Fingernail Shapes Decoded: Techniques For Every Client Request
When it comes to nails, the shape is just as important as the colour and design. Whether your clients want a classic or daring look, knowing the various nail shapes and the techniques to achieve them is essential.
Explore our fingernail shaping guide and create stunning manicures that keep clients coming back for more!
What are the different nail shapes?
The right nail shape can elevate your manicure to a whole new level. Here are the different types of nail shapes and how to achieve them.
1. Round
Here’s how to achieve a round nail shape:
- Grab your nail file and hold it at a slight angle. Use gentle, rounded strokes and repeat on the other side to achieve a lovely, smooth curve.
- Keep filing in one direction to prevent any splitting or weakening of the nails. Your goal is a consistent, even curve that matches the fingertip's natural shape. Then, buff the surface for a polished finish.
Oval nails are perfect for those who want to add a bit more oomph to their manicure without going too bold. Round nails follow the natural curve of fingertips, while oval nails are all about giving fingers a longer, slimmer look.
Achieving oval-shaped nails is similar to creating round nails, but with a chic twist! Instead of filing in a circular motion, you'll file the sides towards the centre to form a gorgeous, egg-like shape.
Follow these steps to get that perfect square shape:
- Hold your nail file straight across the top of the nail. Begin filing in one direction to create a flat, straight edge. Keep those lines crisp and sharp!
- File the sides of the nails straight up and down. Make sure the sides are perpendicular to the free edge to get that flawless square shape.
- Once you’ve got the perfect square shape, gently smooth the edges to avoid any rough spots. A little buffing goes a long way!
Below are the steps to creating an almond nail shape:
- Begin by trimming the nails to a medium to long length. Almond nails need some length to really shine.
- Achieve a tapered look by filing the sides of the nails towards the centre. As you file, round off the tip to form a soft point.
- Gently file in one direction to avoid splitting and ensure a smooth, even finish.
Stilettos are popular acrylic nail shapes thanks to their bold, edgy vibe. Plus, their distinct length is perfect for crafting intricate nail art and experimenting with unique textures and designs.
- Start by filing the sidewalls straight out from the nail. This sets the foundation for that sharp, dramatic look.
- Next, file the nail up and over from the sidewall to the centre on both sides.
- Remember, shortening a stiletto nail will cause it to lose its structure and shape. To keep this extreme and fabulous look, you'll need to remove and reapply the nails every few fills.
Also known as ballerina nails (because they look just like a pointe shoe), coffin nails are long and effortlessly glamorous. Think stiletto nails but with a flat edge instead of a pointy tip. Coffin nails are also common acrylic nail shapes and offer the ideal canvas for various nail art designs.
- File the top of the nails completely flat, making sure to create sharp 90-degree angles at the edges.
- Next, file the sides of the nails at an angle, almost as if you’re forming a point. Imagine you’re shaping a stiletto nail but stop before the sides meet in the middle.
- Lastly, file the tip of the nail straight across to achieve that signature flat edge.
Troubleshooting common shaping challenges
Even the most skilled nail technicians face shaping challenges from time to time. Here are common nail shaping issues and how to fix them:
- Uneven sides
If you notice that one side of the nail is more angled than the other, try filing in a single direction rather than back and forth. This helps maintain a consistent shape and prevents over-filing on one side. Remember to check your progress frequently!
- Splitting and breakage
Splitting can be a real bummer, especially when you’re trying to achieve that perfect shape. To prevent this, always file in one direction and use a high-quality nail file.
- Inconsistent nail shapes
If the nails don’t match, don’t panic! Start by aligning the nails with each other to ensure consistency. Use a template or guide to help you shape each nail evenly.
Create perfectly shaped nails with NSI Australia
Ready to create flawless nails? NSI Australia has everything you need to make it happen! Whether you’re going for a chic almond or a striking stiletto, our collection of nail tips and shaping tools can help you achieve that desired look. Shop now and unleash your creativity!