Dip Nail Tips for Beginners: How to Create Gorgeous Dip Nails at Home

Did you know that you don’t have to use gels to create gorgeous nail art?

You can also create stunning nail art with glitter.

Follow along for these dip nail tips for beginners where I will show you a simple way to use chunky glitter for cute nail designs.

Tools and materials: 

• Chunky glitter
• Colored dip powder
• Clear dip powder
• Nail brush
• Orange wood stick
• Topcoat
• Tape
• Dip cups
• Nail file

1. Apply dip base

Before applying the dip base, wipe off most of it on the inside of the bottle. This helps prevent excess product from making a mess when you lay your nail flat.

2. Apply first layer of glitter

For the glitter application, dip your nail into the glitter powder for the first layer. You could also use a solid color if you prefer that to shimmers.

3. Clear away excess

Use an orange wood stick to gently remove any excess powder that has collected around your nail.

4. Brush away excess

Next, use a nail brush to gently remove any excess glitter from your nail.

5. Apply second layer of glitter

For the second layer, lay your nail flat and dip it again to ensure full coverage.

Remember, when applying dip powder, it’s better to use a higher number of thinner layers rather than fewer thicker layers.

Thinner layers are more durable and less likely to chip, crack, or lift.

6. Apply top coat

Seal your base colors with one layer of clear dip powder, followed by a clear topcoat. This step protects the base color and creates a smooth surface for applying glitter or nail art.

Only apply this to nails where you do not plan to use chunky glitter or additional nail art, as the clear dip powder and topcoat should be the final steps.

7. Apply first layer of chunky glitter

Pour your chunky glitter into a dip cup or a cupcake liner. This helps you control where the glitter is placed on your nails. For the initial dip, focus on applying a base layer of glitter without picking up too many chunky pieces.

8. Apply second layer of chunky glitter

For the second dip, mix the glitter in the cup to bring the chunky pieces to the top. Then, lay your nail flat into the glitter to ensure the chunky pieces are placed where you want them.

10. Apply nail art

To prepare your glitter for nail art, start by pouring some of it onto a plate. Next, apply dip base to the areas of your nail where you want your design.

I covered half of my nail with extra dip base to create a swooping pattern with the tiny stars in the glitter. While the dip base is still wet, sprinkle the glitter onto your nail and arrange the stars to achieve the desired effect.

To place chunky glitter precisely, use a pointed tool like an orange wood stick. First, dip the pointy end of the stick into some dip base.

Then, use the dip base on the stick to pick up the chunky glitter, such as stars, and place them exactly where you want them on your nails.

11. Shape nails

Once the clear dip powder is applied, brush off any excess powder. Proceed with filing, buffing, and shaping your nails, and clean up around your cuticles for a neat finish.

12. Activate nails

Finally, activate your nails by applying a clear top coat.