1 mins
Waves & bubbles
This lovely sea-themed look was designed by Elaine Timcke
How to create the ocean waves
Step 1
Following a proper nail preparation and the application of a layer of base gel, apply a layer of bright blue gel. I used Calgel + colour CG M10BL. Cure.
Step 2
Apply a layer of translucent dark green and don’t cure – this will be the ‘wet’ layer. I used Calgel + CG S09GR.
Step 3
Next, use a clear gel (I used Calgel 01MIX) and apply it in thin lines across the wet gel layer. This will create some depth in the design and look like a light reflection in the water. Do not cure.
Step 4
Use the same technique to apply thin layers of white colour gel (I used Calgel + CG M01WH) and then also add some clear gel if needed to separate and blend the white colour. Once you are happy with the look, you can cure.
Step 5
Apply top gel and cure. I used Calgel Non-wipe top gel.
How to create the bubbles
Step 1
After proper nail preparation and the application of a layer of base gel, apply a layer of bright blue gel. I used Calgel + colour CG M10BL. Cure.
Step 3
Use clear gel and apply it onto the wet gel layer using either a nail art brush or a dotting tool. I used Calgel + 01MIX for the clear gel. You can repeat this process to create depth and dimension and the ‘rising’ bubble effect using different colours. I also used a bit of pearl shine gel from Calgel. Apply top gel and cure. I used Calgel Non-wipe top gel.
Step 2
Apply a layer of translucent white gel (I used Calgel + S07WH) and do not cure. This will be your ‘wet’ layer. This can also be a pearl gel or anything similar.
Elaine Timcke is the sales & marketing manager of Calgel/ Cal-Mo (Pty) Ltd.