How to Apply Press On Nails: A complete guide to applying handmade Press On Nails to last up to 4 weeks!
Press On Nails provide a fantastic alternative to salon nails. When applied properly, your handmade Press On Nails can last weeks & can be just as durable as acrylic nails!
There are many different Press On Nail brands you may choose to purchase from, this guide works for all however, you may be obliged to purchase separate products should they not be included in your Press On Nail package.
Step by step guide on How to Apply your Press On Nails
The main goal when applying your Press On Nails properly is to ensure they last multiple weeks. Following this guide will ensure your nails stay on for weeks!
Sizing is very important!
Before you start this guide, please ensure your Press On Nails fit your natural nails. Too big or small of a fit will mean your Press On Nails will not last. Choosing the correct sizing will ensure your Press On Nails look more natural too! Spend some time checking the Press On Nail against your natural nails. The right fit will mean that your nails will fit side wall to side wall without pinching or overlapping onto your skin. Your cuticle area should be a rounded shape, if not take a nail file and shape it to fit your cuticle area better.
Step 1: Start with clean, dry hands & nails
It is very important to start with clean, dry hands & nails to ensure proper adhesion. Steer clear away from lotions & oil based products just before you apply your nails!

Step 2: Push back your cuticles
Ensure to do this very gently. Using your cuticle pusher on a 45 degree angle gently push back the skin that meets the nail & the finger. This ensures more space for the nail to be placed.


Step 3: File and Buff your natural nails
Gently file the free edge of your nails (the part that grows out). This will make your nails easier to remove when you’re ready to take them off! Using a nail file, buff your natural nail so all the shine is removed. See image below!

Step 4: Apply glue to the Press On Nail
This step is super important so listen carefully! Keeping your Press On Nail on a 95 degree angle gently apply an even drop of glue at the lower half of the Press On Nail. Remember you are dealing with liquid so it’ll run in the wrong places if you’re not careful! You want to ensure that the glue stays put. If not, your Press On Nail won’t have enough glue for adhesion!


Step 5: Press on your nails!
After applying glue on the Press On Nail, you’ll want to flip the nail over and press it down onto your nail. Keep your finger on a 95 degree angle to ensure the glue doesn’t seep out onto your finger!
Step 6: Press and hold
Hold down your Press On Nail for at least 10-15 seconds, this gives a chance for the glue to dry slightly creating a tacky surface that adheres to the natural nail better.

Step 7: Repeat for all nails
Repeat steps 4 & 5 for each nail. Taking time to ensure that enough glue is available on the Press On Nail. Once you have completed these steps your Press On Nails will be firmly secure! Allow at least an hour for the glue to dry properly before you touch any water or liquids.

You have successfully applied your Press On Nails!
