I've tried a few different dot patterns: dots all over, dots in lines, etc. but the overlapping dots along the edge was really fun. I've been doing more dots lately, since I bought a dotting tool! bobby pins and toothpicks and pencils will totally work. that's what I've used in the past. but. I find the dotting tool to be much easier to get consistent sized dots, and that it gets less gunk-y while you're working.
I finally tried water marbling. it's just as messy as everyone says. I tried it a few times with differnet colors, swirling them different ways [or not swirling] this stripe effect was my favorite attempt. it definitely had a zombie/halloween/beetlejuice vibe to it. [and yes that's my Iron Maiden tshirt in the background] I still haven't perfected my dipping method, but water marbling is definitely fun to play with.
for this manicure I bought some heart-shaped stickers at the stationary store and cut them to use as templates on my nails, instead of tape. sort of DIY nail stickers. I didn't let the base color dry enough so I had to touch up a bit and the lines aren't super clean, but you get the idea. I'm actually really in love with the bare cuticle look... and your manicure lasts longer since it doesn't "grow out".
last but not least: I discovered a local beauty store that carries a limited selection of OPI, and a ton of random Asian nail brands. I was so excited to find a solid white [Alpine Snow] and the neon pink was just calling to me. usually I don't like to risk buying a brand I don't know, but the bottle said it was 3-free and the color was just so awesome I couldn't resist. I'm so glad I took a chance on it because the formula isn't bad and I'm in love with the color ♥
