💅 What You’ll Learn:
In this step-by-step tutorial, you’ll discover how to create breathtaking 3D nail art featuring vibrant koi fish, delicate white flowers, and realistic water droplets — a nature-inspired design that’s perfect for turning your nails into a canvas!
🧰 What You’ll Need:
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Long nail tips or natural nails (longer nails help show the full design)
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Builder gel or acrylic for 3D sculpting
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Gel or acrylic paint in orange, white, blue, pastel pink, and light green
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Fine detail brushes
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UV/LED lamp
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Clear gel or small rhinestones for the water droplet effect
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Transparent top coat
👣 Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep the Nails
Start by cleaning, shaping, and applying a clear base coat to the nails. Once dry, paint a dreamy pastel background using soft blue, pink, and green tones to mimic water and sky. -
Sculpt the Koi Fish
Using builder gel or acrylic, sculpt small koi fish bodies directly on the nails. Paint them with vibrant orange and white patterns, and add tiny black eyes for realism using a fine brush. -
Create the 3D Flowers
Use white and yellow acrylic or gel to sculpt dainty five-petal flowers. Place them strategically on the nail for a natural, balanced look. -
Add Water Droplets
Apply small dots of clear gel to mimic realistic water drops. Cure them under the UV lamp or add tiny rhinestones for extra shine. -
Seal and Finish
Apply a glossy top coat to protect the artwork and give the nails a fresh, finished look.
✨ Pro Tips:
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Cure each layer thoroughly under a UV/LED lamp before adding the next.
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Use a tiny brush for painting details like scales or fins.
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Don’t be afraid to personalize each nail — no two koi are exactly the same!
📸 Final Thoughts:
This design is perfect for spring or summer and makes a bold, artistic statement. Whether you’re a nail art pro or just experimenting, this underwater fantasy is sure to impress!