Posts by Katie Barnes
Revealed: Why the angle in which you use your tools is important
In a previous blog post for Scratch, we covered the importance of correctly holding your nail brush for success. This covers angles and where on the brush you hold. This is no different for nail tools or other implements we may use throughout the nail service. If your tools aren’t being held at the…
Read MoreHow to reduce your nail infill time
Infill and maintenance services can be the bane of a tech’s life, taking a considerable amount of time, and often undercharging for the time spent. However, a lot less time is required than you would think. I am going to share my top tips on infill and maintenance procedures to save you time and…
Read MoreHow to effectively fit a form to a wide nail
It can be tricky to fit a form on an uneven free edge or when the fleshy pad of skin where the free edge would usually be, is raised and higher than or level with the nail plate. The nail plate is often flat or may be concave. This can also present at the sidewalls…
Read MoreNail talk: The importance of parallel side walls
Parallel side walls run from the side wall to the upper arch of the nail, starting at the cuticle zone and ending at the free edge. These sides help to give the nail enhancement a slim and slender appearance and they must mirror each other. It is a term heard on the competition circuit frequently,…
Read MoreHow to perfect the French pedicure
If you thought the French manicure was a thing of the past, think again. Colourful twists on the traditional style are ever-popular, and the look continues to be a go-to for bridal and versatile, year-round styles. How big should be French edge be? A French tip should mimic the natural free edge of the nail.…
Read MoreHere’s what to do if your client wants to remove gel polish at home
Any damage to the natural nail is usually the result of improper application or removal, overly aggressive filing, or client abuse such as picking or biting. When both L&P and gel enhancements and coverings are applied, maintained, and removed correctly, no damage should occur. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the need for clients to…
Read MoreScratch Stars Awards: Am I good enough?
So many techs think they aren’t good enough or ready to compete in industry competitions, such as the Scratch Stars Awards. I have news for you – no one is ever 100% ready. If you wait until you are ready, you’ll never achieve your goals. Having low confidence isn’t necessary a bad thing; it means…
Read MoreWhat is a nail habit-tic & can it be treated?
When a client sits at your nail desk and presents you with a thumb nail such as below, you may wonder whether it is a contraindication which you should not treat. This is habit tic deformity. Most commonly seen on the thumbnails, it is a nail condition caused by repeatedly pushing back or picking at…
Read MoreHow to turn your nail tech technique flaws into strengths to earn more
Whether it’s trying to paint a symmetrical heart or fitting nail forms, there is always a particular technique that every individual struggles with. Recognising and accepting your weaknesses is the first step. Breaking down each step into individual stages can help achieve success with these struggles. For example, when trying to master painting hearts, it…
Read MoreIs teaching nail courses the next step for you?
Have you changed your career focus since the start of the pandemic? Something you may have started, already be toying with, or not yet even considered, is education. Teaching is not for everyone. It takes a very specific skill set to teach. Being exceptional at the subject in hand, does not automatically mean you will…
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