Newspaper Nail Art

Instead of looking through my newspaper for headlining stories on firefighters saving babies from a burning building, I looked for words to put on my nails.

Newspaper Nail Art is one of the easiest things to do. If this were a Nail Art college, this would be in our introductory class.

What you will need:

1)     Newspaper

2)     Light nail color (white, gray, light pink)

3)     Rubbing Alcohol (don’t waste vodka)

4)     Clear Top Coat

The newspaper article I used was on someone who loved baking cakes. Perfect, I love eating cakes!

Step 1: Paint one coat of your light nail color.

I used OPI’s French Quarter For Your Thoughts from their 2011 Fall Collection. Make sure this coat is completely dry before moving on! I made the mistake of thinking it was “almost” dry, proceeded to the next step, and it failed. Miserably.

Step 2: Dip nail in rubbing alcohol for 15-30 seconds.

Step 3: Quickly (!!) put your newspaper over your nail, hold for 15-30 seconds.

I found each nail did something different. Some did not hold, some I had to do longer than 15 seconds. Press your newspaper on your nail really hard, but watch it, don’t hurt yourself! Warning: the fingers you use to press the newspaper will get residue on it, but we will fix that after your nails are done.

Step 4: Repeat on all your nails.

Step 5: Let dry! 10 minutes, minimum

Newspaper ink takes a while to dry onto your light nail color. Be patient.

Step 6: Apply top coat.

If you see your nail color streaking, do not continue! Wait a few more minutes to make sure it’s dry. I cannot stress this enough.

Step 7: Once you're 100% sure your nails are dry, use nail polish remover to get rid of any newspaper ink left on your fingers and around your nails. (or wash your hands, that's how I got rid of mine) *this step isn't necessary, if you some managed to do this without making a mess of your fingers

Your end results will make headliners (see what I did there?). A few of my nails ended up streaking even though I was completely sure they were dry, but they ones that came out were gorgeous. My thumb has the word “love” backwards.

These newspaper nails have a very edgy feel to them. I used a regular top coat for them, but I might use a matte next time. I feel very Debbie Harry with these nails, I like it.