21 Jaw-Dropping Nail Designs You Can Totally DIY (Your Friends Will Be Jealous!)

Nail art has transformed from a simple beauty routine into an exciting form of self-expression.
Everyone’s doing it, and it’s time to join the trend with some jaw-dropping designs all from the comfort of your home!
Whether you’re going for a chic, minimal look or something bold and colorful, these DIY nail designs will leave your friends in awe. Gather your tools and let’s get creative!
Contents
- 1. Rainbow Drip Nails
- 2. Marble Elegance
- 3. Floral Accents
- 4. Geometric Patterns
- 5. Glitter Fade
- 6. Stripes and Dots
- 7. Ombre Sunset
- 8. Negative Space
- 9. Animal Prints
- 10. Abstract Art
- 11. Checkerboard Chic
- 12. Tie-Dye Delight
- 13. Heartfelt Touch
- 14. Starry Nights
- 15. Tropical Vibes
- 16. Metallic Magic
- 17. Beetlejuice Stripes
- 18. Minimalistic Lines
- 19. Seasonal Themes
- 20. Pom Pom Topper
- 21. Color Block Fun
1. Rainbow Drip Nails

Who doesn’t love a dash of color? Rainbow drip nails are a fun and vibrant choice that can easily become your go-to design. Start with a white base coat for a clean canvas; for that, you can use Sally Hansen Double Duty™, base and top coat. This quick-dry and long-lasting polish provides the perfect foundation for your colorful creation.
Next, grab a small brush from the nail art brush set, which includes various brushes to help you create precise drips. Apply bright colors like pink, blue, and yellow, allowing them to drip down like colorful paint. To amp up the vibrancy, consider mixing in some glitter using a shade from the glitter nail polish set, which features multiple sparkling options to give your design an extra pop.
Seal your masterpiece with the same clear top coat to add shine and protection. This design is perfect for summer festivals or just to liven up your everyday look.
Add a splash of color to your nails and watch them steal the spotlight! Rainbow drip nails are not just fun—they're a canvas for your creativity. Let your fingertips do the talking!
2. Marble Elegance

Marble nails emulate the luxurious look of marble without breaking the bank. Begin with a solid color base, like a soft gray or white. For the marbled effect, use a small brush or a nail art tool set like the nail art brush set which includes various brushes perfect for swirling in darker shades like black or navy blue. This tool will help you achieve that stunning marble design effortlessly.
Once you've created your marbled masterpiece, finish with a glossy top coat such as the top coat for nails to add a beautiful shine and protect your design. If you're feeling adventurous, a matte top coat could offer an awesome twist to your look.
These nails are great for formal events or any time you want to feel classy. Plus, if you're looking for a variety of colors to experiment with, consider the gel nail polish set which includes a broad palette to help you find the perfect combination. Enjoy crafting your marble elegance!
3. Floral Accents

Bring a touch of nature to your nails with charming floral accents. Start with a pastel base color, like lavender or mint green, and to achieve those delicate floral designs, consider using the Nail Art Brush Set. This set includes fine brushes that are perfect for painting those intricate flower details in white or pink. Don't forget to add tiny green leaves for a complete look!
For even more precision with your floral petals, a simple toothpick can help you create those detailed shapes effortlessly. If you're looking to add a special touch, try using dotting tools for nail art that come with painting brushes, making it easy to create various designs.
Once you've perfected your floral accents, remember to seal them with a clear coat to keep your design looking fresh and vibrant. The clear nail polish top coat is great for a quick dry finish that provides a high shine and long-lasting glossy effect, ensuring your beautiful nail art lasts throughout spring and summer!
4. Geometric Patterns

Geometric designs scream modern chic!
To start, choose a neutral base color like nude or gray for your nails. For creating those sharp triangles or lines, Nail Art Tape comes in various widths, allowing you to experiment with different designs. After applying the tape, paint over it with contrasting colors such as black, gold, or white. Once you're done, simply peel off the tape to reveal a clean, sharp design!
For an added touch of glam, consider using a nail polish set (metallic colors) to really make your geometric patterns pop. With 12 colors to choose from, you can mix and match to create a unique look that will turn heads.
Lastly, if you want to refine your technique or try intricate designs, the nail art brush set can help you achieve those fine lines and details with ease. This style is perfect for the office or a casual outing, ensuring your nails look stunning wherever you go!
5. Glitter Fade

Add some sparkle with a glitter fade!
Start with a solid color base, like light pink or nude, using a good base coat like Sally Hansen Double Duty™, Base and Top Coat for quick drying and a streak-free shine. Once your base is ready, apply fine glitter starting from the tips and fading down towards the cuticle. For this, a Fine Glitter Nail Art Set offers a variety of colors and is perfect for achieving that stunning gradient effect. The ultra-fine glitter provides a polished finish, and you can add extra layers for more sparkle!
To make the application process easier, consider using a Nail Art Brush Set. This set includes dotting pens and nail painting brushes, which can help you create a more precise fade.
The glitter fade is perfect for parties or any festive occasion. So, add a touch of glam to your nails and shine at your next event – because who doesn’t love a little sparkle in their life?
6. Stripes and Dots

Stripes and dots can create a playful, eye-catching look! Choose two contrasting colors, like navy and white, to make your design pop. You can easily paint stripes on some nails and dots on others for a fun mismatched style. This approach adds a touch of whimsy without being overwhelming, perfect for casual outings or brunch with friends.
To achieve those perfect lines, consider using striping tape. It will make applying stripes a breeze! For the dots, a dotting tool set is essential, ensuring your dots are evenly sized and beautifully placed.
Once you've got your tools, grab a nail polish set with contrasting colors to bring your design to life. This set includes a base coat, glossy and matte top coats, and is perfect for creating stunning nail art for any season. With these supplies in hand, your friends will definitely be jealous of your fabulous nails!
7. Ombre Sunset

Bring the beauty of a sunset to your nails with an ombre effect! Start with a light base color and blend in yellows, pinks, and oranges to create a stunning gradient. To achieve a seamless finish, use a sponge to dab the colors together. A great option for this is the nail art sponge applicators, which can help you effortlessly blend your chosen shades for that perfect ombre look.
For the sunset colors, consider using a shade like the nail polish set (sunset colors) from Color Therapy Lacquer, specifically designed to capture those warm, vibrant hues. These colors will bring your nails to life, making them ideal for summer nights and beach parties.
Finally, don’t forget to finish off your design with a clear top coat. The clear top coat nail polish by Sally Hansen will enhance the colors, giving your nails a long-lasting, streak-free shine. Enjoy your beautiful ombre sunset nails and get ready for all the compliments from your friends!
8. Negative Space

Negative space nails are all about simplicity and cool designs. This minimalist approach involves painting half of your nail in one color while leaving the other half bare or painted a different color, creating a sophisticated and trendy look.
For a bold statement, consider using contrasting colors. A great option for this is the nail polish set (contrasting colors), which includes 15 bright shades perfect for mixing and matching to achieve that eye-catching effect.
If you want to add a fun twist, you can incorporate small designs in the bare section. The nail art stencils can help you create intricate patterns without the hassle of freehand drawing. With 288 pieces to choose from, you'll have plenty of options to personalize your look.
To make your application even smoother, the nail art brush set is a valuable tool. Its variety of brushes, including dotting tools and striping brushes, will assist you in achieving those clean lines and delicate details that negative space designs are known for.
This style is ideal for professional settings or chic events, so grab these products and get creative—your friends will be jealous of your stunning nails!
9. Animal Prints

Get wild with animal print designs! To create these eye-catching styles, start with a neutral base using a great polish like nail polish in neutral base color. This light tan shade sets the perfect background for your animal prints.
For leopard print, use a thin brush to paint on spots, or for zebra print, stripe away with precision. To help you master these details, you can grab a nail art brush set, which includes various brushes perfect for intricate designs. If you need even more control, the nail art dotting tools are fantastic for outlining and filling in your prints.
Feel free to combine different animal prints for a fun and unique look! These designs are great for making a fashion statement that your friends will definitely envy.
10. Abstract Art

Unleash your inner artist with some abstract nail designs! Choose a variety of colors and use a fine brush to create random strokes and shapes on each nail. No two nails need to be the same—embrace creativity!
To get started, consider using the Nail Art Brush Set, which includes a variety of brushes to help you craft those intricate details. Whether you want to create bold lines or delicate patterns, this set will provide you with the tools you need.
For your nail colors, the Acrylic Nail Paints offer a vibrant selection of shades, including glossy, matte, and glittery finishes, perfect for making your abstract designs pop.
Lastly, don’t forget to add some splatters and dots for a fun finish! The Nail Dotting Tools can help you achieve those playful effects with ease.
This design is perfect for art lovers or when you want to stand out!
11. Checkerboard Chic

Checkerboard nails are super fun and easy to DIY! Start with a base color in either black or white using the nail polish set (black and white). This kit provides the perfect shades for achieving that classic checkered look. Once you've painted your base coat, ensure it’s completely dry before moving on. Use nail art tape to mark off squares and alternate colors, making it easy to create the pattern without any smudges. It’s bold yet wearable for any occasion!
After you’ve finished your design, seal everything in with top coat nail polish. This quick-dry, long-lasting formula will give your nails a streak-free shine and protect your artwork from chipping. Feel free to experiment with different colors for a personalized style. Checkerboard nails are great for casual events or just to spice up your look!
12. Tie-Dye Delight

### 12. Tie-Dye Delight
Bring back the retro vibe with tie-dye nails! Start with a white base coat and use a small brush to apply swirls of bright colors. This design is all about fun and creativity, so don’t worry about making it perfect! To create those vibrant swirls, you can use the Nail Art Brush Set, which includes a variety of tools perfect for detailed designs.
For a more seamless look, use a sponge to blend colors—like the Sponge Nail Art Tool, which is designed for easy ombre effects and will help you achieve that smooth tie-dye transition.
Let your artistic side shine with different color combos from the Bright Nail Polish Set; these vibrant shades are perfect for creating striking, colorful patterns. This look is perfect for festivals or a fun day out—your friends will definitely be jealous!
13. Heartfelt Touch

Show some love with tiny heart designs! Choose a bold base color and grab a dotting tool set to create tiny hearts of a contrasting color. This tool is perfect for achieving those sweet and precise heart shapes, making it easier than ever to add a lovely touch to your nails.
You can put the hearts on just one or two accent nails for a charming look. For a playful vibe, consider mixing heart sizes, and if you're feeling a bit extra, elevate your design with some sparkle by using glitter nail polish. This stunning top coat will add that eye-catching shine, perfect for any occasion.
If you're just starting out with nail designs, a comprehensive nail art brush set can also be a great investment. This set includes everything from dotting tools to nail art pens, allowing you to explore your creativity further.
These heartfelt designs are perfect for Valentine’s Day or simply to brighten your day!
14. Starry Nights

Channel your inner celestial with starry nail designs! To create a stunning night sky effect, start by painting your nails with a deep navy or black using essie salon-quality nail polish - deep navy or black. This color will provide a beautiful contrast for your stars.
Next, to add tiny stars in white or gold, you'll need precision. A great option is the nail art dotting tools set, which includes fine brushes and dotting pens that make it easy to create different star sizes. This tool is perfect for achieving the enchanting look you're going for!
If you're feeling adventurous, consider using a more extensive collection like the nail art brush set, which offers various brushes, including striping brushes and drawing pens, ideal for adding intricate details to your design.
This starry nail art is sure to catch the eye and is perfect for evening events or parties!
15. Tropical Vibes

Bring a slice of paradise to your nails with tropical designs!
Choose a bright base color, like coral or teal, to capture that sunny vibe. To create those iconic palm leaves, grab an nail art brush set that includes a variety of brushes for detailed work. This set will help you paint intricate designs with ease, making your nails stand out beautifully.
For added flair, consider using green shades for the leaves and vibrant hues for colorful flowers to achieve a festive look. If you want to incorporate a little sparkle, add some glitter with glitter nail polish, which provides a beachy shimmer that's perfect for those summer vibes!
And if you're looking for an easy way to enhance your design, tropical nail stickers featuring palm trees and flamingos can make your manicure pop without much effort. These adorable decals are fantastic for vacations or summer parties!
Make it personal with your favorite tropical colors and let your creativity shine!
16. Metallic Magic

Shine bright with metallic nail designs that are sure to impress! Choose a stunning metallic nail polish in shades like gold, silver, or rose gold. If you’re aiming for a high-impact look, consider the metallic nail polish set, which includes a variety of 12 colors perfect for creating that eye-catching chrome finish.
For a unique touch, you can add geometric patterns using regular polish. To achieve this, having a reliable tool on hand is essential. The nail art brush set offers various brushes that make drawing those intricate designs a breeze, ensuring your creation has a professional touch.
Don’t forget, a thin layer of polish is key for a smooth finish. For an interesting twist, pair metallics with matte colors using a quality top coat. The matte top coat not only provides a beautiful matte finish, but it also helps your designs last longer, making it a fantastic choice for parties or nights out!
Why settle for ordinary when you can shine? Embrace metallic nail designs that turn heads and spark conversations – perfect for any party or night out!
17. Beetlejuice Stripes

Channel your inner Beetlejuice with bold black and white stripes! Start with a white base coat using Sally Hansen Insta-Dri, White on Time, which dries quickly and provides a shiny finish, perfect for creating a crisp background. To achieve those striking stripes, grab some nail striping tape. This tape will help you create clean lines when painting over it with Sally Hansen Hard as Nails, Black Heart, a long-lasting black polish that’s opaque and chip-resistant.
This design is eye-catching and makes a statement! You can vary the stripe width for a unique look, making it perfect for a fun night out or Halloween. For some extra flair, consider adding sparkly accents that will catch the light beautifully.
18. Minimalistic Lines

Less is more with minimalistic line designs! Start with a nude or soft pastel base using a polish from the nude or soft pastel nail polish set, which offers a variety of beautiful colors perfect for this chic look. Then, use a fine brush like the fine detail nail art brush set to add delicate lines or shapes in gold or black. This design is not only stylish but also suitable for any occasion.
To keep your manicure looking polished, remember to apply a top coat. The top coat nail polish provides a quick dry, long-lasting, and streak-free shine that will elevate your minimalistic design.
- Keep it simple for a clean look.
- Use a good top coat for extra shine.
- Ideal for professional settings or when you want a polished look!
19. Seasonal Themes

Celebrate the seasons with themed nail designs! Whether it’s autumn leaves, winter snowflakes, or spring florals, you can easily adapt your nail art to reflect the time of year. Start with a solid base for your theme and enhance your manicure with designs that embody the spirit of the season.
To help you achieve stunning seasonal nail art, consider using a nail art brush set. This versatile kit includes various brushes, dotting tools, and a dust brush, making it perfect for intricate designs and adding those fine details that will make your seasonal themes pop.
For beautiful autumn hues, you might love the seasonal nail polish set. With colors like pumpkin yellow and burnt orange, this set is ideal for capturing the essence of fall through your nails. Its quick-dry formula makes application a breeze, so you can get right to the fun of decorating!
If you're looking to add some flair to your designs, the nail stamping kit is a fantastic option. It includes colorful stamping gel and templates that can help you create stunning winter or spring patterns effortlessly. This tool simplifies the process of adding intricate designs, ensuring that your nails will be the talk of the town during any festive occasion.
Embrace the season’s spirit with these handy products, and get ready to show off your jaw-dropping nail designs!
20. Pom Pom Topper

For a fun twist, try adding a pom-pom to your nail designs!
Paint your nails in a solid color and glue a small pom-pom (or two) on an accent nail for a playful look. This makes for a unique conversation starter! To achieve this playful design, consider using nail art pom poms, which come in fluffy styles perfect for your DIY project.
Don't forget to choose colors that complement your base. A great nail polish option is the nail polish set, featuring 15 bright colors that will let your creativity shine through.
When it comes to attaching those pom-poms, you'll need a reliable adhesive. The nail glue provides a strong hold for your pom-poms, ensuring they stay in place while you show off your nail art at casual outings or playful events!
Add a playful pom-pom to your nail designs for a fun twist! It’s not just nail art; it’s a conversation starter that will keep your friends talking. Get creative and let your nails do the talking!
21. Color Block Fun

Color block nails are bold and trendy, allowing you to express your personal style in a fun and creative way. To achieve this look, simply paint sections of your nails in different colors. Using nail art tape can help you create clean lines, ensuring your design looks sharp and professional.
For the color palette, consider a nail polish set (assorted colors) to give yourself a variety of vibrant options to choose from. This assortment can help you mix contrasting colors for a striking effect, perfect for casual outings or just to jazz up your look.
To add intricate details or polka dots to your design, a set of dotting tools for nail art will be really handy. These tools can help you create unique patterns that elevate your color block nails. So get creative, and let your nails reflect your personality!
Conclusion

With these 21 DIY nail designs, you’ll be turning heads wherever you go!
Each design offers a unique way to express yourself and showcase your creativity. Don't hesitate to mix and match ideas or add your personal touches to make them truly yours!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What materials do I need to create these DIY nail designs?
To get started with these fabulous DIY nail designs, you'll need a few basic materials! Grab some high-quality nail polish in various colors, a good base coat, and some top coat for a glossy finish. You'll also benefit from having tools like a small brush, dotting tools, and nail art tape to help create those intricate designs. Don't forget to keep some remover on hand for any mistakes!
How long do these nail designs typically last?
With proper care, your stunning DIY nail designs can last anywhere from 5 to 10 days! To maximize longevity, always start with a good base coat and finish with a top coat to seal your design. Avoid activities that may chip your nails, like washing dishes without gloves. A little touch-up here and there can also keep your nails looking fresh and fabulous for longer!
Are these nail designs suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Many of the designs featured in the article are beginner-friendly and can be easily adapted based on your skill level. Start with simpler designs like stripes and dots or glitter fade, and work your way up to more intricate looks like marble elegance or floral accents. The key is to have fun and practice—you'll be a pro in no time!
Can I mix and match different nail designs?
Yes! Mixing and matching different nail designs is a fantastic way to express your unique style. Feel free to combine elements from various designs, like adding floral accents to a geometric pattern or layering a glitter fade over a solid color. Let your creativity flow, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect combination!
What should I do if I make a mistake while doing my nails?
Mistakes happen, and that’s perfectly okay! If you smudge or paint outside the lines, simply wait for the polish to dry, then use a small brush dipped in nail polish remover to clean up the edges. Alternatively, you can cover it up with a design element like a dot or a stripe. Remember, nail art is all about creativity and fun, so don’t stress over little imperfections!
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