Why you should offer one stroke services

The sweep of a brush over a nail creating a tonal, delicate creation is mesmerising for the client and a joy to perform for the tech. Striking and a visual feast for the eyes, the blended nature of one stroke and aquarelle designs easily capture attention and creates a talking point, yet clients are still relatively new to recognising the nail technique.

“One stroke is a painting technique that allows the artist to create various images, ideally using a slanted brush loaded with two or more colours that, when correctly blended prior to application, achieves highlights, shadows, colour changes and smooth gradients,” says Marta Cameron, Nail Harmony UK educator. “The technique is perfect for creating elements such as flower petals, butterflies and leaves.”

Customisable for each client, looks can be tailored through colour palette and design, meaning it can be suited to a number of clients. “One stroke can be very versatile as you can change the feel of the designs depending on the colour combination you choose,” says Jo Wickens, Light Elegance education ambassador. “For example, by using pretty pinks and purple you can create a very pretty, feminine set of nails, yet if you choose something monochromatic it creates something more modern and cool. You can also use it to create bows, butterflies and more.

“The technique is a great addition to a nail artist’s offering. It allows you to create something bespoke for your clients that they probably haven’t seen before. My clients are always amazed at one stroke designs, more so than any other technique.”

“You can create one stroke nail painting on long or short nails, skilfully arranging separate elements on the nail to create the desired look,” – Corey Stockwell, HD Professional educator for Northampton.

As warmer, sunnier days approach, expect to see a rise in one stroke requests, as the technique affords a twist on standard seasonal florals. “One stroke is one of my most popular nail service techniques, especially in the spring/summer months,” says Corey Stockwell, HD Professional educator for Northampton. “Clients love to show off their nails and people can’t believe that are hand painted. A chisel/slanted brush is used to create multi-dimensional flowers with several layers of petals. Two colours are placed onto the brush; light and dark to create depth to the centre of the flower, making the flower appear almost three-dimensional. You can create one stroke nail painting on long or short nails, skilfully arranging separate elements on the nail to create the desired look. They can be bright and bold or very delicate and simple.”

In case you need any more reasons to offer one stroke as part of your repertoire of nail art skills, the technique proves a hit with clients. “Offering a unique service that only a few salons offer can only be a good thing!” says Rebecca Isaac, Scratch Stars One Stroke Artist of the Year 2018. “It gives you the edge over other salons in the area. The one stroke technique gives an amazing effect and people can’t believe its hand painted. Each design is bespoke to the client and they love that.”

Learn all about the one stroke and aquarelle techniques in the April issue of Scratch!