Russian Almond Translucent Effect

Acrylic & Gel Nails with a Glass Effect

Craft a graceful Russian Almond silhouette using a combination of acrylic and gel. Begin with the Salon line’s Camouflage base and softly shade Orchid acrylic powder from the Flower Collection for a dreamy pink extension. Tiny strips of pink-green film and shimmering pink opals create a mesmerizing, glass-like illusion at the tip. Complete the look with elegant arabesque designs in white gel paint and Flat Art florals, then finish with Swarovski crystals for a captivating, high-shine statement.

Step by step

1. Prep the natural nail by gently removing cuticles and sanitizing with Fantasy Nail Prep.

2. Form & Bond: Secure a reinforced nail form with metal tape, then apply Fantasy Bond.

3. Base Layer: Sculpt the nail base using Salon Camouflage acrylic powder and Addiction liquid.

4. Extension: Create a subtle pink gradient on the form using Orchid acrylic powder (Flower Collection).

5. Glass Effect Base: Brush on a thin layer of Universal Gel Clear Medium over the pink tip; cure in a UV/LED lamp. Apply another layer of Clear Medium without curing, place small pieces of pink-green glass-effect film, then cure in a UV/LED lamp.

6. Opal Placement: Add a dab of Clear Medium at the center of the smile line to secure pink opals, then cure in a UV/LED lamp.

7. Encapsulation: Cover the entire nail with Universal Gel Clear Medium for maximum clarity, cure, then remove the form. Pinch, file, and buff to refine the shape.

8. Decorative Details: Use white gel paint and a Super Detail 3/0 brush to paint arabesque motifs; cure. For the floral elements, sculpt petals with white 3D Modeling Clay using a Folk Art #2 brush, then shade them with pink gel paint using a Kolinsky #2 brush. Cure again.

9. Add Sparkle: Secure Swarovski crystals with Stickey.

10. Finish: Seal everything with Finish Gel for a glossy, long-lasting shine.