How to Create Flower Nail Art Using Just a Dotting Tool

Nail art can look hard — so hard, in fact, that usually we’re too intimidated to even give it a try. A recent discovery, however, inspired us to unearth our nail polish in pursuit of flower nail art. The inspiration came from scrolling through our Insta feed (no surprise there) to find nail artists creating a variety of nail art designs featuring itty-bitty, intricate flowers. After taking the plunge into YouTube’s excessive amount of nail art tutorials, we discovered that it’s actually super easy to recreate flower nail art at home. It’s all about mastering the nail-dotting technique, which, truth-be-told, is as easy as can be.

This floral nail look is perfect for everyone from the nail art beginner to the pro manicurist looking to create his or her own elevated take on the trend. All you need is a dotting tool (like this super-affordable set) and your favorite shades of nail polish to make it your own. Not-so-pro tip: If you don’t have access to a dotting tool, you can also use the end of a small eye makeup brush or the end of a bobby pin.

How to DIY a Simple Floral Nail Art Look:

This can be changed up depending on your style and preference, but here’s a very simple way to get the floral nail art look at home using a dotting tool.

STEP 1: Start by applying a base coat like Essie First Base Base Coat.  

STEP 2: Apply two coats of the nail polish color of your choice.

STEP 3: Once your nail polish dries, use a dotting tool to create five dots in a circle-shape and then fill in the center area with the same shade of polish.

STEP 4: After painting on as many flowers as you want, add a smaller dot within the original center dot for extra detailing.

STEP 5: Wait at least 15 minutes for your floral nail art to dry and then seal with Essie Good to Go Top Coat.

To see the look done in real life, check out the below YouTube tutorial by efelinkanails.

And if you’re looking for a nail art look that incorporates both flower nail art and a cool stencil design, we’re loving this look from NailsByErin — and we think you will, too.

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