How to create a vertical cat eye gradient?

Vertical cat eye gradient — DesignNailArt
Nail art tutorial

Vertical cat eye gradient

A simple, on-trend tutorial to create a luminous vertical gradient with two cat eye shades.

8 steps Beginner level Sunset Beach Collection

Vertical cat eye gradient

8 steps Beginner level Sunset Beach Collection
Video tutorial

The tutorial video

Watch the full video demonstration, then follow the detailed protocol below to recreate the nail art step by step.

Introduction

The Sunset Beach collection

For this tutorial, we used the Sunset Beach collection, a range of cat eye Gel Polish in vibrant colors—ideal for creating bright, summery gradients.

This type of gradient can also be done with other shades depending on the season, with classic Gel Polish, glitter shades, or cat eyes like in this video. The idea is simply to have fun with color combinations to create a harmonious result.

Protocol

Tutorial steps

Follow each step in order for the best results.

01

Prepare the nail

Once the extension is finished, move on to the nail art on a surface that’s ready to receive color.

02

Apply the first color

Choose a first Gel Polish and apply it vertically on one half of the nail, for example on the right side.

Do not cure yet.
03

Apply the second color

Apply a second Gel Polish in a different color on the other half of the nail. The two colors should meet in the center to create a vertical gradient.

04

Slightly blend the colors

Gently work the join between the two shades to get a more seamless transition, without over-mixing the colors.

05

Activate the cat eye effect

Before curing, use a cat eye magnet to activate the magnetic effect. You can orient the effect depending on the look you want.

06

Cure

Once you’ve achieved the effect, cure under an LED lamp for the time recommended for your Gel Polish.

LED cure
07

Repeat the application

Do the same with a second coat: apply both colors, blend the join, activate the cat eye effect with the magnet, then cure.

LED cure
08

Apply the top coat

Finish with a top coat over the entire nail, then cure.

LED cure
Shopping list

Products used

Gel Polish Pinkini

A luminous cat eye shade from the Sunset Beach collection, perfect for colorful, summery gradients.

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Gel Polish Mojinia

An intense, sparkling cat eye shade, ideal to pair with Pinkini for a bright vertical gradient.

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Cat eye magnet

Essential for activating the magnetic effect and creating the cat eye reflection before curing.

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Finish Glam Shine

A glossy finish to protect the nail art and deliver a shiny result.

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DesignNailArt tip

Order matters

Do not cure before activating the cat eye effect. The magnet must be used while the product is still fresh to move the magnetic particles and achieve the desired reflection.

Variation

Adapt it to your preferences

This vertical gradient can be done with cat eye Gel Polish, as in this tutorial, but also with classic or glitter colors. By changing the shades, you can easily adapt the result for summer, autumn, the holidays, or a specific collection.

Find the products used in this tutorial and have fun creating your own color combinations.