People can pay anywhere between $30 to $80 before tips for a set of nails that realistically will only last for two weeks.

With the cost of a good manicure or “full set” rising, some SJHHS students have decided to take their nails into their own hands.

“During COVID, I wanted to learn to do my own nails to save money,” said nail student artist Morgan Beaver (11). 

As well as the cost-benefit, for some self-made nail artists, manicures serve as a creative outlet and an expression of their artistic ability.

“I especially love doing fun designs like flowers or stars, I also really like putting charms on nails,” said student nail artist Vicky Wenqi (11).

Many of these student nail artists were inspired to turn their hobby into a business, realizing that their skill could turn into profit. Through YouTube tutorials, continuous practice, and trial and error, to master their craft. With their newfound skill of nail art, the girls then opened their own nail businesses. 

These student nail artists’ main form of advertisement is through social media platforms. When opening their businesses, Beaver and Wenqi used family and friends as models of their work on social media. Both Beaver and Wenqi have separate nail accounts on Instagram, promoting their small businesses and gaining clients through the publicity of their nail art.

These student nail artists do still find challenges within their jobs. Time management and clientele requests create an obstacle within their line of work. 

“Being able to communicate with the clients, a lot of people are afraid to speak up if they don’t like anything, communication is very important,” said student nail artist Claire Kim (12).

“When it comes to designs that are pretty challenging, I figure out how to do it, timing too,” said Beaver.

Despite the challenges, there are many benefits to all of the hard work they put in.

 “I like talking with them, it’s fun, cause it’s like yes I’m doing nails and working but it’s fun because I get to gossip and talk with my friends,” said Beaver.  

 “I love a challenge, and I always practice before [clients] come so nothing goes wrong,” said Wenqi. 

These student nail artists all turn to social media for inspiration. From TikTok to Pinterest, social media platforms boost their knowledge of nail art and helps them keep up with the requests of clientele. 

After high school, Wenqi and Kim all plan on keeping their businesses running, and continuing nail art while pursuing a higher education. 

Beaver wishes to attend cosmetology school and eventually own a salon. 

Nail Tech’s Instagrams: @nailss.bymb @nailed.it.vicky @clairek.im