Watercolor Portraiture Nail Design

Alex Freeland

Alex Freeland, 34, has been doing nails for over 10 years. Starting out as a means to an end, Alex unexpectedly found a love for the artistry of nail technology & a passion for the industry. Shortly after starting his nail career, he began working closely with Lish Nail Creations, an Australian-owned nail system. After two years he moved into the role of educator for the brand. This led to many travel opportunities around New South Wales, both as trainer & mentor. In 2014, Alex started entering competitions. Finding his feet in the competition arena, he worked up through the ranks to masters level on the international nail circuit, while networking with many ‘incredible people’ (he cites) from around the world as well as Australia. In 2018, he won the prestigious title of Aus/NZ Nail Technician of the Year, & from achieving that accolade, has since taken a step back from competing & put his focus on his clients & business, whilst continuing to educate & mentor.

PRODUCTS USED

Nail Tips
White UV/LED Gel Acrylic Paint or Watercolor Paint
Assorted UV/LED gel Polish Colors
Clear UV/LED Gel Polish
Assorted Iridescent Glitters & Detail Brushes

STEPS

Prepare the tips by sizing & shaping as desired. Buff & apply UV/LED white gel to create a solid background. Alternatively, start with a white tip to avoid this step. Buff the white surface very softly with the softest buffer to remove the shine without leaving scratches or texture.

Start by mapping out the general shape of the portrait using the lightest color acrylic or watercolor paint you intend to use. If using acrylic paint, it must be watered down to a watercolor consistency & quite sheer. Once the basic shape is laid down, reinforce different sections with a slightly darker shade. This will be the base you’ll build the portrait upon.

Start building the details by working gradually darker in shades until you introduce the darkest shade you intend to use. Use a dark shade of your chosen color or black. Use the paint very lightly & remember you can add more & build up the pigment as required.

Add any remaining details & shadows you need to build on. This is your last chance. Once your shadows are finished, you can use white to bring in brighter highlights. This will give the portrait a lifelike sparkle. Be cautious to not go overboard.

Mix a small amount of glitter into clear gel polish. With a small brush, add glitter over the hair in a matching iridescent shade to complement the portrait you’ve just painted. Cure as per manufacturer’s instructions. After the glitter is sealed down, apply a clear gloss top coat to give a perfect glossy finish. Ensure you can’t feel any texture from the glitter on the surface.