How to Make Newspaper Nails

Last Updated: December 23, 2021

Nail art might seem difficult but it's not and you can create some incredible effects yourself at home. In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make newspaper nails, which gives new meaning to having the latest information at your fingertips!!

Steps

1
Assemble all the items needed for preparing your nails. These are listed below under "Things You'll Need."
2
Wash your hands with mild soap before painting your nails. This will wash off any germs or bacteria on your hands and nails while also cleaning off any dirt.

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3
Apply a solid basecoat to protect your nails. This is optional, but it makes the color show up better and protects it. Make sure to let it dry thoroughly.^{[1]
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4
Paint your nails in a light grey, nude, or light pink nail polish color. Let it dry thoroughly before doing the next step.^{[2]
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5
Pour a bit of rubbing alcohol or water into the cap or into a small jar.
6
Dip each nail into the rubbing alcohol for about 5 seconds each.^{[3]
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7
Take a small piece of newspaper. Press it firmly on your nail for a few seconds.^{[4]
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8
Peel it off carefully. You'll find that the ink from the newspaper will be left behind.
9
Get a cotton bud and some nail polish remover to remove any excess nail polish that has gotten onto your fingers. Do not touch your nails with the nail polish remover, or your work will come off.^{[5]
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10
Apply a topcoat to your nails. This is needed because without it, the newspaper will rub off. It also gives your nail some extra shine. Enjoy!^{[6]
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Community Q&A

Question

Can I do this without alcohol?

Community Answer

Yes. You can use water instead, but it leaves a lighter lettering on the nail. For a more intense lettering, use alcohol.
Question

Are they hard to remove?

Community Answer

No, they are not hard to remove. You can remove them with regular nail polish remover.
Question

Should I cut the newspaper into ten (10) parts?

Community Answer

That can be easier to work with, yes. You don't have to cut it though, you can just rip it into pieces if you like. The shape doesn't have to fit your nails.

Warnings

Be careful, and consider doing your nails over a newspaper, sink, or even towel.

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Press the newspaper firmly on to your nail; otherwise, the transferring ink will be incomplete on your nails.

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Fingernail Polish remover will not work in place of alcohol, but it has been used in a different version for newspaper nails.

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