Tech Talk: Spreading positive vibes via a 4D Piglet
By Helena Biggs | 07 April 2020 | Feature, Tech Talk
Scratch shines the spotlight on Amber-Jane McLeod, a talented tech who has crafted a 4D creation to promote positivity during the coronavirus outbreak
Amber-Jane McLeod of The Little Beauty House, Salisbury, began her journey into the nail industry eight years ago, when she trained in Gelish application courtesy of the late Lisa Wells.
From there, she progressed to gain a Level 3 qualification in beauty and nails and teaching qualification, as well as accolades in permanent make-up and aesthetics.
“Nail styling gives me so much to focus on,” Amber-Jane reveals. “My journey has been challenging – but so worth it, and nails have really helped me through.
“I have trained with many amazing nail artists, including Hazel Dixon, Katie Barnes, Dega Mosane and Erin Searle, and believe that one should always keep learning and push themselves to be better.”
Amber-Jane has scooped awards for her nail and brow skills and hopes to enter the Scratch Stars Awards in 2021. She reveals her greatest achievement to be opening a salon/training academy and works from a decadent cabin in her garden.
“I took a year out from the industry to help my grandad, who sadly lost his battle with cancer,” Amber-Jane reveals. “He has been my biggest inspiration and was such a positive man.”
It’s this positivity that inspired Amber-Jane to get creative amidst the coronavirus outbreak. “COVID-19 has forced me to stay indoors and organise my nail kit, and I decided to sculpt a creation from my nail products – inspired by the habits of many during this time.”
The creation features the character of Piglet from Winnie The Pooh lounging on a sofa reading a newspaper. The headline reiterates the government’s coronavirus message – to Stay Home, Protect The NHS, and Save Lives.
A pot of honey resides next to Piglet, with a sculpted iPad showing Winnie The Pooh on FaceTime.
“I used Brillbird’s L&P range to create the 4D Piglet, and used foil to create the shape of the chair before encapsulating it using Brillbird’s Cover Pink and Glass Slippers from Glitterbels.
“Details were added using Colour Pop Art Gel Paints from Nail Artists and Alexa Nails brushes. The creation took around three days, in between cooking, cleaning and home schooling.
“I have never attempted anything like this design before, and hope to book onto a 3D Fantasy nail course with Hazel Dixon to enhance my skills.
“I wanted to test myself and try a creation that was out of my comfort zone – while raising awareness of how important it is to stay home, stay safe and protect the NHS.
“I hope it will make fellow techs smile and find some positivity and hope in these trying times.”