How to use the raw clay for nail art:

1) Prepare the nail and add a base layer of acrylic or gel. Use a color that matches the clay as much as possible. Note: The raw clay cannot be placed directly onto the natural nail.

2) Cut a thin slice of clay with a blade. Lay the slice on a work surface. Use your brush like a rolling pin to roll the slice thinner. The thinner the slice of raw clay, the better. Slices that are too thick will cause the acrylic or gel to cure improperly.

3) Cut the slice into desired shapes. Slide the blade under the shape to lift it. Place shape on the the nail and press gently. Try not to smear the design.

4) Smile lines: use a smile cutter (or a nail tip) to cut a smile line.

5) Cut or pinch excess clay away from the edge of the nail. Leave a 1/16” (2 mm) gap between the clay and the edge. This allows for better encasing of the clay. If clay is allowed to go out to the edge of the nail, separation will happen. If the clay seems too thick, roll it thinner with the handle of your brush, then repeat removal of clay from the edge. ­

How to remove the clay when doing a fill:

File through the gel or acrylic just until the raw clay is exposed. Remove it by peeling/scraping it off the nail. Proceed with fill as desired. (If raw clay gets stuck in the file, simply clean the file with a nail brush and rubbing alcohol.)

**Warning: Raw polymer clay should not be placed on finished wood surfaces. It may stain carpet and clothing if left for a prolonged period. Scrape up any excess clay and remove stain with rubbing alcohol. Polymer clay is non-toxic but should not be ingested.