A guide to achieving an effortless vertical gradient.
Have you seen this cool vertical gradient nail art floating around the internet but haven’t been able to figure out how to achieve it?
Well, look no further! We can help you and show you that it’s not actually that difficult with our step-by-step guide. All you need is a cosmetic wedge sponge and some nail polish!
What we are demonstrating for you is a blend of the lazy gradient★ and the sponging on gradient★★ techniques. We are using Ruby Rave (red) and Solar Soiree (orange) from our 'Party Pack' in this gradient look. This is because blending analogous colours, rather than contrasting, works best and looks more seamless. However, you can absolutely do contrasting colours if that’s the vibe you’re going for – these are so fun, too!
Step 1: Prepare your nails.
Start by preparing your nails. Remove any old nail polish and shape your nails to your desired length and shape. Apply a base coat to protect your nails and help the polish adhere better.
Step 2: Apply your first coat of polish.
Paint your first coat of polish only on one half of your nail. Grab your other nail polish colour and paint onto the other half of the nail.
It’s okay if you overlap the colours, this technique is very forgiving. Don’t forget, we are going to blend these colours together so a perfect line won’t matter!
Let this dry.
Step 3: Apply your second coat of polish.
Go in with your second coat of polish, again, one colour on each half of the nail. Don’t wait for this second coat of polish to dry.
Step 4: Blending the colours.
Paint the narrow end of your sponge with one colour on each half.
While your nail is still wet from the second coat, align the sponge to the colours on your nail in the centre, and gently dab.
Step 5: Repeat the sponging process.
Repeat step 4 until it looks blended on your nail and you’re happy with it. Be sure not to over-do it because you can start lifting the polish and we don’t want that! Trust the process; sometimes, even if it looks a little ragged, a quick-dry glossy topcoat will smooth out those imperfections and help your gradient look seamless.
Now that you’ve completed one nail, you can choose some colours for your other nails, or do the same gradient across all nails! The possibilities are endless. Have so much fun with this and experiment! Please tag us if you try this look - we'd love to see your creations!
★ Lazy gradient – this method is a simplified technique for achieving a gradient effect on the nail with minimal effort. This involves no tools, but rather using polishes that are sheer enough to overlap and blend nicely. Please let us know in the comments below if you would like a tutorial of this technique – we can definitely show you how! Our Super Shifting Shimmers bundle is perfect for this technique!
★★ Sponging on gradient – this method involves a cosmetic wedge sponge to create a seamless transition of colours on the nails, resulting in a gradient effect. This technique is popular for achieving a smooth gradient blend without the need for advanced nail art skills. It is achieved by painting polishes directly onto the sponge itself and then dabbing it onto the nail. The porous texture of the sponge helps to diffuse the colours, creating a gradual shift from one shade to another for more opaque polishes – this technique is less effective with sheer polishes. Please let us know if you would be interested in a tutorial of this technique and we can demonstrate it for you!
Watch the full Vertical Gradient Nail Tutorial
To get a visual walkthrough, watch our full tutorial below.
With these easy-to-follow steps and helpful tips, you can effortlessly create a stunning gradient nail look. So go ahead, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the beauty of ombre nails with Cosmic Polish!
Thank you to our stellar swatcher, Jenni @poorlydonenailart, for contributing her invaluable expertise in this tutorial! 💫
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Ready to create your own stunning vertical gradient nails? Explore the 'Party Pack' featuring Ruby Rave and Solar Soiree, along with our full range of vibrant shimmers, perfect for this technique. Start your gradient journey now and let your nails do the talking! ✨
