some options include 3D Gelly in shades like lavender, coral and turquoise; white and clear silicone 3D gel; clear texture gel and Clay Doh for molding and carving. The brand is also known for its crystals, rhinestones, beads and charms if you want to add some bling to your 3D nail art!
Dreamtime Creations is going to be at the Nailpro Show with Tino Vo! Make sure you stop by their booth on the show floor! Don't forget to use code XOXONAILPRO during registration for 50% off!
4. Put your 3D nail art skills to the test.
If you're a pro at 3D nail art, why not put your skills on display?
One of this year's Nailpro Master Challenge categories at the Nailpro Nail Show is 3D Nails. Competitors will have 40 minutes to complete a 3D design of their choosing on a set of five tips. This competition is like no other because you don't know what products you have to use until you begin. There are a limited amount of spots for each challenge since we provide all the creative product.
This is the perfect opportunity to get some extra practice in working with the trend in a supportive and friendly environment, surrounded by your fellow peers in the industry and the Nailpro team!
You can use code XOXONAILPRO to enter the Master Challenge at 50% off for a limited time.
Time to blossom!
Now is the perfect time to start making your nail sets larger than life. With Halloween and fall quickly approaching, 3D nail art is only going to grow in prominence. Make sure you have the best education, inspiration and products, so you can be ready to showcase your skillset to your clients and peers!
