How to Create Swirl Nails

Use a thin brush or toothpick to drag wet nail polish into curved patterns while the base coat is still tacky.

1. Prep your base. Apply base coat and let dry completely. Paint one accent nail with your lighter shade and work quickly while it's wet. The timing matters more than perfection here.
2. Add the contrast. Drop small dots of your darker polish onto the wet base color. Use a thin brush or clean toothpick to drag through the dots in curved motions. Work from center outward for the most natural swirl.
3. Perfect the pattern. Keep your movements fluid and confident. If you mess up, wipe clean and start over while the polish is still wet. Seal with top coat once completely dry.