Meet the Anglesey nail pro transforming trainers using nail art products

By Rebecca Hitchon | 04 February 2025 | Feature, Tech Talk

Sophie Pritchard Creative Claws Tech Talk

“Nail art techniques can be applied in a variety of ways: from customising trainers to dolls, jewellery and even tip jars,” shares Sophie Pritchard, founder of Creative Claws salon and training academy.

The North Wales-based nail tech was first encouraged by her husband to transfer her nail art skills to decorate trainers, for his goddaughter’s first birthday present: a pair of Nike Air Force 1s. “I had no idea where to start,” Sophie admits.

“I decided on gel polish to decorate the trainers with, as you can cure it to avoid mistakes, choose from matte, glossy and glitter finishes, it’s water-resistant and it offers texture. My nail skills helped me to perfect my art on this new medium, and know which tools and products were best to use.”

Sophie’s decorated trainers for her husband’s goddaughter.

Sophie continues: “I customised a lot of trainers during the pandemic, and it made me consider how an an income can be earned from home or with limited contact using artistic skills.

“If you’re a creative person but struggle being in a work environment, this could be an avenue to explore to earn money and have fun.”

The Creative Claws story

The Creative Claws salon has been running for 10 years, and the training academy launched at the end of 2024: a dream of Sophie’s. “I’ve had to travel at least two hours for many nail courses, so am passionate about bringing a training academy to my local area,” she says. “It was was a labour of love to decorate, but I was determined to showcase my artistic skills by hand-painting a mural on the walls and ceiling. I really wanted the space to feel creative and inspiring for students.”

The academy’s gel polish and builder gel courses hold up to three students, and nail art courses – focusing on themes such as bridal or gothic nail art – hold up to five. Also available are one-to-one upskill sessions, and a Lucy Pastorelli E-file course is launching in March. “The training is intimate, ensuring everyone feels seen and not overwhelmed,” Sophie explains. “The academy is still in its early stages, but I’ve had amazing feedback. Something that sets us part is that we provide all products and tools, so students don’t need to panic about forgetting anything.”

Nail art advice

Sophie shares her nail art tips: “Don’t hesitate to develop your techniques – nail art is a fun skill to learn and offer, allowing you to create designs that show off clients’ styles and personalities. And practice makes perfect! You’ll refine your techniques as you go, and once you’ve discovered which nail art styles you enjoy, stick with them. You don’t have to offer everything.”