You need a lot of patience when applying nail polish. Take your time and use slow movements when painting. Lightly press the nail brush a millimeter away from the cuticle (leave a gap!), apply a little pressure to press in the brush, and slowly glide one strip down the middle. Use thin coats and wait for the first layer to dry before applying a new one to avoid mess ups.
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Because your dominant hand is a lot steadier, you can use its movement while painting the polish on it. For example, when painting the sides of your nails, let your non-dominant hand do the previous step. Then, while the brush is gliding, slowly tilt the finger you're painting so that the brush will be able to coat the sides. As the brush goes up to the tip, you can also slowly pull down your finger to help the brush glide across your nails. You can do this technique when painting stripes and lines.
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When applying the nail art, whether it's a simple polka dots or a rose, use a dotting motion. It's easier for your non-dominant hand to do that instead of creating brush strokes. When it's easier for your hand to be steady and make small, refined movements, that's when you can make the switch from dotting tools to nail art brushes.
Try: Wald Nail Art Liner Brushes And Dotting Pen, $9.99
Resort to painting simple nail art when you're just starting. A simple yet clean design on your nails will look chic and stylish (and more impressive than a messy and complicated one). The important part is for your non-dominant hand to be able to practice doing nail art movements regularly. Plus, there are tons of cool minimalistic nail art ideas to choose from!
Image via Imaxtree