3D Starfish

Final result of the 3D Starfish nail art
Nail art tutorial

Starfish 3D

A summery design that combines the softness of a nude beige, the intensity of an ocean cat eye, and the precision of a sculpted starfish in relief on the nail.

10 steps Intermediate level Summer collection

Starfish 3D

10 steps Intermediate level Summer collection
Video tutorial

The process on video

Follow the complete nail art process: from the Cover Natural Beige base to applying the sculpted starfish, with all the brush techniques and cat eye magnet work.

Process

Tutorial steps

Follow each step in order for the best result. The starfish sculpting comes after the nail is fully finished.

01

Cover Natural Beige base

After the extension, apply Gel Polish Cover Natural Beige evenly over the entire nail to create a smooth, even base.

LED cure — 60 sec
02

Vega gradient on the free edge

Apply Gel Polish Vega from the Moonlight collection to the free edge. Use the ombré brush to gently blend the product upward toward the cuticle area.

03

Cat eye wave effect

Since Vega is a cat eye, pass the cat eye magnet over the nail in a sinuous motion to create a wave effect before curing.

Work one nail at a time so the gel stays fluid while using the magnet.
LED cure — 60 sec
04

First top coat layer

Apply the top coat over the entire nail to seal the color and the cat eye. This base will then receive the sculpted starfish.

LED cure — 90 sec
05

Preparing the Builder Gel

Mix Solid Builder Gel Clear with a drop of white Gel Polish to obtain a slightly opaque pearly shade that will mimic the starfish’s natural texture.

06

Shaping the arms

Form a small gel rope, then cut it into several pieces. Shape each portion into a starfish arm on the nail, working from the center outward.

07

Refining with the Silicone Brush

Use the Silicone Brush Plastiline slightly moistened with a bit of cleaner to refine the edges, soften the joins, and give each arm an organic look.

The cleaner slightly thins the gel for precise shaping without leaving marks.
08

Curing the starfish

Once all the arms are adjusted and the shape is satisfactory, cure under the LED lamp to set the entire gel sculpture.

09

Details with a liner brush

With the 15 mm liner brush, paint texture details on each arm using Gel Polish Brownies: lines, striations, and reliefs that mimic the natural surface.

10

Center dots and final finish

Create the dots in the center of the starfish with Gel Polish Henna and the dotting tool. Finish with a top coat over the starfish for long-lasting shine.

Pro tip

Keys to a flawless result

  • For the cat eye wave effect, hold the magnet about 2 mm from the surface and make a slow S-shaped movement. Speed and distance are key to the intensity of the result.
  • The Builder Gel Clear and white polish mix should remain pliable but not runny. If the gel is too fluid, let it sit for a few seconds before shaping.
  • Moisten the Silicone Brush Plastiline sparingly: a touch of cleaner is enough. Too much liquid softens the gel and reduces shaping precision.
  • Never apply the final top coat before finishing all painted details. Once cured, any correction becomes impossible.