How to Make Fake Nails Out of Nail Polish & Paper in 7 Simple Steps

Tools and materials:

• Scissors
• Paper
• Nail polish

1. Cut the paper

Get a piece of paper and cut it into strips big enough to cover your nails.

Use the first strip you cut as a guide for the following ones so each strip is roughly the same size. You’ll need two strips to make one nail.

I recommend using paper that is a bit thicker, like cardstock, as you’ll have a hard time making nails out of flimsy, letter paper.

2. Cut your strips into the shape of a nail

Before you start shaping, fold your strip in half. This is going to make a thicker and stronger nail. Then use scissors to cut them into the shape of a nail. 

3. Create a curve in the nail

To mimic the natural curve of a nail, lay the paper nail into the fold of your palm and indent the curve with a pair of scissors.

4. Stick the folded nail sides together

Open the folded nail and apply nail polish to the surface of one nail. Close it back up and press it firmly to get the two pieces to stick together.

5. Attach another nail to the first nail

Apply nail polish to the nail again, but this time add a different strip to the nail. Allow it to dry and harden in a curved shape. 

6. Attach paper nail to your own nail

Apply nail polish to your own nails. 

This is going to act as a sticking agent, so as soon as your nail is covered, apply the fake nail while it’s still wet.

7. Apply nail polish

Apply nail polish to the front and back of the attached, paper nail for a more natural look, and let it dry. 

Here’s the finished nail!

How to make fake nails out of nail polish & paper

Now you know how to make fake nails, you can go off and make more of your own! These nails are great for people who struggle to find good press-ons that match the size of your nail and are in your desired shape.

You can style these however you want and choose different colors of paper depending on the style you want. You can even print out designs on the appropriate kind of paper!

How to make fake nails out of nail polish is easier than you think, right? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!