Magazine for the professional nail industry.
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The How To Do Anything Better Guide www.lechatnails.com sponsored by BUILD YOUR UNIQUE REPUTATION WITH Every artist has a portfolio, right? The portfolio is a time-tested way of showcasing talent and it is essential to provide prospective clients a visual representation of what you can do. If you are a nail artist and do not have a portfolio, then you need to get started right away. You can create a general portfolio that includes a variety of designs and techniques, or you can show off your specialties, such as using 3-D gel or chrome pigments. Having a few examples of chrome designs shows you are a creative and trend-conscious nail tech. Chrome pigments offer a wide range of color, depth, and technique; it's worth the time and effort to learn to use these ingenious powders, as they will be irresistible to clients when you show them your portfolio. Be sure and price your newfound skill accordingly – keep in mind the cost of chrome pigment powders will be higher than your average products. To get you started, here is a step-by-step demo of LeChat's Mirano Multi-Effx Metallic Pigment. The pigments are applied to a dark base and create numerous color effects as the light changes. This technique can be the star of your new nail art portfolio! 1. Begin nail prep and base gel application for nails. Cure according to manufacturer's instructions. 2. Apply two thin coats Mirano Black Onyx gel-polish. Cure each coat for one minute in an LED/UV lamp. 3. Apply Mirano non-wipe Gel Top Sealer Gloss. Cure for one minute in an LED/UV lamp. 4. Using the application brush, rub Mirano Color Pigment "Chroma" #08 into the nail. Gently brush away excess powder pigment. 5. Paint roses with Gelee Top Coat, using LeChat brush liner. Cure for 30 seconds in an LED/UV lamp. 6. Wipe nails with Gel Cleanser to reveal design. For lasting nails, apply Gelee Top Coat and be sure to cap the free edge. Cure for 30 seconds in an LED/UV lamp. Remove tacky residue using gel cleanser. HELPFUL HINTS: > When applying Black Onyx or Perfect Match Gel Polish, keep color approximately one mm from the cuticle and sidewalls. Cap the free edge on first coat only. > Mirano Top: Be sure to apply Mirano Top close to the cuticle and sidewalls, wherever you want Mirano pigment to stay. Do not cap the free edge. A Chrome Nail Art Portfolio 2 5 4 6