Golden scales - BM-217

I really liked the scales image on BM-217, and always thought it was a shame that it wasn't a full nail design. So I decided to try making it into one today by using it twice on each nail. It worked much better than I thought it would, helped by the gold not being too opaque. 

My nails have taken a beating lately, as I started working as a waitress (my first job, woo!). I'm really glad that nail polish is acceptable where I work, as long as it's neat and tidy. So I sometimes only get to wear a design for a day before having to take it off as it's chipped already! I haven't been taking photos though, so I'll have to remember to take them. 

With my first pay slip, I bought three Barry M polishes, the first and third set of Bundle Monster plates, and some sock yarn (my knitting and sewing blog is here) :) I used one of the polishes for this mani, and I love it! Such a gorgeous colour.

Here are the details:

Sally Hansen Double Duty, as a base coat.

Barry M in Emerald Green, two coats.

Star Gazer in Gold, stamped using BM-217.

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri topcoat.

Foxglove Gradient

I've tried doing a gradient a couple of times, but was never happy with the result. Then I came across this tutorial the other day and had an 'aha' moment. This technique works really well! I've finally done a gradient I'm happy with. It's not perfect, I'd like to try it with a finer sponge. Here it is!

Here are the details:
SallyHansen double duty, as a base coat.
Rimmel 60 seconds in 730 Silver bullet, two coats.
No7 Stay Perfect in Foxglove 80, two coats on accent nail.
Sally Hansen Insta-dri top coat.