Coffin nails have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their edgy and chic appearance. This type of manicure combines a bold aesthetic with a touch of elegance, making it a versatile and trendy choice for nail enthusiasts.
The coffin nail shape is characterised by its long, tapered structure, with a squared-off tip resembling a coffin, hence the name. In this article, we will discuss how to achieve the perfect coffin nail design, ensuring that your nails look fabulous and well-crafted, while providing some nail care tips to maintain the health of your nails.
Achieving the perfect coffin shape can be a bit challenging, especially for those new to nail art. However, with the right techniques and guidance, anyone can nail this fashionable look. The first step in creating the sought-after coffin nail is ensuring your nails are well-groomed and have enough length to create the desired shape.
Typically, coffin nails require a longer nail bed, so it is essential to give your nails time to grow out before attempting this design.
In the following sections, we will discuss further the necessary steps and techniques needed to attain the perfect coffin nail shape. From filing your nails correctly to selecting the right nail polish, these tips will make it easy to create stunning coffin nails that are both fashionable and well-executed. Rest assured that by following these guidelines, your nails will become the envy of your friends and nail enthusiasts alike.
Tools and Materials
To shape coffin nails, you will need a few essential tools and materials. Begin by gathering a nail file, nail clippers, and a buffer. These items are crucial in achieving the desired coffin shape and ensuring a smooth, even finish on your nails.
Firstly, focus on the nail file. An ideal choice is a 100/180-grit file, as this will provide the perfect balance between shaping your nails and refining the edges. These files are available at most beauty supply stores or online, and are an absolute must-have for any nail enthusiast.
When selecting nail clippers, consider a pair that offers a straight edge blade. This ensures a clean, precise cut, which is necessary when shaping coffin nails. Additionally, using nail clippers that have a curved blade might create complications when attempting to achieve the desired shape.
Finally, a buffer will be helpful in refining your nails’ surface and creating a smooth, even finish. Choose a medium-grit buffer, often found in sets that include multiple grits for various uses. This type of buffer will be gentle enough for the natural nail while still smoothing out any imperfections.
In addition to these tools, ensure that your workspace is clean and well-lit. A comfortable, organised space will make the process more enjoyable and allow you to stay focused on perfecting your coffin nail shape. Remember to start with clean, dry nails to guarantee the best results. Here’s a tutorial on shaping the perfect coffin nail.
In summary, having the right tools and materials is essential for shaping coffin nails. Be sure to gather a 100/180-grit nail file, straight edge nail clippers, and a medium-grit buffer before you begin. A clean, well-lit workspace will also contribute to the success of your DIY manicure.
Preparing Your Nails
Clean and Buff
Before starting to shape your coffin nails, it is crucial to have a clean and smooth surface to work on. Remove any previous nail polish with a gentle polish remover, like ZOYA Remove Plus Nail Polish Remover. Next, use a nail buffer to smoothen your nails to create an even surface. This step will help ensure a better outcome when you start filing and shaping your nails.
Apply Cuticle Oil
Maintaining healthy cuticles is an essential part of nail care. Apply a moisturising cuticle oil to the skin around your nails to keep them soft and nourished. Gently massaging the oil in circular motions will help to increase blood circulation, promoting healthier nail growth. In addition, hydrated cuticles will lead to better-looking coffin nails.
Trim the Nails
Once your nails are clean and your cuticles are taken care of, it’s time to trim your nails. Cut them to a length that works for you, giving yourself enough room to achieve the desired coffin nail shape. Be careful not to trim your nails too short, as it could make it difficult to create the correct shape. Use a pair of sharp nail scissors to trim your nails while avoiding any snags or rough edges. Following these steps will ensure that your nails are well-prepared for shaping into the coffin nail style.
Shaping the Coffin Nails
Mark the Centre Point
Before you start shaping your coffin nails, it is essential to mark the centre point of the nail tip. This will guide you as you file the sides to create the desired coffin shape. To do this, use a nail pen or a dotting tool to make a small mark at the centre of your nail tip.
File the Sides
Once the centre point is marked, it’s time to file the sides of your nails to achieve the coffin shape. Place the nail file under your nail at a 45-degree angle and start filing towards the marked centre point. Ensure you maintain a steady pressure while filing and keep the angle consistent on both sides.
Your filing motion should be one-directional which means you should avoid a back and forth motion. This will help prevent any unwanted nail damage and create a smoother, cleaner edge.
Refine the Shape
After filing the sides to create a taper, refine the shape of your coffin nails by working on the nail tip. File the tip of your nail to create a flat, free edge that is parallel to the sidewalls. This step is necessary to ensure your nail tapers off to a flat finish, maintaining the sharp edges that make up the coffin shape.
Now, step back and examine your work. If you’re satisfied with the symmetry and overall shape, use a buffer to smooth out any remaining rough edges. With your coffin nails now shaped to perfection, you’re ready to move on to painting and designing your trendy manicure.
Finishing Touches
After you have successfully shaped your coffin nails, there are some important finishing touches to ensure your nails look perfect and last longer. In this section, we will discuss some additional steps, including Smooth Edges, Apply Base Coat, and Add Nail Polish.
Smooth Edges
Once you’ve achieved the desired coffin shape, it’s crucial to smooth out any rough or uneven edges. To do this, use a fine grit nail file or a nail buffer and gently go over the edges of your nails. This will not only make your nails feel more comfortable but also help prevent chipping and peeling as you wear your manicure.
Apply Base Coat
Before applying any nail polish, it’s essential to apply a base coat to your nails. This creates a smooth surface for the nail polish to adhere to and can help improve the longevity of your manicure. It also serves as a protective barrier, preventing your natural nails from getting stained by dark or pigmented nail polish shades. Apply a thin layer of base coat and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Add Nail Polish
Finally, it’s time to bring your coffin nails to life with some colour! Choose your desired nail polish shade, and make sure to use a high-quality brush for a smoother application. To ensure an even and consistent colour, apply the polish in thin, even strokes, starting from the base of your nail and moving towards the tip. You may need to apply 2-3 coats of polish to achieve full opacity, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.
Remember to finish your manicure with a top coat to seal in the colour and add a glossy shine. This will help to protect your nail polish from chipping and enhance the overall look of your coffin nails, making them truly stand out.
Tips for Perfect Coffin Nails
Coffin nails are a popular and stylish nail shape with a flat top and tapered sides that resemble a coffin. Here are some helpful tips on how to achieve and maintain perfect coffin nails.
File Gently
When shaping coffin nails, it is important to file gently to prevent damaging your natural nails. Start by filing the sides of your nails at a slight angle towards the centre, creating an elongated and tapered look. Make sure to use a high-quality nail file and avoid using a coarse or harsh file, as this can cause damage to the nail plate. When filing, use light strokes and move the file in one direction to achieve a smooth and even finish.
Maintain Regularly
To keep your coffin nails looking their best, maintain them regularly by filing and trimming as needed. It is recommended to file your nails every 1-2 weeks to maintain the desired shape and prevent any snags or breakage. Pay close attention to the sides of your nails, as this area can become more prone to breakage due to the tapered shape. Additionally, keep your nails moisturized by applying cuticle oil regularly to promote healthy nail growth and prevent brittleness.
Protect Your Nails
Taking care of your coffin nails doesn’t stop at regular maintenance. You should also take steps to protect your nails from damage or breakage. Consider using a strengthening base coat before applying any polish or design to give your nails an extra layer of protection. When engaging in activities that may be rough on your hands, such as cleaning or gardening, wear gloves to shield your nails from harm. Protecting your nails will help preserve their appearance and keep them looking stylish and well-manicured.
I’m Jennifer a beauty and wellness expert. I believe in promoting a sustainable and healthy lifestyle from within. Helping people feel good is my passion; whether it’s teaching yoga or offering skincare advice.
