DIY Tutorial: 5 Rhinestone Nail Art Designs

13 comments

Wednesday November 23, 2011 by Alexandra C.

One word: rhinestones. Now, don't freak out just yet. This isn't some tacky, gaudy rhinestone nail art that will leave you looking like a Jersey Shore reject.

The key to subtle, sweet sparkling nail art with rhinestones is keeping it simple. Try not to go bejewelling-happy and overdo it. One rhinestone on a nail looks cuter than 10- trust us!

We have 5 nail art designs using rhinestones that can be easily recreated at home. Rhinestones for your nails can be purchased at any craft store, nail supply store and in a pinch- try a dollar store, while their size and colour selection and quality may not be as good, they will work just as well.

We recommend using nail glue with your rhinestones, this will make sure your nail art lasts longer. If you don't have any on hand, try a top/base coat or clear polish to adhere your stones to your nail. This works but your gems won't stay on for very long. Be sure to apply a top coat after you're finished.

We're using a dotting tool but tweezers or a cuticle stick will work just as well to put your rhinestones on your nail. You'll probably also need to use your very best tool- your fingers, to make sure it sticks!

(from top right) Look 1- Using the half moon manicure method, create a little crescent moon at the top of your nail. In the middle, add a rhinestone for an adorable addition!

Look 2- Use tape to diagonally section off the top or bottom of your nail. Paint the section a colour of your choice and let dry. Peel off tape and paint the rest of the nail in a different colour. Place a rhinestone along the diagonal line in the middle. For added bling, rhinestones can be placed alongside the line.

Look 3- We were inspired by this design in creating this look. Keep the colours in this manicure neutral and on one nail, place a cluster of rhinestones in a mosaic form. It's some added sparkle, perfect for a party while still not going over the top!

Look 4- Using either a small paint brush or, if you have a steady hand, your nail polish brush, paint a V shape on the bottom half of your nail, over top a base colour layer. In the middle where the V shape is formed, add a rhinestone. The look builds on the V shape mani trend while still being original!

Look 5- A simple rhinestone in the top-middle of your nail is chic and trendy- think of the similar dotting technique- a favourite of The Beauty Editor. For added fun, using a dotting tool (or check out this video for DIY alternatives) make two or three dots going down the middle of your nail.

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	on Nov 24, 2011 PDladybug 562 said: Not for me. Work too much with my hands that the stones would easily come off.
	on Nov 24, 2011 Suelyn 2,423 said: I like it.
	on Nov 23, 2011 so_adorkable_ 1,726 said: @LyrissaSmillie thanks for posting that site, I have some looking around to do!
	on Nov 23, 2011 LyrissaSmillie 8,542 said: so cool! I use this website for buying jewels cheaper, http://www.bornprettystore.com/ They have an awesome selection of nail designs with free shipping and always comes fast for me here in Vancouver,BC :) Thanks for sharing the pics, cool !
	on Nov 23, 2011 so_adorkable_ 1,726 said: i like rhinestones, i have some and ive tried but not with nail glue. Ive only tied with polish as my only means of keeping it secure which didn't work out so maybe i'll try again this time with nail glue. i likw the idea of 1 or a few on one nail, instead of something very overdone
	on Nov 23, 2011 Bren 21,013 said: very cute I like the blue nail in the first picture using the glue.
	on Nov 23, 2011 GlamGal 2,328 said: Pretty, I like the whimsy winter vibes.
	on Nov 23, 2011 petitechouxx 1,703 said: nice! will try someday!
	on Nov 23, 2011 legalB 386 said: love love love!
	on Nov 23, 2011 Aliza 14,097 said: Cute!! Can't wait to try some of these ideas. I love putting rhinestones on my toes but rarely put them on my hands. I think that's going to have to change now.