How to Apply Nail Decals Over Dip Powder Nails

If you are struggling with nail art, but can’t, or don’t want to use gels, then this tutorial is just for you!


Follow along for some great dip powder nail design ideas, and tips on how to size your nail decals correctly.

Tools and materials:

  • Nail dip powder kit (including base coat, activator, and top coat)
  • Stamping polish (optional)
  • Dip cup or cupcake liner
  • Washi or masking tape
  • Clear jelly stamper
  • Glass cuticle pusher
  • Nail scissors
  • Angled nail brush (optional)
  • E-file (optional)
  • Lint-free wipes or paper towels
  • Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning)
  • Nail brush (for cleaning)
  • Dip powders (various colors and types, including glitter flakes or foils)
  • Water slide decals
  • Decal sizer tool
  • Sticky base coat
  • Clear dip powder
  • Acetone (optional, for acetone-safe individuals)
  • Nail decals (from O Coco Designs or similar)
  • Clear dip top coat
Prepping nails

1. Dip application

Prep your nails with clear dip base.

Dipping nails

Apply dip powder as the base for your manicure. Opt for a white background if using clear decals for better color visibility. Use stamping polish to fill in behind clear-backed decals if necessary.

Dipping nails

Clean the edges of your dipped nails.

Dipping nails

2. Working with different types of dip powders

Pour glitter flakes or foils into a dip cup or cupcake liner. Consider using a sturdy dip cup to avoid spills.

Tape

Use Washi or masking tape to protect the skin from nail products when you are pressing down on your dip powder.

Dipping nails

3. Applying chunky glitters

Apply a base layer of dip powder and add chunky glitters on the second dip. Aim for thin layers to avoid thick nails.

Dipping nails

Finish with a clear dip powder to seal the design.

Using a decal sizer

4. Using a decal sizer

Use a decal sizer tool to accurately size your decals. Select a size slightly larger than your nail's width.

Using a decal sizer

Trace and cut out the decal according to the size guide.

How to apply nail decals

5. Preparing and applying decals

Dunk the decal in water for 15 seconds.

How to apply nail decals

Slide off the backing and place it on a lint-free surface.

Applying sticky base

Apply a sticky base to your nails.

How to apply nail decals

Position the decal on the tacky surface using a small clear stamper.

How to apply nail decals

Use a silicone nail tool to push down the decal.

How to apply nail decals

Trim excess decal with a glass cuticle pusher or file.

Applying clear coat to nails

6. Apply finishing touches

Apply clear dip powder base over the decal.

Dipping nails

Then, apply clear dip powder.

Brushing nails

Follow your usual filing, buffing, and shaping routine. Use an e-file for clean cuticle lines.


Spritz nails with isopropyl alcohol and wipe off any residue.

Applying top coat

7. Apply top coat

Ensure shiny and long-lasting results by following the instructions for top coat according to the dip powders used.

Cute and colorful nail design

How to apply nail decals: cute and colorful nail design

Now you are ready to express your creativity with your own dip powder nail ideas!

What do you think of this dip powder nail design?


Leave a comment to let me know if you liked this, and what your dip powder nail designs are.


Next, Dip Powder Color Block Nail Design Tutorial .

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