Tutorial: Abstract '80s

Hi everybody, welcome to my tutorial for the abstract '80s design! One thing I like about this design is the translucent triangle, for which I can use my sheer polishes. I normally avoid those because they take so many layers to get opaque, but from now on they have a purpose! (Next to glitter sandwiches. ;)) But the sheer triangle comes only at the end, so apart from a sheer polish you'll also need a basecolor and a polish for the angled shape in step 4. Let me show you how it works then!

Start by cutting a few straight pieces of tape. I do it by taking of a little piece (±1inch/2,5cm) off the roll first which I cut in smaller strips lengthwise. You don't have to cut it in smaller pieces, but I always do because smaller pieces adapt better to the curving of the nail, plus I don't like to waste things unnecessarily.

Please note that I only use the colored tape you see for the pictures of this tutorial. Normally I use regular stationery tape. The translucency can be a great advantage in some cases, but it makes the tape difficult to capture in photos.

Then apply the base color you like (if necessary with a basecoat underneath) and let it dry completely. To speed up the drying process you can apply a fast drying topcoat. I personally like Seche Vite, which lets my polish dry in about 10 minutes.

Now we're going to make an angled shape in the corner of the nail. Just take two tape strips and one by one place them on the nail like shown in the picture, covering up the parts that shouldn't get painted. (The exposed area is how your shape is going to look.)

Carefully apply your layering polish with a thin and even coat and remove the tape right away. By removing the strips right away, you'll prevent the polish from sticking to the tape which can cause rough edges. Remove the strips individually, if you can. Most of the time your lines will come out crisper this way.

If your first shape has dried properly, we can start on the second one; a triangle. Place three tape strips individually on the nail, forming a triangle. Make sure to overlap part of the first shape for that playful see-through effect.

Now apply the sheer polish on top, also with a thin and even coat and remove the tape strips right after. Finish with topcoat and your design is done!

Check out the tutorial page for some useful tips. Also I would love to see your attempt on my design, so feel free to leave a link to your creation in the comment section!

Polishes I used in this post are OPI Suzi Says Feng Shui, Orly Ancient Jade and Color Club Warhol.