Candy Cane Nails: Red and White Stripes in 6 Easy Steps

Candy cane nails · 6 steps · red and white

Candy cane nails are slanted red stripes on a white ground. A thin brush, even spacing and a full cure between steps keep the stripes crisp.

1. 1

   Prep and base coat

   Prep the nail, dehydrate with pH Bond, then apply and cure a thin base coat.

   TipA smooth base keeps the stripe edges sharp.

2. 2

   Cure a white ground

   Apply two thin coats of 108 Snow White, curing after each coat.

   TipThin coats cover more evenly than one thick coat.

3. 3

   Plan the stripes

   Picture four or five slanted bands from one side of the nail to the other. Even spacing matters more than the exact angle.

   TipStart with the middle band, then work out to each side.

4. 4

   Paint the red stripes

   Use the thin brush of 43 Christmas Red and draw each band with one smooth pull. Let the stripes curve a little for the candy cane look.

   TipWipe the brush often so each stripe starts clean.

5. 5

   Cure and add a bow

   Cure the stripes. If you like, add a small bow or leaf in 45 Christmas Green on an accent nail and cure again.

   TipKeep the green small so the red stays the star.

6. 6

   Seal it

   Seal with Diamond No Wipe Top Coat and cure. Finish with cuticle oil.

   TipGlossy top coat makes red and white look bright.

Red, white and green

Detailing Gel 43 Christmas RedMSRP $7.50

Detailing Gel 45 Christmas GreenMSRP $7.50

108 Snow White, Matching SetMSRP from $7.25

Detailing Gel 02 WhiteMSRP $7.50

Diamond No Wipe Top CoatMSRP $7.25

Christmas Nail Art StickersMSRP from $1.00