How to Make Strong Fake Nails Out of Masking Tape & Nail Glue

Tools and materials:

• Masking tape
• Nail glue
• Nail file
• Scissors
• Nail polish
• Tweezers

1. Cut the tape

Start by placing some masking tape on your thumb, and then proceed to cut the tape where it meets the end of the width of your nail.

2. Press onto the nail

Next, put the tape onto your nail, push it down well, and pinch it at the sides so that it fits the shape of your nail.

3. Trim the tape

Use your scissors to snip the two corners on the bottom of the nail and create more of a curved shape that will better fit the shape of your nail.

Once done, place the masking tape back on your nail and press it down.

4. Cut a second layer

Now you’re going to thicken the masking tape nail. To do this, cut off another piece of masking tape that is bigger than the one you already have.

Place your nail cutout on top of this larger piece and then cut around it so that the second layer is the exact same size.

5. Cut a third layer

Repeat the previous step again with a third layer of tape.

Once done, place the three-layered masking tape nail on your nail and press it down.

6. Apply glue to nail

Next, take your nail glue and apply it to your nail. Then place the tape nail on your thumbnail and press it down.

7. Add glue to the outside

Proceed to apply nail glue to the top of the tape nail. This will stiffen and strengthen it.

8. Let dry 

Use long tweezers to hold the nail in place on either side as it dries. This will ensure that the fake nail curves and matches the shape of your actual nail.

9. File the nail

Once the fake nail has dried onto your nail, take a nail file and file around the bottom, sides, and top to ensure that the nail is true to your actual nail shape.

Also, file the surface of the nail for a nice clean finish.

10. Apply nail polish

Finish off the look by applying clear nail polish. Then, repeat the whole process for all of your other nails.

DIY masking tape nails

That is how you can use masking tape to make strong and sturdy fake nails! As I said, this is a great alternative for when you don’t have any other fake nails to hand.

I hope you enjoyed this DIY and you’ll give it a go!