tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31384094848429495822024-03-14T10:30:28.396+00:00The Digit-al DozenThe Digit-al Dozen are a closed nail art group who post 5 art manis once a month - always on the 2nd full week. We love what we do, and we love that you seem to love it too.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13342840999024035485noreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-63184833631903367832014-09-12T12:13:00.001+01:002014-09-12T12:13:43.437+01:00The Digit-al Dozen second anniversary giveaway<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Can you believe that it's the Digit-al Dozen's second birthday this month? Everyone likes a good party so to celebrate our 'big month' we're hosting a huge giveaway. We've lined up a smorgasboard of sponsors (thanks guys and girls!) and are giving you the chance to win one of a whopping 51 prizes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Because we have a large amount of sponsors, they all have different shipping policies. When you start the Rafflecopter, you will be asked which country you live in, because some prizes are only available in certain places. Ready? Here’s the list –</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>INTERNATIONAL PRIZES</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Above The Curve - Summer Destinations 2014 – 4 polishes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">ALiquidLacquer - 5 polishes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Alter Ego Nail Enamel - 4 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Black Dahlia Lacquer – 4 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Celestial Lacquers - 6 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Cupcake Polish - $25 gift card</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Delush - 3 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">EllaGee - 4 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Lacquistry - 4 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Literary Lacquers - 6 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Indigo Bananas – 6 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Serum No 5 - 4 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Vivid Lacquer - 4 stamping plates</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Girly Bits - 2 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Jindie Nails - 6 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Superficially Colorful - $25 gift card</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Darling Diva Polish - 4 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Llarowe - $50 gift card</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Amazing Chic Lacquer - 2 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Mrs. P's Nail Potions - $15 gift</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Black Sheep Lacquer - 2 polishes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Renaissance Cosmetics - 3 full size bottles (in stock items only) and mini cuticle oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Laquerlicious Nail Polish - 3 neon toppers. Beat The Heat, At The Lake and Lemon Limeade.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Nayll – 4 bottles of custom made polishes – you get to make your own!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">JORD Watch; $129 voucher</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">$85 gift card from The Digit-al Dozen, to a nail e-tailer of your choice</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Tube of Liquid Palisade from Kiesque</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Nailed Kit decals set</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Daphine Polish - 5 bottle Summer holo collex</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">GlitterDaze - 4 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Gothic Gala Lacquers - 5 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Karma's Kiss Lacquer - 4 bottles </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Love Angeline - 2 Gemstone polishes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">LynnBDesigns - 5 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Majestic Lacquer - 3 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Philly Loves Lacquer - 4 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Savoie - 4 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">KBShimmer - $35 electronic gift card</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">6 Harts Polish - 2 polishes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Overall Beauty - nail art tape sets (with different colors nail tape) with nail wheels and nail art decals plus a bottle nail polish (mystery color ), and a set of Overall Beauty Minerals ( 6 colors)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">BKD - Space Sauce Teardrop Shaped Nail Polish Pendant Necklace - Nail Polish Jewelry</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Shimmer – 5 bottles</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>US & Canada Only</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Smokey Mountain Lacquers - 4 bottles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Polish Bar - 4 bottles </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Canadian Nail Fanatic – mystery package of 6 bottles</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>UK Only</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Quirk Polish - 3 bottles one of kind unreleased polishes </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">All one prize – 1 x Freckles polish, and Freckles Polish Necklace, and 1 x bottle from Laquerdaisical</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">All one prize - Stellar Polish - 1x polish and ring, 1 x bottle from Little Lost Ones</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Pretty Quirky 2 x full size bottles 'Stole the Bouquet" and "Deva' , PLUS 1 x bottle from R+ R Lacquers </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A voucher for a personalised planner from Personal Planner UK</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A zip up pouch with set of brushes and dotters plus a selection of nail art: nail stickers, flat gems and rhinestones from Nailtopia</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Giveaway will close at 11.59pm GMT on Tuesday September 24th. If you are a winner, we will let you know which prize you have won, and then we will then put you in touch with your sponsor to claim / choose your prize (some sponsors have provided specific prizes; some will let you choose your own polishes).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Good luck !!!</span></div>
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<a id="rc-92b0274e10" class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/92b0274e10/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-40435878900164803452014-08-24T14:51:00.001+01:002014-08-24T14:51:43.319+01:00Meet Sheila, Queen of "Painterly"<div style="text-align: center;">
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<em style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">The Queen Series is a weekly feature happening on Wednesdays. Each week one of us from The Digit-al Dozen will introduce you to our blog, tell you about how we got started, and talk a little about how we ended up being the Queen of something. We all have unique talents when it comes to nail art, and our Queen titles reflect that. Check out <a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/p/meet-ladies-of-digit-al-dozen.html" role="button" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">o</a>ther <a href="http://check%20out%20past%20posts%20in%20this%20series./" target="_blank">Queen of...posts</a> in this series.</em><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVRbQ4wnef1WHp_KUpyKRMU6tj6PR9eTlcnVmBALT4_IbuC35ulBUT5T1xZvWtwU5qPy-F3ZNin443nnPOzXwh7RiywdLkJ3P2ItsDz1GM4B0_7030Blfyrs2_m-N9A1oOTjI28Qk4pzL/s1600/Pointless+Cafe+Me+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVRbQ4wnef1WHp_KUpyKRMU6tj6PR9eTlcnVmBALT4_IbuC35ulBUT5T1xZvWtwU5qPy-F3ZNin443nnPOzXwh7RiywdLkJ3P2ItsDz1GM4B0_7030Blfyrs2_m-N9A1oOTjI28Qk4pzL/s1600/Pointless+Cafe+Me+2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<strong>Name: Sheila Gage, the Queen of "Painterly"</strong></div>
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<strong>Blog: <a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pointless Cafe</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottishLass10" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@scottishlass10</a></strong></div>
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<strong style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Facebook Page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pointlesscafe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pointless Cafe</a></strong></div>
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<strong style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Pinterest: <a href="http://pinterest.com/scottishlass10/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pointless Cafe</a></strong></div>
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<strong style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">YouTube: </strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmkbS946IZ28G7uRf4sNkPQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sheila Gage</a></b></span></span></div>
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<strong style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Tumblr: </strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><b><a href="http://iampointlesscafe.tumblr.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">I Am Pointless Cafe</a></b></span></span></div>
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<strong>G+: <a href="https://plus.google.com/+ScottishLass/posts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Scottish Lass</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Instagram: <a href="http://instagram.com/pointlesscafe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PointlessCafe</a></strong></div>
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Sheila lives in Texas with her two dogs. She's a painter and a blogger. Formerly 25+ years in the title/escrow business, she's happy to work from home now, doing what she loves.<br />
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<b><br /></b>Hi everyone!<br />
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<b>The Queen of Painterly. HA! </b>You know Debbie (The Crumpet) came up with THAT word! But for lack of anything better, I'm using it! It's an adorable word and something for me to grow into! I do a lot of toothpick marbles, but I also do a lot of "paintings" on my nails. I've always been all over the map - even with my art on canvas. It's mostly abstract but there are a few landscapes in there too. Just like with my nails. I love free-handed patterns like argyle but I think my forte is probably just, well..."painterly!" Though I do have a feeling that Queen of Erratic would be a better fit.<br />
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I'll just tell you a bit about myself as I show some of the nail art I've done in the past.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSyYqvJIbYKAUSnB5MokwhMBVJnen71dsNZyWb6zYmdHKLdpkproPmwopLBJDv6B9wTUJogEdfJ4nLACejxjAdoRqkXrd7kJe9BtZ4SCBWQHBS1oFkOfo4AWsVJnSLQgZsLizLHfHoi6zQ/s1600/Monet's+Water+Lilies+Manicure+Nail+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSyYqvJIbYKAUSnB5MokwhMBVJnen71dsNZyWb6zYmdHKLdpkproPmwopLBJDv6B9wTUJogEdfJ4nLACejxjAdoRqkXrd7kJe9BtZ4SCBWQHBS1oFkOfo4AWsVJnSLQgZsLizLHfHoi6zQ/s1600/Monet's+Water+Lilies+Manicure+Nail+Art.jpg" height="326" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACz4inWHY_GiGtr97n0Y5YMBa0tgxKykazETJh3fmWa-cHSKeUOIoqKG7ZNCdjiYcyVU0uKF82HjsqtC19yXb6FSyffvoUekXyYEGVff9rxDOwPe4OrEmSB-pf8JDvNdhQBRqJkAQYEFD/s1600/LLGarden+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACz4inWHY_GiGtr97n0Y5YMBa0tgxKykazETJh3fmWa-cHSKeUOIoqKG7ZNCdjiYcyVU0uKF82HjsqtC19yXb6FSyffvoUekXyYEGVff9rxDOwPe4OrEmSB-pf8JDvNdhQBRqJkAQYEFD/s1600/LLGarden+3.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><br /></b>I work from home, blogging, painting on canvas, doing Social Media for myself and others and I day trade some. Love being home with my dogs!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD3P4TOIvl98HoJmnlAHb7Mf8Ij7on-fR5WsooKHpYx0rq0EPFtegzNPT3O0J9ExE6x0Yhaiy0xZjpyIG_EeVMTLBQMR2-CXRFqzqVXt9oz3D_byQyNOB-mhg7yImbg1lhIcDans32pT_1/s640/Japanese+Nail+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD3P4TOIvl98HoJmnlAHb7Mf8Ij7on-fR5WsooKHpYx0rq0EPFtegzNPT3O0J9ExE6x0Yhaiy0xZjpyIG_EeVMTLBQMR2-CXRFqzqVXt9oz3D_byQyNOB-mhg7yImbg1lhIcDans32pT_1/s640/Japanese+Nail+Art.jpg" height="548" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's been nearly 4 years since I started blogging. After my husband passed, I needed something to occupy my time so I started painting. A few years later I was planning to move and put everything into storage. I didn't end up moving so It started as an outlet for me and wasn't polish-related at all. There are some funny stories there from the beginning months if you want to go back and take a look!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7NzzWLI_AK1Irs87zJMRGQzNeEXHPH0TlcV-EtXyJwScPL4phK5nIS2PVIobBhik5MEy8AmRSmbp-aHAKKa-2egDgOAqnOQgIBe8ibSpNJr5GKWvk9MClOoYLL0hfCZdYJMeUhpDg9C7Q/s1600/Neon-Toothpick-Marble-Nail-Art+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7NzzWLI_AK1Irs87zJMRGQzNeEXHPH0TlcV-EtXyJwScPL4phK5nIS2PVIobBhik5MEy8AmRSmbp-aHAKKa-2egDgOAqnOQgIBe8ibSpNJr5GKWvk9MClOoYLL0hfCZdYJMeUhpDg9C7Q/s1600/Neon-Toothpick-Marble-Nail-Art+1.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I started, I had something I wanted to say and no blog, so I started one quickly, before I lost what I wanted to say. Like in an hour. There was really no thought put into the name other than I didn't want to pigeon-hole myself if I ever wanted the blog to change direction. And it did just that! I figured what I had to say was mainly pointless...and I like coffee. LOL! So nothing cerebral going on there...no deep meaning for the name of my blog.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivQ88WOAA4qZ60vfntRF1YoI2ENGA7gwBwSsGRl-Z6EzZpSKWw1qIk9W6MyCGPVMB8DfbQbNLlndSmXDp1XXdW2FxoiPN8b3VzhgikujIzIb37D6T-94_OnhUJBfO9KfX-twBcqhtTOP7R/s1600/Cherry-Blossom-Nail-Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivQ88WOAA4qZ60vfntRF1YoI2ENGA7gwBwSsGRl-Z6EzZpSKWw1qIk9W6MyCGPVMB8DfbQbNLlndSmXDp1XXdW2FxoiPN8b3VzhgikujIzIb37D6T-94_OnhUJBfO9KfX-twBcqhtTOP7R/s1600/Cherry-Blossom-Nail-Art.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Of course I don't know why people read my blog, I'm just happy they do! But I would hope it's because I have a weird sense of humor and I'm honest. While I can't give them photographically gorgeous photos, I do hope I give them accurate representations of the polish I swatch...good or bad. And I hope they read because I'm honest about formula, application, etc. I'm not into trying to be someone else. I only know how to do me and the fact that anyone reads is a pleasant surprise!<br />
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Facebook is my favorite social medium because honestly, I'm not great at Twitter or IG. I'm improving though! Slowly. You can follow me at @pointlesscafe on IG and hopefully I'll keep getting better at posting sneak peeks and things I don't do a full blog post about.<br />
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There are four posts right now (over the nearly 4 years) that are running neck and neck for "most popular post of all time." Ninja Polish Divinity, Chanel Reflets D'et Collection for Summer 2014, <a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2014/06/poptastic-toothpick-marble-nail-art.html" target="_blank">Poptastic Toothpick Marble Tutorial</a> and a non-polish post called <a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2011/03/thank-goodness-for-quilted-toilet-paper.html" target="_blank">Thank Goodness for Quilted Toilet Paper.</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqgZVByiQQzjc7Tuowv2ghIzdaiBUU6V2qLIMWVZ6bZSbkVxq_mwWbsRKV62k8sFdM7bavCMKgLlBNCASa8KsFRYqOer0-689kYczvWoENT9jsunUU97tvLDy-aKaro0NN4Drk57qRKalq/s1600/Scotland-Nail-Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqgZVByiQQzjc7Tuowv2ghIzdaiBUU6V2qLIMWVZ6bZSbkVxq_mwWbsRKV62k8sFdM7bavCMKgLlBNCASa8KsFRYqOer0-689kYczvWoENT9jsunUU97tvLDy-aKaro0NN4Drk57qRKalq/s1600/Scotland-Nail-Art.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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The hours I put into my blog vary depending on what's going on in my "real life" at the time. Some days I put in 12 to 14 hours and other days zero. Until very recently, I would post at least twice a day so I was averaging 4 to 8 hours a day. I've cut back lately but I think it's temporary.<br />
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And I really don't plan or have a proper "blogging schedule." I fly by the seat of my pants.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwSBdVhoMRzpaK2moTaKis9SCRGIcJfpTvoyxbSx3JqsZLMHRjGd9wNuauXjRT1szE7A5h2rvdELbiX97SzdTU1g-rxfpP_XovDjh4g1z8mwOeEEHnvnQER4CFDYR9UFPzYnFZRVREWl6/s1600/Argyle+Tutorial.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwSBdVhoMRzpaK2moTaKis9SCRGIcJfpTvoyxbSx3JqsZLMHRjGd9wNuauXjRT1szE7A5h2rvdELbiX97SzdTU1g-rxfpP_XovDjh4g1z8mwOeEEHnvnQER4CFDYR9UFPzYnFZRVREWl6/s1600/Argyle+Tutorial.jpg" height="640" width="470" /></a></div>
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<b><br /></b>I often get asked what I wish I were better at. Well, I wish I were better at scheduling for one. But I also wish I could work with nail art tools. I make such a mess with my stamping attempts and don't even get me started on striping tape! I've found that stuff on my elbow and yes, my, um, posterior. Even in my hair once. How I get it everywhere I don't know. So usually it's just easier for me to freehand stuff. And much less stressful.<br />
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My earliest polish memory was when I was five years old. I was going to see the Easter Bunny and I insisted on dressing myself. I wore a purple and white striped body-blouse (you know, the ones that snap underneath) and a purple mini skirt with purple tights and black patent leather go-go-boots. I stomped my little feet and insisted on polishing my own nails, which I did. In RED.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWl1RDqPQIKciWhyphenhyphenfgHbW05oi4nvGmvIa3dBEV15k1FLGMdILzN3LL7QVtV5rATM-ccwP4s9Yy09t5e5S7tKjNwoDXWyFG1UqxMSqlC7gyx_GxBx6b5AAjNObvzVIbyicXt_2wI6R4LyM/s1600/easter+bunny.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWl1RDqPQIKciWhyphenhyphenfgHbW05oi4nvGmvIa3dBEV15k1FLGMdILzN3LL7QVtV5rATM-ccwP4s9Yy09t5e5S7tKjNwoDXWyFG1UqxMSqlC7gyx_GxBx6b5AAjNObvzVIbyicXt_2wI6R4LyM/s1600/easter+bunny.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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And over 40 years later I'm still doing my own nails. And I occasionally still stomp my feet. LOL!<br />
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Another question I get asked all the time is about how many polishes I have. Actually, I honestly don't know. I get tons in for review and I still buy some now and then but I give a ton of it away too, so it's hard to keep track. If I had to guess I'd say "around 4k?"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXvk8SsBJ_a7XdUF634w-0HkFjwtwRJDJaqceWz1okjEY4KBvuBhBvDKXjc41SOdTAzPcSiszocF45n14zc8znd9-LXI2AZo74k-P7PMCCZz3-_OqhInt3gZUApSH5YnTcYFS2Ew9llZcv/s1600/Paris-Nail-Art+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXvk8SsBJ_a7XdUF634w-0HkFjwtwRJDJaqceWz1okjEY4KBvuBhBvDKXjc41SOdTAzPcSiszocF45n14zc8znd9-LXI2AZo74k-P7PMCCZz3-_OqhInt3gZUApSH5YnTcYFS2Ew9llZcv/s1600/Paris-Nail-Art+1.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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The ever-present "deserted island" question is still impossible for me. So I've come up with a sort of amended version including my top 5 polishes and that's still hard.<b> </b>Well the first one is easy. <a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2013/12/pointless-cafes-best-of-2013-part-6.html" target="_blank">a-England Sleeping Palace</a>. The other 4 would have to be Nails Inc. Devonshire Row, <a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2014/06/elevation-polish-forest-collection-for.html" target="_blank">Elevation Polish Shilin Stone Forest</a>, <a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2013/09/nail-of-day-above-curve-friday-13th.html" target="_blank">Above the Curve Friday the Thirteenth 1</a> and <a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2012/11/elevation-polish-toubkal-swatches-and.html" target="_blank">Elevation Polish Toubkal</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7R7G-X-Zhp2zJbgb7Yb0r_egOsk_9R4oXmgRLCiKLbmJ_H_BihoQ-tqYyjEaLxq-_KvUsttvmj0qnidlfOx4Que93CfZ-Oy-GfIA_OJ6Ltl1g8tPQ8q7FnCzcWk-zNtnGnteVZHzF_Eo/s1600/Nails+Inc.+Devonshire+Row+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7R7G-X-Zhp2zJbgb7Yb0r_egOsk_9R4oXmgRLCiKLbmJ_H_BihoQ-tqYyjEaLxq-_KvUsttvmj0qnidlfOx4Que93CfZ-Oy-GfIA_OJ6Ltl1g8tPQ8q7FnCzcWk-zNtnGnteVZHzF_Eo/s1600/Nails+Inc.+Devonshire+Row+6.jpg" height="226" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nails Inc. Devonshire Row</td></tr>
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But my favorite brand? It's only difficult in that there are so many I love. But <a href="http://elevationpolish.bigcartel.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Elevation Polish</a> is my favorite brand. Lulu is a true craftsperson and she also has the "sciency" background and a real knack for not only the creative side, but also making a consistently fantastic formula, dealing with the business side and she's fantastic at customer service. The total package. When she started, it was a long time before she ever released her first polish to the public. She spent lots of time perfecting every aspect of it and it definitely shows. She marches to the beat of her own drum and never created anything just because "everyone else was." And the beat of HER particular drum is music to MY fingers.<br />
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As far as which polish brand do I own the most of? Well that would have to be Zoya, followed very closely by Elevation Polish.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHkCp5l-Uut1G2hvhLrTHtOMX9_NSQwmZtPFiCWXYyKOM3fEqH5-eLfKxPN_gXWZhhyWW6zcnquZhG75vwaMcCMLhlhQqqG-xOG6v1M70ygOEBLOQLF2H3OENwXB6aBBoCa7i2Y7xya785/s1600/Hello-Kitty-Argyle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHkCp5l-Uut1G2hvhLrTHtOMX9_NSQwmZtPFiCWXYyKOM3fEqH5-eLfKxPN_gXWZhhyWW6zcnquZhG75vwaMcCMLhlhQqqG-xOG6v1M70ygOEBLOQLF2H3OENwXB6aBBoCa7i2Y7xya785/s1600/Hello-Kitty-Argyle.jpg" height="640" width="582" /></a></div>
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I am a total creme-lover. Nothing beats a great creme. But a fabulous crelly micro-flake comes pretty darned close. I'm really not into glitter at all. There are exceptions to that, but not many. The glass-fleck/flake polishes make me weak in the knees as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmF3aQwfU4m3spHzHak9QInjlniLXBzYBJMtFdM7qYMI-0asvc02_l8Ud6ZwmQfYkHYNHsr_SSe097OCsJoYBc6IhF20Km5EzpWDcyzK8LamUQaXLifRXX35RS1aOuZEdtqpDFG-mYLgmn/s1600/minions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmF3aQwfU4m3spHzHak9QInjlniLXBzYBJMtFdM7qYMI-0asvc02_l8Ud6ZwmQfYkHYNHsr_SSe097OCsJoYBc6IhF20Km5EzpWDcyzK8LamUQaXLifRXX35RS1aOuZEdtqpDFG-mYLgmn/s1600/minions.jpg" height="400" width="365" /></a></div>
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My top nail care tips probably won't be for everyone. I have pretty hard nails. I find that the less I mess with them, the better they do. So I rarely use a base coat just because they don't seem to work well with my particular body chemistry. I only file if I absolutely can't avoid it and only with a 4-way buffer block. I never ever do anything to my cuticles except put on cuticle oil/cream when I happen to remember, which honestly isn't often enough. If I try to "do all the things" I end up with ragged cuticles, peeling nails, etc. I'm just totally backwards. So the only tips I can think of that would apply to everyone would be to swipe the nail with acetone before polishing to remove the oils for better adhesion and wrapping the tips for less tip wear. I did a <a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2011/11/polishing-your-own-nails-tips-and.html" target="_blank">blog post</a> about that. Well that and just know yourself. Know your own body chemistry and don't do something just because it's "the norm."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt6Lo_T1CK59gDJ4LIKLWS6Pyj-2J6rRfmU1Ijmgzx_CnlNkilRpNGwQud1Kd_D0gOZ3QeZflhWGmBWQfMVSInCxOo2k_HPYbmMNt7xRdpja8ObVl6owj1eRxSkRkEkodU_VhwSmgFzUy9/s1600/Japanese+Geisha+Nail+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt6Lo_T1CK59gDJ4LIKLWS6Pyj-2J6rRfmU1Ijmgzx_CnlNkilRpNGwQud1Kd_D0gOZ3QeZflhWGmBWQfMVSInCxOo2k_HPYbmMNt7xRdpja8ObVl6owj1eRxSkRkEkodU_VhwSmgFzUy9/s1600/Japanese+Geisha+Nail+Art.jpg" height="640" width="576" /></a></div>
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My favorite mail art theme or challenge I've participated in so far has beenThe Digit-al Dozen Countries and Cultures prompt! I had a blast with that one. Anytime I get to do Scotland, I'm happy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFxqdKLXoeDJCTngCnn658q2R9frQowRS2PX012frRqCIkdhl1y9CoeBUKm3Zkr3M6ATi2DnFL_2x5lVIBI2sdCYHvmVZzZRgPfk1iNxC2oUwTmiaU926HUglBkX9NtCyNsZWugX5kbFpz/s1600/Ruffles+Mani+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFxqdKLXoeDJCTngCnn658q2R9frQowRS2PX012frRqCIkdhl1y9CoeBUKm3Zkr3M6ATi2DnFL_2x5lVIBI2sdCYHvmVZzZRgPfk1iNxC2oUwTmiaU926HUglBkX9NtCyNsZWugX5kbFpz/s1600/Ruffles+Mani+1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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As far as my personal favorite bloggers, people who inspire me - there are oh so many! <a href="http://www.phyrra.net/" target="_blank">Phyrra</a> is a posting machine and so varied in her content. I love that. Sarah at <a href="http://www.chalkboardnails.com/" target="_blank">Chalkboard Nails</a> is so creative. Honestly I have several hundred on my Bloglovin that I follow and I get inspired by each and every one of them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN04i51GeAs_K7Fk_Dh6my_-oASI7ZD8sEM8HqbN3CTFw1soihWLIxS0CackwKlfbCFR9qjbEbcWkVzHAQshUjqo5wHNfDyO3CgfwSh0WA6wgmJ4C-PVyY2e7Di5qT5g87NnBdteAWh734/s1600/Pantone+Radiant+Orchid+Mani.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN04i51GeAs_K7Fk_Dh6my_-oASI7ZD8sEM8HqbN3CTFw1soihWLIxS0CackwKlfbCFR9qjbEbcWkVzHAQshUjqo5wHNfDyO3CgfwSh0WA6wgmJ4C-PVyY2e7Di5qT5g87NnBdteAWh734/s1600/Pantone+Radiant+Orchid+Mani.jpg" height="562" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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The best thing that's happened to me so far in the blogging world I think was actually joining the Digit-al Dozen. Getting the luxury of doing more nail art was a great thing and I'm a much happier blogger now because of it. I think "proudest moment" was being contacted by Nail It! Magazine and appearing in the online version several times - that was great. And i always love being contacted by brands to create my own shade. That's so much fun!<br />
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As far as my set-up or work space, no one needs to see behind THAT particular curtain. I just do them at my desk in my home office. In front of the computer and television. I still use the lid from a remover bottle with acetone for my nail art clean-up. I've tried a light box and never could nail that. Like at ALL. So I use a cheap clip-on desk lamp from Walmart with a daylight bulb and for shade/indirect lighting photos I hoist my butt up out of the chair and walk about 8 steps to the window. For sun photos I have to walk all the way across the house and out the front door. LOL. So sophisticated. But I'm not a photographer. I'm never going to be one of those bloggers with beautiful photographs. Although that would be great and I do hope to learn one day, my main goal is that readers see the actual polish and what it really looks like. I love looking at beautiful photographs but when it comes to deciding what to spend my own money on, I want to see the polish. So I treat my readers accordingly. Though I really do wish I had the ability to do those "pretty" photos for my nail art.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoIL3z84NiKNKKXaywMRyyoWrZUTeiNZv3OiIhJLfe26OGfEc1wR0MCyBOS7D2vbhaDBM-H64LEF-78xowF-EQ2CCV_dVvmrk0DIavawC1REBuGXXbiGw2n1-c-9EBsCHYiC2TEPa3n_zz/s1600/Union+Jack+Tutorial.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoIL3z84NiKNKKXaywMRyyoWrZUTeiNZv3OiIhJLfe26OGfEc1wR0MCyBOS7D2vbhaDBM-H64LEF-78xowF-EQ2CCV_dVvmrk0DIavawC1REBuGXXbiGw2n1-c-9EBsCHYiC2TEPa3n_zz/s1600/Union+Jack+Tutorial.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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When I first started attempting nail art, it was hard. I paint on large canvases and scaling things down was nearly impossible. It's like water skiing versus snow skiing. The first time I went snow skiing, I leaned backwards, like you do on the water, and fell all the way down the mountain. So I started a weekly series, each Saturday, called Copy Caturday. I would choose a manicure by some other blogger/nail artist and try to re-create it. Now I get inspired for nail art like I do for my art on canvas. Sometimes it's a pattern or color-combo I see in clothing, sometimes it's as simple as the light coming through tree branches or a place I've visited. Inspiration can come from anywhere!<br />
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As far as whose nails I wish I had, well I wouldn't kick Sveta Sanders''s nails out of bed (@sveta_sanders on IG)! There are so many! <a href="http://www.nailpolishwars.com/" target="_blank">Nail Polish Wars</a>, <a href="http://www.royal-milk-tea.com/" target="_blank">Royal Milk Tea</a>, <a href="http://www.britnails.co.uk/" target="_blank">Brit Nails</a>, <a href="http://globeandnail.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Globe and Nail</a>. I'm generally pretty okay with my own though. They don't chip or break a lot, which is about all you can ask for.<br />
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So that's a bit about me! Probably more than you ever wanted to know. Check out <a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/p/meet-ladies-of-digit-al-dozen.html" role="button" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">past posts</a> in this series to get to know the rest of the artists in the Digit-al Dozen!.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-21955240228258150522014-07-12T15:13:00.000+01:002014-07-12T15:13:00.127+01:00Get Involved with the Digit-al Dozen<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Digit-al Dozen is turning two in September. Where has the time gone?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For our first birthday we had a theme extravaganza, returning once to each of our original 12 themes. This time around we're doing something special again, but we're letting you take the reins. We would like you to help us choose our themes for the week (we're choosing the best one or or maybe even five).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">All we ask is that you don't pick a theme we've previously covered. You can find a list of all our themes so far <a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/search/label/Roundup" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Let us know in the comments which theme you think we should tackle, or pop over to our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thedigitaldozen/posts/873433836020134" target="_blank">FB page</a> and tell us there. </span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-41651634909716419222014-07-09T10:00:00.000+01:002014-07-09T10:00:01.770+01:00Meet Jacki, The Queen Of Striping Tape<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>Name: Jacki from Adventures In Acetone, (the Queen of Striping Tape)</b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #141823;">Blog: </span><a href="http://www.adventuresinacetone.com/">www.adventuresinacetone.com</a></b></div>
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<b>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/AdventInAcetone">@AdventInAcetone</a></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #141823;">Facebook Page:</span> <a href="http://facebook.com/adventuresinacetone"><span style="cursor: pointer;">facebook.com/a</span>dventuresinacetone</a></b></div>
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<b>Pinterest: <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/AdventInAcetone/">http://www.pinterest.com/AdventInAcetone/</a></b></div>
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<b>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/jackileegentry">https://www.youtube.com/user/jackileegentry</a></b></div>
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<b>G+: <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/115852694351818687777/posts">https://plus.google.com/u/0/115852694351818687777/posts</a></b></div>
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<b>Instagram: <a href="http://instagram.com/adventuresinacetone">@adventuresinacetone</a> </b></div>
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Hey everyone! It's Jacki from Adventures In Acetone, and I'm here for this week's Queen Post! I've been named the Queen of Striping Tape and I'm going to tell you a bit more about myself today! </div>
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During the day, I'm a stay at home mom to two kiddos: Hailey(6) and Owen(2). They keep me busy, so blogging has to get done early in the morning before they wake up (thank goodness for coffee!) or during nap time. It's definitely a balance, but I started Adventures In Acetone when my husband was deployed three years ago, so I've always had to balance blogging and parenting. </div>
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Before we continue with my blog, let's go back in time a bit to high school. My earliest polish memory was matching my toenails each day to the outfit I was wearing to school. Was I crazy or what? I had a small collection of different colors and really liked them, but it was about ten years later before I stopped wearing acrylics on my fingernails and really started adding to my collection at home for doing my own manis. </div>
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Back to when I started the blog: I had a lot of extra time on my hands after my daughter went to sleep when my husband was in Afghanistan, so I would Google Image search for nail art to try. I used to post my nail pictures on my personal Facebook page but eventually decided to spare my friends' feeds by creating a nail blog. The name of my blog was actually a Facebook friend's idea! I posted a status asking for blog name ideas and had tons of input before I decided on Adventures In Acetone. </div>
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Shortly after the the blog was created, I was sucked into the whirlwind of nail polish collecting and my collection grew from less than 100 to about 1000 these days. I have more OPI polishes than any other brand, and I love using them for nail art. However, if I have to pick my favorite brand, it's Elevation Polish! Lulu makes top quality gorgeous colors with tons of different finishes and less glitter than a lot of other indie brands. After I got over the initial "indie polish craze," I've been glittered-out and lean much further to the shimmer and creme side of the polish spectrum because they are much easier for nail art. It's a rare occasion that I don't want at least a few from the new collections that Lulu comes up with for each month.</div>
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I think people read my blog for nail art and tutorials. I really enjoy making tutorials and try to do Tutorial Tuesday features as often as possible. Nail art can be easy enough for everyone with practice, and I love showing step-by-step photos at how easy it is for shapes and lines to create cute nail art. I love love love when others recreate my nail art or use a tutorial of mine! It means that people actually like something enough that I've done to wear it on their own nails! Is there a bigger complement for a nail artist? Not for me! <i>(If you've recreated any of my nail art or tried a tutorial, I'd LOVE to see it! Please share your photo on my Facebook Page or use #inspiredbyadventuresinacetone on Instagram!)</i></div>
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Currently, my most popular post by page views is a Flowery Water Marble I posted over two years ago. I think I always get a ton of awesome feedback and views on water marbles because they don't look as easy as they are. You can see that post here: <a href="http://www.adventuresinacetone.com/2012/05/flowery-water-marble.html">http://www.adventuresinacetone.com/2012/05/flowery-water-marble.html</a>. My next video tutorial will be a flower watermarble! </div>
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My nail art skills are always a work in progress. I currently wish I was better at floral nail art. I'm practicing though, and have been trying to post Friday Florals so you can follow me on my floral journey. I'm not sure why, but I've been keeping away from floral patterns for a long time. So here's to hoping I can improve!</div>
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My top polish tip is for bloggers or anyone wanting to take nail pictures! Cleaning up around the cuticles with remover causes dryness and that's not so cute for photos, but neither are oily fingers from freshly applied cuticle oil. Personally, right before I take my photos, I prefer to use a clean up brush and paint on some OPI Avojuice lotion around the nail on the cuticles and skin, avoiding the nails (don't want to mess up the fresh paint job!). Then, I gently rub in any excess that wasn't absorbed. You can do this with any non-greasy lotion. It gives your cuticles and skin back the moisture they need without making them shiny!</div>
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Want to know something cool? When we moved to this new house, Mr. Adventures In Acetone set up an awesome nail polish workspace for me! I have a long table desk, with my computer at one end, and my lightbox at the other. There are nail polish racks on the wall above the desk, and a tall Alex drawer system on the end by the lightbox. Guess where this workspace is?! In our dining room! We don't even have room for a table so we eat at the breakfast bar in the kitchen instead! Isn't he awesome? I love my nail area, you can see an older photo of it below from Instagram:</div>
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If I'm being honest with you, I can't pick a favorite Digit-al Dozen theme-- it's a tie between Book Week and Geek Week! During Book Week, I was able to draw from my kids' favorite books, while during Geek Week I was able to pull from Mr. AIA and my favorite shows! Together, they both encompass "me" so I'll have to go with both! Breaking the rules, aren't I?</div>
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My proudest blogging achievement to date was being accepted into the OPI Blogging Network last November. IT'S OPI!!! Only, like, the BIGGEST nail polish company that I've loved way back to when I would get pedicures at salons with my mom before my nail polish days started. I was in total shock when I received my acceptance email and we even went out for dinner that night to celebrate! Haha, don't judge me! ;) </div>
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If I were stranded on a desert island and could only bring five polishes, they would be: <b>Illamasqua Seance, RBL Aqua Lily, Elevation Polish Arabian Sea, Elevation Polish Angels Are The Yetis Of The Clouds, </b>and<b> KBShimmer You're So Shellfish</b>. These are ones that I reach for time and time again!</div>
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Now that I've shared some random information about me, let's talk about striping tape! Out of our group, I am named the <b>Queen of Striping Tape</b>, and I mostly love using it in combination with textured polishes! Although striping tape can make awesome designs without textures, there is something about those clean lines and differences in texture and thickness where you peel the tape back up again. </div>
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Here are some tips on using striping tape:</div>
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<li style="text-align: center;">The number one most important thing is to make sure that your base color is COMPLETELY DRY before adding the tape. You don't want the base peeling up with the tape and having to start back at square one! </li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Another tip: after you apply your striping tape, sponge or paint on the next color one nail at a time. As in, paint the top color on one nail, peel off the tape, and then move on to painting the next nail's top color, and so on. You want to peel up the tape while the top color is still wet.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Remember the order you placed the tape if they cross over each other. You need to peel them back up in the opposite order (last piece placed down will be the first one to be peeled up, etc.) to avoid messing up the design!</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Get creative! Stripes are easy and look great, but you can also criss cross and make intricate designs as well! My favorite striping tape nails were where the tape criss crossed on the entire nail, and then the top layer was a gradient of texture polishes sponged on. You can see the tutorial below:</li>
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<li style="text-align: center;">It may be helpful to cut all of the tape pieces at once and stick one end on the table so you can do all of the nails quickly after the tape is ready!</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIiPKZJciDgb1LaZY-RmE-AEwT2HPhQo9rQ2mjlDY8xvkSY-qmJUWX68m_LFtfIGCZi9QGklgMHcTPaXN4Hy70Zb08GoZHxr0zu2_ejLAZ3s2Xf7t6gw8K3y5ZAyPL3MXOp9GsjeUkBSgA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-08+at+12.10.46+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIiPKZJciDgb1LaZY-RmE-AEwT2HPhQo9rQ2mjlDY8xvkSY-qmJUWX68m_LFtfIGCZi9QGklgMHcTPaXN4Hy70Zb08GoZHxr0zu2_ejLAZ3s2Xf7t6gw8K3y5ZAyPL3MXOp9GsjeUkBSgA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-08+at+12.10.46+PM.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">You can even use striping tape on the nail in the design, not as something to peel back up. For example, in my first experience using striping tape below, where I showed a few different options:</span></span></li>
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I have a few tutorials on my blog for easy striping tape nail art, here is a color blocking idea:</div>
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Need more tips for using striping tape? Check out <a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/2013/11/how-tousing-striping-tape.html">our previous post on Striping Tape</a> here on The Digit-al Dozen Blog!</div>
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Thank you so much for reading and learning a bit more about little 'ole me! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-22476535525715627942014-07-05T13:00:00.000+01:002014-07-05T13:00:21.895+01:00Digit-al Dozen - Everything You Wanted To Know About Collages<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Hello friends! It's Shelly here. Today's Digit-al Dozen post is all about collages! If you follow me over at <a href="http://www.sassyshelly.com/" target="_blank">SassyShelly.com</a> you know I LOVE making photo collages, I just can't get enough of them! So of course I jumped at the chance to share a few of my favorite collage making apps with you here on the DD blog. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Now a quick Google search will bring up a ton of articles on the "Best Collage Makers". But instead of just telling you about the highest rated ones on the web I'm going to tell you about those that I use regularly and can personally recommend for features and ease of use. And believe me I've tried dozens.</span><br />
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My number one favorite is definitely <b>PicsArt</b>. It's a free app available in the <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.picsart.studio&hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Google Play Store</a> and the iPhone <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/picsart-photo-studio/id587366035?mt=8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">App Store</a>. I love it not just for collages but also for photos in general. It has a ton of great photoshop-esque editing features such as the ability to create overlays as well as removing 'blemishes' like cuts and things around the cuticle..gotta love that! I also really like that it allows you to download your own custom fonts right to the app. As far as collages go there are sooo many different templates available from simple grids to elaborate themed backgrounds. It also has a FB Cover size that fits perfectly in Facebook's awkward timeline. My 2nd photo shows what the collage making process looks like, you can easily change the border size, corner radius and background color. Also, I just had to mention this, the one thing that I constantly see people asking is how to make a watermark that curves around the nail.. PicsArt has you covered. While adding text to your photo just hit that bottom button with the 3 lines and choose "Wrap" to wrap the text around your cuticle! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxU8Cj8DC2U-LaG2ZR0G8oq2Q5bnkN3CXheIwL3EajL40sHrfnwmv8nLBdyMUSTLS8eN2ZY_5vgjugHfY5khINjtfDaRyvxmraea2z6wwNYi3m7wgO3Vj7H8-Ccp1-Y8BcZVNwKise9Cek/s1600/PicsArt+collage+maker+DD+post.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxU8Cj8DC2U-LaG2ZR0G8oq2Q5bnkN3CXheIwL3EajL40sHrfnwmv8nLBdyMUSTLS8eN2ZY_5vgjugHfY5khINjtfDaRyvxmraea2z6wwNYi3m7wgO3Vj7H8-Ccp1-Y8BcZVNwKise9Cek/s1600/PicsArt+collage+maker+DD+post.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<br />Another excellent collage app is <b>Photo Grid</b>. Also available for free on both <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.roidapp.photogrid&hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Android </a>and <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/photo-grid-video-collage-maker/id543577420?mt=8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iPhone</a>. It's just your basic collage maker, no bells and whistles but it's collage features go above and beyond. It offers many unique grid templates and the ability to easily add text to a collage. But I really love that it allows you to zoom and rotate each photo by degrees, not just your usual 4 way rotation (many of the others I've tried only turn 90 degrees). It also has a "Free" collage feature (shown bottom right below) that lets you place your photos freely on the background of your choice, backgrounds include plain colors, funky patterns and Holiday themes. It's "Template HD" option allows you to add your photos to designer themes like fake magazine covers, cute kitty frames, romantic frames and so on. Another thing I like is that it does have simple editing features such as adding filters and adjusting the brightness, contrast and saturation for each picture. So if you notice one of the photos in your collage is a bit darker than the others it's easy to quickly go in and touch it up.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvmwMcWRUusZxD3uSiDoRv4U0csHskRy8nv6C_IndAsoG8xzHEiX2DDFtK5Lu4CWv_mvYHW70nXHF2ETUWCFydi0reWevWW910rspkE7v7U-bT6eEaFlbwV4do4BWH9T-CcD_P8MnwGrY/s1600/PhotoGrid_1404374376452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvmwMcWRUusZxD3uSiDoRv4U0csHskRy8nv6C_IndAsoG8xzHEiX2DDFtK5Lu4CWv_mvYHW70nXHF2ETUWCFydi0reWevWW910rspkE7v7U-bT6eEaFlbwV4do4BWH9T-CcD_P8MnwGrY/s1600/PhotoGrid_1404374376452.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Line Camera</b> is one I've only recently discovered but it's quickly becoming one I use quite often. Available on <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.naver.linecamera.android&hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Android </a>and <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/line-camera-selfie-collage/id516561342?mt=8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iPhone</a>, Line camera is pretty awesome. It's the only collage maker I've used that lets you customize the layout of each template.. picture doesn't fit like you want, adjust it! Just drag the dots where you want the lines to go. How cool is that? Talk about creating some unique collages! The only thing I don't like (on my Android tablet anyways, I don't know how it works on iphone) is that zoom is not supported, I can't zoom or rotate the photos at all. Hopefully they'll change that in a future update. Another thing, you may have seen these cute stickers popping up on peoples IG pics with the little cartoon bunny or the blonde girl who cries or gives thumbs up.. Line camera is where those come from.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Also, totally not collage related but worth mentioning..this is the only photo editor I've seen that has body enhancement features. I just found this "Beauty" option and playing around with it I discovered you can change your whole body! Weird or cool I don't know but it's definitely interesting.. Wanna make your eyes bigger, nose smaller, slim your face and body or add volume to your boobs.. Yeah, you can do that. Lol</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When I don't have my tablet in hand I sometimes use one of the many free online collage makers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.fotor.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fotor </a></b>is the one that I like best. It's available for free on the web and by signing up to open an account you unlock a bunch of extra features and it's all still free. It has a ton of awesome collage modes from simple to funky grids, photo stitching and super cute shape collages in the form of hearts, stars, butterflies, animals, holiday shapes and even paw prints! It also has a "Cover Photo" option that creates perfectly sized photos to fit FB, Twitter, YouTube and G+ headers. And I really like that you can add as many photos as you like to your collage (some makers max out at 15 pictures or less). And there are lots of fonts to choose from when adding a watermark to your collages, it also allows you to pull fonts saved on your computer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I've only slightly checked out the photo editing features but from what I see so far it has a lot of options. It does basic color enhancements and can adjust highlights and shadows. It also has a clone tool and eraser. Definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a simple alternative to photoshop. Obviously you can't do everything you could with ps but it's got the basics for editing nail pictures anyways. :)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7LHVqm2KGwd7e1o6GAL4f9WzKGWkbxXJWoWFrohWa1dlSI3Hn2mi-3N8oz8hhHckBvMVPLixZgelUNyZ-Selz-AkXF5QfWVCyu6Mcu6xNbgRjIKhXSmaW67WgnXweUtPNOp9rqvyFRyU2/s1600/fotor+DD+collage+post.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7LHVqm2KGwd7e1o6GAL4f9WzKGWkbxXJWoWFrohWa1dlSI3Hn2mi-3N8oz8hhHckBvMVPLixZgelUNyZ-Selz-AkXF5QfWVCyu6Mcu6xNbgRjIKhXSmaW67WgnXweUtPNOp9rqvyFRyU2/s1600/fotor+DD+collage+post.jpg" height="450" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> <b><a href="http://www.picmonkey.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PicMonkey</a></b> is one online editor that everybody is talking about lately so I had to check it out. There aren't many collage styles to choose from unless you pay for a membership, but $4.99 a month is a bit much for me so I just used the free options. If you do buy a membership though there are a lot of professional quality photography edits available. It does have some nice free photo editing features though and of course it allows you to add text and basic things like that in the free version. One thing that I found pretty cool is that in collage mode you can add a 'swatch' to give your collage an interesting element, below I used the chevron pattern and there are many other 'swatch' styles to choose from to match your photos. You can also customize each block in the collage by dragging the lines side to side or up and down. Or you can choose to create your own grid by adding photos and placing them where you want. It's not quite as free as Line Camera's customization's because it doesn't move in diagonal lines but you do have more freedom than just using the few simple free templates offered.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqoTi81bNoG9N5AksG2-JeorP0WodcKuHCersOMoaN9GoPBQOUWLdwkc-iIFwujHdd_xIMvAUjZfA054d3LdM3MvGAXEoIAew9q2uWQppUdVuorIigCnZ-J8gfrvjShyWdRmM5fUSovzqX/s1600/PicMonkey+DD+collage+post.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqoTi81bNoG9N5AksG2-JeorP0WodcKuHCersOMoaN9GoPBQOUWLdwkc-iIFwujHdd_xIMvAUjZfA054d3LdM3MvGAXEoIAew9q2uWQppUdVuorIigCnZ-J8gfrvjShyWdRmM5fUSovzqX/s1600/PicMonkey+DD+collage+post.jpg" height="622" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I LOVE COLLAGES! They're such a fun way to put together family photos or to showcase photos from a memorable day. And of course if you blog they're a great way to start off a swatch post.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I hope this post was helpful if any of you are looking to try some new photo apps or that it inspires you to try some you haven't before. Luckily they're free so you can try them all and see which tickles your fancy. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">What programs do you use for your photos? </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01223354385663763122noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-22925088387406825392014-07-02T11:00:00.000+01:002014-07-08T18:19:03.493+01:00Creative Nail Design By Sue-Queen of Split Canvas<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfB9l6js7EfDEkSaTpTrGhaWp_U193WBAc_XFq8h-pLnb3_NN4ANXJMCav4hvm3XL9fi71mfpGt3haIYYaqoD_z5U-CuU9UZWJiH_KQ5-F1o8HQVsnfYg0xlMVjK5NPHGY-92PZJV5E31Q/s1600/The+family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfB9l6js7EfDEkSaTpTrGhaWp_U193WBAc_XFq8h-pLnb3_NN4ANXJMCav4hvm3XL9fi71mfpGt3haIYYaqoD_z5U-CuU9UZWJiH_KQ5-F1o8HQVsnfYg0xlMVjK5NPHGY-92PZJV5E31Q/s1600/The+family.jpg" height="223" width="320" /></a></div>
Family picture with Elmer Pug and Roxy Pug
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Blog:<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_1837688312"> </a><a href="http://www.creativenaildesignbysue.com/">http://www.creativenaildesignbysue.com/</a><br />
Twitter: @<a href="http://twitter.com/naildesignbysue" target="_blank">naildesignbysue</a><br />
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Pinterest: <a href="http://pinterest.com/sue1813" target="_blank">Sue1813</a><br />
YouTube: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_594360792"></span>Creative Nail Design By Sue<span id="goog_594360793"></span></a><br />
Instagram: @<a href="http://instagram.com/creativenaildesignbysue" target="_blank">creativenaildesignbysue</a><br />
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Hi everyone!! I'm glad I get this opportunity to share with everyone a little bit about myself. Obviously my name is Sue and in my real life, I am a Nursing Home Administrator and a part-time group fitness instructor at a local gym. I was a chronic nail biter my whole life until I got a gift certificate to a local salon for a manicure and I tried gel polish. I started to get the gel manicures every two weeks until my nails grew out and I couldn't believe what I had been missing out on. Since the gel was so expensive ($50 back then), I researched purchasing my own equipment and started doing it at home on my own. I started to mix gel and regular polish and doing nail art and wondered if there was a way to document what I was doing with photos. I googled "how to start a blog" and the rest is history.<br />
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People are amazed to know that I had never looked at a single blog before that google search. I didn't even know such a thing existed. When I was setting up my blog using the Blogger template, it asked me for a name and I kept it simple. I love nail design, wanted to be creative and I just added my name in to make it mine. That was more than two years ago and I have not lost interest since. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Pz-1WMoogoBLEB2UPse4VqnUHdPDHbQ-4ogkhtDTnzin3z4q3kRFYcxsvYjK8eNx-_sK1n5XTBphzFTCXM3I7kCsXRvg0zY3VkLteXhItcoUilVFEoo_jZH30kXeUssZlcw29ZDNoaDz/s1600/pippi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Pz-1WMoogoBLEB2UPse4VqnUHdPDHbQ-4ogkhtDTnzin3z4q3kRFYcxsvYjK8eNx-_sK1n5XTBphzFTCXM3I7kCsXRvg0zY3VkLteXhItcoUilVFEoo_jZH30kXeUssZlcw29ZDNoaDz/s1600/pippi.jpg" height="288" width="320" /></a><br />
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My blog is very simple. With my day job, I can sometimes work long hours and I spend quite a bit of time at the gym so I don't have as much time to dedicate to blogging. The amount of time I spend on my blog varies greatly. Sometimes its two hours a week and sometimes six or seven. You will find that I generally only have one photo and I usually am brief in my narrative. My goal ultimately is to chronicle my life with nail art and I know that this appeals to some who may be short on time. For that reason, I find that I tend to prefer using Facebook and Instagram because it offers a snapshot and I also love how easy it is to comment quickly without some of the obstacles that blogs present.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLH01xXkz8vTta6qr3ckshuIJL2fLTSlEcSQ0C1vMNnwnaV155Zcr0CbcpOAM2FZMkP3Fba7Rt3br7b2HvoiDmS315Se1gQ3hN3qgdR70VGWyOfZt-MGNZuMnQnZZm-XKRhug12_ZVhFd/s1600/Girl+blowing+bubbles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLH01xXkz8vTta6qr3ckshuIJL2fLTSlEcSQ0C1vMNnwnaV155Zcr0CbcpOAM2FZMkP3Fba7Rt3br7b2HvoiDmS315Se1gQ3hN3qgdR70VGWyOfZt-MGNZuMnQnZZm-XKRhug12_ZVhFd/s1600/Girl+blowing+bubbles.jpg" height="260" width="320" /></a></div>
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The posts that I find are most popular (aside from my Digital Dozen posts) are the ones that can easily be found on a Goggle search. So when someone is searching for Olympic nails or various movie titles, they might find me fairly easily. There was a time when I participated in three nail challenges at one time but I have slowed up on that because I decided that what I enjoy most is just doing art when something inspires me. I wish I had more time so I could improve on my skills. I would love to take a class on shading since this is a weakness for me and I want to be better. Although here is an old picture from when I first started and I think I have improved a bit since then.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Ct6yWK2Vu6IUpsbBkO-WoXq0iu3idd1d38DgYX5WYPHmjnkd3ddg-JGnAv8Vd3MMIBCWk0Adw5a26wZbdQN4LgUb8KlcFn3v8L2pJoCLdPzmejusm5h1QFtp86n3107zQD-jV8uOBVM1/s1600/tropical+drinks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Ct6yWK2Vu6IUpsbBkO-WoXq0iu3idd1d38DgYX5WYPHmjnkd3ddg-JGnAv8Vd3MMIBCWk0Adw5a26wZbdQN4LgUb8KlcFn3v8L2pJoCLdPzmejusm5h1QFtp86n3107zQD-jV8uOBVM1/s1600/tropical+drinks.jpg" height="229" width="320" /></a></div>
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When I think back about my earliest polish memories, they are all about my mom. She has perfect nails. They have always been perfect, healthy looking and strong. I never had any so I wasn't really that into polish. She had more than me. Can't say that is the same today. She still has a decent size polish stash of her own but it pales in comparison to mine now. I have space on two homemade shelves for 1,000. Interested in a peek? Have a look.........<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/BgFxZFU7FHc" width="560"></iframe>
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<br />I would love to say that my workspace was this organized but it isn't. I do my nails on the couch with my polish/art stuff crammed onto a small end stand. I have various divided caddies (from Bed, Bath and Beyond) that hold my supplies. That's where I am most comfortable and the pugs can supervise, which makes them happy.<br />
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I have so many polishes that I love and wouldn't want to do without but if I had to pick my current top five...<br />
Zoya Aurora<br />
OPI Over & Over A-Gwen<br />
Illamasqua Jo'Mina<br />
Cult Nails Nevermore<br />
ManGlaze Fatty's Got More Blood<br />
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It is really hard to pick a favorite brand. As you could see by my video the brands that make up a significant portion of my stash are Zoya and OPI. If I was going to grab a polish that I knew would wear well with no chips or peeling, I would grab a Zoya. I think that is just a matter of chemistry because others can't say the same about the brand. I just know it works well with my nails. If I am looking for a matte finish, no brainer, it will always be a ManGlaze. If I know I can't change polish for more than a few days, I always reach for an OPI Liquid Sand. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCe2_GlcSWbR8a14uUZptkJ9f9ycNYXxB8TVs7smeTbwiRHLhUsUm0ctB3kjUrv1zRiIMprVS9MzFG_zDZLpYI1ciik8MjGMdbhYt6EUYPMKGD1SuLwXYp8euBxiKovpWQvIc5Y1sdRWQD/s1600/bugs%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCe2_GlcSWbR8a14uUZptkJ9f9ycNYXxB8TVs7smeTbwiRHLhUsUm0ctB3kjUrv1zRiIMprVS9MzFG_zDZLpYI1ciik8MjGMdbhYt6EUYPMKGD1SuLwXYp8euBxiKovpWQvIc5Y1sdRWQD/s1600/bugs%255B1%255D.jpg" height="248" width="320" /></a></div>
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Nail care? I don't do it. Ever. I file nails when they break or when I feel something catching on my clothes or hair. I never soak, never push back cuticles or clip them. I never use base coats or nail strengthners. I use Dior Creme Abricot when my cuticles get really dry. It's pricey but goes a long way with just a speck. The bottom line is that I do enough to make them presentable but I spend every moment I have on the art itself. I wish I had more time to invest in nail care because I follow people that have amazing nails. I find myself drawn to bloggers that have thin square nails. I love @<a href="http://instagram.com/nailz_craze" target="_blank">nailz_craze</a>, @<a href="http://instagram.com/kimiko7878" target="_blank">kimiko7878</a>, @<a href="http://instagram.com/didoline" target="_blank">didoline</a> on instagram to name a few.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4BJD6IF_FDAd-YQtbz3u9rr8xyLbraDrwcEEvxm430OHATAaaTdcG8GJqzPHoP0wuNXoScu27ma6DIsbdW-I05qpYliqBvVOv7vC972eszpbUtjU2PfgsWvTVZwv-b_4ELdzwVragbFvS/s1600/ice+cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4BJD6IF_FDAd-YQtbz3u9rr8xyLbraDrwcEEvxm430OHATAaaTdcG8GJqzPHoP0wuNXoScu27ma6DIsbdW-I05qpYliqBvVOv7vC972eszpbUtjU2PfgsWvTVZwv-b_4ELdzwVragbFvS/s1600/ice+cream.jpg" height="320" width="255" /></a></div>
<br />My favorite theme that we have done so far with The Digital Dozen has definitely been Book Week. I thought I would hate it because I never read but a quick online search led me to children's books and it ended up being a lot of fun. I have had people tag me when they recreate something I have done and I love it!! It really makes me feel good that I inspired them in some way and I am even happier to see them do it better. I think it is important for everyone in the community to see the value in supporting others. Even if I take a small piece of someone's design or if something they did just inspires me, I credit the artist. I think that the competitive side in people makes them want to have an edge but ultimately giving credit to another blogger will make you more respected and ultimately will serve you better.<br />
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<br />I can honestly say that my proudest nail blogging achievement was starting one and sticking to it. People get burned out easily when blogging and it's important to not overextend yourself and to stay true to your goals. Just do what you love or it becomes a job and maybe one that you will no longer want to participate in. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZw5qEGMFWwx3sUhs2F5JsQncG9zygv7y9uELN_UriFNo2JzV8PbGBwUn993tyh6boUXX4__xXU5JBl1SlZwIxGM3JBwITIw86TPpZjts7d2683HsVQ8A_56igTG2qO1zfC-CGAap2d-2/s1600/20120622_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZw5qEGMFWwx3sUhs2F5JsQncG9zygv7y9uELN_UriFNo2JzV8PbGBwUn993tyh6boUXX4__xXU5JBl1SlZwIxGM3JBwITIw86TPpZjts7d2683HsVQ8A_56igTG2qO1zfC-CGAap2d-2/s1600/20120622_10.jpg" height="293" width="320" /></a></div>
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So, you will notice that I tend to lean towards designs that go across multiple nails. For this reason, my polish besties call me the Queen of the split canvas. Anytime I can try and use multiple nails to freehand an image, I am up for the challenge. I just think it adds a layer of interest and it takes planning to get things to line up and to do it in a way that flows naturally on my nails. Sometimes it's as simple as writing letters to form a word or phrase across multiple nails......<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmnbjPrHTJVOJk_KqZZCnaLKbMpJ-PBVUcvonnuo-BqTs6p3t__TwYb0N9xA0aSYOBuUfhBb49c7g0gH1L9jGbk8lFnty44FGVby9HOvZWuw450pXEOWKk1pWxcX41IP5tmqWYJUvmWreP/s1600/corduroy2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmnbjPrHTJVOJk_KqZZCnaLKbMpJ-PBVUcvonnuo-BqTs6p3t__TwYb0N9xA0aSYOBuUfhBb49c7g0gH1L9jGbk8lFnty44FGVby9HOvZWuw450pXEOWKk1pWxcX41IP5tmqWYJUvmWreP/s1600/corduroy2.jpg" height="287" width="320" /></a></div>
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Other times the entire image connects two, three or even four nails together.....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBA3DgI-IY7JPQ7cs0-5_4rtJrWAUg75VDhAwy2Kwh4AD7wY4AcFFXfTq2MXmVF3MWT5ZCU53kqNidySWKzDQ5DL0UKN1LsML_JT1XOM3X_wmTk8O4a7fTKpAcdh0BnaJJ87GYUya8ukrL/s1600/curious.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBA3DgI-IY7JPQ7cs0-5_4rtJrWAUg75VDhAwy2Kwh4AD7wY4AcFFXfTq2MXmVF3MWT5ZCU53kqNidySWKzDQ5DL0UKN1LsML_JT1XOM3X_wmTk8O4a7fTKpAcdh0BnaJJ87GYUya8ukrL/s1600/curious.jpg" height="320" width="300" /></a></div>
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Of course I can't resist a good dog themed manicure. I wanted to do a pug but just couldn't master that little curly tail......</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEISlj68esZzJ857rDbKFbMazwykGf6761MeTyRzjdUm4auFTi__Bzj9cDxmh6sfVGUM9EyF0CBfd4BBMdsImAVpxr5tn71wpEGIRUxM-qcf2EsI9ofBKs10dooy5UA9OzHQisE_u6C47J/s1600/man+and+best+friend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEISlj68esZzJ857rDbKFbMazwykGf6761MeTyRzjdUm4auFTi__Bzj9cDxmh6sfVGUM9EyF0CBfd4BBMdsImAVpxr5tn71wpEGIRUxM-qcf2EsI9ofBKs10dooy5UA9OzHQisE_u6C47J/s1600/man+and+best+friend.jpg" height="295" width="320" /></a></div>
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You will even find me attempting this technique during the holidays......</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGpMNefOrJWozX1XToys_1dg_buVRqPdcgFuh__d8b_YsKiledMtMKZkOlBOhM2wzF1WPh2d5iEFzoNJdN-3tgTFVv8_EBpiBxdr-WXub6LkwwibChGVrKaiKVVwpEi1YtL-zCI4035PdC/s1600/three+men%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGpMNefOrJWozX1XToys_1dg_buVRqPdcgFuh__d8b_YsKiledMtMKZkOlBOhM2wzF1WPh2d5iEFzoNJdN-3tgTFVv8_EBpiBxdr-WXub6LkwwibChGVrKaiKVVwpEi1YtL-zCI4035PdC/s1600/three+men%255B1%255D.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFsOwGnKb9hx0CD2G1kEvV6vEzdiORXNtP-FUh2ajQVYMPYR-FsBiltMxGhDDU_1MEzWh2njYIm_EpWhh-U2zViX3Vc1nAFHvL8JVu8LSMHMDqPxIoeD0wTMUoCbb81UuAfbkQqk-sHHb/s1600/package+and+balls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFsOwGnKb9hx0CD2G1kEvV6vEzdiORXNtP-FUh2ajQVYMPYR-FsBiltMxGhDDU_1MEzWh2njYIm_EpWhh-U2zViX3Vc1nAFHvL8JVu8LSMHMDqPxIoeD0wTMUoCbb81UuAfbkQqk-sHHb/s1600/package+and+balls.jpg" height="311" width="320" /></a></div>
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And, an attempt at recreating a real masterpiece....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqCKL3RFK9FqWEvrplen_UGebRjgXF6whEJcb9N10hks4_uHPWU8h1jRMfbzf6_XIu0r0TPfuuuGea-qaK01p_VWrwoefbkW1bAyxAgu9HiNFSStCIfzADvO-SCElUiyZ23MWfor5fW-7v/s1600/monet%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqCKL3RFK9FqWEvrplen_UGebRjgXF6whEJcb9N10hks4_uHPWU8h1jRMfbzf6_XIu0r0TPfuuuGea-qaK01p_VWrwoefbkW1bAyxAgu9HiNFSStCIfzADvO-SCElUiyZ23MWfor5fW-7v/s1600/monet%255B1%255D.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Or a vintage favorite..........</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_RJClpBtcTuh15MiPwch1Gl5PMx9CKnKVp2Ktyde8BahRbOfgTY32EkwMfJGQ0DvJ6L2hpXJvcUF41gd23h0Q1RVGUSR9rm4AYmQOS52IeXSe39HtyulAfD2ABccABTSJcYPew1fW3XJe/s1600/Vintage+Felix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_RJClpBtcTuh15MiPwch1Gl5PMx9CKnKVp2Ktyde8BahRbOfgTY32EkwMfJGQ0DvJ6L2hpXJvcUF41gd23h0Q1RVGUSR9rm4AYmQOS52IeXSe39HtyulAfD2ABccABTSJcYPew1fW3XJe/s1600/Vintage+Felix.jpg" height="280" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />I hope you all enjoyed reading a little bit about me. I always enjoy reading bios about other bloggers because I am interested in the person behind the blog. Maybe I gave you even the tiniest bit of inspiration or at least enjoyment seeing some of my mani's. Have you done any split canvas designs? Tag me on Instagram at @<a href="http://instagram.com/" target="_blank">creativenaildesignbysue</a>. I would love to see what you come up with. Maybe you will inspire me to recreate your design.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlXeSn2SfMO7k0QBobYdFItQUQ-08c33BRh6FRs071_RL_IKip6q7yCl_KL2RFHQCrKIIrqNisuWFUqQJ1r1LpM-U0yh7Jyq3XTKRhtlfgsDFTsz5v7y26jZxFgq4SbzvM4NlfHy9kqA/s1600/signature-names-individual.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://i.imgur.com/BtTfiW9.png" height="250" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-3162367934962182932014-06-28T10:00:00.000+01:002014-06-28T10:00:01.872+01:00Fugly is the New Pretty!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Welcome! Welcome! Today I (Kirsten from <a href="http://www.geekyowl.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Geeky Owl</a>) have a post for you that I am super excited about (Are others? Perhaps not). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Today's post is all about those colors that most people find ugly, and I don't mean: Ew, that peach makes my hands red and it's ugly. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I mean: Ew! That totally looks like baby poop on your nails!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And to that I say: Awesome! Bring it on! Bring on the poop nails! Bring on the Fugly!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2014/04/different-dimension-spring-2014.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2014/04/different-dimension-spring-2014.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYogEFhr-HStFwwbnv8dlNj6KGPDnX-3E47TU96tL9s1qYrdG8TMVjh2BA5F7mb36bbxrE70QZx__fqElrkpnqd-SB_3qOdpkTjKRsbxaR83PyaQMCzlDdazp-7QzRlHMyANY1Me_FJXe/s1600/Different-Dimension-That's-Just-Ducky+4.jpg" height="640" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2014/04/different-dimension-spring-2014.html" target="_blank">Pointless Cafe</a> shows us that baby poop can be a holo! Fugly rainbows! Gotta love this Different Dimension That's Just Ducky! Stunning!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span><a href="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2014/03/barielle-velvets-spring-2014-review.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2014/03/barielle-velvets-spring-2014-review.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiUcayNJjIl5W6262v-t2bXvIdbjLWBBqgfe_PIleGPMcgJljoECP3Ud0O-Vc63Knd_g8QeQ8ho4IAdXc3RjrQb4-tMKDY2IVQTlmrYJK-u3rJwYhyV-_RQj0svNNXvTzQRMdP4TJ7Ipnp/s1600/IMG_4460.JPG" height="456" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2014/03/barielle-velvets-spring-2014-review.html" target="_blank">Barielle My Tan Blazer</a> isn't super fugly, but some would consider it close enough. I think it is a beautiful khaki that is just on this side of fugly, and I love it! A lot, I love it a lot. </span><br />
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<a href="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2012/07/fugly-from-china-glaze-on-safari-collex.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2012/07/fugly-from-china-glaze-on-safari-collex.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbRD_4Tj0SqyKQy4jpRczAEIxuBtglXtRGc6k1KHW-JOxb_KOp05xrmCC_F6w0aN7W0QNw05Orj0qxIF_F1dKQkKMfhjGp5s8ipKKdh8QHe_GztF41FD3wohWS2hLLfUHGV1Z77M9n7VF/s1600/DSC00768.JPG" height="480" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2012/07/fugly-from-china-glaze-on-safari-collex.html" target="_blank">Canadian Nail Fanatic</a> is showing us a color she considers fugly: China Glaze Kalahari Kiss. In fact, the title of the post to which features this many is called: <a href="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2012/07/fugly-from-china-glaze-on-safari-collex.html" target="_blank">Fugly from China Glaze On Safari Collex</a>. Hee-hee! I don't think it's fugly? Do you? It looks like the lighter cousin to Barielle My Tan Blazer! Sa-weet!</span><br />
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<a href="http://pishposhandpolish.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/ugly-polish-china-glaze-trendsetter.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://pishposhandpolish.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/ugly-polish-china-glaze-trendsetter.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMqI8pNZC5Guw5E16SDKe_WWslrivjGFW8AFRHFBYt9_lkx2ry5QBcGyxG6sXSc9nBBnOGIbSdho2BU-lnEI69ddKT4KcN6XW7Sl0txz2lRDvOtqQZoRKuipPnIxw2pa2ruLz8SwF3gIx/s1600/PishPosh-and-Polis-China-Glaze-Trendsetter+(1).JPG" height="640" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="611" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://pishposhandpolish.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/ugly-polish-china-glaze-trendsetter.html" target="_blank">PishPosh and Polish</a> is showing us a "gunky green": China Glaze Trendsetter. Yep! That's a fugly! But guess what? It's a fugly with glitter! Oh yeah! Things just got one hundred times better!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.the-crumpet.com/2012/12/best-of-2012-green-polishes.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.the-crumpet.com/2012/12/best-of-2012-green-polishes.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX17_8Fd7bxp91QnRMJPfkPakvlvZ2XzKo05EPTVApCDfvmc84Y4oByYu-YCPl8cjKlxQkyzEM1OG_nVXXviqgy2m1UIiNBn-srJGB48d_tIwD4V_RGA4dQ-rUhyZJv3APFE-7RRIDZ7_l/s1600/opi-dont-talk-bach-to-me-swatch-006.jpg" height="508" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.the-crumpet.com/2012/12/best-of-2012-green-polishes.html" target="_blank">The Crumpet</a> shows us some fugly love with OPI Don't Talk Bach to Me; which she describes as a "yellowy baby poop green laced with shimmer". Gorgeous! Shimmery baby poop! Winning!</span><br />
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<a href="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2013/07/untried-polish-challenge-ugliest.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2013/07/untried-polish-challenge-ugliest.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2UwM0fb7YCLQMKImcKSxRqTwJYTkD2u1r_NWuNJegECZvwiQBtRTQvKdB2U3TdYbWhjIEX182AGfiTU2VqQZZsRo7NpuOf-vo_ReVZM_3NpNqX0Sv4-gsjJd_h3YFrN-qHKusLphY0Te/s1600/IMG_1669.JPG" height="458" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ah, yes, <a href="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2013/07/untried-polish-challenge-ugliest.html" target="_blank">China Glaze Budding Romance</a>! I fell in love with this one the moment it hit all the blogs last year! Bah! What's not to love! It's just so squishy I'm gonna die! Such a lovely pea-soup! Yum!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2013/04/thrifty-thursday-with-kleancolor.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2013/04/thrifty-thursday-with-kleancolor.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WyDkGlWK49fDt_JrjeWkc74JzASd-Q5D8Lt_LdZiXhpyfakXt4FwuxagEWwA-KW0jeMd1lGBZMFzKgZbnH8pEDiPnWSWVw3L1wNg-bUcUqO8-XDHAuXG90NLoeFGCX_-pcCdmE6fqgET/s1600/Kleancolor+Fashionista+2.jpg" height="640" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="548" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2013/04/thrifty-thursday-with-kleancolor.html" target="_blank">Pointless Cafe</a> is showing her fugly side with KleanColor Fashionista. Looks like it could be the opaque twin to Budding Romance! Like two pea soups in a pod! </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.peaceloveandpolish.com/2014/02/color-club-safari-garden.html?m=0#.U6j6GEAUcfw" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.peaceloveandpolish.com/2014/02/color-club-safari-garden.html?m=0#.U6j6GEAUcfw" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQi8Onh__aYz25a_HCIWZG_QzzHL71Bs7KPf1lXOy1LfUxpt_0DsT79MU0mfj3ocUNpGiyypscfxqkEcgYMx_6HKs6wWrhicVBVRPaqttyifGtD3oIaj0xpJ_KbUXmRQ3h9cUzDCbjSmst/s1600/DSCN2185.JPG" height="640" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="638" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.peaceloveandpolish.com/2014/02/color-club-safari-garden.html?m=0#.U6j6GEAUcfw" target="_blank">Peace, Love, & Polish</a> is showing us her fulgy side as well. But she says she doesn't like this color. What the what? How can you not like Color Club Tribe and True? It's so....so....pukey! I love it! I need it! A lovely olive/brown color that makes by heart flutter! (almost a poet huh!) </span><br />
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<a href="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2013/10/fall-leaves.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2013/10/fall-leaves.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZ-C2B54DWybm__CNucTcE95lis5OrvBodfy95hHhZDFJi_X_XX3RQotweyeCo__Y1_8dczg5js_-gg0I8yBwDPIXmO8HgN_WHNGiMp-EZGmU9QMrDsLuBYr9ogMQ6Yx8buXUnndK362D/s1600/Picture+8664.jpg" height="640" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2013/10/fall-leaves.html" target="_blank">Canadian Nail Fanatic</a> gives us some fulgy yellow to look at: Sally Hansen CSM Butterscotch. Wonderful for fall manis and a nice normal mustard color! Perfection!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2014/04/above-curve-doctor-who-collection-part-2.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2014/04/above-curve-doctor-who-collection-part-2.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheATO_fK1VB_3Zqb61CV75GG-WKjPqX9_eWjZN8CW9nrEs7KNnC_MFJ40G0RV82ggUz4fkDXF_mU1yBc5chnKZu6P3fG51IWH5rCglQjslVI3hd56xO0eynAyUlnPU-Prn-zgKASfZ6SXd/s1600/Above-the-Curve-Banana-to-a-Party+2.jpg" height="640" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2014/04/above-curve-doctor-who-collection-part-2.html" target="_blank">Pointless Cafe</a> brings us another slight holo with Above the Curve Banana to a Party! Props and snaps for it being inspired by Doctor Who! Absolutely fantastic! I wear fuglies now, fuglies are cool!</span><br />
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<a href="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2014/02/barielle-review-of-polishes-and-lotion.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2014/02/barielle-review-of-polishes-and-lotion.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA5Q1Fllaoen6FQrdfgSTh81sHAp-tY-WtJuo-rFoPgrVhWbcep_LgbKT4CraXR2bZa-8xt1G4K8tI1kjxli_WifooZZfqEBWgMRl4GMzigQt__LWxFuNy-AxJPZPnbUebDj-79xe9_bZQ/s1600/IMG_4320.JPG" height="478" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is<a href="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2014/02/barielle-review-of-polishes-and-lotion.html" target="_blank"> Barielle Aura Angora</a>.
This is described as a royal gold creme, but I say it's a yummy fugly
mustard! And I loves it! My precious! This is a one-coater beaut! Take a look at it's cousin coming up next!<br />
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<a href="http://www.agirlandherpolish.com/2013/08/digit-al-dozen-does-fashion-houndstooth.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.agirlandherpolish.com/2013/08/digit-al-dozen-does-fashion-houndstooth.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDx3JDw2JKyHEtn9GMqAm1UKuAnR9uNYPmuijnSxECD7h6pS_h9PnEOK4sick5H5OVGCiAVtFn78bYkhlL2Hv5Nysvj7onPBXE5DLoEDS476N8EY89m_GUOfEuY5ALUcfVGdF9ZwN81Kcz/s1600/DSCN4488.JPG" height="498" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.agirlandherpolish.com/2013/08/digit-al-dozen-does-fashion-houndstooth.html" target="_blank">A Girl and Her Polish</a> is showing us one of the most Fugly colors of them all: Nails Inc Hampstead Gardens. I lurve this color a lot! It's that perfect color of new baby poop. It's really fabulous to use in vintage and retro manis! Fabulous formula too! What's not to love? Well, for some, the color......nah!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.willpaintnailsforfood.com/2013/03/fanchromatic-nails-horse-lord-and-man.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.willpaintnailsforfood.com/2013/03/fanchromatic-nails-horse-lord-and-man.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCHmZZ_LELYpoeu_G7AqlwOZLGyNxFjNWXBn5ncR71pU-38Idh5Mq7d7LoZ9j7KAmAV4Me43vV97XFkI-BTT7bRnObIJFCMs6Yl60eByMTy4H_VYFuyTSu7UpJNmy7-oALE3w88bw5x9t/s1600/P1070958.jpg" height="538" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="640" /><span id="goog_784097857"></span></a><span id="goog_784097858"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.willpaintnailsforfood.com/2013/03/fanchromatic-nails-horse-lord-and-man.html" target="_blank">Will Paint Nails for Food</a> brings us a amazing glitter that is anything but girly! Fanchromatic Nails Horse Lord has glitters and colors that seem to clash is a beautiful way! Gorgeous!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2012/06/baby-poop-palooza-aka-green-comparison.html"><img alt="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2012/06/baby-poop-palooza-aka-green-comparison.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNgqBKiTbx6iuqHTc3_Znz-DF8WA7ljk6inJ2kJO38z1yObBfyeDG_p5KDyo6aXB4In5WqUG0iESaaejrRrgLe_zBKSExHysqMdtZptAtwLqafQ9tFqxK5qowAJA3359ih4StFvGvmNLD_/s1600/Green+Comparison+2.jpg" height="414" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I had to put up this photo by <a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2012/06/baby-poop-palooza-aka-green-comparison.html" target="_blank">Pointless Cafe</a>. It is titled Baby-Poop-a-Palooza (aka Green Comparison). Hahahaha! I love the title! And look at all the pretty fuglies!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And for your info: </span><br />
1. Joe Fresh Khaki<br />
2. Chanel Khaki Vert<br />
3. China Glaze Westside Warrior<br />
4. Miss Sporty #475<br />
5. Illamasqua Hectic<br />
6. W.I.C. by Herome Aalborg<br />
7. Zoya Dree<br />
8. OPI Uh Oh Roll Down the Window<br />
9. RBL No More War<br />
10. KleanColor Fashionista<br />
11. OCC Swamp Thing<br />
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Ok, so we've seen a bunch of swatches, how about some nail art using some amazing fuglies!<br />
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<a href="http://www.manicurity.com/2013/11/freehand-rutilated-quartz-nail-art.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.manicurity.com/2013/11/freehand-rutilated-quartz-nail-art.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglh7Qfsv5vRrVgUeEmNzreo_7ImHYM2r8PcrFheen0qqH09MOsqNQPRUmr8dCXicaNDsqwnmP1wqml0sYFWkYfVhAHHHp75u4SKN34_FrEHvSCZnqJtMkXsl_KSAgxKbqjOTRlkvHNkuQD/s1600/Freehand+Rutilated+Quartz+Nail+Art-1.jpg" height="418" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes + Nail Art with Fugly Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.manicurity.com/2013/11/freehand-rutilated-quartz-nail-art.html" target="_blank">Manicurity</a> shows us some Freehand Rutilated Quart Nail Art. A gorgeous way to use some fuglies without them burning your eyes (that is, if you don't like fuglies). <br />
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<a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2014/02/the-digital-dozen-does-vintage-day-3_11.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2014/02/the-digital-dozen-does-vintage-day-3_11.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYpybrU0Xvqz2SFHgjPVbY8B5FMqy53iqlhQ6G4jbhoYdLWRiH-JqPfzTcHeatuiK8ybJlAjo-mNmwdAbP9PsmgIAyMmzqSsHDLx4mnStOe2gzSSMIOWvoeSRJSQFJdwuJjSjy7avj00Y/s1600/funky-vintage-floral-nail-art+1.jpg" height="598" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes + Nail Art with Fugly Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2014/02/the-digital-dozen-does-vintage-day-3_11.html" target="_blank">Wondrously Polished</a> shows off her amazing floral abilities using some fuglies! (I so want that American Apparel Manila!)<br />
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<a href="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2014/02/digit-al-dozen-does-vintage-day-1.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2014/02/digit-al-dozen-does-vintage-day-1.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfoZE6MVJ_i4B28KKXvZd27HuUAE5fbgoiPY0LhGk2umQdwkxUaA_iV5jtkgRT0rhy8pg6Cwp-Z-4u56LeblecvVM7WH-QtIxsH3hidPRLzw-nYcWaRqv6TqgBWNm1KELeUiAjb0hniRRJ/s1600/Picture+15274.jpg" height="640" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes + Nail Art with Fugly Polishes" width="480" /></a></div>
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Squeee! I love this mani by <a href="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2014/02/digit-al-dozen-does-vintage-day-1.html" target="_blank">Canadian Nail Fanatic</a>! Fugly Owls! Um, heck yes please! <br />
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<a href="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2014/04/the-neverending-pile-challenge-most.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2014/04/the-neverending-pile-challenge-most.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOGt_Net2NxxNcNtgDnkbM19pyT2udsWxwF8f0JKMIZm673Ae5ekfvxuS3H2ejb2xsAUziNIsff_2mizxEtB7MFWCJu4suVnUbcDZQfHiCVylzS7gAJ9e5uUBhp9kN_7Q0OKzFwQmrQDj-/s1600/IMG_4808.JPG" height="458" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes + Nail Art with Fugly Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here I used just a smattering of fugly to make <a href="http://geekyowl.blogspot.com/2014/04/the-neverending-pile-challenge-most.html" target="_blank">this mani</a> feel complete and vintage-y<br />
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<a href="http://beepolished.blogspot.com/2014/02/i-dot-feeling.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://beepolished.blogspot.com/2014/02/i-dot-feeling.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjT4PHZJUqqAtN6Nob7P5zpexqPAJe4oRduEWJBD9Qiy0H31AhWdPW3C4X941al5-L-2QeIxqL1N1Ke9bPinscGFTRV5hpmGxIpx7JzyWuuUcoGW1luOFCfLm9whLYKJuS3qrGGOCl2A_/s1600/dots.jpg" height="462" title="The Digit-al Dozen: Fugly is the New Pretty! A Dozen Beautiful Fugly Baby Poop-y Polishes + Nail Art with Fugly Polishes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://beepolished.blogspot.com/2014/02/i-dot-feeling.html" target="_blank">Bee Polished</a> shows us her vintage dots with a few fuglies! Fuglies are so perfect for a vintage/retro theme! We saw a lot of them during the <a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/2014/03/the-digit-al-dozen-roundup-vintage.html" target="_blank">Vintage Theme Week of The Digit-al Dozen</a>!<br />
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So, are your eyes burning? Did I make you sick? Did you make it through the entire post? I know I didn't get to all the fuglies, do you have a favorite one that I missed?<br />
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Though I did tend to stay with the yellows/tans/greens, there are also fuglies of every color! But it is usually these ones that are could out for their fugliness. *shakes head* <br />
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I love me some fuglies, always have, always will! I think we need to let the fuglies take over the world! Let us unite together in our love of fuglies! Those of you who don't love them? Well............we still love you! To each their own! :) <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-1547880377412447432014-06-22T04:48:00.001+01:002014-06-22T04:48:45.511+01:00The Digit-al Dozen Roundup Post - Metal<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here's the roundup post for the week of metals! Most of us were a bit hesitant with this theme, but I think they all turned out fabulous! Did you have a favorite? Did you recreate any? Let us know on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thedigitaldozen" target="_blank">facebook page</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Did you miss them all together? Don't worry, I've got them all here for you! Aren't I nice!? :)</span><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-61675580215937957182014-06-14T10:00:00.000+01:002014-06-14T10:00:01.424+01:00Dotting Tools 101: The Definitive Guide to Getting Dotty<div style="text-align: center;">
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Hey everyone, Emma from Manicurity here! Today I'm sharing some of my best-kept secret tips about my <i>favorite </i>nail art object - the wonderful dotting tool. Whether you’re just getting into nail art or you’re a nail art pro, a dotting tool is an essential utensil! Dotting tools can do *so* much more than just dots. Read on to here all the deets on dotting tools - what they are, why they’re so helpful, how to use them, and where to purchase them.</div>
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<h4>
First things first - what IS a dotting tool?</h4>
I think the definition of a dotting tool is pretty straight forward! A dotting tool is something that you can hold reasonably easily (i.e. a tool) that has a generally round end - typically pointed (tiny dots) or spherical (larger dots) - that makes perfectly round circles.<br />
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Here’s a photo of some ‘legit’ dotting tools - these are double sided dotting tools which have aluminum tips in a round, plastic barrel. However not all dotting tools have to be made as dotting tools - sometimes you can find something around the house that can serve double duty as a nail art item (we’ll take a look at examples of these below in the ‘where can I find dotting tools’ section).<br />
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<h4>
Wait a minute - why are dotting tools so essential to nail art?!</h4>
Dotting tools are incredibly helpful for freehand nail art designs! You can use them to make polka dots (obvs!), or rings (two dots stacked on each other), or as more precise drawing tools to do designs like hearts, stars, stripes, camo print, cheetah print, lace, etc.<br />
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For today's post I did some simple skittle designs using dotting tools! From pinkie to thumb I used a dotting tool to do cheetah print, randomly placed different sized dots (really gave ALL of my dotting tools a workout!), evenly gridded polka dots with a flower accent, dot and ring gradient, then staggered polka dots.<br />
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For even more examples of dotty nail art designs, check out our post on <a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/2013/10/a-dozen-easy-nail-art-patterns.html" target="_blank">A Dozen...Easy Nail Art Patterns!</a><br />
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<h4>
BONUS Uses for Dotting Tools!</h4>
Dotting tools are also handy for placing 3D accents like rhinestones or studs. You can also use them when doing nail art marbling. And sometimes I make them work double duty by using them to clean out the ‘gutter’ of my nail - that place where polish gets stuck between my nail and my skin parts if I’m being an especially messy painter!<br />
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<h4>
Cool! How do I use dotting tools?</h4>
Thankfully dotting tools are incredibly easy to use! Doing dot-heavy designs can require patience and time, but I find it a very relaxing, zen process.<br />
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1. Have a work surface ready; you’ll need to put little dabs of nail polish/paint all over this item. Some people use aluminum foil, cardboard, spare paper, or a plastic take out container lid. Don’t use something absorbent like paper towels.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This dotting tool needs to be cleaned!</td></tr>
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2. Start with a CLEAN dotting tool! make sure there’s no traces of polish on it before you start because if there are, it will change the color of your first dot.<br />
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3. Place a bead of polish (or paint if you roll that way) onto a work surface. This is the step I find most important for successful dots!! When I place some polish from the bottle onto my work surface, I purposefully try to make it a 3D bead (blob, dibby dab, what-have-you). I find that making my blob sort of 3D and rounded helps me to get the entire surface of my dotting tool evenly covered in polish. Sometimes if you just brush some polish onto your work surface it’s hard to get the entire area of your tool covered, then you can get messy, uneven dots or even tiny bald patches in the center of your dots!<br />
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4. Steadily touch the dotting tool to the surface of your nail; try to do this as perpendicular (errr straight on if you will) as possible to your nail surface so you get a more precise circle. I use a light touch; if you push down too hard and too quickly you can slip and smear the circle.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwqt7BMW7BhpCTO53Ooidd2IIb_QVZU5GisBXZnOKtasmHY38b9jSRTGafgCQiF6UZsWcnYwWf7Ik_Cr5b33TIo-kgenisi6i25HBFFrpvgJQW1zCqxzeTRJUeG2ivBKlu_IQTV8o1Xht/s1600/dotting-tools-how-to-tutorial-correct-paint-dip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dotting Tools 101: The Definitive Guide to Getting Dotty - How to Use Dotting Tools for Nail Art (Tips, Tutorial) by Manicurity for The Digital Dozen" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwqt7BMW7BhpCTO53Ooidd2IIb_QVZU5GisBXZnOKtasmHY38b9jSRTGafgCQiF6UZsWcnYwWf7Ik_Cr5b33TIo-kgenisi6i25HBFFrpvgJQW1zCqxzeTRJUeG2ivBKlu_IQTV8o1Xht/s1600/dotting-tools-how-to-tutorial-correct-paint-dip.jpg" height="426" title="Dotting Tools 101: The Definitive Guide to Getting Dotty - How to Use Dotting Tools for Nail Art (Tips, Tutorial) by Manicurity for The Digital Dozen" width="640" /></a></div>
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5. Keep dotting until your design is done! To keep your design as neat as possible wipe the end of the dotting tool off frequently and re-blob polish from the bottle out onto your work surface very often. If your polish starts to get stringy, stop using it and do a new little dab.<br />
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<h4>
<b>BONUS TIP: Avoid quick-dry polishes! </b></h4>
They dry too quickly and you'll spend more time re-blobbing than you will doing any nail artwork.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0_fjmUE0w2yh2VTcoiXykuSn7jGwFf2zdqFxCwA3Z_1LZAyshUHrZ4NiOuVgNRdxV2AWaLKQdR92T-_Pldpk9VG3cX1YUTpup4auyv9Td2h0-wZBSCmFBDFLoq4tcvR3E7xo2TMDcPry_/s1600/dotting-tool-how-to-tutorial-tips-polka-dot-nail-art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dotting Tools 101: The Definitive Guide to Getting Dotty - How to Use Dotting Tools for Nail Art (Tips, Tutorial) by Manicurity for The Digital Dozen" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0_fjmUE0w2yh2VTcoiXykuSn7jGwFf2zdqFxCwA3Z_1LZAyshUHrZ4NiOuVgNRdxV2AWaLKQdR92T-_Pldpk9VG3cX1YUTpup4auyv9Td2h0-wZBSCmFBDFLoq4tcvR3E7xo2TMDcPry_/s1600/dotting-tool-how-to-tutorial-tips-polka-dot-nail-art.jpg" height="426" title="Dotting Tools 101: The Definitive Guide to Getting Dotty - How to Use Dotting Tools for Nail Art (Tips, Tutorial) by Manicurity for The Digital Dozen" width="640" /></a></div>
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6. Don't be afraid to dot OUTSIDE the lines - or rather, get dots of polish on your skin. I find this helps the pattern look much more consistent and can easily be cleaned up with acetone.<br />
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<h4>
<b>BONUS TIP: Top coat your base color!</b></h4>
I like to really seal in my base color before I do any nail art accents so that I can do a little touch up with acetone without erasing my background color.<br />
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<h4>
<b>!! Troubleshooting Dot-tastrophes !!</b></h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmtpE81qxM8C1bQcSIqmQZaUNL9FSOr4mFuSzE-fxDkplQP0fsULwz0P-dIykBLlgAH2Ce2jm9Y0qJEB4QUdhVDdrnPFQahwfOXvpzIp_Yqe_I4k60wmbCsWYvbtbxyi7xC-JGixUZBxG/s1600/dotting-tool-how-to-tutorial-troubleshooting-bald-spots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dotting Tools 101: The Definitive Guide to Getting Dotty - How to Use Dotting Tools for Nail Art (Tips, Tutorial) by Manicurity for The Digital Dozen" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmtpE81qxM8C1bQcSIqmQZaUNL9FSOr4mFuSzE-fxDkplQP0fsULwz0P-dIykBLlgAH2Ce2jm9Y0qJEB4QUdhVDdrnPFQahwfOXvpzIp_Yqe_I4k60wmbCsWYvbtbxyi7xC-JGixUZBxG/s1600/dotting-tool-how-to-tutorial-troubleshooting-bald-spots.jpg" height="426" title="Dotting Tools 101: The Definitive Guide to Getting Dotty - How to Use Dotting Tools for Nail Art (Tips, Tutorial) by Manicurity for The Digital Dozen" width="640" /></a></div>
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If your dots have bald patches when you put the tool onto your nail, you are either too low on polish (your little blob has dried up) on your work surface OR your polish is too flat on your work surface (and the dotting tool isn’t getting covered all over). Re-blob some polish from the bottle!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_tQncdi5lYlgu7Y6j0aWo9RRI9NyvMbm2n2Xvlsy_mHrDuV3SUYCG8_x_iZg8VhCiifNzf3Ddql1Na1LMuQ6oE8uEBhqj857dRmyQtiio3NDCxH8Qu4ZqHeNXWnq5demX4M97OOmvAYZ/s1600/dotting-tools-how-to-tutorial-troubleshooting-stringy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dotting Tools 101: The Definitive Guide to Getting Dotty - How to Use Dotting Tools for Nail Art (Tips, Tutorial) by Manicurity for The Digital Dozen" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_tQncdi5lYlgu7Y6j0aWo9RRI9NyvMbm2n2Xvlsy_mHrDuV3SUYCG8_x_iZg8VhCiifNzf3Ddql1Na1LMuQ6oE8uEBhqj857dRmyQtiio3NDCxH8Qu4ZqHeNXWnq5demX4M97OOmvAYZ/s1600/dotting-tools-how-to-tutorial-troubleshooting-stringy.jpg" height="426" title="Dotting Tools 101: The Definitive Guide to Getting Dotty - How to Use Dotting Tools for Nail Art (Tips, Tutorial) by Manicurity for The Digital Dozen" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you're starting to get little wispy strings all over your design (and you're <i>not</i> trying to do a sugar spun mani) your polish has dried too much! Re-blob some polish from the bottle onto your work space!<br />
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<h4>
So…where can I FIND dotting tools?</h4>
Usually ‘official’ dotting tools come in a pack of 5 double-ended tools, meaning each utensil has a differently sized sphere on either end. The cheapest I’ve found is on eBay or Amazon [for as low as $2 USD], but you might have to wait a bit for them to travel around the world to your mailbox.<br />
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If you don’t already have an ‘official’ pack of dotting tools, don’t sweat it! Take a peek around your house and you’ll find TONS of items that will work just as well as dotting tools. Before I bought a pack of dotting tools I used bobby pins, ballpoint pens, the ends of paint brushes, the caps on pens, and toothpicks to make dots. Here's just a few examples of things to get you started!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHwi35hToF1ZH_sgPwA9MX-G5yIuVCVYOtA-G-4j2XWUkQvMULTHorIo1E4AEiUfw1NMkOnJ84wp0U2_qt2yzxqxkstUU9ihxnnnLh1zdpphZ8AAlGLIMyElQUrOypGygeXRWQfaLXKcC4/s1600/dotting-tool-how-to-tutorial-alternatives.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dotting Tools 101: The Definitive Guide to Getting Dotty - How to Use Dotting Tools for Nail Art (Tips, Tutorial) by Manicurity for The Digital Dozen" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHwi35hToF1ZH_sgPwA9MX-G5yIuVCVYOtA-G-4j2XWUkQvMULTHorIo1E4AEiUfw1NMkOnJ84wp0U2_qt2yzxqxkstUU9ihxnnnLh1zdpphZ8AAlGLIMyElQUrOypGygeXRWQfaLXKcC4/s1600/dotting-tool-how-to-tutorial-alternatives.jpg" height="442" title="Dotting Tools 101: The Definitive Guide to Getting Dotty - How to Use Dotting Tools for Nail Art (Tips, Tutorial) by Manicurity for The Digital Dozen" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">paint brush, paint brush, pin, bobby pin, ballpoint pen, flosser, orange stick, bamboo skewer, pushpin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h4>
<b>Share YOUR dotty nails with US!</b></h4>
Now that you know everything there is to know about dotting tools, go dotty! Share your nail art created with dotting tools - either with 'official' dotting tools or a creative alternative - with us. Show us your dot-tastic nail art on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thedigitaldozen" target="_blank">our Facebook page</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/thedigitaldozen" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, or <a href="http://instagram.com/thedigitaldozen" target="_blank">Instagram</a>!!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-25650405866359311362014-06-14T00:00:00.000+01:002014-06-14T00:00:00.487+01:00The Digit-al Dozen Roundup Post - Decades<div style="text-align: center;">
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuv-vaRrrXqsdaZt3TLUNhGs2tlxGhJlXqR9E_IV2ZXKzn6mIW4_ZANjYAYgNnfz_PFIqNLCzzc3In2sW4QprD9-4ZEEfL2R98KKheAvjgJF3W1rjRH9MX9-J8XxQ1Nc-dH14rq9v2bSB7/s1600/1185030_10201886218937319_1633914250_n.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Whoops! Shhh! Don't tell anyone, but this post is should have been done last month! Let's just say it got lost in a time warp. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And remember: </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
"People assume that time is a strict progression of cause to effect, but
*actually* from a non-linear, non-subjective viewpoint - it's more like a
big ball of wibbly wobbly... time-y wimey... stuff." -10th Doctor <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1000252/quotes" target="_blank">source</a>)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br />So last month we had the theme of Decades! Did you get a chance to check them out? Don't worry, I've got your back, here are the links to check them out!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlXeSn2SfMO7k0QBobYdFItQUQ-08c33BRh6FRs071_RL_IKip6q7yCl_KL2RFHQCrKIIrqNisuWFUqQJ1r1LpM-U0yh7Jyq3XTKRhtlfgsDFTsz5v7y26jZxFgq4SbzvM4NlfHy9kqA/s1600/signature-names-individual.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://i.imgur.com/BtTfiW9.png" height="250" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-52621950320863435562014-06-08T21:46:00.000+01:002014-06-09T03:37:28.821+01:00A Dozen (or more!) Animal Stamping Plates<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Hi there! It's mrsrexy from <a href="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/">Canadian Nail Fanatic</a> back with another stamping related post; this time, featuring a few of my favourite animal stamping plates. First, let me say that although I've shared 14 mani's here with probably a good couple dozen of images, but there are oh, so many more plates that I could have easily shared. This is the great thing about having so much variety in stamping plates nowadays....not like a few years ago when we only had Konad and a few fauxnads to pick from. There is a lot of variety...and new plates coming on the market all the time. So, I've picked a few of my faves to share!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3y0WV52pf98LZXEygjyUViUDvY4Ye7qMW7ItzO4KDGMANXYIytixeuSzZ6GJSHa2P_yX3ZQvsG_2sFOgWRsRSLyjuADhqVteIcbPwJ5HX7V955G_4p5iXpnvQz5pnt_gAh0WU1kCJpw/s1600/MoYou_Explorer+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3y0WV52pf98LZXEygjyUViUDvY4Ye7qMW7ItzO4KDGMANXYIytixeuSzZ6GJSHa2P_yX3ZQvsG_2sFOgWRsRSLyjuADhqVteIcbPwJ5HX7V955G_4p5iXpnvQz5pnt_gAh0WU1kCJpw/s1600/MoYou_Explorer+10.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a>
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MoYou Explorer Collection-10<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTJ5mKzCUOwat1G6C7OvCEP4PZCb609Uh_jW5o8MNzPwlqW0dQZpaAZCzEF-S7Ty_2uI55RRvhXDk_v15WZhyphenhyphen2KWDfEYYRlOW0GDasrbLxVzzj_v58vfMEmHgZYfYbBCTq42LKoDX838/s1600/bugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTJ5mKzCUOwat1G6C7OvCEP4PZCb609Uh_jW5o8MNzPwlqW0dQZpaAZCzEF-S7Ty_2uI55RRvhXDk_v15WZhyphenhyphen2KWDfEYYRlOW0GDasrbLxVzzj_v58vfMEmHgZYfYbBCTq42LKoDX838/s1600/bugs.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">W201 (bugs on middle finger and just below the worm on thumb is a partial stamp using same bug image), SdP 41 (fly on middle finger and thumb), Mash48 (worm on thumb), W230 (ant on index), T44 (bee on thumb), D23 (beetle on pinky), A05 (wasp on index), fauxnad m41 (centipede on ring) W207 (fly above worm on thumb)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwgqelVEG6iNzK89RigywiQTj19SMXo-XvICKi3-UKDoPtMN9JZPQvHwkCqfwMVbi8MF_6DfZ_Oqgl3fb93EK-2gPzWIGjzrFfsApwCrGogfo1pmuAijiOP1mzyUNqQsVMiDwvT1HIf3c/s1600/bunny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwgqelVEG6iNzK89RigywiQTj19SMXo-XvICKi3-UKDoPtMN9JZPQvHwkCqfwMVbi8MF_6DfZ_Oqgl3fb93EK-2gPzWIGjzrFfsApwCrGogfo1pmuAijiOP1mzyUNqQsVMiDwvT1HIf3c/s1600/bunny.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
XXL SdP2<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn-XLq4CGZWu33xalVdMxars0HBxV1O8pW-nKjV_waGDORWDd5hFS7JtNnZWhxuFjD40F-03VqLzCNZiSvv4tyNxuMBuW-K6wLRjG9EQmGSI4PyZY6aCCrMRiNVBDTZDlMFdOU0WeWlZU/s1600/camel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn-XLq4CGZWu33xalVdMxars0HBxV1O8pW-nKjV_waGDORWDd5hFS7JtNnZWhxuFjD40F-03VqLzCNZiSvv4tyNxuMBuW-K6wLRjG9EQmGSI4PyZY6aCCrMRiNVBDTZDlMFdOU0WeWlZU/s1600/camel.jpg" height="604" width="640" /></a></div>
Messy Mansion MM01 (thumb is Dash 10)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiABvCLZZ5IdMZ91dQBVagwvn5AkRNhvkBi9FsUbClY7I4p3aMde-oHKo37igskt5xl53h_pfrIvMkIW5bLjoWjwttrZI4EdY03FlaoZ2rIxlloNLinYx5-CPORI3L3aVoRPmnmuCyevo/s1600/cats3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiABvCLZZ5IdMZ91dQBVagwvn5AkRNhvkBi9FsUbClY7I4p3aMde-oHKo37igskt5xl53h_pfrIvMkIW5bLjoWjwttrZI4EdY03FlaoZ2rIxlloNLinYx5-CPORI3L3aVoRPmnmuCyevo/s1600/cats3.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
Lily Anna 11<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlGot3xgC0zDVrE_niECRkfwnnOr3Yc82B2zaxf9sMYyU0kFG5aJsY9oVVc1lOI-gXMFwUdcP5apJm_wWeifA-b4szyiLMpKsZzIKzGmOwEqCBucI_sPYH2lZDPw6fKEbMmA1jay_7mhI/s1600/cats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlGot3xgC0zDVrE_niECRkfwnnOr3Yc82B2zaxf9sMYyU0kFG5aJsY9oVVc1lOI-gXMFwUdcP5apJm_wWeifA-b4szyiLMpKsZzIKzGmOwEqCBucI_sPYH2lZDPw6fKEbMmA1jay_7mhI/s1600/cats.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">DRK-A (thumb and index), XXL Big SdP-1 (cat in middle finger), HB37 (paw prints on pinky and middle), Konad m2 (heart on middle) and BM206 (ring)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f0e9; color: #632035; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">XXL Big SdP-1 (index), SdP 44 (ring) and fauxnad F2 (rest of fingers and thumb)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0wrXaYJDbmbDO6PcYLkXKSeLJTtDtt_SuRMCgcQ7w0EuKqMUMlPO_xOI8kVovS3MVJmphGe74w_vjivXNGUZ25YabFtwIoVQ2mmBeeHqWN5HqmKFV9kC1tlt1bZaSR6u1k3PDQmN06p4/s1600/dino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0wrXaYJDbmbDO6PcYLkXKSeLJTtDtt_SuRMCgcQ7w0EuKqMUMlPO_xOI8kVovS3MVJmphGe74w_vjivXNGUZ25YabFtwIoVQ2mmBeeHqWN5HqmKFV9kC1tlt1bZaSR6u1k3PDQmN06p4/s1600/dino.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"> Hot topic (thumb), SdP 46 (brown one on index), unnamed OMG XL (middle) SdP 49 (ring) and VL 002 (small on pinky and black one on index). Dinosaurs were once animals too, right?</span><br />
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Adventures in Stamping by Apipilia (thumb and index), Apipilia P.12 (ring)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcAvbt6TUhFfCwcrjZyDFJ_UfDPllSl_wdbCQ9cfH1MXZkqPLoSBeyzuEZ6cWIDB-9aN9fsqlEfnSltwbmrxnVxeM7Xu0jaD_bMcUc9BY7WJH2LF-p_b8gQ6t9zqP_U1lppieM011TNI/s1600/farm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcAvbt6TUhFfCwcrjZyDFJ_UfDPllSl_wdbCQ9cfH1MXZkqPLoSBeyzuEZ6cWIDB-9aN9fsqlEfnSltwbmrxnVxeM7Xu0jaD_bMcUc9BY7WJH2LF-p_b8gQ6t9zqP_U1lppieM011TNI/s1600/farm.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieh4mR3tY3JAlTa-0uKuKLiV2mYiWAnlDkJt-Gix7M1HMwpVIX2e4f9RAwgPlAkoMuDR5AZy2ZhNNCHm89Tyk3-YcYgLLE4jwL8dT9jdF9NdKA1O8XFld5_A0dNrp94Kljzdljl_VyCC0/s1600/leapard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieh4mR3tY3JAlTa-0uKuKLiV2mYiWAnlDkJt-Gix7M1HMwpVIX2e4f9RAwgPlAkoMuDR5AZy2ZhNNCHm89Tyk3-YcYgLLE4jwL8dT9jdF9NdKA1O8XFld5_A0dNrp94Kljzdljl_VyCC0/s1600/leapard.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
Konad m57<br />
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I'm sure this go-to animal print plate is in most stampers plate stashes!<br />
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Cheeky Jumbo 9 Wild at Heart (Little Bo Peep accent is Chez Xmas 001)</div>
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Essence unnamed plate (stripes) and A28 (tiger face)<br />
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LLC 10 (wolf)<br />
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Infinity 12</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I know....who would have thought there are so many different animal images? And believe it or not, there are loads more animal plates available that I haven't had a chance to use yet....but hope to soon! </span><br />
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mrsrexyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12490749372201224624noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-71959514430897946602014-06-04T13:47:00.000+01:002014-06-04T19:04:58.429+01:00Meet Crumpet, Queen of Dottiness<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Hi Everyone</span><br />
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<em style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Queen Series is a weekly feature happening on Wednesdays. Each week one of us from The Digit-al Dozen will introduce you to our blog, tell you about how we got started, and talk a little about how we ended up being the Queen of something. We all have unique talents when it comes to nail art, and our Queen titles reflect that. Check out <a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/search/label/Queen%20Series" target="_blank">past posts</a> in this series.</span></em></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Name: Debbie from The Crumpet, (the Queen of Dottiness)</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Blog: <a href="http://www.the-crumpet.com/">www.the-crumpet.com</a> </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Twitter: @thecrumpet1</span></strong></div>
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<strong style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Facebook Page: </span></strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Crumpet/124523500970843">https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Crumpet/124523500970843</a></b></span></span></div>
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<strong style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Pinterest: </span></strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><b>http://www.pinterest.com/thecrumpet/ </b></span></span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Instagram: thecrumpet1</span></strong></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Today it's my turn mwahahaha. For those of you who don't know me, I am Debbie aka The Crumpet and I've been blogging for 3 years now, and yes, it very nearly recently killed me.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">By day I'm a a sales manager, and I love my job, but about 3 years ago (at my previous company), I started to get bored. Seriously bored. I've always assumed I would be a writer one day, and a lot of things combined at the right time and I ended up with a blog. I didn't actually think it would be a NAIL blog, more of a "diary of a middle-aged crisis" I think, but a nail blog it became.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGtV3o54HwdI4MZRykzlv61fFX5TT3BgUGQOyEXu4NsuKzTveNg1J0wmL6h_IUerxTzgWun7AFKITGe4Ls3NXVtcegVwDTt2a_9MyvPZnSjIGg1nxlCL5427tGv4aNNgdn5vWPMwB4I5s/s640/zoya+pulse3.jpg" height="640" width="518" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I imagine I must have already been aware of Scrangie by the time I picked the name for the blog. When I got divorced, it became a joke that I should change my surname to Crumpet, and at work I was already doing a daily sales / motivational email called The Daily Crumpet, so "The Crumpet" seemed a logical name.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As I said, the blog came before the nails, but once the nails came, wow they came hard lol. I blame Jo, a girl I worked with, for introducing me to OPI, and from there eBay for polish (I would never have thought of buying polish secondhand before; ugh) and then ... Google images ... I think that's where the downfall really began.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Polish has flitted in and out of my life. I remember adoring the red glamour of my mother's nubs on a rare night out, became obsessed with Urban Decay in my 20s, loved it again before I became a mother, went through a period of abstinence (I'm a mother, how on earth do you think I have time to do my nails!) and then, thanks to Jo, fell, finally, harder than ever before.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I accumulated quickly - outrageously quickly - and some of that is and will be featured in my Secrets of a Polishaholic series. My current total is somewhere just south of 1000, but I know it's been higher. I think you naturally go through a hoarder / collector phase before you realise "ain't nobody got space for this shit". Nowadays I destash regularly and have a better grasp of what I like and what to buy. I also have over 200 untrieds - sigh.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWSu3uJeDe1OQLG2w8J2mZaX8JqKmAS9s_LB5_r2GMNkcxjFPRLwGs5stimMNrpinXlbzmKc7GUbxrIVRVsW402aR6SORzK9gxbg12O1QWcOwFMrktGsojhK_ZgyOlnJ6gOIX9mqyrKDc/s640/Essie+Gradient+Dots.jpg" height="587" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It took a long time for my blog to get momentum (as you can tell from those first couple of photos, I *definitely* lacked talent lol, although I didn't realise by how much at the time haha). I think I'm unusual amongst bloggers for 2 reasons. One, my blog is very writerly, and that brings people to it for different reasons. Second, I run a LOT of Facebook groups, and I think that's where most of my loyal followers come from, those who got to know me through Crumpet's Nail Tarts or Adventures In Stamping or any of the other dozen groups I have or have had.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">my 5th most popular blog post, but this had about 25k FB views and is my most pinned mani.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I don't think I have casual followers. Based on comments I had when I took a break, and comments I invite in my Giveaways, my readers seem to come to me for a reason - whether the words, the MANY photos lol, or the frequent "look what a mess I made" posts. Someone once commented that I didn't have model hands or swatches, that I seemed "real", like any reader, and I do think that's part of my appeal. I am not perfect, and I am not a brilliant swatcher or nail artist, but I think I manage to string it enthusiastically together with the right words :)</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq6Gorr2GTpA5YKrBVe41XQKTH9PrKXdecjzgmvBSK0GLSPVlx8MxZiyMZtXLl1bOdue_u-EX_PTFtQdcCi6BFkKrNGHktUFQFxqyQTGZwW304RMxFaV_vcmLmVvGSZcLMb6daGUQyTMU/s640/vintage-dotticure-nails-inc-royal-botanical-gardens-gradient-reeves-mews-007.jpg" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The current situation with Facebook pisses me off. Though my follower numbers are healthy, I think really only a fraction actively visit my blog. Facebook doesn't help that lol. Also, much as I love IG, it's not my natural home (no room for the words), and I have to force myself to use it. I think in truth there's room for different types of posts on different mediums.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhprB4cbWr35m7sklaosKVWaT64B5Pyosb550-ayVU3NnRFkOKfhvy91Q5nJ_9n1gl2SG1ZL3XCyrrc1zzK8vvwvQs1Z9rOfHAXrIdsu1jmBpaWjrhAOBiGfvVz20v0mINcd24EnO3u0yVD/s640/picture-polish-polka-dots-beige-wisteria-honeydew-0014.jpg" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My most popular posts always surprise me. It's an unwritten law of blogging that if you think a post is shit, your readers will love it, but if you think your nail art will ignite the world, only 2 people will view it (and neither will comment lol). My most popular pieces are the writerly ones - my end of year round-ups, and the Lynnderella scandal pieces - and ANY Barry M post lol. You all just can't seem to get enough of that. </span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRglLV8J8HBsM7hwWjZRIHApGUwMnew_ffxyiTWtJhUZfGpWpe02C-ZwhUKKRaZx9grDIfGiZthhjLmAkVcEw2Lj_dmwYrqog0h4r7oD4vRiq23g2TvPUv-1wWYyXuwh42rzaF_XKSDHJ0/s640/halloween-polka-dots-dotticure-001.jpg" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I do think people underestimate how much work and time goes into a blog. Those of you who follow my blog will know I recently had to take a break to stave off blogger burnout. I worked out last year that the hours I put into the blog are the equivalent of a second full-time job .... THAT'S why it's not sustainable long-term, and why finding a balance is so essential. I've been very guilty in the past of posting too much, sometimes up to 3 times a day, and trying to be bigger, better, the most followed ... rather than just having fun. So from an average of 25 hours a week, I'm trying to get it to healthier 15hrs rather than the 40 it was sometimes at.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZPdFAZYhZCUhKzuBNb8jHd8QFQ_NMZQbtY2jhOd4GT_BrlZkFzjyFrlBEGXSXH_4hNwwnxEh1lqH2Mg1FeYER-LI7-BxSCKslPt3Vz_sCiQFmFbM4oWAVb4SGL8_75eHXvylr3TVsgs/s640/christmas-dotticure-barry-m-blood-orange-00111111.jpg" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In terms of planning, I use a variety of notebooks and planners - I always need to know what challenges I have coming up, as well as a place to note those random "just as you fall asleep" inspirations.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Why am I the Queen of Dottiness? Other than because I am mad? Well because if I am stuck for ideas, dots is what I invariably turn to. Plus, after we had allocated all the titles, we realised no one had dots, and someone had to lol. Before that I was the Queen of Splodging - my favourite manis are probably dots over splodged backgrounds.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtPWvzoG5QkVJ2RSdBOX-vHP8vJsG6Vm3M4cPs_t4J56jGf7SSsxclFYdvjnBpRg-CdHIwWNzBDZIXV69aqDDGx0nTnToTMsUPbqgreVgQ4uIZCc-oOvp7QK00832n33_fP7t4xzx3ojE/s640/barry-m-gelly-prickly-pear-kiko-329-dotticure-dots-within-dots-001.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I would very much describe my style as random. Unlike certain DD colleagues I could name, I am not good enough to draw epic landscapes on my paws, so most of my manis tend to be explosions of colour and basic shapes and patterns - hopefully things most people can emulate.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7er0AKZEuW5Ndje7mFHFwE2ZBln6_ocEmdlMMvW-AWIGHPDVF6MZIqVhkVJ5bZXQtfMYHCYNlaLOb_ywe9A_P3Agv7O9rtVQ49p1ucOuVLNWzagLm1BMdK9nsF4uZZj0QcuawfVo-780/s640/above-the-curve-what-no-buy-gold-anona-akiko-polka-dot-dotticure-006.jpg" height="621" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I do wish I had more control over a nail art brush. Seriously, Lindsey and Meghan piss me off so much. I am sure they have access to super skinny brushes the rest of us can't get hold of. Most things I try to draw tend to look like a 3 year old did them, and 3yr olds don't tend to be reliable blog followers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You've seen my nail room before - <a href="http://www.the-crumpet.com/2013/10/a-peek-inside-nail-room.html">HERE</a>. It's messy, but it works for me lol. Plus it's nice to have a whole room to run away to, with an ipod I can plug into. Inspiration comes from many things, but mostly, it's "oh shit, what am I going to do for THAT theme" and then, in a great panic, I attack Google images.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0VxU3BBi82v-zF8QNSJDkrPeZUxR9EJ2tbiqtnzm8HRyXRNPcWx2Wk_AlSCpUNd1GFZLueRS92abJ-XIiZcArIKlil4Qfrkf3fWc7X_fbg476I0p0qrPsw0Bi0QhJMoinRjVMXz2_USA/s640/cath-kidston-polka-dots-0010.jpg" height="502" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My favourite DD themes are the looser ones, like monochrome or texture. When they're super specific, like books or countries, I tend to shudder, because I know that requires more art than patterns. Regardless of how I feel though, there's no doubt those themes enhance my skills. You find inspiration and you push through - almost invariably you end up with something you would never have tried before if bottling it had been an option.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL6mVEPpuzlN71q6Wh8C2UNRnba2eqdn0lkN5GG3mA22tSF2GlOM0h-tHov-N7voD66_s6BE9EUIGhsXeqFxtrTbb93B5HN4R2PVxhPuF-hqGis0vwZVWNYXp6cdCPXItfbVyRXl0SKJY/s640/emma-bridgewater-polka-dots-006.jpg" height="528" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So, back to the polish, then, and the infamous Desert Island Question. Choosing favourites is sooooo hard, partly because I am fickle, and partly because those damn polishmakers keep releasing new polishes all the time! If I had to take a stab at a Top 5, it would be - </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">* a fabulous orange for happiness - probably RuPaulogize by Darling Diva</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">* a screaming pink, also for happiness - probably Bubble Yummo by Lilypad Lacquer</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">* a lilac, for tranquility - I'd like to say it would be Parlez Vous OPI, but I just know I would swap it out for OPI Planks A Lot at the last minute</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">* a vibrant red holo, for life - currently my fave is Rebel At Heart by Lilypad Lacquer</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">* and an intense turquoise holo,for tranquility - Some Glad Morning by Literary Lacquers</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I also ADORE Survivor by Cadillacquer, but if I'm on a desert island, ain't nobody got time for glittah!</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqH3EUzs1h8QAYqgUp8EKWUiDldIBa2ixmsvX6nXb4hWaIG6zQ0l1FMZcV1rgihoG_duW6tYUjiwfaUUgMjKiWhjy5q0yBq2elPrJ5E2zpZ4ExBlCfproVs4YTeuW3D6k5S3wr4INSdC8/s640/tri-polish-challenge-splodged-dotticure-mangalze-butt-taco-009.jpg" height="640" width="492" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As for brand, I'm not sure I have a favourite. The biggest change in my polish love over the last year has been a total falling back in love with cremes and an utter boredom with glitter. For those reasons OPI probably heads the list (Zoya is too expensive in the UK), and Barry M is as good a High St brand as you can ask for. I also own a lot of KIKO - if you're looking to build a great library of cremes, I don't think you need to look further than those 3 brands. Indie-wise, my favourites tend to be Literary Lacquers, Lilypad Lacquer, Darling Diva, Above The Curve, and then any number of others who I fall in and out of love with. Currently I have a huge love affair for Delush and Indigo Bananas, but I find the indie world can be filled with one-night stands rather than ruby-marriages.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7hEE60Elv4MubA7nyqysvx1YOJhvUBubStLQ9Zeki6NdjSufRKAWiHqhbiqDavJKpjsFXmErhIAU7PEEiMQt-xVeT1eJI5xhbOPyIo1C15sKe4A_onPF92VqT3DwRwnaLkU2KQd2P_n0/s640/kbshimmer-snow-way-blue-dots-polka-008.jpg" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My top polish tip? Moisturise. And mositurise again. Oh and again. And helloooooo - again! I have naturally dry skin, and if I don't do it 2 or 3 times a day, my fingers look like I tried to grate them. Not great.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">How do I feel when others "steal my work / ideas"? Well, if I'm honest, that rarely happens. As long as I am credited, I tend not to mind, and try to view it as free publicity. I did fall out once with a UK e-tailer who removed my watermark and then used my swatches - remove my watermark and I might kill you, but as long as you credit me, I'm more likely to be a pussycat. And because I'm not "A league", people don't tend to try and pass my ideas off as their own, so I don't really have to deal with that crap.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL3FPBpkVCaW_4TXGNzMDfuKVDE8xLCyp4ZTW8kmOZm0GTbucxtIS8ITedaXvpz29HLNNpclquJStLqxCMoHbhhLNhL6S2zYHb81ZxtyeMmVXBy7WrAoaxFaMuoI4rd96WrEJfgrG7Zcoq/s640/jacava-polka-dots-blueberry-muffin-knightsbridge-opulence-mont-blanc-007777.jpg" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Trying to be original can be a struggle. I see what Missy does sometimes and wonder where on EARTH she's gotten that inspiration from. Me, I can get blinkered, especially if I am swatching for reviews, so I am trying to develop a more skittled mentality. For me, the best inspiration is colours. I tend to find if I group 5-10 polishes together on my desk, a million ideas will call out to me, whereas if I look at one lonely polish, all I see is one lonely swatch lol.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMuD8IBRoGYQe_08w2IRk848ckxLsrSQhhNcQaDvjv43PIt6zDlLmlpzP-M2Ak4xzoaNRBWfOp9VbaPVZIiUWeZVmd08apTaLgY0fyhL_4Hg6nrQaL5rkCxx_YRD_9Der6ghVr4U8BrlI/s640/33dc-dots-opi-keeping-suzi-at-bay-havent-the-foggiest-collage.jpg" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Blogwise, there's a lot that I'm proud of. The last couple of years, it's provided a massive amount of my self-esteem. Passing a million pageviews was a huge milestone, and one I'm very proud of, but I am trying to get away from being a numbers whore. Other than that, the best feeling I ever got was from the depression pieces I did. I try to be very open about my struggle with depression, because I do not think it is something people should be ashamed of, and the comments I got on those pieces moved me to tears. And no, I never once imagined a ratty old nail blog would allow me to connect with people that way. Other than that, hands down it's the friends I've made in this community. They may live thousands of miles away, but I feel I know some of them better than family or lovers. Some of us have been very very close for a long time, and I truly treasure those friendships.</span></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt03d0DEB_Ahg3BlwWA6OWMcv2d-CK2xwCqQ2txEhjxd8fiUdYNXuxJ1oTLXC2sEoGgzqOJMtsga1P3rCVUoZzhllKrdsYiBTZ5VKHk3lY6EhJEaBE38x2Jge8VBjG0RJBJ9h5ASK6Js4/s640/got-polish-opi-pink-gradient-dots-kiss-me-on-my-tulips-002.jpg" height="415" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In terms of my most popular NAIL ART posts, I was shocked when I looked! THIS is your favourite ever lol, a Barry M camo skittle</span><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQn3FGsQRFAewZJ2uU86FNsRmrMexP_1hZ21S_h0ScY32PA1jk1Hn32xEKhfVn_3NSWXcx4K-qhlhegFy5qvdsa0RNM19bmaYQG47RXxAnl6WRG9igZOHasz4CKpaINEclKTfYYMaNdzs_/s640/Barry+M+Blue+Skittle11.jpg" height="480" width="640" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">.. followed by my Mr Men nail art</span><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTGle0_ITmNSsfKk3NNlaT4bZk6N_gjQM24z4ydl3WbMfvN_yxaELHaE8uRiHwVbmG0OnXVteWCpcP7tesC9SR1YN10J65_ICiBh7wwLy9VMQriZb2MVk50jANCuJ7eac_vvfJwno4PDah/s640/mr-men-nail-art-001.jpg" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">and my Spice Girls homage.</span><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-17ANH5JNKQJ5jXouLhQ1DOQBUZAJAyuZkOcCi_JdC22l-uq1KXtd7ZQer427tvJY_sHw62eK1YI_GGwqkKv62qInOYUxqHYnA93vwzColZLBJ4zYDiAj1ZxBaF3sj5QbqWy1g-pm0c/s640/spice-girls-nail-art-music-005.jpg" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The final question is - which blogger inspires you, or who do you wish you could be? For the longest time, that was Sarah of Chalkboard Nails. From now on, my biggest challenge is to be ME and my own biggest inspiration, and the very best blogger I can be for ME. Not for numbers or followers or any of that shit, but for me, and my passion and my joy. If you'd like to, I'd love you to join me for the ride :)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlXeSn2SfMO7k0QBobYdFItQUQ-08c33BRh6FRs071_RL_IKip6q7yCl_KL2RFHQCrKIIrqNisuWFUqQJ1r1LpM-U0yh7Jyq3XTKRhtlfgsDFTsz5v7y26jZxFgq4SbzvM4NlfHy9kqA/s1600/signature-names-individual.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://i.imgur.com/BtTfiW9.png" height="250" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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Ameliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02805329038559979842noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-6792239307296010612014-06-02T09:18:00.000+01:002014-06-02T09:18:09.507+01:00Meet Shelly, the Queen of Negative Space<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><i>The Queen Series is a weekly feature happening on <strike>Wednesdays </strike>(or sometimes Monday when you totally space out and forget like I did this week!). Each
week one of us from The Digit-al Dozen will introduce you to our blog,
tell you about how we got started, and talk a little about how we ended
up being the Queen of something. We all have unique talents when it
comes to nail art, and our Queen titles reflect that. Check out <a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/search/label/Queen%20Series">past posts</a> in this series.</i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-CENKlBBVE/UmDJGCQ5OtI/AAAAAAAAEDA/aLB5kbQIbM0/s1600/Shelly+A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-CENKlBBVE/UmDJGCQ5OtI/AAAAAAAAEDA/aLB5kbQIbM0/s1600/Shelly+A.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
Shelly - Queen of Negative Sapce <br />
Blog: <a href="http://www.sassyshelly.com/" target="_blank">www.SassyShelly.com</a><br />
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ShellysSassyNails" target="_blank">Shelly's Sassy Nails</a> <br />
Instagram: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/sassyshelly129" target="_blank">@SassyShelly129</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/SassyShelly129" target="_blank">@SassyShelly129</a><br />
Pinterest: <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/SassyShelly129" target="_blank">pinterest.com/SassyShelly129</a><br />
Google+: <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+SassyShellyAckerman/posts" target="_blank">Sassy Shelly Ackerman</a><br />
<br />
Hello
All! I'm Shelly (aka Sassy Shelly), the Queen of Negative Space, and I
blog over at SassyShelly.com. I'm a stay at home mom with a beautiful 3
year old little girl who is my whole world. Surprisingly my polish
obsession only started about 3.5 years ago, prior to then I was quite
the tomboy. Once I got married I decided I should try to become more of
a girly girl and nails were the first thing that grabbed my attention. Although lately I'm starting to develop a slight addiction to make up as well.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IAvleLziASs/URjbkJMhatI/AAAAAAAACmw/5EUckNa8RSA/s1600/Valentines+Day+nails.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IAvleLziASs/URjbkJMhatI/AAAAAAAACmw/5EUckNa8RSA/s1600/Valentines+Day+nails.jpg" height="640" width="628" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my first ever peek-a-boo mani from Feb 2013</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In January 2012 I started my facebook page "<a href="http://www.facebook.com/ShellysSassyNails" target="_blank">Shelly's Sassy Nails</a>" to
share my nail art attempts (and stop bugging my family with polish
pictures) but I soon realized I wanted even more space to post
pictures and write more details so I decided to start up a real blog in
May of that year. The name Sassy Shelly was actually inspired by
my mother and her constant telling me "don't sass me!" during my
rebellious teenage years. Haha. I still love Facebook.. though I have
been neglecting my page more and more as FB reduces page reach each day,
(it makes me sad when I see that only 200 out of 18k people can see what I
post). Recently I have really been loving Instagram. I like being able
to just snap a phone pic and post it and I like seeing bits and pieces
of peoples lives behind the nails, pets, kids, ect. IG is just fun!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMeBeNpzqBdMnW8eQplK_xNK74oN4Okzde1v6MyPyxkMiubgXwPafZLWM0KdOUgwtQ5iB6MrKrkavfUjATyFNIj0_PNC93Yzxm1935Eft8jLkLwBatI99rnL02p3q900wUwOers0N1MwH-/s1600/4th+of+July+-+cut+out+stars%252C+flag%252C+glequin%252C+glitter%252C+nail+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMeBeNpzqBdMnW8eQplK_xNK74oN4Okzde1v6MyPyxkMiubgXwPafZLWM0KdOUgwtQ5iB6MrKrkavfUjATyFNIj0_PNC93Yzxm1935Eft8jLkLwBatI99rnL02p3q900wUwOers0N1MwH-/s1600/4th+of+July+-+cut+out+stars%252C+flag%252C+glequin%252C+glitter%252C+nail+art.jpg" height="588" width="640" /></a></div>
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I spend the majority of my days just playing at home with the little one
and I work one day a week as a part-time housekeeper (just to earn my
own polish $$). My nights are my me time, I stay up late swatching or
doing nail and taking pictures. It's the photo editing and writing part
of blogging that get me. I swear I have photo editing narcolepsy. I
start sorting through pictures and I just can't keep my eyes open!
So I'm habitually late in getting my posts up.. To be honest I'm
habitually late for Everything. I couldn't get somewhere on time if my
life depended on it. I've always been that way. I'm not much of a plan
ahead-er or an organizer. That's definitely something I need to work on
changing about myself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWfD4AXZqqiuwoM0VgmLfo2ptHd-wKd1N_l5-Zb1CskYq9GncE1ZyCb5ZJBjHq6VI6b2fvlTxN8VQLmCL-Y-kBcflFNjvHI66kyT1jIeTZ8CAa_OvgOIqpg_gDM_yUx9MmBFAZz0tEK0Y/s1600/retro+paisley+negative+space+nail+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWfD4AXZqqiuwoM0VgmLfo2ptHd-wKd1N_l5-Zb1CskYq9GncE1ZyCb5ZJBjHq6VI6b2fvlTxN8VQLmCL-Y-kBcflFNjvHI66kyT1jIeTZ8CAa_OvgOIqpg_gDM_yUx9MmBFAZz0tEK0Y/s1600/retro+paisley+negative+space+nail+art.jpg" height="640" width="548" /></a></div>
<br />We live in a 2 bedroom townhouse so my nail area isn't too impressive
(compared to some of the amazing spaces I've seen) but it works for me. I
simply have a little desk set up in the corner of my living room with
an old DVD tower next to it serving as a makeshift polish stand to hold
the stuff I'm currently working on along with all of my nail art
supplies. The bulk of my polish collection is kept in Helmers in our
bedroom. My hubby came up with the great idea of adding a big piece of
glass across the top to set up a little vanity for me to do my makeup
at. :) I would do my nails in here too but I like to watch Nexflix while
I do my polishing so the living room it is. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWVfNA9UWkvijj_JS_nW9eDYYJoGqjv_wktMUfjjSGEGrCLpzKGAP3U3a6EkApbBRHKnLKKgHbaitdorKFd9lV8k9kwoQ6mQCigsyxPDZh5h38LBzG-DTQhKwztmcaxuZD6eMDCooMlIud/s1600/nail-polish-storage-DIY-vanity-Ikea-Helmer-SassyShelly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWVfNA9UWkvijj_JS_nW9eDYYJoGqjv_wktMUfjjSGEGrCLpzKGAP3U3a6EkApbBRHKnLKKgHbaitdorKFd9lV8k9kwoQ6mQCigsyxPDZh5h38LBzG-DTQhKwztmcaxuZD6eMDCooMlIud/s1600/nail-polish-storage-DIY-vanity-Ikea-Helmer-SassyShelly.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />I've only been with the Digit-al Dozen for about 8 months but it's so
hard to choose a favorite theme so far. Of course I loved my first DD
theme "Skittles" and I adore every mani that I came up with during
"Black & White" week! I was starting to get into a rut with doing
mostly swatches and I was ecstatic to have the chance to join this
group. I Love having a reason to push myself to come up with new
designs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhisD34z0-iVA4SIYS0YC3MT4iZtC0xrMRpcaOu3E5EpBx5SuJ1UH_7yhH8hcQdwD0v0wcH4vk9esiCg5__t0ciKrll-fVUMGHHD_zRT5VS5-pgnCcIeFdD6n46e3_4dWOOogJSdmQXdGme/s1600/vintage_floral%252C_skittle_nail_art_design%252C_gradient%252C_roses%252C_rhinestones%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhisD34z0-iVA4SIYS0YC3MT4iZtC0xrMRpcaOu3E5EpBx5SuJ1UH_7yhH8hcQdwD0v0wcH4vk9esiCg5__t0ciKrll-fVUMGHHD_zRT5VS5-pgnCcIeFdD6n46e3_4dWOOogJSdmQXdGme/s1600/vintage_floral%252C_skittle_nail_art_design%252C_gradient%252C_roses%252C_rhinestones%255B1%255D.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjskf3olwJL7KWG-Yr_5FChcwz4fyS713dQdYgyvhn_bT7wxJettcXU1tyR3H04DIqYogMEOX2W4Jum6PSha74DlqJdU7CEJAJgahIYhr8OiSQV5426hGQJ0hWBtfs0uTd1LDoufsdP5i80/s1600/Kiss_Nail_Dress_stickers%252C_black_and_white_water_marble_nail_art%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjskf3olwJL7KWG-Yr_5FChcwz4fyS713dQdYgyvhn_bT7wxJettcXU1tyR3H04DIqYogMEOX2W4Jum6PSha74DlqJdU7CEJAJgahIYhr8OiSQV5426hGQJ0hWBtfs0uTd1LDoufsdP5i80/s1600/Kiss_Nail_Dress_stickers%252C_black_and_white_water_marble_nail_art%255B1%255D.jpg" height="524" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />My proudest achievement of my blogging career so far has definitely got
to be having had the chance to work with the girls at piCture pOlish to
create my very own nail polish shade, Badass. I could not believe the amazing
response it got and that it ended up being so popular. I knew I loved it
but it was so wonderful to find that other people did too! :) That along with being contacted by Nail It! Magazine to do an interview for their "<a href="http://nailitmag.com/nail-designs/shelley-ackerman-sassy-shelly-military-nails-camoflauge-nails/bloggers-you-should-know" target="_blank">Bloggers You Should Know</a>" series..THAT totally blew my mind! Like, Really, me, featured alongside some of the best nail bloggers out there!? Such an incredible feeling!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX5TwHzWkanaxD6m2GRpIhYZoPmN4UHgtyoBV7_JwmYjUHtASLBGlG-QPamgJewQ_WtwYlUnhN4nUN_6dgCsBtM7r5iA2YLr4Y5b1HpynFlBEmH-_vMIJHsOd6Oae1hAakJI0Vw9L4uDON/s1600/picture+polish+nail+art-badass-stamp-manicure_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX5TwHzWkanaxD6m2GRpIhYZoPmN4UHgtyoBV7_JwmYjUHtASLBGlG-QPamgJewQ_WtwYlUnhN4nUN_6dgCsBtM7r5iA2YLr4Y5b1HpynFlBEmH-_vMIJHsOd6Oae1hAakJI0Vw9L4uDON/s1600/picture+polish+nail+art-badass-stamp-manicure_edited-1.jpg" height="640" width="588" /></a></div>
<br />
I have been deemed the queen of Negative Space or cut-out style nail
art. I am totally obsessed with it, as you may have noticed if you've
followed my work with the DD, usually one mani out of each theme ends up
being some kind of peek-a-boo mani. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SD3OUaVNfTlPK8uut3Hs_6TPlKYw-1e_wFBXsAJz2FDr5AF4CmDIqkK8aagTQzMLAE0s7gGRvErJXByeOgzJr_el0PBL1uSvZ85suw8W3lC8jf-snyVUwT5gb0q7QuRlJv0RchpKkZpK/s1600/OPI-Brazil-Liquid-Sands-Beach-Sandies-negative-space-geometric-nail-art-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SD3OUaVNfTlPK8uut3Hs_6TPlKYw-1e_wFBXsAJz2FDr5AF4CmDIqkK8aagTQzMLAE0s7gGRvErJXByeOgzJr_el0PBL1uSvZ85suw8W3lC8jf-snyVUwT5gb0q7QuRlJv0RchpKkZpK/s1600/OPI-Brazil-Liquid-Sands-Beach-Sandies-negative-space-geometric-nail-art-.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Negative Space is a pretty simple
concept, a little bit of naked nail peeks through the design. There are
endless possibilities of different Negative Space designs you could come
up with or different ways to do it. A few things I've done are just
freehanded an open shape, used striping tape to tape off sections for a
color block look or even stamped over a naked nail to create a floating
design. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPlg0zfdV8MXKt36EbM-b8FUvJ8D8GNC_-A2nRYKth5texDNkHvhfVKpTGP7OluQjzyS_hv3metQBqq9IHUNFNJ_tuHcf1jdujNDIEhlqw9kNnoOKvc0gL5XQDd2cGuaqS8u_72UWlzom/s1600/cirque-lichen-Ica+Valley-Arcane+Fire-chevron-holiday-nail-art_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPlg0zfdV8MXKt36EbM-b8FUvJ8D8GNC_-A2nRYKth5texDNkHvhfVKpTGP7OluQjzyS_hv3metQBqq9IHUNFNJ_tuHcf1jdujNDIEhlqw9kNnoOKvc0gL5XQDd2cGuaqS8u_72UWlzom/s1600/cirque-lichen-Ica+Valley-Arcane+Fire-chevron-holiday-nail-art_edited-1.jpg" height="610" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can even use craft scissors to cut dried polish like I did for the designs pictured above and below. I also created a tutorial on this technique last year. If you
missed it then I'll share it with you now. (this was my first tutorial so please forgive the quality)<br />
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<b>Step 1)</b> on a plastic baggie paint a thick coat of topcoat and let dry then top it with 2 coats of nail polish.</div>
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<b>Step 2)</b> once completely dry use a manicure tool or orange stick to gently peel it from the bag. </div>
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<b>Step 3)</b> use a pair of fancy craft scissors to cut strips of polish in your desired width.<br />
(for my hearts I used a heart shaped hole punch)</div>
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<b>Step 4)</b> this is how it should look.. use care when lining up your 2nd cut so that it is even with the 1st.</div>
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<b>Step 5)</b> paint your nails with your favorite base coat (I used Beauty Secrets Ridgefiller) then when almost<br />
dry (still tacky) Carefully lay your strips where you want them. <b> </b></div>
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<b>Step 6)</b> clean up edges and cuticle line with a small paintbrush dipped in acetone. Seal in the design with your favorite topcoat. Voila</div>
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The best tip I can give for making this technique look good is to
use a nice thick ridge filling base coat. My nails aren't super ridgy or
anything but I think it just makes for a nicer finished look when the
naked nail looks smooth underneath. But there's really no right or wrong to negative space, I think that's what I like about it so much. <br />
<br />
Thanks everyone,
if you made it to the end of this rambling post I applaud you! I hope
you've enjoyed this little peek into my world and that you enjoyed the
nail ideas I've shared with you today. If you feel inspired to try a
negative space mani of your own or even recreate one of mine (I Love
when that happens!) Please tag me @SassyShelly129 on IG or post it on my FB page to share it
with me. :) And stop by and visit me sometime at SassyShelly.com. <br />
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01223354385663763122noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-50155210243207689682014-05-21T15:48:00.000+01:002014-06-04T19:05:21.252+01:00Meet Emily - The Queen of Content<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><em>The Queen Series is a weekly feature happening on Wednesdays. Each week one of us from The Digit-al Dozen will introduce you to our blog, tell you about how we got started, and talk a little about how we ended up being the Queen of something. We all have unique talents when it comes to nail art, and our Queen titles reflect that. Check out <a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/search/label/Queen%20Series">past posts</a> in this series.</em></span><br />
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<div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Name: Emily aka The Lacquerologist & The Queen of Content</strong></div>
</div>
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<strong>Blog: <a href="http://www.lacquerologist.com/">http://www.lacquerologist.com</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/lacquerologist">@lacquerologist</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Facebook Page: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/lacquerologist">http://www.facebook.com/lacquerologist</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Pinterest: <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/lacquerologist/">http://www.pinterest.com/lacquerologist/</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Tumblr: <a href="http://lacquerologist.tumblr.com/">http://lacquerologist.tumblr.com/</a></strong></div>
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<strong>G+: <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+EmilyDraher/">https://plus.google.com/u/0/+EmilyDraher/</a></strong></div>
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<strong>Instagram: <a href="http://instagram.com/lacquerologist">http://Instagram.com/lacquerologist</a></strong></div>
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<br />
Hi everyone! Emily from The Lacquerologist here today! I have been crowned <b>The Queen of Content</b>, referring to the fact that my blog features not only nail art manicures, but swatches, tutorials, nail care and other nail-related content! As a blogger <i>and</i> licensed nail technician, I love exploring all aspects of the nail industry on The Lacquerologist, though I definitely focus on some areas more than others. My blog is probably a 50-50 mix of nail art posts and review posts, with other content like my The Lacquerologist Tells All, The Lacquerologist Quarterly and the newly introduced Pro Review series tossed in! As I move forward in my blogging journey, I am hoping to include more nail, hand and foot care posts and reviews of professional products as well. I try to keep the content on my blog fesh and post at least 5-7 times per week. Throughout this post, you will see images of some of my favorite manicures from the past few years. Most are nail art - some are even from Digit-al Dozen weeks!<br />
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I essentially eat, sleep and breathe nails all day, every day. If I'm not doing natural manicures and pedicures at my small nail spa, Body•Spa•Banquet Nails in northeastern Ohio, I'm at home blogging and writing about nail polish, nail art and nail care. The Lacquerologist was started on a whim nearly two and a half years ago in January 2012 when I was a graduate student in biology. I was miserable. While biology was my academic passion, I just couldn't see it as something I could do forever. I had been slowly getting into nail art as a hobby and was encouraged to start blogging by several friends. At the time, I thought I was getting pretty good and was ready to start my own polish blog...it's funny now to see how far I've come! The whole thing started when I got my nails done for my wedding in July 2011. I loved to paint my nails - I would try a variety of colors and dabbled in free-hand French tips, but after my wedding, I was hooked. Not only did I enjoy having my nails properly done for the big day, but after the honeymoon, I was left with lots of free time that previously had been filled with wedding planning. Polish obsessing just sort of dropped into my lap then. It started at the drug store, and then with a few OPI polishes...OPI Shatter came into my life and I was on a slippery slope with fun nails that has turned into all out obsession!<br />
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The name The Lacquerologist stems from my "past life" as a student of biology and geology. I was a science student 24/7 for basically six years, before depression got the best of me and I realized that life is in fact too short to be miserable. <i>Don't put off your happy life! </i>I started the blog while I was still in school, but the gears in my head were already turning, telling me there was more happiness out there for me. My husband suggested the name The Lacquerologist, so that all of my -ology passions could be tied in. I love the name and couldn't imagine changing it! It ties all of my passions and various parts of my life together.<br />
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As far as my blogging schedule goes, it does take up quite a bit of my time! I think lots of my friends think I'm crazy when I tell them that I treat my blog basically like a full time job. I sort of view it as "professional development" for my career as a nail tech and small business owner. It keeps me sane and creatively stimulated, and I've never once felt overwhelmed or bored with it. I just love it! I'm a planner...I have an editorial calendar and plan posts out in advance. I tend to be a binge blogger; I sit down for hours at a time and get a ton of swatching done, and then I'll wear the same nail art manicure for two or three days while I edit all the pictures and write the posts. The process of swatching is crazy to some people, but to me, it's borderline therapeutic and worth it! In fact, many of my most viewed posts are "Swatch & Review" posts including the <a href="http://www.lacquerologist.com/2013/04/essie-2013-neon-collection-swatches-and.html">Essie 2013 Neons</a> and the <a href="http://www.lacquerologist.com/2013/10/opi-mariah-carey-holiday-collection.html">OPI Mariah Carey Holiday Collection</a>. Other popular posts include my <a href="http://www.lacquerologist.com/2013/07/splash-flowers-with-butter-london-and.html">Splash Floral Manicure</a> and <a href="http://www.lacquerologist.com/2013/07/the-lacquerologist-tells-all-eponychium.html">The Lacquerologist Tells All: Nail Plate & Eponychium Health</a>.<br />
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I like to think The Lacquerologist comes across to my readers as an extension of me! I hope my blog and social media platforms are approachable, fun, and educational. My nail art style is whimsical and often simple, and I think readers like that because it's within just about anyones' reach. I think this is why people continue to read The Lacquerologist and hang out with me on social media. I'm currently obsessed with Instagram. I love sharing little bits of my "non-polish" life with readers, as well as behind-the-scenes nail images! You will definitely see lots of pictures of my black lab mix, Bob, and #mynailsandmydrink pics! Plus, Instagram makes it so easy for <i>you</i> to share manis with me! When people share their manicures that were inspired by my posts, it makes me feel so happy. It's one of my favorite parts of blogging. My most recreated manicure is my Splash Floral mani. You can follow me on Instagram [<a href="http://instagram.com/lacquerologist">here</a>]!<br />
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My polish collection has been growing at a steady rate since 2011. I'm not sure how many polishes I actually own - I prefer to be blissfully ignorant! I will say this though: I have five Helmers, and they're basically all full! One Helmer is basically all indie polishes, and one is full of just OPI and Zoya, my favorite salon brands. I almost have a full drawer of Priti NYC, which I think I would have to crown as my favorite brand ever. I try to stick to cruelty-free bands and their cremes (my favorite) are spot on and always have a great formula. Plus, I love the company's heart for the environment and women!<br />
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There are so many artists in the nail community that constantly inspire me! I love surfing Pinterest, Bloglovin', and Instagram for ideas from my fellow bloggers and nail techs. All of the ladies of the Digit-al Dozen inspire me, but lately I am obsessed with <a href="http://www.willpaintnailsforfood.com/">Will Paint Nails For Food</a> and <a href="http://www.adventuresinacetone.com/">Adventures In Acetone</a>. Their detailed, free-hand work completely <i>amazes</i> me! I try and try to do such fine, detailed work and I just come up short every time. I guess my natural style is just a bit more whimsical and abstract! Lately I've also been really inspired by Sarah from <a href="http://www.chalkboardnails.com/">Chalkboard Nails</a> and Leslie from <a href="http://workplaypolish.com/">work/play/polish</a>. Both of these ladies are so well known and involved in the nail art community, yet they are super approachable and sweet...and they keep pumping out amazing art. I also love to follow nail techs on social media. My current obsessions are <a href="http://instagram.com/algaeveronica">Algae Veronica</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/leximartone">Lexi Martone</a>.<br />
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Aside from other nail artists, I love finding nail art inspiration all around me. I'm always snapping pictures on my phone of clothes and fabrics I see when I'm out shopping...browsing Pinterest for pretty things...looking to nature while I'm out walking my dog. You can find inspiration anywhere! I'm also very inspired by my clients...they always have the greatest ideas, and that leads to some great manicures! Nail art can be a collaborative effort, and I love that. <br />
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My nail art style definitely reflects where my inspiration comes from. My manicures are usually bright and fun...whimsical...abstract...organic. I'll never be the nail artist that can paint a beautiful portrait on your ring finger. I love all-over designs on each nail, and I love when each nail is slightly different, revealing that the art is, in fact, hand done! Graphic prints. Animal prints. Abstract florals. I love it all! I tend to struggle with stamping, tape manicures and water marbling...those never turn out right on the first try for me!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEq1FoZVPzIm-h1X1sHNAUUvxd6bzDeIShiCztDew8XCer2ImZcaFbqS_o1ePb-K6MnQsM6zjmu6Q-85JmL6msld9xnkpaWGd1G15_lz1Z90OxCdNuM3YB2_DMzW_rHvknKZEkSosxERP6/s1600/Collage10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEq1FoZVPzIm-h1X1sHNAUUvxd6bzDeIShiCztDew8XCer2ImZcaFbqS_o1ePb-K6MnQsM6zjmu6Q-85JmL6msld9xnkpaWGd1G15_lz1Z90OxCdNuM3YB2_DMzW_rHvknKZEkSosxERP6/s1600/Collage10.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
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My proudest blogging moment is...a secret! There's a project I've been working on since the beginning of the year that I will share with you all as soon as I can, but for now I have to keep it quiet! Aside from my big secret project, I've been really proud to be a member of the Digit-al Dozen. I really admired the girls of the Digit-al Dozen, so being asked to join was an exciting moment! Since September 2013 when I started with the Digit-al Dozen, I think my favorite theme has been Black & White (November 2013) or Decades (May 2014). Black & White was a theme that gave so much freedom, since it's so open ended, and Decades provided much more guidance, but both themes prompted me to create some of my favorite manicures ever!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJTTRJII_l_2mcXzySH47GUNL1vfZmHiYjMvMi6wcz-KvlhmhmIu8KlL3nTcrhbKSmqyVXJ4Vc_uZBW7EVyIqRn5azPtyPiYPUXUyuv9lJ4WEvlu48aGJErnByd6o9m-LiA9ZgDhu4JfG/s1600/Collage9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJTTRJII_l_2mcXzySH47GUNL1vfZmHiYjMvMi6wcz-KvlhmhmIu8KlL3nTcrhbKSmqyVXJ4Vc_uZBW7EVyIqRn5azPtyPiYPUXUyuv9lJ4WEvlu48aGJErnByd6o9m-LiA9ZgDhu4JfG/s1600/Collage9.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
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The moral of my nail art story is this: I love sharing my passion with as many people as possible. I'm so fortunate that I get to share nail care and nail art with my clients at Body•Spa•Banquet Nails. I get to share my nail art and love (obsession) of polish with readers through The Lacquerologist and the Digit-al Dozen. And hopefully more outlets to share nail art will open up in the future! Sharing nails with family, friends, clients and readers is more than just lacquers and designs; it's sharing <i>happiness</i>! Taking some time for yourself and treating yourself to something special is so important...and I can give that to people through nails. :) Thanks for reading today and come hang out with me on The Lacquerologist soon!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-87049734962869216722014-05-19T19:00:00.000+01:002014-05-19T19:00:49.177+01:00A Dozen Great Green Polishes<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Hi everyone, Kerrie here! I know green polish isn't everyone's cup of tea but I personally love them (The Crumpet thinks I am crazzzy for this!). I thought I would quickly share my top green polishes with you.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZgBLpprKTGstV_8Ujjx4zfL-bFJgoyNsw49hQJH1TWlTUTqkXw2I34jpyuIGPHBo0p4eJlEn8O7TcJXv_OjXoQl7eUyW48s0cMpP8UekeROP33kNmhfe4eiQTTNPT5O4TNbYOeX7f8qOX/s1600/pistachio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZgBLpprKTGstV_8Ujjx4zfL-bFJgoyNsw49hQJH1TWlTUTqkXw2I34jpyuIGPHBo0p4eJlEn8O7TcJXv_OjXoQl7eUyW48s0cMpP8UekeROP33kNmhfe4eiQTTNPT5O4TNbYOeX7f8qOX/s1600/pistachio.jpg" height="315" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://beepolished.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/lime-crime-les-desserts-dantoinette.html">Lime Crime: Pastelchio</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is a polish that blurs the line between neon and pastel and the results are just divine. This polish just looks flawless and is the perfect green for summer!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMioRun9TykSE2z920gBVrVxyrEYsXdfrQqAGuLmVd8Wbgk6HHvvHO_CHhhCJ336LM7ntZPiSoS6L6ihcg6e5-ITjzbRBf-I2lIVbC_hGLYp-tS4-99mx9A0VXdB1nARIPxRLLsscQokr1/s1600/DSCN9928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMioRun9TykSE2z920gBVrVxyrEYsXdfrQqAGuLmVd8Wbgk6HHvvHO_CHhhCJ336LM7ntZPiSoS6L6ihcg6e5-ITjzbRBf-I2lIVbC_hGLYp-tS4-99mx9A0VXdB1nARIPxRLLsscQokr1/s1600/DSCN9928.JPG" height="361" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.agirlandherpolish.com/2014/04/butter-london-lolly-brights-stroppy-and.html">Butter LONDON: Sozzled </a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> When you think so 'green' this is what you expect. It is just green to the extreme. I also love the name of this polish, I expect after being sozzled this is the shade of green my face would be the next morning! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi476d36XM6zz7R8PcU4ooy95I1wVk0y1PijnV7Gi_6yGOavul3ZC_CCfWGNkbwlW07J3Ot1Llg0l_jtc6TC269dLZvk0vdBz24TF846djyYC_v2y76DY7zYjEudWVHOp3vBLTLhBR5HiCU/s1600/Lynnderella-Peridot-Power-Swatch-Flower-Nail-Art-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi476d36XM6zz7R8PcU4ooy95I1wVk0y1PijnV7Gi_6yGOavul3ZC_CCfWGNkbwlW07J3Ot1Llg0l_jtc6TC269dLZvk0vdBz24TF846djyYC_v2y76DY7zYjEudWVHOp3vBLTLhBR5HiCU/s1600/Lynnderella-Peridot-Power-Swatch-Flower-Nail-Art-1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.willpaintnailsforfood.com/2014/04/the-neverending-pile-challenge-day-1.html">Lynnderella: Peridot Power</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">From </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">the Talismans and Birthstones collection this topper is packed with lime and chartreuse glitter in so many sizes and shapes that is makes my head hurt to count them!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCTYhHLzA4rtpHS8Wj5Y3XYIOrJH3132twTi9pu4SmJqc10F7W4NxDJZvkSrkZ4qBo7LngmGmMa15qxo5jrycoZefij_SroIFBCxoJGSVdz4GLUrZI3StLFZKDgEfTbeat_HqxUlYk4Nn/s1600/IMG_0574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCTYhHLzA4rtpHS8Wj5Y3XYIOrJH3132twTi9pu4SmJqc10F7W4NxDJZvkSrkZ4qBo7LngmGmMa15qxo5jrycoZefij_SroIFBCxoJGSVdz4GLUrZI3StLFZKDgEfTbeat_HqxUlYk4Nn/s1600/IMG_0574.JPG" height="400" width="383" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://pishposhandpolish.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/cirque-hellebore-review.html">Cirque: Hellabore </a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If I had to pick one polish as my green glitterbomb polish it would be Hellabore. It is so complex, delicate and masterful all at once. The shine of this polish is just insane when it hits the light! It really must be seen to be beileved. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTH0IH_snKOR8O4QhyaJixXO0Vuw0fXY7Om_P_nQCmMYw0sK5bBjh6hEPUkX-_igaXE2HRMed3DB8A79jAuCHW0jW-AIyMTKdWtqxNC-F_hvQoNrucUPRI1J3-flxusrxUHrCBsS1PMNg/s1600/Picture+131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTH0IH_snKOR8O4QhyaJixXO0Vuw0fXY7Om_P_nQCmMYw0sK5bBjh6hEPUkX-_igaXE2HRMed3DB8A79jAuCHW0jW-AIyMTKdWtqxNC-F_hvQoNrucUPRI1J3-flxusrxUHrCBsS1PMNg/s1600/Picture+131.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2014/04/im-casting-spell-on-you.html">Liquid Sky Lacquer: Can't Be Tamed</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Is this olive or is this lime? I don't know, but it is gorgeous, the holographic shine of this polish is out of this world. This is not a polish to be missed!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPjBWDHXukxEoNrO9GBXL0CfBmuqgFoWONETa2f_ZFg09wedI72XRPKalDAPdvGXh_CuG4I4nda6Pbm_Yujrfdap3cxnefm_jG9GKCFLoe_V66yx2y1IjoNer73fB_1rJXewp-4HcCmuc/s1600/opi-thanks-a-windmillion-swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPjBWDHXukxEoNrO9GBXL0CfBmuqgFoWONETa2f_ZFg09wedI72XRPKalDAPdvGXh_CuG4I4nda6Pbm_Yujrfdap3cxnefm_jG9GKCFLoe_V66yx2y1IjoNer73fB_1rJXewp-4HcCmuc/s1600/opi-thanks-a-windmillion-swatch.jpg" height="346" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.the-crumpet.com/2012/08/summer-challenge-green-and-orange.html">OPI: Thanks A Windmillion</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This sage green has an amazing application and is incredibly versatile. I love the muted tones in this polish. Plus I think it is work appropriate - Bonus! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1L6KJvaIqu594Su_76n-GJ7Z34j6EougS3CG66U0EhgP0dKU5M08YUtFCDFmCW_kKlGi2LVEwl4R9a7_Ftk9LI5D1GDak7-Ve8E7wgGo7w8NG6aaaG_1SxuEmeV2tULwlwBp8sbnmKh-1/s1600/IMG_6691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1L6KJvaIqu594Su_76n-GJ7Z34j6EougS3CG66U0EhgP0dKU5M08YUtFCDFmCW_kKlGi2LVEwl4R9a7_Ftk9LI5D1GDak7-Ve8E7wgGo7w8NG6aaaG_1SxuEmeV2tULwlwBp8sbnmKh-1/s1600/IMG_6691.JPG" height="335" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.pishposhandpolish.blogspot.co.uk/">Nerd Lacquer: No Medal For Chewie </a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This polish is harder to get hold of but if you can grab a bottle then make sure you hold onto it for dear life. A forest green with emerald green and gold glitter, this polish just screams at you that it is special and opulant.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXGujqYxuT6rjejBkvaScwsJlp-MkkdQVogB4SlHcMEIHwz2Yz-iG8lro43tLpRmzAENbTIhGjzJg4vhcxG9th83PsBrKfwUvnqE2S6V0fSeVEmYD_OWmRjs_42AlUqu4TDQWK7BRRMXWc/s1600/the-digit-al-dozen-does-monochrome-green-1-watermarked-500x500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXGujqYxuT6rjejBkvaScwsJlp-MkkdQVogB4SlHcMEIHwz2Yz-iG8lro43tLpRmzAENbTIhGjzJg4vhcxG9th83PsBrKfwUvnqE2S6V0fSeVEmYD_OWmRjs_42AlUqu4TDQWK7BRRMXWc/s1600/the-digit-al-dozen-does-monochrome-green-1-watermarked-500x500.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://glowstars.net/lacquer-obsession/2014/01/the-digit-al-dozen-does-monochrome-green/"> China Glaze: Cha Cha Cha</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This polish has amazing inner depth, it almost glows! This is a beautiful apple green with a golden duochrome. Words can't describe how amazing this green is! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI41XC4rarPNtYNx3ACRIJ8JqCq4johe8hO9Oph5noT-ZmwUjBzGXzTbPL9CCpBs1cP2ozQLecmbYohCZEs8ci03Yb0yjqbdkfXgtFJCvhbDmS-ndpg7-fBsViksVwzqLZCJqbuVSVr-LU/s1600/a-england+Dragon+Saint+George+HITS+Hera15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI41XC4rarPNtYNx3ACRIJ8JqCq4johe8hO9Oph5noT-ZmwUjBzGXzTbPL9CCpBs1cP2ozQLecmbYohCZEs8ci03Yb0yjqbdkfXgtFJCvhbDmS-ndpg7-fBsViksVwzqLZCJqbuVSVr-LU/s1600/a-england+Dragon+Saint+George+HITS+Hera15.jpg" height="328" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.the-crumpet.com/2012/10/comparison-england-saint-george-v.html">A Englad: St George and Dragon</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I couldn't pick between these two as they are both completely different and yet equally beautiful polishes. A England always creates polish with a perfect buttery formula. Add some holographic magic and then the fact these are green and you have a winning combination! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDflAE9bMKlOTDC7wOR2_3dq0icn1qu921nFFtFQo4rpK9DKABs2GYkIRqG6Ya8ZZVxJZ89WuaNmZcMXz2yadvpZPig7Es2Ny_tbSn6sForRsVfDZ35aV0w4MdnhE5tzhRUf1gbh_gEfu/s1600/crowstoes-green-thumb-of-doom-002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDflAE9bMKlOTDC7wOR2_3dq0icn1qu921nFFtFQo4rpK9DKABs2GYkIRqG6Ya8ZZVxJZ89WuaNmZcMXz2yadvpZPig7Es2Ny_tbSn6sForRsVfDZ35aV0w4MdnhE5tzhRUf1gbh_gEfu/s1600/crowstoes-green-thumb-of-doom-002.png" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.gnarlygnails.com/2013/05/crowstoes-is-back-with-green-thumb-of.html">Crows Toes: Green Thumb Of Doom</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is maybe my favourite mint polish of all time. Packed with shimmer and flakies this polish is perfection bottled up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So there you have it, which ones do you like best? Have I missed your top green- let me know! </span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-15798297600019450232014-05-17T11:00:00.000+01:002014-05-17T11:00:00.997+01:00A Dozen Great Orange Polishes<div style="text-align: left;">
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Hi everyone, it's Sue from Creative Nail Design By Sue and I am here today to talk about orange polish. That's right, it's a polarizing color because people tend to either love it or loathe it. I am in the love it category but mainly because I am Irish with fair skin and the color actually makes me feel tan. So, here are some of our favorites.......</div>
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Zoya Cole, shown here by Ashley from<a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2014/03/zoya-awaken-collection-swatches-and.html"> Smashley Sparkles</a> is a gorgeous peach from the Awaken Collection. perfect color for spring and for those people that want a taste of orange with a degree of subtleness.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8SmE7GeLXQQXdxa8T9cmOQ6OegfJ4hNDbZo2FHodKrJjjqTwhMrWFKXAyIEZZ1oFj3nBSpkUFu_vNI-y6extpyrLQGpw6lJUevBIx_cHXHBocq0zb_c_o2ywcweA8mWeVsELXSJLqUFlM/s1600/zoya+cole.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8SmE7GeLXQQXdxa8T9cmOQ6OegfJ4hNDbZo2FHodKrJjjqTwhMrWFKXAyIEZZ1oFj3nBSpkUFu_vNI-y6extpyrLQGpw6lJUevBIx_cHXHBocq0zb_c_o2ywcweA8mWeVsELXSJLqUFlM/s1600/zoya+cole.JPG" height="207" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now, if you are looking for something a little louder, maybe of the holo variety, you can not overlook Jade Uau. This is even more amazing in person but Debbie from<a href="http://www.the-crumpet.com/2013/12/crumpets-polishes-of-year-2013-orange.html"> The Crumpet</a> captures it pretty well here.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieftmhwvVbuqIRdgnFl_g2B_Yo0RpZQKRqcWm9-1driuj82eSsM_33N35djupvdv7ptZ05LX6yvZAFhdMHbOURqDUFA45mhMccVk0f1EGPp_1SritVHH5eKjHconNT6vbYocLB47WCgN_W/s1600/jade-uau-orange-holo-holographic-swatch-008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieftmhwvVbuqIRdgnFl_g2B_Yo0RpZQKRqcWm9-1driuj82eSsM_33N35djupvdv7ptZ05LX6yvZAFhdMHbOURqDUFA45mhMccVk0f1EGPp_1SritVHH5eKjHconNT6vbYocLB47WCgN_W/s1600/jade-uau-orange-holo-holographic-swatch-008.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now, if that isn't loud enough for you, here is another classic, gorgeous orange from China Glaze called Papaya Punch. Emily from<a href="http://www.lacquerologist.com/2013/09/31dc13-day-2-orange-nails.html"> The Lacquerologist </a>added Zoya Beatrix to create some nail art. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibHtt7jRl525vNqtbPCR7MBOF-NdPeubgZdwHhJd4Zm-7trspx81h80SoMvl2NGd0yFHDfAZacFOsKfsHMSLpOmSy2q8KrEk1eNCuWxFe4tKCJZASkXk0t6o9-D6j9-hEHXn7tbrO4ONut/s1600/2-P7281577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibHtt7jRl525vNqtbPCR7MBOF-NdPeubgZdwHhJd4Zm-7trspx81h80SoMvl2NGd0yFHDfAZacFOsKfsHMSLpOmSy2q8KrEk1eNCuWxFe4tKCJZASkXk0t6o9-D6j9-hEHXn7tbrO4ONut/s1600/2-P7281577.JPG" height="320" width="319" /></a></div>
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Here is a great summer polish called Zoya Jesy from the Bubbly Collection. This is by Katee from <a href="http://www.agirlandherpolish.com/2014/05/zoya-bubbly-collection-swatches-and.html">A Girl And Her Polish.</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgntP30iHVS8U6M4k_kAlm5yfZvnISWEFUntKh2Y0W9-Y-hh6ZfN03y5u9TsTDJUCrSg8JAWCr7PLCz-NYOcqridRIkqOrukv6V1EJcc_ISDMiNUpZltBkm94B6Je6iZEZIH180sbvSJmOh/s1600/DSCN0114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgntP30iHVS8U6M4k_kAlm5yfZvnISWEFUntKh2Y0W9-Y-hh6ZfN03y5u9TsTDJUCrSg8JAWCr7PLCz-NYOcqridRIkqOrukv6V1EJcc_ISDMiNUpZltBkm94B6Je6iZEZIH180sbvSJmOh/s1600/DSCN0114.JPG" height="277" width="320" /></a></div>
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Two for the price of one, Lindsey from <a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2013/05/orange-you-glad-i-didnt-paint.html">Wondrously Polished</a> uses Lime crime Milky Ways as a base for some nail art featuring Zoya Arizona.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjNs3jUoZ6-pevd1GsY5WBpWQuoGDYZ8S7oIUv5Dh71cI2iHFCCJJdN4SQ1oVptf6k-EEHo1zKBR9OiCld-qappXKaT9UvbnL-xvygVLLWSErYMVJLAhPdm0x2bsZERygc11hFCakQ6K4/s1600/wondrouslypolished1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjNs3jUoZ6-pevd1GsY5WBpWQuoGDYZ8S7oIUv5Dh71cI2iHFCCJJdN4SQ1oVptf6k-EEHo1zKBR9OiCld-qappXKaT9UvbnL-xvygVLLWSErYMVJLAhPdm0x2bsZERygc11hFCakQ6K4/s1600/wondrouslypolished1.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now, if none of these fit your style, here is a slightly different take, Meghan from <a href="http://www.willpaintnailsforfood.com/2013/07/contrary-polish-color-context.html">Will Paint Nails For Food</a> does a gorgeous swatch here using Contrary Polish Blood Orange. She describes it as a "vivid burnt orange."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9hSMB0NR0woUICAlMCJQwBA7cSwfTcNW-MykfiwTmfbVqeoy560FfK1CJhsJdoBhXoFrucj25ME5sI4ZCXDp69r2_UimFvlx6s8czRPa7zjo35FHc-WE_t48OzgwgqSk-2rLW9SlODJQ/s1600/Contrary-Polish-Blood-Orange-Swatch-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9hSMB0NR0woUICAlMCJQwBA7cSwfTcNW-MykfiwTmfbVqeoy560FfK1CJhsJdoBhXoFrucj25ME5sI4ZCXDp69r2_UimFvlx6s8czRPa7zjo35FHc-WE_t48OzgwgqSk-2rLW9SlODJQ/s1600/Contrary-Polish-Blood-Orange-Swatch-3.jpg" height="320" width="287" /></a></div>
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For those of you that want an "in your face" orange. Something that screams "I want my nails to be noticed", take a look at KB Shimmer's 24 Carrot Bold shown here by Heather from<a href="http://www.peaceloveandpolish.com/2013/07/my-vacation-mani-kbshimmer-24-carrot.html?m=1"> Peace, Love and Polish</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkkEe3hQqsVdIgl1MIeEbLquzntvRvZUBiQ5Q7SgCz02RvwqaV486TdyLSNMWr6_scWwoXFSIy1f4-uiFT95Vsq1qlQb5cvIVkHtqLaVu4hVrs6ZF42fptNkGyTJ_pQeQkoktUDWyFFnN/s1600/IMG_8856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkkEe3hQqsVdIgl1MIeEbLquzntvRvZUBiQ5Q7SgCz02RvwqaV486TdyLSNMWr6_scWwoXFSIy1f4-uiFT95Vsq1qlQb5cvIVkHtqLaVu4hVrs6ZF42fptNkGyTJ_pQeQkoktUDWyFFnN/s1600/IMG_8856.JPG" /></a></div>
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And equally loud but with their trademark hidden shimmer, this is ManGlaze Butt Taco. My personal favorite orange. And, a little nail art to go with it....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1Z_4K2WE7zhPKBH6O24P5kPbcxXDlpREIwNKucY-dZOjGDWDpNds7qgilIfK8_mDfcmyWDNpTegH5nnZnRS1Cufn-foU6Wdo2JqfZb7yNkO2CktbqUAg7trHxukeLx-xlRZ7zpGLFK9z/s1600/garfield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1Z_4K2WE7zhPKBH6O24P5kPbcxXDlpREIwNKucY-dZOjGDWDpNds7qgilIfK8_mDfcmyWDNpTegH5nnZnRS1Cufn-foU6Wdo2JqfZb7yNkO2CktbqUAg7trHxukeLx-xlRZ7zpGLFK9z/s1600/garfield.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Back to the creme department, we move to a gorgeous coral polish by OPI called Toucan Do It If You Try from their Brazil Collection. Nory from<a href="http://www.creativenaildesignbysue.com/2013/04/digit-al-dozen-does-animal-week.html"> Fierce Makeup And Nails </a>did a beautiful job with this. I bet it would be amazing in a pedicure for the summer too!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFHnyrbxCxOt-U6KNOty5X9_7bSqSEUlUzODWbPznCtQ6_2VTgTsUPRmkeiLih2hvT4d535ewLYxxDuHPiQ0h4ThVKHIMAIQgkahNRyIL7CzYeQI2hwuuihR-U2lrVlw30IYUnw3wurd-/s1600/Brazil3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFHnyrbxCxOt-U6KNOty5X9_7bSqSEUlUzODWbPznCtQ6_2VTgTsUPRmkeiLih2hvT4d535ewLYxxDuHPiQ0h4ThVKHIMAIQgkahNRyIL7CzYeQI2hwuuihR-U2lrVlw30IYUnw3wurd-/s1600/Brazil3.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Moving away from cremes into jellies, here T.I. from <a href="http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.ca/2013/05/digit-al-dozen-bling-day-2.html">Canadian Nail Fanatic</a> shows us the squishy goodness of Elevation Polish Sarychev. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEdN-D_Z1Z9R2hFqTAvoIl57dXtZOtjaoEvquWAxsKJ8pohXnw6Bbwvb2m5Np3o-tInY-aqMMlo7_1iH2SOYjQk93ra5j15kVfFsxSogYOfqj9X4nAG-6UdYamHaHGsEEnPXDlwyqwgrql/s1600/Picture+3161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEdN-D_Z1Z9R2hFqTAvoIl57dXtZOtjaoEvquWAxsKJ8pohXnw6Bbwvb2m5Np3o-tInY-aqMMlo7_1iH2SOYjQk93ra5j15kVfFsxSogYOfqj9X4nAG-6UdYamHaHGsEEnPXDlwyqwgrql/s1600/Picture+3161.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here is one that needs no real introduction, Sheila from <a href="http://www.pointlesscafe.com/2013/10/nail-of-day-dior-mandarin-orange-447.html">Pointless Cafe</a> lets us drool over Dior Mandarin Orange. The gold flecks in this are amazing.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPd2gVtY6qKcBFm7W9y8FzNy69otFWUbg3sGct5cLWBd4Na031iLJB7zJ_coiT3Cq_Z6dMRwxTMovthVxEBL1kDyuwki8ifSh6BwYXvu3xh_WWFW9I41yHAWwtSzYktN2rc4bJ1re7bM_1/s1600/Dior+Mandarin+Orange+_447+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPd2gVtY6qKcBFm7W9y8FzNy69otFWUbg3sGct5cLWBd4Na031iLJB7zJ_coiT3Cq_Z6dMRwxTMovthVxEBL1kDyuwki8ifSh6BwYXvu3xh_WWFW9I41yHAWwtSzYktN2rc4bJ1re7bM_1/s1600/Dior+Mandarin+Orange+_447+1.jpg" height="320" width="272" /></a></div>
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It wouldn't be right if I ended this with something any less than spectacular. I also believe in leaving orange in it's natural form. To me, that means it stands out and makes people take notice. I think Shelly from <a href="http://www.sassyshelly.com/2013/11/glam-polish-pixie-hollow-collection.html#.U3LDNcpOW00">Sassy Shelly</a> captured that beautifully in this photo of Glam Polish Fawn. Hellllooooo orange!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI-GCQyn-ITr043zKxOonSgIbE-8WfIW9FdUDhS_MZOFTmP34K8ak0SNFl9ecaRFZ93TqBNQyNX4updPoVR9NO-dGH9ViRrESFIZ5uiVrU8jcpH8hEtwmysPc0lnvQaO7mPXxTaXhqXOeS/s1600/Glam_Polish_Fawn,_pixie_hollow_neons_review%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI-GCQyn-ITr043zKxOonSgIbE-8WfIW9FdUDhS_MZOFTmP34K8ak0SNFl9ecaRFZ93TqBNQyNX4updPoVR9NO-dGH9ViRrESFIZ5uiVrU8jcpH8hEtwmysPc0lnvQaO7mPXxTaXhqXOeS/s1600/Glam_Polish_Fawn,_pixie_hollow_neons_review%5B1%5D.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-86311681521411796052014-05-07T11:00:00.000+01:002014-05-07T11:00:14.826+01:00Meet Missy - The Queen of Offbeat<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px;">
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<em><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Queen Series is a weekly feature happening on Wednesdays. Each week one of us from The Digit-al Dozen will introduce you to our blog, tell you about how we got started, and talk a little about how we ended up being the Queen of something. We all have unique talents when it comes to nail art, and our Queen titles reflect that. Check out <b><a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/search/label/Queen%20Series">past posts</a></b> in this series.</span></em><br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Name: Missy, (the Queen of Offbeat)</span></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5lEqnxw9mkdUQhnZQAnzSuNckCArkp4iIZLX4EPLHbG5RmbE4pfrhqv2OOgKShwyC_0U10HYUEvgmZ8eRHhEaOJnd0eWKyStbemt4d4DToIYGdTZlpMaph8ecdI-xurCUw_tTIKDnU8_f/s1600/gnarly-gnails-missy-picture-for-the-crumpet.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5lEqnxw9mkdUQhnZQAnzSuNckCArkp4iIZLX4EPLHbG5RmbE4pfrhqv2OOgKShwyC_0U10HYUEvgmZ8eRHhEaOJnd0eWKyStbemt4d4DToIYGdTZlpMaph8ecdI-xurCUw_tTIKDnU8_f/s1600/gnarly-gnails-missy-picture-for-the-crumpet.png" /></span></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is me, about 2 years before my polish obsession began. I know this because I'm wearing red polish, which is about the only thing I owned at the time.</span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Hey everyone! This is Missy from <b><a href="http://www.gnarlygnails.com/" target="_blank">Gnarly Gnails</a></b> here to do my Queen post for the group!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I have been dubbed the Queen of Offbeat, I guess because I'm a bit offbeat myself and tend to do nail art that is a little off from the path most take! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZupkbb4fNCB64JB-W5JFEgUdCVRKddY0U-ejkAzLaOFgI7JeC8yyqWchMGggQm2pyiTOKrNafkzT4q5KugJyIqv05QOcpncL9CJnjzpHLXyaFLVvB5hr6y6-MqsIIwtwSakpnwcZ4kZMP/s1600/nagg-day20-pop-culture-001.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZupkbb4fNCB64JB-W5JFEgUdCVRKddY0U-ejkAzLaOFgI7JeC8yyqWchMGggQm2pyiTOKrNafkzT4q5KugJyIqv05QOcpncL9CJnjzpHLXyaFLVvB5hr6y6-MqsIIwtwSakpnwcZ4kZMP/s1600/nagg-day20-pop-culture-001.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Not to say I can't appreciate a good floral or polka dot!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXFkD8bq-7wiWMOPh8fa4yzSUQnI_LZtL9bxyuOC2D8ZBXlfDUc2SWdwza7kkdaKpzGyQ2jhseDr_j-LIV01IKoEhBWA6oDe5VIxTOP-wEJMi-BDfrELVox3efc1DfA0XomTGhwhNPhyF/s1600/nopi-kelloggs-2014-005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXFkD8bq-7wiWMOPh8fa4yzSUQnI_LZtL9bxyuOC2D8ZBXlfDUc2SWdwza7kkdaKpzGyQ2jhseDr_j-LIV01IKoEhBWA6oDe5VIxTOP-wEJMi-BDfrELVox3efc1DfA0XomTGhwhNPhyF/s1600/nopi-kelloggs-2014-005.png" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We're supposed to talk about ourselves, so let's see what I can tell you! I've just recently turned 40. It's not as bad as I thought. I didn't get all melodramatic and wonder what I'd done with my life, but mortality and aches and pains are always on my mind! I live with my boyfriend of 5 years and our cat Biscuits. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdf_C6Z2o_sTK8-La7D0KdVhuX3knS3yTehcu-3FBBeFbQl9wvz0oYRfGZ8h0FPMHFyuX9E1_ZcePDZSqAsgEDokqtaZeqhhby4OjYgO8GchZNRSgP94nASMnQFoWzwNpMivAC8Ld05uRq/s1600/nagg-day24-abstract-002.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdf_C6Z2o_sTK8-La7D0KdVhuX3knS3yTehcu-3FBBeFbQl9wvz0oYRfGZ8h0FPMHFyuX9E1_ZcePDZSqAsgEDokqtaZeqhhby4OjYgO8GchZNRSgP94nASMnQFoWzwNpMivAC8Ld05uRq/s1600/nagg-day24-abstract-002.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I have bee blogging for quite a few years but nail blogging since January 2012. I've worked within the beauty industry as both a freelance makeup artist and also in several salons as a manager.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS6dkHkompCqmw4sP3tGSbNZl7zZLpowoI2rGCYCn-r6Kim2-mEW4zMuSQUMzl8UaLmrZGcMkY6-FKbJFpEhKutYVL_jzvzNY7Fikqd8vCr0-0uWLF-JdCyjFbRMaRN1K92RoF3H5j5c4T/s1600/nagg-day15-roundandsquare-001.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS6dkHkompCqmw4sP3tGSbNZl7zZLpowoI2rGCYCn-r6Kim2-mEW4zMuSQUMzl8UaLmrZGcMkY6-FKbJFpEhKutYVL_jzvzNY7Fikqd8vCr0-0uWLF-JdCyjFbRMaRN1K92RoF3H5j5c4T/s1600/nagg-day15-roundandsquare-001.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My blog started out as sort of an off the cuff comment from a friend who asked if I had planned to start one when she noticed all of the polish I'd begun stockpiling at an alarming rate. I hadn't really thought about it before that, but I figured I could do that, give me more of a "reason" to buy it, right? </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlg2xWLEgem7Bf-TCcIzjbNwIlMMGvwTmfcJCDPd9286S5ZN2LLWDK9g46QB2sbQpgQYc_oJeCBo7xdTChnLttEzbtk4y-_iV-BwN_Z6v4cYMb2EBRezNRwj9tTFmHb4OUxDPnaAZd29fN/s1600/neon-houndstooth-002.png" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlg2xWLEgem7Bf-TCcIzjbNwIlMMGvwTmfcJCDPd9286S5ZN2LLWDK9g46QB2sbQpgQYc_oJeCBo7xdTChnLttEzbtk4y-_iV-BwN_Z6v4cYMb2EBRezNRwj9tTFmHb4OUxDPnaAZd29fN/s1600/neon-houndstooth-002.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">How it came to be Gnarly Gnails is about as equally boring...it just did. I'm originally from California, so we had a tendency to say Gnarly alot when I was growing up, and I wanted something a bit different than your standard "I Like Polish Blog". I added the G on Nails just for funsies. I like symmetry.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCM6JFBkKqfrSX1aiOtWaNNIdVO4ghohLu-G0KKVW_emWY19UBpYCmrnT2gh2kuaJON9wGUXHHGj_j9HHl7tfm0YPnlrYAc8F6wClfxaOVn1wCchF4OSte0ICGHqwhT5mbzia71h3TE_s6/s1600/pure-cubist-003.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCM6JFBkKqfrSX1aiOtWaNNIdVO4ghohLu-G0KKVW_emWY19UBpYCmrnT2gh2kuaJON9wGUXHHGj_j9HHl7tfm0YPnlrYAc8F6wClfxaOVn1wCchF4OSte0ICGHqwhT5mbzia71h3TE_s6/s1600/pure-cubist-003.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">No matter how long I do my blog, I will always be amazed people read it....but if I had to venture to guess as to why people DO read my blog it's probably because I do weird stuff. There aren't a lot of bloggers who wear black in the summer or neon in the winter or paint bacon and eggs on their nails! There need to be more! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuL14K1r46Y1ISML0KLHdiY74l5hLLyC3ECo0QmZzvnA0Hxv1im5wU-sPus9sX5D4PR1IxW_D-WvY93covBU3FsatWaL1Qmxy8CP3nLJbQMK18_1oJN7ai0s5VzY_5wjWL7dZrXVfXCHZm/s1600/nagg-day08-still-life-002.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuL14K1r46Y1ISML0KLHdiY74l5hLLyC3ECo0QmZzvnA0Hxv1im5wU-sPus9sX5D4PR1IxW_D-WvY93covBU3FsatWaL1Qmxy8CP3nLJbQMK18_1oJN7ai0s5VzY_5wjWL7dZrXVfXCHZm/s1600/nagg-day08-still-life-002.png" height="476" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Also I think I truly do nail art that is easy to attain. I WISH I could do crazy intricate designs like some other bloggers, I envy them...but I am slightly impatient with my nail art while at the same time, slightly a perfectionist about it, which turns into sort of cool art with an easy twist. Like doing tons of different tape designs, or mixing stamping with studs, etc....Its stuff that looks cool but is easy to do.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQle9AI9vXCDiEBwR7i7UMm2ot4m04m-kUwbZN5Cd4d90-QeZPnYx1V_-wXJSSU4evNfor37gYz3_Df8QpQt1S2vNi_X96PZQ2s9j17EjiL8pk_2jUxYoxJCwBGWHGOXCLyvP2EgWd48N2/s1600/tbb-yellow-birds-003.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQle9AI9vXCDiEBwR7i7UMm2ot4m04m-kUwbZN5Cd4d90-QeZPnYx1V_-wXJSSU4evNfor37gYz3_Df8QpQt1S2vNi_X96PZQ2s9j17EjiL8pk_2jUxYoxJCwBGWHGOXCLyvP2EgWd48N2/s1600/tbb-yellow-birds-003.png" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I always want people to feel at ease approaching me. I've always been friendly, helped answer questions when I could and be a voice in the nail community, and I hope I come across that way. I never like when bloggers have an elitist attitude or seem unapproachable or too big for their britches.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdM_8xLRoJe1_uvB19kt4Fu37oEVC74eElnAz6gFFngtyFlWyNNGtZBL7ntK3oR16MBLnGcTrlN1h7LNJpB4hrszLQoBvbb6ruzpOgdtdzjGR0N7yhXyRpiSbEOyyos5OseTjEcUeOYg6k/s1600/opi-couture-de-minnie-by-gnarly-gnails.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdM_8xLRoJe1_uvB19kt4Fu37oEVC74eElnAz6gFFngtyFlWyNNGtZBL7ntK3oR16MBLnGcTrlN1h7LNJpB4hrszLQoBvbb6ruzpOgdtdzjGR0N7yhXyRpiSbEOyyos5OseTjEcUeOYg6k/s1600/opi-couture-de-minnie-by-gnarly-gnails.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When it comes to social media, for awhile Facebook was my favorite way to communicate outside of my blog, but it's become more and more difficult to be seen or heard there and I've moved on to Instagram for my supplemental blogging material. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhC50eiB-9VO_-1jweo0lW04PHoLN-SeubPSA5iK9Hr9W3QZr4lqz_HesB0VwRvtV79mqFtjv3AYPzFVtyyu6Fa-cwSysphkN7HXM8K-yokjNEAK7jqr6L0ZnCrpptWBtcttvCbrQpxP3O/s1600/dd-texture-neon-fish-stripes-002.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhC50eiB-9VO_-1jweo0lW04PHoLN-SeubPSA5iK9Hr9W3QZr4lqz_HesB0VwRvtV79mqFtjv3AYPzFVtyyu6Fa-cwSysphkN7HXM8K-yokjNEAK7jqr6L0ZnCrpptWBtcttvCbrQpxP3O/s1600/dd-texture-neon-fish-stripes-002.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">At first it's a bit hard to remember to get on Instagram every day, or several times a day, because I don't really do the whole smartphone thing. But I've definitely noticed a change in readership when I post daily, so I definitely make a habit to get on there!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEi5l1lzmIK7laMLqksX7ESoRp6VngchOvGOLgr_uelDdlKK2ahjnQ5sExD0Odk_FqiFHgyACJJHn7gGm1BY_Q2LX2ONMv6c-F35NiHwqUz7ivP_a3zO6BSssv0fjLgtuF94r9PdP59Vtu/s1600/dd-skittles-frankensteins-001.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEi5l1lzmIK7laMLqksX7ESoRp6VngchOvGOLgr_uelDdlKK2ahjnQ5sExD0Odk_FqiFHgyACJJHn7gGm1BY_Q2LX2ONMv6c-F35NiHwqUz7ivP_a3zO6BSssv0fjLgtuF94r9PdP59Vtu/s1600/dd-skittles-frankensteins-001.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">IG has become my favorite because it's instant and it's easy and it's definitely one of the most popular social media platforms out there. Now that they've re-vamped their popular page and allow lesser known accounts to show up based on your own IG habits, its much easier to grow and be seen by others, not to mention all of the new accounts I have found to follow on there since they changed it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My most popular mani on IG is the hyperspace mani I did for Pure Nail Polish very recently. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3KF-iJ_2ClqnbtjzFHIRKcUQOrzULqd4d22-PaJQ_RUtabKZ82K1jalUC3Pj6f-0hiiVNbadcvK68tmYPRwx9IxMxEpA33Ams5WeOKcVjjsYZjo-lsc4uIWoB2oq3_pDPuO0HwD8i08mX/s1600/pure-hyperspace-001.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3KF-iJ_2ClqnbtjzFHIRKcUQOrzULqd4d22-PaJQ_RUtabKZ82K1jalUC3Pj6f-0hiiVNbadcvK68tmYPRwx9IxMxEpA33Ams5WeOKcVjjsYZjo-lsc4uIWoB2oq3_pDPuO0HwD8i08mX/s1600/pure-hyperspace-001.png" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As for what's popular on my blog, it's probably a much older mani I did for the 31 day challenge where I made some tattoo flash designs using lots of layering and temporary tattoos. I love that about different platforms, whats big on one is hardly ever the same on another!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyzvmRNx0VcdxQVMOL6xLZSABVbGiSI1ibDo_2qR85spiodf7IANXp_O8qnAgSuk8mgPLpAepV0GlGXommbnAwht9mQ2OJN-jG_eWgf_-0tUKGqzkXBAiZyMl3Lmy_8P2OyRIuTU44RnYH/s640/31dc-day-27-artwork-003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyzvmRNx0VcdxQVMOL6xLZSABVbGiSI1ibDo_2qR85spiodf7IANXp_O8qnAgSuk8mgPLpAepV0GlGXommbnAwht9mQ2OJN-jG_eWgf_-0tUKGqzkXBAiZyMl3Lmy_8P2OyRIuTU44RnYH/s640/31dc-day-27-artwork-003.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I love what I do, I love what I've been able to learn through nail art. Before I did nail art as this full-time hobby, I did other art and have always been an artistic person. I used to paint plasters of mostly Day of the Dead type artwork, from the casting all the way through to the end result. I loved it so much, but it was so messy and became very hard to do in the tiny place we live at now. That hobby/business went by the wayside when I discovered nail art. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtdj0PU2T1SDS1KxmjYyD5Vu1JhyLHZwuuvVBsBcvO2GFuSMKOuBat9kraxk86Y0AX8nFoFy8F6-ML6FD2vbBFWq-zWpaETHHTJh3sXlTZx4LK_JatzRnWRuh_rPTVopPNP0dV6iunT1BD/s1600/neon-week-grip-tape-003.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtdj0PU2T1SDS1KxmjYyD5Vu1JhyLHZwuuvVBsBcvO2GFuSMKOuBat9kraxk86Y0AX8nFoFy8F6-ML6FD2vbBFWq-zWpaETHHTJh3sXlTZx4LK_JatzRnWRuh_rPTVopPNP0dV6iunT1BD/s1600/neon-week-grip-tape-003.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I do think I took a lot of what I learned painting on a bigger scale and was able to bring it to nails. I definitely was well stocked on brushes and acrylic paints! In the future though, I want to work on my patience so I have the ability to get into more intricate designs and rely less on stamping. I have a hard time focusing and sometimes hurry through to the finished product only to realize I forgot things! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dq3rZDE0bK1OefUh4eQrUReR6fCpJfkEqJod9caxhuOhHbL5HnOwgSTOxUZzJ-kvBBlLuQP8iRNh1Myh33YBaCT_C2x2TYgPuS-mnh9kk4WdjqmnghXJx-SQacPWLiu5ImrFPBRj-iwZ/s1600/33dc-art-untried-003.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dq3rZDE0bK1OefUh4eQrUReR6fCpJfkEqJod9caxhuOhHbL5HnOwgSTOxUZzJ-kvBBlLuQP8iRNh1Myh33YBaCT_C2x2TYgPuS-mnh9kk4WdjqmnghXJx-SQacPWLiu5ImrFPBRj-iwZ/s1600/33dc-art-untried-003.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">About my collection - ok, so I have never actually COUNTED them all. I have made spreadsheets over the years that got me close to what I might have...but I've never known the number since probably back when I had under 50. It's over 1000 now, but I keep it right around there because I don't have the room for more. I try to make room, by buying spice racks and displays and adding more shelves on the wall that it can probably support! But I think the number I have now between tried and untried will probably stay around the same until I'm able to acquire my own room to house it. For the time being I've got my collection set up in 2 stacks of 2 Melmers per side with a shelf across the top to act as the desk. It works in my space, hopefully soon I will be able to switch from Melmers to Helmers because they are definitely not built to last! I also have a shelf above my work area where I have 3 spice shelves set up and those hold most of my Indie polishes so I can always see their glittery beauty.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Of them all, which are my favorites? Like stranded island favorites?</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">OPI - My Vampire is Buff or Don't Bossa Nova Me Around (whichever has more in it when I get stranded)</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">A England Saint George</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">NailNation3000 - Amazeballs</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">I Love Nail Polish - Sirene</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">Pure Nail Polish - Sunlight</span></span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjyKURwE5UnlrCf6a2_6najqKdeTjJoavpdyAHAyzCvWv8rqMDd0R7NNTx4X5HT7v4D0pukYP-yW1T36XCjfgafHcb3ynQubR_A1_Y1S589kzN0gh6ShVW07rHSgWo2DGI1fEO53RIDQ1K/s1600/pure-rainbow-leopard-matte-001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjyKURwE5UnlrCf6a2_6najqKdeTjJoavpdyAHAyzCvWv8rqMDd0R7NNTx4X5HT7v4D0pukYP-yW1T36XCjfgafHcb3ynQubR_A1_Y1S589kzN0gh6ShVW07rHSgWo2DGI1fEO53RIDQ1K/s1600/pure-rainbow-leopard-matte-001.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When it comes to favorite brands - it's a hard choice given how many brands there actually are to choose from. Mainstream its probably Illamasqua. I love everything they do except for the more recent stuff where they seem to be trailing behind what everyone else is doing (textures/speckles). Generally they are pretty cutting edge and I love that. Their polishes have one of the best formulas in the industry without question.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjno1BHLRcFLYfOWEYEAHmIILH9SKobcR2FsABgkUfD6wn-pZKbuQptpMb-TAFwock7rST_0ISYgh2_84zZ93ghtl4zAAub1_F0eELCI9mwcsambyRzLEV3lJL-lLquQKSxpIuh5nbKiZ4/s1600/nagg-day06-neon-002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjno1BHLRcFLYfOWEYEAHmIILH9SKobcR2FsABgkUfD6wn-pZKbuQptpMb-TAFwock7rST_0ISYgh2_84zZ93ghtl4zAAub1_F0eELCI9mwcsambyRzLEV3lJL-lLquQKSxpIuh5nbKiZ4/s1600/nagg-day06-neon-002.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For Indie...so tough! I'll go by what I own the most of, which is I Love Nail Polish, Lynnderella, Literary Lacquers and Chirality. As for what I own the most of non-indie, it's definitely OPI. I currently have 3 drawers full of OPI!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJSH45DwDR69hgcdQo-ODrcmfn6pcSc4bQK-nQ0ewt9AlchihwnBQofge4OaTchCEMRZ57MZ6P87B1sR3SR8QcSqJpQ4kxP1V3dev7M1z7-z1qjW4OgNhi5XTKVI_EUVRq1PMotNYhGay/s1600/opi-tints-005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJSH45DwDR69hgcdQo-ODrcmfn6pcSc4bQK-nQ0ewt9AlchihwnBQofge4OaTchCEMRZ57MZ6P87B1sR3SR8QcSqJpQ4kxP1V3dev7M1z7-z1qjW4OgNhi5XTKVI_EUVRq1PMotNYhGay/s1600/opi-tints-005.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It's funny to see the phases I've gone through in the 2+ years of blogging. I started out being really into Indies, almost immediately. My first indie purchase was Whimsical Ideas by Pam, Peanut Butter and Jelly and Kismets Pajamas. Then NerdLacquer. Those two brands cemented me in hard with my love for Indies. I was in a huge glitter phase. I still love glitters, but I've definitely expanded my horizons. I used to be a pretty big deny-er of how great holos and duochromes were. Now years later and when many are burned out on them, I want them all!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMv5zTWpXBPLGeFpnf6hbec4-SKrzy8KmyElBZyo1jupxUth55nRbKjcfD1YcF-QcwjhZIRsetsolutyStuY7z9UEL1lFgbKIgej_Bf7j-vrbZ6uixi0F29ZanFnN5rxUDPyD_gYZrcOSF/s1600/dd-texture-cmyk-002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMv5zTWpXBPLGeFpnf6hbec4-SKrzy8KmyElBZyo1jupxUth55nRbKjcfD1YcF-QcwjhZIRsetsolutyStuY7z9UEL1lFgbKIgej_Bf7j-vrbZ6uixi0F29ZanFnN5rxUDPyD_gYZrcOSF/s1600/dd-texture-cmyk-002.png" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm inspired by plenty of bloggers but by lots of other things lately as well...like fashion or nature or sometimes even architecture. I've tried recently to look at everything around me in more of a 'is nail art possible' sort of way. Everyone in the Digit-al Dozen is always a huge inspiration to me. Instead of naming some names, I would like to say I am inspired by anyone who can keep their motivation and continue to produce new and interesting art/techniques in a sea of nail blogs. It's hard work. It's been a long road for me to really LIKE what I do when I try to see it from a different perspective, but I do now, and I wouldn't trade what I do and what I've done with my blog to be anyone else's!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCsatbDmVVjDREqB7VeaTxxOjoTE-V43laOpAur5vWRc6JjNbBDEvNiDyf5lGG9GNNWiUTkIKVGGfrArw4mgdv-OL-qF6HBzR6VDJSzKF97uCvp7STCFrwb9F3MTG3nAXe-nW43SaTPKnb/s1600/mad-men-icure-001.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCsatbDmVVjDREqB7VeaTxxOjoTE-V43laOpAur5vWRc6JjNbBDEvNiDyf5lGG9GNNWiUTkIKVGGfrArw4mgdv-OL-qF6HBzR6VDJSzKF97uCvp7STCFrwb9F3MTG3nAXe-nW43SaTPKnb/s1600/mad-men-icure-001.png" height="480" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wanting to be someone else, or envying someone else, is a trap I think alot of us bloggers fall into. Trying to be the best, or be as good as...whoever it is you look up to. Which is fine to have that goal to look up to, but not to the point it makes you sick or angry you aren't getting to that level. I always try to keep it right in the front of my mind, the reasons I started this blog and this hobby, and then I remember how far I've come and how can you possibly find bad in that? I value the business and personal relationships I have created because of my blog and the nail community a million times above any monthly numbers or stats.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg34QFwO7etUS8b_w0584CyuGIdgNAJka9kiYisYhUHA0CUr2rxfAhkTwTQCEenKAx7cmCUr4_zood_zd3Z06Q_b-zzGXL5n9D9rF-Rksjv-19UFiesYeVdyYMxA7CmuPYjybe7IfuyvvLq/s1600/back-in-time-union-jack-002.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg34QFwO7etUS8b_w0584CyuGIdgNAJka9kiYisYhUHA0CUr2rxfAhkTwTQCEenKAx7cmCUr4_zood_zd3Z06Q_b-zzGXL5n9D9rF-Rksjv-19UFiesYeVdyYMxA7CmuPYjybe7IfuyvvLq/s1600/back-in-time-union-jack-002.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I remember when I started my blog, I didn't know ANY nail blogs. I didn't start out wanting to be the best, and no matter how many people tell me I'm their favorite or how many cool things might happen to me because I'm a blogger, I never ever really think of MYSELF in that way. I'll always just be little old Missy with this little old blog. Doing what I like to do for me and glad even one person gives it their thumbs up! But if a post went up that never got a heart, a like or a thumbs up, I wouldn't stop!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMb2yk7uc0dkpiCNfCfVHQNOAdvnhkOjhcLE9JiZ_HCL5ObRxQ44xTT59kaWOZk_OJ4zIN7qKzPxTktufJTd3eqB1E3F1JCnCmcHCMZ_d7G-yqwQy-7GXQZQAL-UOhELFyPpP4Fd-iCTHc/s1600/dd-ss-art-002.png" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMb2yk7uc0dkpiCNfCfVHQNOAdvnhkOjhcLE9JiZ_HCL5ObRxQ44xTT59kaWOZk_OJ4zIN7qKzPxTktufJTd3eqB1E3F1JCnCmcHCMZ_d7G-yqwQy-7GXQZQAL-UOhELFyPpP4Fd-iCTHc/s1600/dd-ss-art-002.png" height="476" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It's easy to get discouraged, even burn out. I think it's almost standard for everyone at one point or another to wonder what it's all for. Breaks are good, not being so hard or overcritical on ourselves is even better though. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> There are good things about blogging, like cool accolades and achievements, as well as the bad things, like haters saying mean things for no reason or people stealing or copying you. My favorites about blogging are when I am blessed with a brand asking ME to help promote them. I've gotten a fair amount of good things come my way through blogging, my favorite will always be the brands I get to work with on a regular basis. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The bads will always be when I see a design original to any artist not being credited. When people re-create your designs and credit you, it's the best feeling. Knowing you inspired someone beyond just a click of their mouse.</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Of all of the themes we have done with the Digit-al Dozen, I think my favorites have been Black & White week and Geek Week. There are so many great ones, but those two really made me think! </span></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlXeSn2SfMO7k0QBobYdFItQUQ-08c33BRh6FRs071_RL_IKip6q7yCl_KL2RFHQCrKIIrqNisuWFUqQJ1r1LpM-U0yh7Jyq3XTKRhtlfgsDFTsz5v7y26jZxFgq4SbzvM4NlfHy9kqA/s1600/signature-names-individual.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://i.imgur.com/BtTfiW9.png" height="250" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-51633735498557526232014-05-05T11:00:00.000+01:002014-05-05T11:00:08.321+01:00A Dozen Great Pastel Polishes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CgEUzdqOnWelr6pytThGTMgw2GQWwPNT0I1eOucyvKMFPzOvNUyvdShJ1FIy5wHUN4ZwqXaAkRPxSyfZmbJlik76sCz8MwwOOzonYhv85qGdrcUl89m6Z1LYRaO6dBp7fzrCmp_j4dLB/s1600/a-dozen-pastel-polishes.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CgEUzdqOnWelr6pytThGTMgw2GQWwPNT0I1eOucyvKMFPzOvNUyvdShJ1FIy5wHUN4ZwqXaAkRPxSyfZmbJlik76sCz8MwwOOzonYhv85qGdrcUl89m6Z1LYRaO6dBp7fzrCmp_j4dLB/s1600/a-dozen-pastel-polishes.png" height="212" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hi Guys! It's Heather, the creator behind Peace, Love and Polish. This is the first time you're hearing from me here on The Digit-al Dozen blog! I am super excited to share with you all my love of pastel polishes. There's just something about a pastel creme that I must have!</center>
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So, I'm showing you a dozen pastel polishes and pastel glitters showcased by my fellow Digit-al Dozen ladies. I did some research on everyone's sites and picked these twelve because they stole my heart! And maybe, I'll showcase just a few of my own personal favorite pastel polishes at the end :)</center>
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<a href="http://www.the-crumpet.com/2013/01/review-barry-m-textured-nail-paint.html">The Crumpet:</a> <b>Barry M Kingsland Road</b> from the Spring 2013 Collection. It's such a fun spin on the traditional pastel, this pale pink has a fun creamy texture.</center>
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<a href="http://www.manicurity.com/2013/04/lac-attack-spring-fling-collection.html">Manicurity</a>: <b>Lac Attack Bunny Poop</b> over <b>Holy Chick</b>! I adore the subtle glitters and the mix of sizes and pastel colors. Layered over a creamy white, this polish is pure pastel glitter perfection! </center>
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<a href="http://www.gnarlygnails.com/2013/03/pastel-bunnies.html">Gnarly Gnails</a>: <b>BB Couture Cottontail</b> from the Spring 2013 Pastel Bunnies Collection. A gorgeous pastel pistachio green creme. I can't get enough of this shade - it's a light mint dream!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66uWMtq4-_IkJ2Y6I6GBvcdLafC4K78tUBo7PcXyFrzjo192xiOHlrumZKNUSdlogX0WsVIhmimXoAb66rUhhNqYnnJTayW7KPuONydbbG3s3P3gZvU0XBzUfZbGLqkBffPTFleaHoN2M/s1600/cottontail.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66uWMtq4-_IkJ2Y6I6GBvcdLafC4K78tUBo7PcXyFrzjo192xiOHlrumZKNUSdlogX0WsVIhmimXoAb66rUhhNqYnnJTayW7KPuONydbbG3s3P3gZvU0XBzUfZbGLqkBffPTFleaHoN2M/s1600/cottontail.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.agirlandherpolish.com/2013/02/indie-polish-month-day-16-kbshimmer.html">A Girl and Her Polish</a>: <b>KBShimmer Pastel Me More</b> layered over <b>Barry M Mint Green, Barry M Lemon Ice Cream</b> and <b>OPI My Boyfriend Scales Walls</b>. This glitter topper contains a rainbow of soft pastel glitters and emulates all things girly. This looks fabulous layered over any soft shade!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi05WoXBXflnrvYiH-_jj9kyVacAUUFmcQulF6Vce4Ck83aBE7tOCrhTFAnp_tmcmEOKqG_5at159Do4jhGeMoUmo0zIp9RZzl7dAJM0xwmffsvG5NzL3ccOBoqIuq5vKiZkmYZG6lBRUAU/s1600/DSCN8627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi05WoXBXflnrvYiH-_jj9kyVacAUUFmcQulF6Vce4Ck83aBE7tOCrhTFAnp_tmcmEOKqG_5at159Do4jhGeMoUmo0zIp9RZzl7dAJM0xwmffsvG5NzL3ccOBoqIuq5vKiZkmYZG6lBRUAU/s1600/DSCN8627.JPG" height="444" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.adventuresinacetone.com/2012/08/lime-crime-spun-sugar-nail-art-and.html">Adventures In Acetone</a>: <b>Lime Crime Peaches <3 Cream</b> is a clean peachy pastel orange that has an awesome satin/matte finish. I love the anit-shine in this one, it makes the pastel color really look slick on the nail.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQSPLw0xIw1qr5ePylVAoNjKt2rZcCWShJPXoA0lbcOMOsJe4YaiIHZ1BTD3HsZ3qZUhDdEa_WAsadFHdGPbOqIRWV5ZuLwv24Hu0mVxuzzTXgPaxtFpI6acGygAUkLkjbVfgciFgO05k7/s1600/SAM_5374wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQSPLw0xIw1qr5ePylVAoNjKt2rZcCWShJPXoA0lbcOMOsJe4YaiIHZ1BTD3HsZ3qZUhDdEa_WAsadFHdGPbOqIRWV5ZuLwv24Hu0mVxuzzTXgPaxtFpI6acGygAUkLkjbVfgciFgO05k7/s1600/SAM_5374wm.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://pishposhandpolish.blogspot.com/2013/08/the-nail-arcade-uk-indie-polish-store.html">PishPosh and Polish</a>:<b> Serum No 5 Pretty In Pastel</b> layered over <b>Barry M Lemon Ice Cream, SinfulColors Alfresco, Uknown Shade by Glam</b> and <b>piCture pOlish Honey Dew</b>. As Kerrie described, this is like color fishscales. So, a pastel mermaid? Another perfect pastel glitter topper!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRV1nmPSr0p68O9TWoZFBwqPyM940HdvcZmHlGaOamUVqGTz3IC37iSox9dJv8RvdhdeUtSS1lmpA1U7rOEsC3xC_io7QGfqodQvPqPs1KBT9TYGKxFAXEyFlem2LLAxgJSIR7-CSK5jvW/s1600/IMG_3856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRV1nmPSr0p68O9TWoZFBwqPyM940HdvcZmHlGaOamUVqGTz3IC37iSox9dJv8RvdhdeUtSS1lmpA1U7rOEsC3xC_io7QGfqodQvPqPs1KBT9TYGKxFAXEyFlem2LLAxgJSIR7-CSK5jvW/s1600/IMG_3856.JPG" height="502" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.willpaintnailsforfood.com/2013/06/models-own-ice-cream-sundae-collection.html">Will Paint Nails For Food</a>:<b> Models Own Lemon Meringue</b> from the Ice Cream Sundae Collection is a pastel lemon yellow. What I love about this shade is that it isn't your typical soft yellow - it has a certain vibrancy that is unique in pastel polishes!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJ6rxw23ZIEzGAQV0bk9sjqxuq_MftkBvT3TTjBqLCtNO0f6aCn1-yqJaiw-qzWOpT58WmexOwC9RoqDyBotinJYp31Raz6zw-y5Y90x1pVia0o6twHrsjNM5aqp5PC4t7Kkcjh5pjsdO/s1600/models+own+lemon+meringue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJ6rxw23ZIEzGAQV0bk9sjqxuq_MftkBvT3TTjBqLCtNO0f6aCn1-yqJaiw-qzWOpT58WmexOwC9RoqDyBotinJYp31Raz6zw-y5Y90x1pVia0o6twHrsjNM5aqp5PC4t7Kkcjh5pjsdO/s1600/models+own+lemon+meringue.jpg" height="640" width="624" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2013/05/lynnderella-sugared-violet.html">Smashley Sparkles</a>: <b>Lynderella Sugared Violet</b> layered over <b>Orly Snowcone</b> is a fun glitter topper with assorted purple glitters and white satin shreds. The heart glitters make this girly and sweet!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL6RzfYq_enMXfWMOb6XiHd41syydHCQbkRXHa_NbWHRPQlOEnYDvxSGAQWzB6m50dJ2cX6dfT78D7VxjV8chrmDaHL-zj3gmDjMdLVunDXkx9pqKDdcZhDrkDbZVC_iBCiWijq9qZvOTb/s1600/lynnderella+sugared+violet+orly+snowcone-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL6RzfYq_enMXfWMOb6XiHd41syydHCQbkRXHa_NbWHRPQlOEnYDvxSGAQWzB6m50dJ2cX6dfT78D7VxjV8chrmDaHL-zj3gmDjMdLVunDXkx9pqKDdcZhDrkDbZVC_iBCiWijq9qZvOTb/s1600/lynnderella+sugared+violet+orly+snowcone-002.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sassyshelly.com/2012/12/zoya-lovely-collection-swatches-review.html#.Uw9THYXvgnE">Sassy Shelly</a>: <b>Zoya Blu</b> is from the Lovely Collection. It is quintessentially the perfect baby blue. There's no other way to describe it. This is the shade I imagine when I think of a pastel baby blue.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCdO9tO2pgWUzTSc6iA9rC0wx1kDs8a3DQi7x2vmLhjwmvyXgWBdmGyCzwPRVWqnal4rvD84TTcHiUAuKbHaezEVNyPwqyo-nYgxsfUBSxL5X2SeBc8D4NnjL5qMnWN91ENO2W3RQN7de/s1600/Zoya+Blu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCdO9tO2pgWUzTSc6iA9rC0wx1kDs8a3DQi7x2vmLhjwmvyXgWBdmGyCzwPRVWqnal4rvD84TTcHiUAuKbHaezEVNyPwqyo-nYgxsfUBSxL5X2SeBc8D4NnjL5qMnWN91ENO2W3RQN7de/s1600/Zoya+Blu.jpg" height="460" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2013/03/the-hungry-asian-li-lacquer-swatch-and.html">Wondrously Polished</a>: <b>The Hungry Asian Li-Lacquer</b> has the right amount of rainbow glitters in a crelly lavendar base. As Lindsey said, this is like little Easter eggs on your nails!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqBPeCU8zkdNK-kPrWGbDr7O5WpDLmL4hqUWwYJOKiOwjZvESEr1T6odopesbOi-5xeI7OqvSlAdXed9JyQ6gzvdjnN6JmHBXsJYNE0JfHYMhNh-T080lQyUscKtsqkarlL-RPIWuoYfB/s1600/thehungryasianlilacquerswatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqBPeCU8zkdNK-kPrWGbDr7O5WpDLmL4hqUWwYJOKiOwjZvESEr1T6odopesbOi-5xeI7OqvSlAdXed9JyQ6gzvdjnN6JmHBXsJYNE0JfHYMhNh-T080lQyUscKtsqkarlL-RPIWuoYfB/s1600/thehungryasianlilacquerswatch.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.lacquerologist.com/2014/02/zoya-awaken-monet-for-spring-2014.html">The Lacquerologist</a>:<b> Zoya Hudson</b> is from the Awaken Collection for Spring 2014. The shimmer in this purple orchid metallic gives the typical spring pastels a little something extra!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3MscS-Sj7R5OqHKXLeAHStRgzWvRPkZR19IRmlSZmyg7K63JaZCrFC3YX30jewXcTxxmpRY989lqSBCmEmYfh996efzO7tnwv9tigLFZO4qyriHL577nYtFspP6MEmj_3HLxuG_Yr0j7/s1600/Zoya+Hudson+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3MscS-Sj7R5OqHKXLeAHStRgzWvRPkZR19IRmlSZmyg7K63JaZCrFC3YX30jewXcTxxmpRY989lqSBCmEmYfh996efzO7tnwv9tigLFZO4qyriHL577nYtFspP6MEmj_3HLxuG_Yr0j7/s1600/Zoya+Hudson+1.JPG" height="638" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sincerelystephanienails.com/2013/03/pretty-and-polished-spring-sonata.html">Sincerely Stephanie</a>: <b>Pretty & Polished Bashful Bouquet</b> layered over <b>Candy Carnation </b>is, yet another, super fun pastel glitter topper! The small green glitters in this give it a lot of dimension!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjTUSnh7dDFlTcmKRzyDLDjfottyHdBdm_6d0D-zy4k_GZ2a3qGh1975zMgjoOGF8tiKQ8X5IrUJMIgTi7LCUad10KN4RcZbmXv-kBs_hXspxI_QToegTdakZZ2JCsERiFtGUOgfP_opaB/s1600/DSCN1643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjTUSnh7dDFlTcmKRzyDLDjfottyHdBdm_6d0D-zy4k_GZ2a3qGh1975zMgjoOGF8tiKQ8X5IrUJMIgTi7LCUad10KN4RcZbmXv-kBs_hXspxI_QToegTdakZZ2JCsERiFtGUOgfP_opaB/s1600/DSCN1643.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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And now, I'd like to share four of my own personal favorite pastel polishes!</div>
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<a href="http://www.peaceloveandpolish.com/2013/03/lcn-blossom-sorbet-swatches.html#.Uw9ZOIXvgnE">LCN I Love Mint</a> is the best bluish-mint pastel. It has that bright pigment in it, which is what I love about pastels! It's such a shiny shade too!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjce5FEQZJ7Q5OGMcl9sfEu-doz_lH79ik_WHzTf7SZ0L6xL30Ilu7oWfDhO1_VAhKFzg9K_ggpff9hk7os20Smi4PUH8yyCXUEpYaTuOztADXMLK7c2jurAbO4IjAap8PhJFrJHLrgCNz4/s1600/IMG_7065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjce5FEQZJ7Q5OGMcl9sfEu-doz_lH79ik_WHzTf7SZ0L6xL30Ilu7oWfDhO1_VAhKFzg9K_ggpff9hk7os20Smi4PUH8yyCXUEpYaTuOztADXMLK7c2jurAbO4IjAap8PhJFrJHLrgCNz4/s1600/IMG_7065.JPG" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of this indie brand. <a href="http://www.peaceloveandpolish.com/2013/04/kbshimmer-spring-training.html#.Uw9ZdIXvgnE"><b>KBShimmer Spring Training</b></a> is such a fun soft green crelly with an assortment of blue, green, pink and yellow glitters. This one had a soft floral scent too - I couldn't stop smelling my fingers (as strange as that sounds)! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrSFhgBShBmhwoBq_KBTLFTEMlxkSrVr0Guvt-0NeSdVJjC8upgETqylzZm0SSgMHAkJsIQlolrwZQlBU_GgCThDRSL00qrkQXLzAwVzuSZJWDsjPi9mdB2xs30gu2obPtihqlgcyQ-9u/s1600/IMG_7179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrSFhgBShBmhwoBq_KBTLFTEMlxkSrVr0Guvt-0NeSdVJjC8upgETqylzZm0SSgMHAkJsIQlolrwZQlBU_GgCThDRSL00qrkQXLzAwVzuSZJWDsjPi9mdB2xs30gu2obPtihqlgcyQ-9u/s1600/IMG_7179.JPG" height="468" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.peaceloveandpolish.com/2013/03/easter-nails-kbshimmer-little-spring.html#.Uw9ZGYXvgnE"><b>KBShimmer Where My Peeps At?</b></a> is SUCH a fun <b>s</b>pring polish. It has, yet again, that vibrant yellow look to it - a yellow crelly with jelly bean colored glitters! Who wouldn't love this shade!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtzKkBM49tmDUOfm8WiDTL-9nF0Sf_VAsmbAMOnbeXoGYcMHvkwwhCdO6bzfI8c6ZlfOgS2WjtnoKZ_qdXH5DK56ksB8FYJx7j1lLAtWCDTuxEdlx23aZfwK_369zTJ3Lj-xjdzYVfEjZj/s1600/IMG_7401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtzKkBM49tmDUOfm8WiDTL-9nF0Sf_VAsmbAMOnbeXoGYcMHvkwwhCdO6bzfI8c6ZlfOgS2WjtnoKZ_qdXH5DK56ksB8FYJx7j1lLAtWCDTuxEdlx23aZfwK_369zTJ3Lj-xjdzYVfEjZj/s1600/IMG_7401.JPG" height="576" width="640" /></a></div>
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And lastly, the newest addition to my polish collection, <b>OPI Pussy Galore</b>. I have been lusting over this polish forever. It's soft pink color, the perfect mixture of shimmer and sparkle in this texture makes it a must have for the spring season!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1khtmpZ2tFhbeKMgxMiO8kA_d2r9ZX446KYlXaa_6wAQtHmTgvE6w4TtwzYB6wrtLgOJJ5eemRUWrq6fZtqBd-wCtsXWjqj5GvLyCBWHpvCAJhuFOajSxI4g9GwI68erh4AnGGvSFCYs/s1600/DSCN2406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1khtmpZ2tFhbeKMgxMiO8kA_d2r9ZX446KYlXaa_6wAQtHmTgvE6w4TtwzYB6wrtLgOJJ5eemRUWrq6fZtqBd-wCtsXWjqj5GvLyCBWHpvCAJhuFOajSxI4g9GwI68erh4AnGGvSFCYs/s1600/DSCN2406.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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So there you have it, my top 12 picks for pastel polishes (including a few extras)! I hope you enjoyed reading all about these shades - and maybe you'll be adding a few to your wishlist! What is your favorite pastel shade? I know I have a ton more to add to my list after checking all of these out :)</div>
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Ameliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02805329038559979842noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-32991542331876222342014-05-04T11:00:00.000+01:002014-05-04T11:00:01.653+01:00Bring Out The Neons!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hello Loves!!</div>
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I am Nory from <a href="http://fiercemakeupandnails.com/"><span style="color: red;">Fierce Makeup and Nails</span></a>.</div>
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I'm so excited to get to share some fun manis to give all of you some inspiration. I absolutely love neons and wear them all year long, GASP! I know that is not the norm, but I live in Florida and well I can get away with wearing neons all year long. So I wear them as much as possible. </div>
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Neons tend to have a semi-matte or matte finish once they dry. I think it's because of the pigmented formula, but that can be easily fixed with a simple coat of top coat. Another funny thing about neons is that they have a funky formula. Some apply like butter while others can be patchy, so apply with care and give them a few minutes before coats for a smoother process. The trick to getting the biggest WOW factor from your neons is to use a white base coat, it will make the neons POP and you will need less of the polish this way.</div>
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My neon hearts design was one of my faves. It just makes me smile. I used some of PolishMeToGo's neons, and the best thing about these is that they glow in the dark as well.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcikixqpOBXoMCuSbcCIRKcBXqIAlM-L3tCAN6v8j3JZYgOeUr5gtRDqH9zKvnnXj7ceizyKu18eJ7Jd_nzmhJUa8_b1-FcLDnuaC-Rbxb_x_vGZAJPJfX066IIne4hVCBBQL3R8SUhU/s1600/neonhearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcikixqpOBXoMCuSbcCIRKcBXqIAlM-L3tCAN6v8j3JZYgOeUr5gtRDqH9zKvnnXj7ceizyKu18eJ7Jd_nzmhJUa8_b1-FcLDnuaC-Rbxb_x_vGZAJPJfX066IIne4hVCBBQL3R8SUhU/s1600/neonhearts.jpg" height="596" width="640" /></a></div>
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Matching neons with leopard print is also a fun way to wear them. I used some neutral shades with a hot pink neon from Pure Nail Lacquer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKnxFyWlWdNueUi4EqM96nd6WkuMHT_o5Vjz6ZmclUVMagvIo3F88Hfv3ggegLlgiuyFYO4oApsXNN-kb-2u6K4ZDH4zhGK_-kw7jEkam9Qli7YGva6hBiusX1sClt554H528FFknumM/s1600/neonleopard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKnxFyWlWdNueUi4EqM96nd6WkuMHT_o5Vjz6ZmclUVMagvIo3F88Hfv3ggegLlgiuyFYO4oApsXNN-kb-2u6K4ZDH4zhGK_-kw7jEkam9Qli7YGva6hBiusX1sClt554H528FFknumM/s1600/neonleopard.jpg" height="640" width="594" /></a></div>
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I absolutely loved OPI mini neon set. I included a white base coat and all these beauties. </div>
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I loved combining them for this abstract pattern.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEIiPV6wO_X0UBmKdT1PR1cGXJX1iFnj-eE94Wd9ePW2s-RrKzFXpVsS0BirvS2WBti7edS0CEPq9H5wvOtXykXTltgpN8sgqVKUvzFGj2fLdJgb-TzJCMWJM-Vv6vMnsKdYeHW30hAw/s1600/neonopi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEIiPV6wO_X0UBmKdT1PR1cGXJX1iFnj-eE94Wd9ePW2s-RrKzFXpVsS0BirvS2WBti7edS0CEPq9H5wvOtXykXTltgpN8sgqVKUvzFGj2fLdJgb-TzJCMWJM-Vv6vMnsKdYeHW30hAw/s1600/neonopi.jpg" height="600" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nude and neon is my absolute favorite. I just can't get enough of this combo. I have created waaaayyy too many manis with this combo but this one is my favorite, it features Illamasqua's Rare.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenk0rgWY5d0cnbDe1sUiFGcBzmkzhIn6ARjX1lIKyhXILOpi0rirEU_6ivgfgDZRGieRmjAwWtMYyh6l0SoFJLY-zC1MFGpfFLyXGEFYIdFukk7WiBe_OJpzI37p2X5Vrsu8qeXvMRj4/s1600/nudeneon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenk0rgWY5d0cnbDe1sUiFGcBzmkzhIn6ARjX1lIKyhXILOpi0rirEU_6ivgfgDZRGieRmjAwWtMYyh6l0SoFJLY-zC1MFGpfFLyXGEFYIdFukk7WiBe_OJpzI37p2X5Vrsu8qeXvMRj4/s1600/nudeneon.jpg" height="556" width="640" /></a></div>
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Black and white stripes with a neon base is also a fun way to add a pop of color to a pretty basic color combo. This bright orange neon is 'Melt Your Popsicle' from Orly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJZ_yWwItPAnjvkaLjlndV0BhgpY7Ip_1nQjt-gkfZyuMKpKDIp-iK_6iG7c-RWBf2rquF5flCO9rCuJksfd9Q-tuqja7U9O5u7902mvCnzto7Q9CWh9SIXjc0E_HYSEc-a3F1zxgj0mk/s1600/Orangestripes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJZ_yWwItPAnjvkaLjlndV0BhgpY7Ip_1nQjt-gkfZyuMKpKDIp-iK_6iG7c-RWBf2rquF5flCO9rCuJksfd9Q-tuqja7U9O5u7902mvCnzto7Q9CWh9SIXjc0E_HYSEc-a3F1zxgj0mk/s1600/Orangestripes.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Another way I used the OPI Neon Revolution mini set was with some fun polka dots.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ku6nCZz7VRPGuTiR82UCYlVRVohJdrfocM7d_n7VZoHsscoC_rFYy3-MXPI4Iz7AtvD9Ok6qDUJplF0fZ6OXvjpPKgaEchqbTUNxg1k_Q8b7krQQUopmAnzO-p0R31vk_T5CSuz3nfg/s1600/polkadotneon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ku6nCZz7VRPGuTiR82UCYlVRVohJdrfocM7d_n7VZoHsscoC_rFYy3-MXPI4Iz7AtvD9Ok6qDUJplF0fZ6OXvjpPKgaEchqbTUNxg1k_Q8b7krQQUopmAnzO-p0R31vk_T5CSuz3nfg/s1600/polkadotneon.jpg" height="592" width="640" /></a></div>
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A bright and bold pink, orange and yellow combo.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0t4Ogk83ikxFRfmHmc36T94IPcdqCY2OvoYkV9shG1oOKnz0XRRm4fCD_P92FFsZnXeyTMwxbXEgDrESM_6KHWkIRURthLzvCuMY0S3abd7wMq_hS2F8Jz0q0ar5_mZMhr2Pg6Ef2Gs/s1600/pureneon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0t4Ogk83ikxFRfmHmc36T94IPcdqCY2OvoYkV9shG1oOKnz0XRRm4fCD_P92FFsZnXeyTMwxbXEgDrESM_6KHWkIRURthLzvCuMY0S3abd7wMq_hS2F8Jz0q0ar5_mZMhr2Pg6Ef2Gs/s1600/pureneon.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Last but not least this bright and bold swirl neon mani.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi57EfMQxkfvPNcmUXnCscGT5ivTmBxE_LwqHcOlSWBCmOTHqYkTjADCsQ_SPX_s6hOSBAB3suajLJmV5TVuH_5lvFajG4d0rKW_0e3qECtw7nMXzzhJIX0ZwsCJlM9YsQtIYjfUTYI-3s/s1600/swirlneon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi57EfMQxkfvPNcmUXnCscGT5ivTmBxE_LwqHcOlSWBCmOTHqYkTjADCsQ_SPX_s6hOSBAB3suajLJmV5TVuH_5lvFajG4d0rKW_0e3qECtw7nMXzzhJIX0ZwsCJlM9YsQtIYjfUTYI-3s/s1600/swirlneon.jpg" height="514" width="640" /></a></div>
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As you can see there are many different ways to make neons a fun part of your everyday life. I know this summer we will all get a ton of use from the new neons being released by many companies. Neons are so versatile and go well with any skin tone.</div>
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Can't wait to see what neon manis you all come up with!</div>
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xoxo,</div>
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Nory</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-15278310071358697812014-05-01T15:54:00.001+01:002014-05-01T15:54:46.180+01:00Ashley, Queen of Water Marbling<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The Queen Series is a weekly feature happening on <strike>Wednesdays</strike> (or Thursday when we forget - oops!). Each week one of us from The Digit-al Dozen will introduce you to our blog, tell you about how we got started, and talk a little about how we ended up being the Queen of something. We all have unique talents when it comes to nail art, and our Queen titles reflect that. Check out <a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/search/label/Queen%20Series" target="_blank">past posts</a> in this series.</i></div>
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<b>Name: Ashley, Queen of Water Marbling</b></div>
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<b><b>Blog: <a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/">http://www.smashleysparkles.com</a></b></b></div>
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<b>Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/smashsparkles">@smashsparkles</a></b></div>
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<b>Facebook Page: <a href="http://facebook.com/smashleysparkles">facebook.com/smashleysparkles</a></b></div>
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<b><b>Pinterest: <a href="http://pinterest.com/smashsparkles">pinterest.com/smashsparkles</a></b></b></div>
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<b>G+: <a class="g-profile" href="https://plus.google.com/111388982819071338678" target="_blank">+Smashley Sparkles</a></b></div>
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<b><b>Instagram: <a href="http://instagram.com/smashleysparkles">@smashleysparkles</a></b></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7T6pfU67s2rM-TMWpYLpsbrw3qBOUx-f-eQobkeBX1wdL2OGyWzvw4mJ9mFhmsQWWmIANM9OcYlRJEvV4uxJswN_1m_MsXZlJmBydCyflLJHkPtvrAOSJDk6YUj-R7PWCtK2cKP0q7I/s1600/IMG_7767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7T6pfU67s2rM-TMWpYLpsbrw3qBOUx-f-eQobkeBX1wdL2OGyWzvw4mJ9mFhmsQWWmIANM9OcYlRJEvV4uxJswN_1m_MsXZlJmBydCyflLJHkPtvrAOSJDk6YUj-R7PWCtK2cKP0q7I/s1600/IMG_7767.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Hi Digit-al Dozen fans!! As you read in the title, I'm Ashley, of Smashley Sparkles. I have been blogging and officially obsessing over nail polish for about 2 and 1/2 years now. In the past I had always been interested in nail polish, and anything beauty related really, which is part of the reason I chose my profession. During the day I work as a hair stylist, and I also do some freelance work as a makeup artist for MAC here in Stockholm, Sweden. Though I am originally from the US (New Jersey to be exact), the Mr. and I, along with our two cats, moved here in 2012 so he could begin studying for his PhD in Physics. That's right, my husband is a rocket scientist! (Now you know why I had so much fun with the DD Geek Week prompt, which happened to be my favorite ever!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsTy5qSd-5liR5nT-_KRlvqGoUgOdP7ghkD-3ILi51ylboAIFUiqw8Rh1FVtGm_ocoS_pQMgpV6KMLF5UJaAJ2yA7CSGbeyWA4Lx2jrntExKnk_dOe1qGoICrtCcTuysegt-Mng_n1hU/s1600/IMG_7728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsTy5qSd-5liR5nT-_KRlvqGoUgOdP7ghkD-3ILi51ylboAIFUiqw8Rh1FVtGm_ocoS_pQMgpV6KMLF5UJaAJ2yA7CSGbeyWA4Lx2jrntExKnk_dOe1qGoICrtCcTuysegt-Mng_n1hU/s1600/IMG_7728.JPG" height="346" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Mr. Sparkles on the balcony of our apartment with a view of Stockholm.</span></div>
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Anyway, back to my history. My blog came about after my husband and I got engaged. It may sound a little silly, but seeing my grandmother's beautiful engagement ring on my hand and then seeing my naked, uneven, hair color stained nails made me shudder. And so my interest in nail art was born!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwkY5qiB1gczJDKjrICq3EzdLvPmw3NX9rSbLJi0leCDDaVoHooZzVAm_sAVhfLmJdBIeRuSR79OBOi7t3UJhpjDiqoTWMyZ069BTTkjSP1wDdO3jMopfDCOdVkySoqkc6DgGE8B4mHY/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwkY5qiB1gczJDKjrICq3EzdLvPmw3NX9rSbLJi0leCDDaVoHooZzVAm_sAVhfLmJdBIeRuSR79OBOi7t3UJhpjDiqoTWMyZ069BTTkjSP1wDdO3jMopfDCOdVkySoqkc6DgGE8B4mHY/s1600/photo.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2011/11/leopard-print.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Some of the first nail art I ever attempted.</span></a></div>
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I started finding out more about the nail art community via the Makeup Alley nail boards. I was already a member there due to my makeup obsession, so I just started reading and reading. I think the first nail art I ever attempted was a simple gradient, which actually turned out quite decent for a first attempt. Then, after discovering <a href="http://www.letthemhavepolish.com/">Let Them Have Polish</a> and <a href="http://chloesnails.blogspot.se/">Chloe's Nails</a>, I stuck my toe into the stamping waters. I really loved what Cris from LTHP did with stamping, and that she had short nails like me. Chloe's Nails also inspired me to give scotch tape manis a go. After I started experimenting with nail art, some of my colleagues at the salon I worked at encouraged me to share my art online. That was the point when Smashley Sparkles was founded.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4LfuJkGjHiJgRv5bJQ0QGNmU99coZyLJ-PqWHMxFItRX7dGy-YO_vRJ1KxiKLnkEmV4MOqP91FPXSjZvut8vJWSPG41bDTUCoRz5tSkvIxhGaIpDCkEUzD0RX9Ursfpy_HBVDe0sOXpk/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4LfuJkGjHiJgRv5bJQ0QGNmU99coZyLJ-PqWHMxFItRX7dGy-YO_vRJ1KxiKLnkEmV4MOqP91FPXSjZvut8vJWSPG41bDTUCoRz5tSkvIxhGaIpDCkEUzD0RX9Ursfpy_HBVDe0sOXpk/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2011/11/fauxnad-starry-night.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">More early nail art.</span></a></div>
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When I thought about what to name my blog, I knew I wanted it to be easy to remember, as most people do. I thought about something short and sweet, that was descriptive of my personality. Smashley is a nickname I've had for a long time, and Sparkles is because of my love of all things glittery.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKbmu6QCV_idWE5IEuur64nVvzsmzOIOFxeGm8_CNJexRJij28EaefjHI_JR30alwJloN9ZT-rb4RNFeCJ_B9ZgviogpQAmOrIH1Eop4HyJbUJiRm0vKrjShZ7A-FB0UqO5NRV5HqOM14/s1600/lynnderella-glittering-crowd-cult-nails-nevermore.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKbmu6QCV_idWE5IEuur64nVvzsmzOIOFxeGm8_CNJexRJij28EaefjHI_JR30alwJloN9ZT-rb4RNFeCJ_B9ZgviogpQAmOrIH1Eop4HyJbUJiRm0vKrjShZ7A-FB0UqO5NRV5HqOM14/s1600/lynnderella-glittering-crowd-cult-nails-nevermore.JPG" height="640" width="570" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2012/06/mash-nails-matte-polish-review.html">One of my favorite glitter polishes, Lynnderella The Glittering Crowd. This was also one of my first lemmings!</a></span></div>
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Speaking of glittery, my favorite types of polishes are definitely glitters... the more holo glitter the better. At the moment I'm obsessed with holographic micro glitters, I just can't get enough of them.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CT8m6utgSP0/UyYg8Ng7-YI/AAAAAAAAuvY/BAWedSX2IDc/s1600/zoya+lux-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CT8m6utgSP0/UyYg8Ng7-YI/AAAAAAAAuvY/BAWedSX2IDc/s1600/zoya+lux-001.JPG" height="462" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2014/03/zoya-magical-pixies-cosmo-lux-and-vega.html">Another of my favorite polishes lately, Zoya Lux</a></span></div>
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So what goes into blogging? Well, lately I have been on a bit of a blogging break, so to be perfectly honest I haven't spent much time at all. We all tend to go through these phases I think, and I'm hoping to get my mojo back soon! When I was blogging more I probably spent about 20-30 hours a week doing nail art, editing photos, and writing posts. As far as social media outlets go, you can find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, but lately I've been most active on Instagram. I love Instagram since I can share a little of my personal life along with my nail stuff, and I can also cut out the writing part of a post, which is my least favorite part of blogging. I love doing nail art, and I even enjoy taking and editing photos, but the writing just seems like such a chore sometimes!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9aUMOt9wF2c8je8cMtJE9CCKnmJwcaIyyGsNfrpE-PpGhyphenhypheniofzQybhqFDWi0YYgT5MW6FdB9c2vfFf1HlKmDXNHdWvmpQJ3gZSf7ge3fe_reZxY9sVpdo1aSVV77NA_ZvhY4qV9hGOp8/s1600/DSC05490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9aUMOt9wF2c8je8cMtJE9CCKnmJwcaIyyGsNfrpE-PpGhyphenhypheniofzQybhqFDWi0YYgT5MW6FdB9c2vfFf1HlKmDXNHdWvmpQJ3gZSf7ge3fe_reZxY9sVpdo1aSVV77NA_ZvhY4qV9hGOp8/s1600/DSC05490.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My teensy stash when I first started blogging.</span></div>
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Since I started blogging my polish collection has grown quite a bit, of course. When I started out I had a small cardboard box that I kept my polish in... I think I had about 20, which seemed like a lot. Little did I know that one day I would have around 500 in my collection. When I was living in the US I had some of those clear acrylic wall mounted polish racks which I used for storage. Since it was too expensive to have most of our stuff shipped over here, I changed up my storage here in Sweden. Now I use a Helmer from IKEA, and a bookshelf with some small basket organizers to hold my nail art stuff. I'm super lucky that our new apartment has an extra bedroom, so I've set up my new work space in there.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio7CY2oVS7hK9PQCeSkC_kD8vB19ZeECL3xHKaraoDEGklgEpWKh5CxpPY6-t7yJExDkousRzmwLO4G-2I6Ceu1JNGOri6z2wpPAn7TQ-rdfZVrXmpFOfHpZv0XE4r_6R4bwpgPMvMGG0/s1600/IMG_7903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio7CY2oVS7hK9PQCeSkC_kD8vB19ZeECL3xHKaraoDEGklgEpWKh5CxpPY6-t7yJExDkousRzmwLO4G-2I6Ceu1JNGOri6z2wpPAn7TQ-rdfZVrXmpFOfHpZv0XE4r_6R4bwpgPMvMGG0/s1600/IMG_7903.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My desk, light tent, and Helmer, which I have decorated with scrap booking paper.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqz4bKe_dZmwpHG3U-2PDDm0UD5BqXeWW1lN2XcgeW5bxQcHY9GElpnPv5343Pjm_erP3jWjgo-0sVAU6MQJwcUXldCRYHljfgR9T_pepdAxpXeaUKHK8-QBOwXtvYM48t7CqPUkwV8I/s1600/IMG_7904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqz4bKe_dZmwpHG3U-2PDDm0UD5BqXeWW1lN2XcgeW5bxQcHY9GElpnPv5343Pjm_erP3jWjgo-0sVAU6MQJwcUXldCRYHljfgR9T_pepdAxpXeaUKHK8-QBOwXtvYM48t7CqPUkwV8I/s1600/IMG_7904.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My bookshelf storage area.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3HNZDdKXdOmyq-B4LXblgeCXQUYZ77GWteVs3VjbUv79cBv64VmzWZgLaGqUEMA3Pg5R35s23uFTxbglT0Li9MJr3Owmy6RMtxaRAgdvBwVRcIf2N3n1CYvOXtSCKf-Hyaek_ZeOjumc/s1600/IMG_7905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3HNZDdKXdOmyq-B4LXblgeCXQUYZ77GWteVs3VjbUv79cBv64VmzWZgLaGqUEMA3Pg5R35s23uFTxbglT0Li9MJr3Owmy6RMtxaRAgdvBwVRcIf2N3n1CYvOXtSCKf-Hyaek_ZeOjumc/s1600/IMG_7905.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My collection of Lynnderella polishes, which I keep displayed in the living room so I can admire them!</span></div>
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At the beginning of my nail obsession I had no idea where my nail art niche would be. I played around with stamping and other techniques. I tried out things I saw on my favorite blogs. Then, one day, I discovered water marbling.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVB1vjSDe2e_zCZcoEg536kNdBBRcWq6kR3BcMN4rQR5qusKQfV0-6_L2MYGfmU196R8wqbgQsZ6XZVVCwR4MAwU7MGZvlwWI8XuW0vkAy7RKDDjCTXmh8RFgmZtRyjfEr0kz7SJmklU/s1600/china-glaze-electropop-lights-water-marble.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVB1vjSDe2e_zCZcoEg536kNdBBRcWq6kR3BcMN4rQR5qusKQfV0-6_L2MYGfmU196R8wqbgQsZ6XZVVCwR4MAwU7MGZvlwWI8XuW0vkAy7RKDDjCTXmh8RFgmZtRyjfEr0kz7SJmklU/s1600/china-glaze-electropop-lights-water-marble.JPG" height="464" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2012/01/my-first-successful-water-marble.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">My first water marble post</span></a></div>
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I wasn't good at water marbling the first time I tried it, so don't give up if it doesn't work for you! It took me a few tries before I found polishes that spread well in the water, and I also had to do some of my own trouble shooting for other issues. Once I figured out some important things, it became much easier for me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3oykU_WKtgsb9aC6XG66fWn2YkQn_ZKYQ_8mqDzbH8y7KVKjRtGYalsPp8dATmhG4CKBD-ALBXFwGys59BZ92sfiPZkpCJczEHHjBdS0aLlhyW48pg7Et_FvzqOupw0N5S761WxwnD9k/s1600/china-glaze-poolside-neon-water-marble.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3oykU_WKtgsb9aC6XG66fWn2YkQn_ZKYQ_8mqDzbH8y7KVKjRtGYalsPp8dATmhG4CKBD-ALBXFwGys59BZ92sfiPZkpCJczEHHjBdS0aLlhyW48pg7Et_FvzqOupw0N5S761WxwnD9k/s1600/china-glaze-poolside-neon-water-marble.JPG" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2012/02/neon-water-marble-with-china-glaze.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">China Glaze Neons marble</span></a></div>
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So, tips and tricks... I'll start off by walking you through my set up for marbling. I do my marbling in a plastic jar that was from a hair mask I finished. I've found that the circumference of this is good, it's large enough that I can dip two fingers at a time if I want, but not so large that I feel like I'm wasting tons of polish. I also like that it has a lid, because what I do to ensure that my water is indeed room temperature is leave it filled up all the time. I just put the lid on it and keep it on my shelf. Then its ready to go whenever I want to reach for it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglPi3Gq3qcje3MdWeIyP1vLXt_hhvBI3EFlfC1seoLnzg65BZAfkmKGfiSeFMFmVqbJdH8NO0n1Gh9PUsF31K0OI8v98xYn6E5xeMuwpSWuAWL1H9qPyqIQEl9VvrvC16Wh6Tb5ysOqlc/s1600/IMG_7906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglPi3Gq3qcje3MdWeIyP1vLXt_hhvBI3EFlfC1seoLnzg65BZAfkmKGfiSeFMFmVqbJdH8NO0n1Gh9PUsF31K0OI8v98xYn6E5xeMuwpSWuAWL1H9qPyqIQEl9VvrvC16Wh6Tb5ysOqlc/s1600/IMG_7906.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My marbling tools</span></div>
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I like to use a small orange wood stick with a pointed end for making my designs. I think I bought a package of these at Target ages ago, but I just reuse the same one over and over now. I use a regular orange wood stick to clean up the extra polish from the water after dunking my fingers. I use Scotch tape to protect my fingers when marbling. Most of the time I use OPI Funny Bunny, a white jelly polish, as a base color for my marbles, but this sometimes changes depending on the colors I'm using.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOKZpZW4QSlQZhktHfL-LwFjL6ZJKoZKD-4t1uXBJE_qmi0bwJ4Kne2OYqtfZDMZWzbOqGOOyCeEBpEdNaLnsRfPeXxVS6bosDMcEbE2_DWbhAJzdEk6prU_pJNRkd2TTsWaVKmqWmXfU/s1600/color-club-take-wing-water-marble.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOKZpZW4QSlQZhktHfL-LwFjL6ZJKoZKD-4t1uXBJE_qmi0bwJ4Kne2OYqtfZDMZWzbOqGOOyCeEBpEdNaLnsRfPeXxVS6bosDMcEbE2_DWbhAJzdEk6prU_pJNRkd2TTsWaVKmqWmXfU/s1600/color-club-take-wing-water-marble.JPG" height="450" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2012/04/water-marble-wednesday-neon-flowers.html">Neon flowers marble</a></span></div>
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When I'm choosing polishes for a marble, I tend to focus on the colors I want, rather than getting hung up on using a specific polish. This way I won't be disappointed if that polish doesn't marble well. I usually do a test run in order to choose the polishes. It's important that they not only spread nicely in the water, but that they play nicely together. Ideally your polishes will spread well and make fairly consistent rings in the water. If one spreads a lot and another gets squished into a tiny ring, you may not have the best results.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTLurJxJPvsBGOeqo_CcL2r5eAGRTkjOnDQkYAR9dsSbDovdNK0jXfZigTksB7xCdHnCiXSlrh8_QBADKRMAO5O5OZ1d5aEnN08rWqANTADxbuaAAZB0f2cUknjRk7eMKRJZRsimGv24/s1600/cult-nails-studded-water-marble.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTLurJxJPvsBGOeqo_CcL2r5eAGRTkjOnDQkYAR9dsSbDovdNK0jXfZigTksB7xCdHnCiXSlrh8_QBADKRMAO5O5OZ1d5aEnN08rWqANTADxbuaAAZB0f2cUknjRk7eMKRJZRsimGv24/s1600/cult-nails-studded-water-marble.JPG" height="640" width="484" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2012/05/cult-nails-water-marble-plus.html">One of my most viewed posts - Cult Nails water marble</a></span></div>
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After I've made my pattern and dipped my fingers, I clean the rest of the polish out of the water and try to remove my fingers at the same angle I put them in. I usually give my hand a bit of a shake when it's out of the water, to get some of the drops off that might cause bubbles on the nail. Clean up isn't the easiest with water marbling, since you get polish all in your cuticles, so it's important to have a good clean up brush. I love my ELF Concealer Brush for this.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlXErK095QCr557dY3xmhFRU9axnQ1EyG5O9j4aeJRJ2Tmbu41kau5UTYiIuz5CRcQD9cQC4myjwMkvwkx-2tAnDsqmdpsGivH3fC8SNimM3fM8gClCFUChf_3EeBPYB3pw-KrteLiL8/s1600/holo+firework+new+years+eve+water+marble+nails-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlXErK095QCr557dY3xmhFRU9axnQ1EyG5O9j4aeJRJ2Tmbu41kau5UTYiIuz5CRcQD9cQC4myjwMkvwkx-2tAnDsqmdpsGivH3fC8SNimM3fM8gClCFUChf_3EeBPYB3pw-KrteLiL8/s1600/holo+firework+new+years+eve+water+marble+nails-001.JPG" height="640" width="578" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2012/12/holiday-nail-art-challenge-day-8-new.html">A firework inspired marble for NYE</a></span></div>
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A few more tips:</div>
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<li style="text-align: center;">If you live somewhere with any type of chemically treated water, use a bottle of distilled water for marbling. I've found that distilled water worked much better than filtered or bottle drinking water for me. I used to keep a gallon jug of it hanging around just for marbling purposes. This also helped with the room temperature thing since I would keep it in my laundry room. Now that I'm in Sweden, the tap water is so clean that I don't need to worry about filtered or bottled water, but most people probably will.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">If there is any sort of breeze in the room your polishes will probably dry on the surface of the water faster than you can work. It's best to turn off any fans in the room, and try not to sit somewhere drafty.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Don't try to use the rings all the way on the outside of your bull's-eye for your design. I tend to start maybe 3 rings in, because the outer rings are always too dry to work with.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Anchor your bull's-eye by taking your orange wood stick or toothpick and attaching the outside ring to the container you're using. Just touch the polish to the container and it will stick. This will help keep your bull's-eye from spinning or moving around while you're trying to make your design.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Use a very light hand when you're making your design. Lighter than you think is necessary.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">If you see bubbles in the bull's-eye before you've dipped your finger, pop them by dipping your toothpick point first straight down on top of them and then pulling it straight back up.</li>
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I hope these tips and tricks help some of you, and please feel free to ask any other questions I may not have answered in the comments. I'll check back to answer them!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nxY78yC7wOw/UcidsnDzpNI/AAAAAAAAHKY/UGWytXCN_CY/s1600/design+seeds+water+marble+nail+art+candied+bright+aqua+pink+white-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nxY78yC7wOw/UcidsnDzpNI/AAAAAAAAHKY/UGWytXCN_CY/s1600/design+seeds+water+marble+nail+art+candied+bright+aqua+pink+white-002.JPG" height="446" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.smashleysparkles.com/2013/06/design-seeds-water-marble-series.html">Design Seeds inspired marble</a></span></div>
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Also, I love to see people trying water marbling and if you are inspired by me please please tag me or shoot me a message so I can check it out!! :) <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-41126578267037492252014-04-26T00:00:00.000+01:002014-04-26T00:00:00.676+01:00The Digit-al Dozen Roundup - Texture<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Time for our monthly segment of:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzO45d59XpOb8HylCqdYrzTZXMPDYIxBsxGGSWpiss6KzKOrj8f7i_WQhbvE_gSTpzJgswKLhOvhpNtleWcEbJzMeqNMbqA_EhI79tSy505HhKTnkd7VTr0Q6YnHD5IEqkrc3vgo_8_F1q/s1600/the-roundup.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzO45d59XpOb8HylCqdYrzTZXMPDYIxBsxGGSWpiss6KzKOrj8f7i_WQhbvE_gSTpzJgswKLhOvhpNtleWcEbJzMeqNMbqA_EhI79tSy505HhKTnkd7VTr0Q6YnHD5IEqkrc3vgo_8_F1q/s1600/the-roundup.png" height="212" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Ql2qQUIPqWyvnHEnZqDwXY4R5w4LkqaMQRdXXCR2wHfQuDBzUW1rXA8yi0uTZutKnZxt7apKwu8uZlr061lp1MunUUOGqFk0Xn5307BeBIu-F_E3sgsUrKlH21V5xlJU6vVonrd8jpbI/s1600/texture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Ql2qQUIPqWyvnHEnZqDwXY4R5w4LkqaMQRdXXCR2wHfQuDBzUW1rXA8yi0uTZutKnZxt7apKwu8uZlr061lp1MunUUOGqFk0Xn5307BeBIu-F_E3sgsUrKlH21V5xlJU6vVonrd8jpbI/s1600/texture.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Can I just tell you that I am so glad this week is done! We had some fabulous manis, but for myself this was the one theme that really kicked my butt! Bah! Texture, I shake my fist at you! But it sure was fun! So if you missed any, here is The Digit-al Dozen Does Texture Week!</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-87455648193409535182014-04-23T15:17:00.000+01:002014-04-23T15:17:00.892+01:00Meet Lindsey - The Queen of Floral<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-top: 4px; text-align: center;">
<em>The Queen Series is a weekly feature happening on Wednesdays. Each week one of us from The Digit-al Dozen will introduce you to our blog, tell you about how we got started, and talk a little about how we ended up being the Queen of something. We all have unique talents when it comes to nail art, and our Queen titles reflect that. Check out <a href="http://www.thedigitaldozen.com/search/label/Queen%20Series">past posts</a> in this series.</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBx29Ry6S9oO6AndzeFxgofihrHkJ-7viYR3DQvTdMmiHa7yTrEzGbtXS3jB-GQaqif7_facjeSDqPzY0pHBbCk0hDdiwEznCsrN-KWJOHhSaXFZ0Y8-IMDtQw6TRG2MzVLdR3DKGfBo/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBx29Ry6S9oO6AndzeFxgofihrHkJ-7viYR3DQvTdMmiHa7yTrEzGbtXS3jB-GQaqif7_facjeSDqPzY0pHBbCk0hDdiwEznCsrN-KWJOHhSaXFZ0Y8-IMDtQw6TRG2MzVLdR3DKGfBo/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" height="400" width="360" /></a></div>
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Name: Lindsey, Queen of Floral</div>
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Blog: <a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/">WondrouslyPolished.com</a></div>
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Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/wondrous_polish">@wondrous_polish</a></div>
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Facebook: <a href="http://facebook.com/wondrouslypolished">facebook.com/wondrouslypolished</a></div>
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Instagram: <a href="http://instagram.com/wondrouslypolished">@wondrouslypolished</a></div>
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Pinterest: <a href="http://pinterest.com/ohwondrous">pinterest.com/ohwondrous</a></div>
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Bloglovin': <a href="http://bloglovin.com/blog/4630433/wondrously-polished">wondrously-polished</a></div>
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Hello, all! I'm Lindsey and I write and create over at Wondrously Polished. If you can get through this big rambling mess that is my introduction, you deserve to go buy yourself a new bottle of polish! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwR7S8efrzMOYOLlo1Y6z9HVtKLw2NyNL2tYjJrhS1taiu60Zh7MojVQQkmPsVr4BmvOcK5uvfg0kCxVWbh4K1biFOSM54LoXx6VqhczhS9TNfR1rLZK9M4Dhs3tZ985_l2XcnTJOrYM/s1600/387802_10150503136548352_1127887152_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwR7S8efrzMOYOLlo1Y6z9HVtKLw2NyNL2tYjJrhS1taiu60Zh7MojVQQkmPsVr4BmvOcK5uvfg0kCxVWbh4K1biFOSM54LoXx6VqhczhS9TNfR1rLZK9M4Dhs3tZ985_l2XcnTJOrYM/s1600/387802_10150503136548352_1127887152_n.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Boyfriend, Fonzi and I</td></tr>
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So! A little about me. I have a pretty fantastic support system comprised of my boyfriend of 8+ years, my parents and sister, and my amazing friends. My dog Fonzi is pretty cool as well :) By day, I work as a Civil Engineer - we design roads, utilities and the infrastructure of communities - and while it's interesting most days, the deadlines, clients and calculations that come with the job can get quite stressful. I started blogging a year and a half ago as a means to escape the stresses I was feeling during the day. Nail art really is a great creative outlet and has become a way for me to relax and express myself in a fun and unique way. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx76oUj5TZwT0Vyt4eoQkLqtzUBjz-qgS8AnbWu49J4Hx4L4E7nw1pb0dFtA1OkxL6Pa5eI9rDXzPCCQW-eizbaa_4FZIefA_EE-C7JTdFcAKW3oAA1-uTWtAbBGoKvp7noVUrzUuzAfo/s1600/flowernailart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx76oUj5TZwT0Vyt4eoQkLqtzUBjz-qgS8AnbWu49J4Hx4L4E7nw1pb0dFtA1OkxL6Pa5eI9rDXzPCCQW-eizbaa_4FZIefA_EE-C7JTdFcAKW3oAA1-uTWtAbBGoKvp7noVUrzUuzAfo/s1600/flowernailart.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2013/02/february-nail-art-challenge-day-2.html">My very first floral mani - Poppies</a></td></tr>
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I've been dubbed the Queen of Floral by my fellow Digital Dozen members as my favorite type of manis are florals! Lately, it seems I can't go a week without doing a floral mani and I'm okay with that. So, here is a progression of my floral nail looks while I also explain a bit more about myself :) </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0vEL1nJ8T6eprFh4WyrGYe2_BgcUD4_AIVkJXuh8gT5K16lccxlFZpZqsjq7DK5R1fvEXpnmUfOjayCuEGiQsLSBgCJ9xIAxAnLk4mdTg1G3UpWy1aYTyXMBiZKj6oy2rcy7EMaql5zk/s1600/waterlilynailart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0vEL1nJ8T6eprFh4WyrGYe2_BgcUD4_AIVkJXuh8gT5K16lccxlFZpZqsjq7DK5R1fvEXpnmUfOjayCuEGiQsLSBgCJ9xIAxAnLk4mdTg1G3UpWy1aYTyXMBiZKj6oy2rcy7EMaql5zk/s1600/waterlilynailart.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2013/02/water-lilies.html">Water Lilies</a></td></tr>
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I first settled on the name Wondrously Polished for a few reasons, namely that it was different and not yet taken ;) At face value, the name means exactly what it seems - wondrously polished nail art!<br />
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The second reason is a bit more personal in that it represents things that are inherent to me as a person. I'm a fairly analytical and logical person, but I also love art and value being creative and passionate. It can be very difficult to combine these two parts of myself, so my blog name represents the combining of this. <i>Wondrously</i> is the artistic, creative side of me, and <i>Polished</i> is the analytical perfectionist side. My whole blog is about me learning to combine these sides of myself. I know, who'd have thought a nail art blog could be so deep ;) </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1wSz9TKeFk4H6AlPyNMH2o0D-J4-x6KSjbsGyArZjMiqnN7W5bQwcwsC0rnsQrhd2G5D1X5o36Z4EdOkYvbhUXwdSIpLBHorEzbmoNSjmBbb3I3VhJwMVC3ykx8DDMM7ManzIznhRPQA/s1600/flowernailart3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; line-height: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1wSz9TKeFk4H6AlPyNMH2o0D-J4-x6KSjbsGyArZjMiqnN7W5bQwcwsC0rnsQrhd2G5D1X5o36Z4EdOkYvbhUXwdSIpLBHorEzbmoNSjmBbb3I3VhJwMVC3ykx8DDMM7ManzIznhRPQA/s1600/flowernailart3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2013/03/retro-flowers.html">Retro Floral</a></td></tr>
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I like to think that I have a pretty unique style of nail art, and perhaps that's why people choose to stick around and read my blog. I like to paint a lot of prints and patterns that have a retro and vintage feel to them. I'm definitely most active on my Instagram account as I'm able to post not only nail photos, but also little snippets of my daily life. The nail community on Instagram is so wonderfully supportive and it's just a great place to share. It's also incredibly easy to catch up on my favorite bloggers in place.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgglExv-eELH1wUzK_waUDQzrrB_4aqLvZ2MP6Ao1Lrq1SrW0JB_pBgytzS5O1vYMmuLUF0OfPMhBtb7j0aJgat-0Z1jEHX-wX6CDsUhmg3FCwNyBM-x8x944JOVRBFsASwQ7kuR4quyWU/s1600/flowernailart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgglExv-eELH1wUzK_waUDQzrrB_4aqLvZ2MP6Ao1Lrq1SrW0JB_pBgytzS5O1vYMmuLUF0OfPMhBtb7j0aJgat-0Z1jEHX-wX6CDsUhmg3FCwNyBM-x8x944JOVRBFsASwQ7kuR4quyWU/s1600/flowernailart.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2013/03/flower-hodge-podge.html">Hodge Podge Floral</a></td></tr>
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While I love Instagram, blogging is still where my heart lies - I can ramble so much more in my blog posts! :D Realistically, I probably spend about 20-30 hours a week working on blog related things. Whether I'm brainstorming, painting my nails, editing photos, or writing a post, it is a very time consuming hobby and a single post usually takes around 3-5 hours. That may sound crazy to some people, but I love it! My most popular nail art post is this <a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2013/09/31-day-nail-art-challenge-day-19.html">galaxy nail</a> look done for the 31 Day Challenge and it took me several hours to complete. I'm still so proud of it! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHDun2_WqXP9ftOdHqymHCxQoUQ7111hPqlAL_N7XuaP2juccos1-NM3bohW3-t7-BY0KmiqYO4-vqXDQKsEQ68BG2znLq64kcM59rHLm-AxdEZEmDL4_3DFBxh-2226MOEpFINEHX1J8/s1600/flowernailart4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHDun2_WqXP9ftOdHqymHCxQoUQ7111hPqlAL_N7XuaP2juccos1-NM3bohW3-t7-BY0KmiqYO4-vqXDQKsEQ68BG2znLq64kcM59rHLm-AxdEZEmDL4_3DFBxh-2226MOEpFINEHX1J8/s1600/flowernailart4.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2013/04/april-nail-art-challenge-flowers.html">Spring Floral</a></td></tr>
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I should probably have better system in place for planning blog posts, but I typically fly by the seat of my pants and very rarely have a scheduled blog post (I'm sure the thought of that gives some of my fellow DD ladies heart palpitations!). I'm a procrastinator and can't find my creativity unless there's a little bit of pressure from a deadline ;)<br />
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I did buy a planner at the beginning of the year and put hard deadlines (like this post!) in there so I know when I'm getting close to a post being due. For the most part though, I typically post when I'm feeling creative and inspired. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3FrvgPgoMpRgd8s_ag8Y0xH7sBFngYpo5JQsBvHHM30Ub8x6Uf9eFprfa8f08kdok5QiVcjEo5pd121x4zuDU274dfzj-66w07zYPR8PdLalcZ8Mw96VZAd9EHLTbpdHSQ6J9bPZ62OE/s1600/wondrouslypolishedcarnationdnailart03.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3FrvgPgoMpRgd8s_ag8Y0xH7sBFngYpo5JQsBvHHM30Ub8x6Uf9eFprfa8f08kdok5QiVcjEo5pd121x4zuDU274dfzj-66w07zYPR8PdLalcZ8Mw96VZAd9EHLTbpdHSQ6J9bPZ62OE/s1600/wondrouslypolishedcarnationdnailart03.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2013/05/mother-day-carnations.html">Mother's Day Carnations</a></td></tr>
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While I love my free hand nail art, I do wish I was better at stamping. I can't do it. I seriously fail every single time and it ends up being a huge waste of polish for me. It's so frustrating! I see all these fantastic stamp manis and I'm so jealous of them! Teach me your ways!!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYV4lM9qPe0esNFmMPH4O3O0iNAJFZq0I2RFZkQFNrRWNB3IYBQL5Pj7fQ98vlSyFXB-xvz-LrbFrXzVW401PlSaIfSIQwd0_6EV9lzdgZYhhbc2UEbi8txsrnAhAS_JPTeRutZ7cb41g/s1600/wondrouslypolishedflowernailart2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYV4lM9qPe0esNFmMPH4O3O0iNAJFZq0I2RFZkQFNrRWNB3IYBQL5Pj7fQ98vlSyFXB-xvz-LrbFrXzVW401PlSaIfSIQwd0_6EV9lzdgZYhhbc2UEbi8txsrnAhAS_JPTeRutZ7cb41g/s1600/wondrouslypolishedflowernailart2.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2013/06/funky-floral.html">Funky Floral</a></td></tr>
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I'm honestly not sure what my earliest polish memory was. There was always polish in my house growing up as my mom would often give herself manicures and I would join in on occasion. During high school I played sports and bit my nails so I didn't paint them that often, but when I started college I would buy a new red or pink polish every month or so. I was slowly starting my polish hoarding problem and didn't even know it!<br />
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When I stumbled upon an online nail art forum, I was amazed by what could be done and I also realized just how many polish colors there were. I bought my first green polish and my passion was ignited! Soon after, I started my blog and the rest is history! Now-a-days, I'm really not sure how large my collection is (I try not to think about how much money I've spent on nail polish haha), but it's probably close to 700 bottles. If, heaven forbid, I ever had to narrow my absurd collection down to just 5 bottles, it'd have to be OPI's My Vampire is Buff, Zoya's Arizona, Zoya's Natty, OPI's My Boyfriend Scales Walls, and China Glaze's Re-Fresh Mint. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAGrB51Rx2wh9pr-gpTsJ83izZc2e2NfJ9fIxUgeZQXyylh34KUM1bUkDchXdEcCBPnwS1pYXCQBzeOenkT196q8tluyDbeB5T6_J7m83FDXDU5oaEY6KzKX-Q_DYo16_RoiHWU1cJwQQ/s1600/floral-nail-art-flowers-erin-condren-planner+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAGrB51Rx2wh9pr-gpTsJ83izZc2e2NfJ9fIxUgeZQXyylh34KUM1bUkDchXdEcCBPnwS1pYXCQBzeOenkT196q8tluyDbeB5T6_J7m83FDXDU5oaEY6KzKX-Q_DYo16_RoiHWU1cJwQQ/s1600/floral-nail-art-flowers-erin-condren-planner+9.jpg" height="550" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2014/01/erin-condren-planner-inspired-floral.html">Planner inspired floral</a></td></tr>
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If you've ever read my blog, you might have noticed that I love cremes. A LOT. It's a little bit absurd how much. They are just so lovely and you can do so much nail art with them and they're just so classy and perfect! While I own more China Glaze than anything else, I absolutely love Zoya as a brand. I love their unique bottles, their variety of shades and they almost always have a fantastic formula.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpGAmILTsLMM4r_sInxHx5LQjDQOGOi_lz3N75uZu2ZhKN_W7kA0jD9VY3cwbnadkHqQKW9Au-1tvMpZhyphenhyphenQ3txksl7cpKybW5rN-8AgZZEfc2IqkBVFattpg7LZaMkDOKKVjFiajrtzI/s1600/floral-daisy-nail-art-deb-shops-003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpGAmILTsLMM4r_sInxHx5LQjDQOGOi_lz3N75uZu2ZhKN_W7kA0jD9VY3cwbnadkHqQKW9Au-1tvMpZhyphenhyphenQ3txksl7cpKybW5rN-8AgZZEfc2IqkBVFattpg7LZaMkDOKKVjFiajrtzI/s1600/floral-daisy-nail-art-deb-shops-003.jpg" height="598" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2014/01/daisy-daze-on-deb-shops.html">Daisy Daze</a></td></tr>
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My top polish tip would have to be to push yourself out of your comfort zone! If you really want to improve your nail art, don't be afraid to fail. Try new challenges that force you to paint something you never would on your own. That's how I found my love of floral prints!<br />
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Additionally, I'd say use a top coat over your base polish when doing nail art. If you mess up up in anyway, you can use a brush dipped in acetone to remove/fix the error (to an extent, obviously). This has saved me many times and I really recommend it! If you're really serious about nail art, I'd consider using acrylic paint for your nail art instead of nail polish. It's super cheap in comparison and much easier to manipulate. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRpAwgNJI5w2A468y1LovHI3S9CYgH1kSeJ_6fGJkYHx5TAi2ifDCKU1HRwUHeMgOkXsj5gIVgWUPmO3onjgS1E6AsTRtV2dvZRF8IgHif2_CAzjkfsgiF4iVmG_moj6BkRsdxv63C_A/s1600/digital-dozen-does-monochrome-spring-flowers-nail-art+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRpAwgNJI5w2A468y1LovHI3S9CYgH1kSeJ_6fGJkYHx5TAi2ifDCKU1HRwUHeMgOkXsj5gIVgWUPmO3onjgS1E6AsTRtV2dvZRF8IgHif2_CAzjkfsgiF4iVmG_moj6BkRsdxv63C_A/s1600/digital-dozen-does-monochrome-spring-flowers-nail-art+1.jpg" height="594" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2014/01/the-digital-dozen-does-monochrome-day-4.html">Monochrome Floral</a></td></tr>
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Honestly, I'd say my biggest blogging achievement so far was being asked to join the Digital Dozen. I remember watching them post for their first year and just being in awe of their creativity and talent and I can distinctly remember thinking that I would feel like I had "made it" if I ever got to be apart of a group like that. I was in complete awe of the group when I joined and wanted to put my best art forward when I first joined, so I'd have to say that my first month with the Digital Dozen (black and white week) was my favorite. I'm so proud of each mani I did that week! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Ox1FgHU3sEz1Pgc_x4Caa4sypfk-3FjG2L_BGdBFh_ZjQIsg8rhe5woHM4F2gcevXBQnbJ5t6aJnraTlbPcUMnu4xsM-IsLct0rk1_7Bz_0i1bajP0JKeyCCBAzBHHMxLiwKwmDUTCM/s1600/orange-and-grey-floral-nail-art+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Ox1FgHU3sEz1Pgc_x4Caa4sypfk-3FjG2L_BGdBFh_ZjQIsg8rhe5woHM4F2gcevXBQnbJ5t6aJnraTlbPcUMnu4xsM-IsLct0rk1_7Bz_0i1bajP0JKeyCCBAzBHHMxLiwKwmDUTCM/s1600/orange-and-grey-floral-nail-art+7.jpg" height="630" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2014/02/orange-and-grey-all-way-floral.html">Funky Orange and Grey Floral</a></td></tr>
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One of the most rewarding experiences to come from blogging is seeing how I've inspired others in their art. I never in a million years thought that I'd be able to create something people would want to look at, let alone recreate and it is the best feeling in the world knowing that I've somehow inspired others to be creative. I'm constantly inspired by my fellow DD members as well as all the other nail artists in this community (big and small bloggers alike!). I'm always drooling over anything done by Paola over at just1nail or the stunning swatches from Kelli at The Nail Polish Challenge. I'd happily switch nails with them any day ;) </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqvDg-1uPAiHbuUlAhUOHWQ5jhD_7_gzOotpx4t19VRjydZhuxmnpqdh_9_5rBB8KxVOALGfHqm5YMVVv6G5_YMGYyoGcnG003CaIjm9jWbfzZy2iOYoe4jbXemJkdQV7uLxTaHba99es/s1600/vintage-floral-nail-art-pattern+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqvDg-1uPAiHbuUlAhUOHWQ5jhD_7_gzOotpx4t19VRjydZhuxmnpqdh_9_5rBB8KxVOALGfHqm5YMVVv6G5_YMGYyoGcnG003CaIjm9jWbfzZy2iOYoe4jbXemJkdQV7uLxTaHba99es/s1600/vintage-floral-nail-art-pattern+4.jpg" height="614" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2014/02/the-digital-dozen-does-vintage-day-1.html">Vintage floral</a></td></tr>
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Oddly enough, my work station helps me get creative. I have 3 Helmers that sit under a desktop I purchased from IKEA and it allows me to have a clean and fairly clutter free station that lets my creative juices to flow! My desk is in my living room so I'm able to interact with my boyfriend or watch tv and not feel like I'm isolated when I'm painting my nails. I'm usually inspired by patterns and prints that I'll see online, in catalogues or in stores, but it can be tough to continually create original things. I try my best to constantly push myself out of my comfort zone and paint things that I think I can't. It has helped me tremendously and has really helped me grow as an artist. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UEiCbYxuPHaF0dGi_7Bp3OtS5p3zBekT0bE6K9KA5AinbpQ_5t2f3gqdVqRnk6Sy1WeotjCh1CTF3mdiM9gZZ0ZX8B0sl2A-y-ezOBO5CW9-QIRnV3lvm3ZwC0JUTiI8_lV4GwB0VhY/s1600/wondrously-polished-pink-and-navy-vintage-floral-nail-art+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UEiCbYxuPHaF0dGi_7Bp3OtS5p3zBekT0bE6K9KA5AinbpQ_5t2f3gqdVqRnk6Sy1WeotjCh1CTF3mdiM9gZZ0ZX8B0sl2A-y-ezOBO5CW9-QIRnV3lvm3ZwC0JUTiI8_lV4GwB0VhY/s1600/wondrously-polished-pink-and-navy-vintage-floral-nail-art+7.jpg" height="570" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2014/03/um-yes-more-floral.html">Yes, another floral!</a></td></tr>
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If you made it all the way to the end, go treat yourself to that new bottle of polish ;) Thanks so much for reading and if you ever have any floral mani related questions (or questions in general), don't hesitate to get in contact through your favorite social media site. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz8Aa7S9Tcg2qB7AzFLwRmjUdc1D1kS0cPfi3YBs74ytDZtd5FQ_wW16XTuAZLyVNQWwLbZMIPvfkTajtKd_oPSCiKy-MvOQ2uIrmD5mrF16eIEN23ogrxvK0Fp8Tmelz-cPhRIBv06Hw/s1600/wondrously-polished-the-digital-dozen-does-texture-sunflower-nail-art+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz8Aa7S9Tcg2qB7AzFLwRmjUdc1D1kS0cPfi3YBs74ytDZtd5FQ_wW16XTuAZLyVNQWwLbZMIPvfkTajtKd_oPSCiKy-MvOQ2uIrmD5mrF16eIEN23ogrxvK0Fp8Tmelz-cPhRIBv06Hw/s1600/wondrously-polished-the-digital-dozen-does-texture-sunflower-nail-art+3.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wondrouslypolished.com/2014/04/the-digital-dozen-does-texture-day-3.html">Most recent floral mani - Textured Sunflower</a></td></tr>
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Thanks and Happy Polishing! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlXeSn2SfMO7k0QBobYdFItQUQ-08c33BRh6FRs071_RL_IKip6q7yCl_KL2RFHQCrKIIrqNisuWFUqQJ1r1LpM-U0yh7Jyq3XTKRhtlfgsDFTsz5v7y26jZxFgq4SbzvM4NlfHy9kqA/s1600/signature-names-individual.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://i.imgur.com/BtTfiW9.png" height="250" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-8560498818163302532014-04-19T11:00:00.000+01:002014-04-19T11:00:01.720+01:00How To...Improve Your Blog Layout<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBsl2yhMjwzR5rr7_0WgGE4rHlKOoqQRrMuc0QmYRsi3oBJ2gQKi6aQFmS6cFf4emgAGXBMxDQuBwWghpDTHfTg2Wg2IBukifQVe5I-6PZEB9ul29Qok5llDpsRZlCBi25WzOmHDrgKAt/s1600/how-to-improve-your-blog-layout.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBsl2yhMjwzR5rr7_0WgGE4rHlKOoqQRrMuc0QmYRsi3oBJ2gQKi6aQFmS6cFf4emgAGXBMxDQuBwWghpDTHfTg2Wg2IBukifQVe5I-6PZEB9ul29Qok5llDpsRZlCBi25WzOmHDrgKAt/s1600/how-to-improve-your-blog-layout.png" height="212" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hey friends! This is Missy of <b><a href="http://www.gnarlygnails.com/" target="_blank">Gnarly Gnails</a></b>, and today I am going to share with you some of my favorite tips and "secrets" for making your blog pop in a sea of blogs.<br />
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This will be MOSTLY a conversation for people who run their blogs through the Blogger platform since that is what I am personally most familiar with. It is also the hardest to customize, whereas with Wordpress you get a lot of easy plugins that do the work for you.<br />
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First I'm going to start off showing you a few blogs that I think are very well done, easy to navigate and overall just have a very clean feel to them:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqV2hvxnUQz-ltK9-OSYCtj-w6r4alI6e5cTsde2xUQz6YOuGqj0dZ9a5wZLUS5zqy9YS8_tY8y4AFmCCwK2nIv9MDs6Sm38GjXhkdoegEFaFGhfIVzCuXsH7mWSCaTKvsRU99fOIwyph/s1600/drink-citra.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqV2hvxnUQz-ltK9-OSYCtj-w6r4alI6e5cTsde2xUQz6YOuGqj0dZ9a5wZLUS5zqy9YS8_tY8y4AFmCCwK2nIv9MDs6Sm38GjXhkdoegEFaFGhfIVzCuXsH7mWSCaTKvsRU99fOIwyph/s1600/drink-citra.png" height="260" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.drinkcitra.com/" target="_blank">drinkcitra</a></b> - I love the simplicity here. White background, no clutter. simple sidebar and top menu bar navigation with nothing hindering it. I also really love her logo, how it's one word with two fonts. Very classy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaFkXGxDVHxWeUzUPjj20pxjBGZLaB5XF6D1BoMkMl7ulXwN_O-bImWbWEQfPsMdKzhTIu-fIbw1SUFo9nskDj6CqnukgDpMGyqkVInGIACiK20BpxQgI_bnNT-5pCN5K0rzvhvf0eEGn/s1600/lacquer-the-best-medicine.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaFkXGxDVHxWeUzUPjj20pxjBGZLaB5XF6D1BoMkMl7ulXwN_O-bImWbWEQfPsMdKzhTIu-fIbw1SUFo9nskDj6CqnukgDpMGyqkVInGIACiK20BpxQgI_bnNT-5pCN5K0rzvhvf0eEGn/s1600/lacquer-the-best-medicine.png" height="260" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.lacqueristhebestmedicine.com/" target="_blank">lacquer: the best medicine</a></b> - top sticky navigation menu is one of my favorite things. It's always there to help you move on to other topics. Sidebar is clean and easy to understand.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJcTF3_fPV5uUGQhYPzhTZICnueaaz7qsrvMlTbuufcw6kdGBFYkVhwkfmZLoBO0rxa61tDrIptmAj4rqo-_n2uRM6JrHGWxTHcWjs729uO5AcQeFRy1KZfxv7b3A556OfOfh9-LQ1_3L4/s1600/oh-three-oh-four.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJcTF3_fPV5uUGQhYPzhTZICnueaaz7qsrvMlTbuufcw6kdGBFYkVhwkfmZLoBO0rxa61tDrIptmAj4rqo-_n2uRM6JrHGWxTHcWjs729uO5AcQeFRy1KZfxv7b3A556OfOfh9-LQ1_3L4/s1600/oh-three-oh-four.png" height="260" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.ohthreeohfour.com/" target="_blank">oh three oh four</a></b> - great, bright color scheme without being crazy, clean background and easy to understand sidebar and top navigation. Search is also right at the top.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC7kADl_MO2MF7xO-bZMHUKzOFg_85y28q7eFSFajkG3sNwjxmhq_ygujR4Yc4QR4Asrf5gTTL_r_8suvg22fXGOqUcAkoEvyubVYZ7tJc3Q4m_3b-JvOwJXzZhh6d7FFDoFCRYGGdB-CE/s1600/pimyko.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC7kADl_MO2MF7xO-bZMHUKzOFg_85y28q7eFSFajkG3sNwjxmhq_ygujR4Yc4QR4Asrf5gTTL_r_8suvg22fXGOqUcAkoEvyubVYZ7tJc3Q4m_3b-JvOwJXzZhh6d7FFDoFCRYGGdB-CE/s1600/pimyko.png" height="260" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://pimyko.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">pimyko</a></b> - less simplistic in nature, but this blog has cute down pat! I love how the background and header design share the same aesthetic and the overall color scheme is calming and also fits the theme of the blog. She has since changed her layout. =(</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe59j8zhzYEVFv8JRJpo8OuM0iUe1pZXgQB5-utXLkgWnPmL190dgpDlv9ZAH6xQuqecTM_zYB02mcZcc_d3lHBppKxyPEIUnamYxvPn27HzoTbgLwuymHAuVQ_PbbEU58IbKYSzUKEnyk/s1600/polish-fixation.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe59j8zhzYEVFv8JRJpo8OuM0iUe1pZXgQB5-utXLkgWnPmL190dgpDlv9ZAH6xQuqecTM_zYB02mcZcc_d3lHBppKxyPEIUnamYxvPn27HzoTbgLwuymHAuVQ_PbbEU58IbKYSzUKEnyk/s1600/polish-fixation.png" height="260" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.polishfixation.com/" target="_blank">polish fixation</a></b> - another fabulous example of cohesive background and header combinations without being busy or over the top. Love how the sidebar icons match the theme also.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTLvTA8VUAjXXFiOSkSUlaKCUJQ32-ZyznyjHnBgrT20FVS_Y9_QJmogpv6Tj-_YNKmiqvm9_BVMgrpC6ZDgxdRWtaMbzpL5TZxujd7KYfHNlB0zvyjDB-f2wNX262rpr6Nx13ndD0qm3/s1600/so-nailicious.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTLvTA8VUAjXXFiOSkSUlaKCUJQ32-ZyznyjHnBgrT20FVS_Y9_QJmogpv6Tj-_YNKmiqvm9_BVMgrpC6ZDgxdRWtaMbzpL5TZxujd7KYfHNlB0zvyjDB-f2wNX262rpr6Nx13ndD0qm3/s1600/so-nailicious.png" height="260" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://sonailicious.com/" target="_blank">so nailicious</a></b> - quite possibly one of my favorite blogs to visit, just for the sake of how classy and streamlined it looks. Everything is right on top where you can't miss it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxd45O-yHfq8eK6RHcOnP3SO9SE1J6q3colbc_0VCb6tJu7tQCzvJ6aPvjp3BwndM5OuzhaszBCf3NRFW-39GFOTFG_e2dzBw7J3snjnRY7FJuOYv1pOOcoMfxwY6O90GLxxIl6EoRD-sl/s1600/the-nailasaurus.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxd45O-yHfq8eK6RHcOnP3SO9SE1J6q3colbc_0VCb6tJu7tQCzvJ6aPvjp3BwndM5OuzhaszBCf3NRFW-39GFOTFG_e2dzBw7J3snjnRY7FJuOYv1pOOcoMfxwY6O90GLxxIl6EoRD-sl/s1600/the-nailasaurus.png" height="260" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.thenailasaurus.com/" target="_blank">the nailasaurus</a></b> - I've seen this blog go through many a facelift, this is by far my favorite. Clean and simple. No bells and whistles, just the bare bones, making it easy to find whatever you are looking for and really making the posts the focus.</div>
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So those are some of the blogs I really enjoy seeing. They all keep a focus on their posts and not all the filler.</div>
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Like most things you get inspiration from, it's good to start off finding blogs you like, making a list of things you like from each one, and then blending them together to help make your own unique identity online. Never steal/copy though. Just become inspired.</div>
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Now let's talk about some of the things you can do to make <b>your</b> blog more personal, easier to navigate, cleaner, or all of the above.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Header - clear, easy to read and <u>thin</u>. One thing I really don't like in a blog is a header that takes up every bit of space on my screen to where I have to scroll to see any of the content. Your header is merely a small idea of what your blog is, it doesn't need to pack in all the info right away, and therefore there is really no reason it should be so huge. Ever.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Create a clear and defined navigation area. Whether it be at the top above or right below your header, or off on the sidebar - find a place you'd like it, and put the majority of your links there. It's not easy navigating a page where there are links thrown all over the place. Navigation is defined as your links like blogroll, about me, disclosure. Even things like your links to facebook, twitter, etc can be combined together with these.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>A well defined sidebar and post area. Don't make your sidebar and post area be really close together and so smashed up against one another that it becomes hard to tell what is what. If need be, use a divider bar, they come standard on most blogger templates.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Within the realm of defined sidebar, if you want your areas on the sidebar to really pop and be easy to read and navigate, it doesn't hurt to create graphic images for each section within your sidebar. If you've got a blogroll there, make a nice easy to read image that says BLOGROLL right above it so it stands out. Do this all the way down and you will find you have a nice directory of easy to find information.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>If you want to get your readers to follow you at one or more places, put them all together. If they want to know where to find you, make it easy for them. If you use links for your follow options in a place where others may not work (ie if you have your follow links for fb, bloglovin, etc in your top menu but you might also have an option for people to follow you via GFC which would obviously not fit in a top menu bar, make two areas. One for the top with your links and then put those same follow links for fb, twitter, etc down with the gfc follow option.) One well defined location is ideal, but two locations won't hurt as long as they are united.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Make sure the date headers and items that fit between each blog post are defined and don't blend in with the posts themselves. This will make it easier to decipher where each post starts and ends.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Sliders - a slider is a slideshow of images that scroll through featured content. In general these are customizable, stylized widgets that you create to point readers to specific posts you would like them to visit while they're there. A simple google of "slider for blogger" will bring you some results on how to create one. They are not the easiest to install, but well worth the effort.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Google Fonts - here you have the option to download from hundreds of fonts for use on your own computer. This works great for making graphics for your blog. The reason it's great is that you can also install these same fonts into your blog so you aren't stuck using the same crappy Georgia font. This makes your theme tie together even more when your blog post font matches your sidebar graphics or header graphics fonts. Just make sure it is easy to read! When you are in Google Fonts each font has install instructions for adding the font to your blog.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Jump Links and Bottom Navigation Links - for some simple updates that make a nice stylistic difference, try taking the links at the bottom of your posts that say Next, or Previous, or Home and turning them into graphics! Again, a quick google of "home next previous image links blogger" will get you some tutorials on how to do it. Jump Links are the links that appear when you have chosen to "put your post behind a cut" like we used to say in the 90s. Would you like your "read more" link to be more stylish? Create a graphic and then google how to change your jump link from text to a graphic!</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Search - nothing bothers ME more than going to a blog and looking for something and there is NO SEARCH BAR! As a blog owner you may not realize how important it is, but as a reader, it IS. You never know what people are doing on your blog, you certainly can't expect them to web surf the same way you do. So make sure and use the standard blogger search bar widget, or create your own to be more in sync with your theme. Google it!</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Secondary Search options - as with search, there are other ways people like to surf around your blog. You don't need to have them all, but please have at least one. Search, obviously. Also you can add things like a directory, which shows all of yours posts in a hierarchy by month or week for all of your blogging history. You can also have a keyword section, if you use utilize keywords. These are also things that will draw people in to stay on your blog longer.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>More than ONE call to action - as I touched on a bit with the follow thing - it is OK to have more than one link to something without going overboard. For example - have an Instagram link in your top navigation menu, but also throw in an Instagram photo widget in your sidebar! It's a sneaky way to make sure they don't forget to follow you on Instagram! You're setting another call to action without hitting them over the head with it.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Pinterest - this is a big, global interest of many, most of which are your key demographic. Make sure and make it easy for them to promote you by having a "Pin It" button on your images. There are plenty of places to find the information necessary to get these overlaid on your post images so people can just mouseover your picture and click "Pin It" and add it to their boards. Free advertising. Why not make that happen as easy as possible, right? Google "pinterest pin it overlay"</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Scroll Up - if you are a wordy blogger, or like to show 25 pictures of your nails, why not make it easy for people to get back to the top with a scroll up button? It's just a tiny button that sits at the bottom corner of your blog and scrolls it right back to the top of the page when they're done reading. There is even one right here on this blog... Try googling "scroll up button for blogger"</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Hiding things! - Do you have a slider already? Or maybe you have ads? Are they intruding on your whole blog? Would you like the slider to only welcome people to your homepage, and not every single blog post, making it hard to load your posts? Or maybe you want your ads to only show on posts and not the homepage? Well, it can be done! Any widget you have set up on your blog can be hidden. You can hide a widget from only the homepage, or have it shown only on the homepage. And there are other options too. Maybe you only want a widget to show up in mobile view! It can be done! Just google "hide widget on blogger homepage" and you should get a tutorial on how to do any of those things.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>SHARE - Get people to do the work for you! Like with the Pin It button, why not get some share buttons right there at the bottom of every single post you've worked so hard on, so that when someone likes it, they can click a button and share it on any number of social media for all of their friends to see. Sites like <b><a href="https://www.addthis.com/get/sharing" target="_blank">ADDTHIS</a></b> can make these for you, or you can google tutorials for more customized options.</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Make them stay! - Drive more traffic to other pages on your site by adding things on your sidebar like "top 10 posts", or try <b><a href="http://www.linkwithin.com/learn" target="_blank">Link Within</a></b> or <b><a href="http://nrelate.com/" target="_blank">NRelate</a></b> to get a related posts widget to run at the bottom of your posts that shows similar topics you've written about! Make your blog NAVIGABLE!</div>
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Now, those are some specific IDEAS for things you can do to an existing blog. But what about if you maybe are just THINKING of blogging and haven't started yet? You want to make it the best it can be right from the start and miss out on all those fun mistakes most of us made starting out, right? Great! Here are some of my tips for getting started (these of course work well and fine for people who are seasoned bloggers as well):<br />
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Stumped for inspiration on how you want your blog to look? Try looking at design blogs and websites. Go to their resumes. Find resumes of people who work on blogs and see what they're doing. See whats IN style. Take notes. I love the blog <b><a href="http://www.creativebloq.com/" target="_blank">Creative Bloq</a></b> for getting all kinds of design ideas!<br />
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>On the topic of IN style - make sure you create ideas that are classic and not trendy. I've fallen into this trap many a time, and it's why I've have a good 20 facelifts in the 2+ years I've been blogging. Take your time thinking about your colors and style, make sure it's something you will like 6 months from now. Use colors you like, but not colors you will be sick of seeing next week.<br />
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>BRAND YOURSELF - Pick a name, again, make sure its something you can live with! Nothing worse than deciding on a name and realizing a year later you hate it or it no longer fits with what you are blogging about! It also doesn't hurt to do a quick google and make sure no one else is using it, especially in the same "genre" of blogging as you. Once you feel safe with your choice - grab that name across all social media. Get yourself a Facebook fan page with that name, a twitter account, an Instagram name, etc. Its probably a good idea to make sure they're all available before you commit to it. If you think you're gonna be in it for the long haul, go ahead and purchase a domain name, too. They're about 8 bucks a year.<br />
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>REALLY BRAND YOURSELF - now that you've got the name - get that logo! Create a logo that is part you and part your content. Make it so that when people come to your site, the logo almost says it all. Make it easy to read at any size and once you're happy with it, splatter it all over your social media sites as your avatar. Make people know its you when they see that image.<br />
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a> INSPIRATION - as I said before, look around and get inspired by other bloggers and what they've done. Get ideas on how you would like YOUR blog to be. Maybe they have a great menu bar, or a really cool search bar. Jot those ideas down and reinvent them to fit your own theme and style. Think of what you as a reader like to see on other blogs and make sure you insert those into your design.<br />
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Now that we've got the ideas portion out of the way - I bet you think I'm taking the easy way out by just telling you to GOOGLE IT, right? Well, that's how I learned. I have been designing web and graphics for longer than I've done anything else in my life (basically 20 years of hobby design) and every thing I know, I learned by a search engine. Anything you need is out there. But I have compiled a list of my go-to resources for design, JUST FOR YOU!<br />
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>If you are just stuck, or maybe you want something highly stylized without all the work, you're in luck. There are NUMEROUS sites out there with blogger templates that have done all the work for you. These vary from very simple graphics like backgrounds and headers:<br />
<a href="http://shabbyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><b>Shabby Blogs</b></a><br />
<b><a href="http://thecutestblogontheblock.com/" target="_blank">Cutest Blog on the Block</a></b><br />
Want something more professional? Or more stylized? There are tons of people online who have compiled lists of the best blogger templates. You can google blogger templates, or you can try this epic list:<br />
<b><a href="http://www.webdesignrazzi.com/2014/free-blogger-templates/" target="_blank">275+ Best Free Blogger Templates</a></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>A great resource for all kinds of coding is <b><a href="http://www.bloggersentral.com/" target="_blank">bloggersentral</a></b>. They are my go to for the Pin It button among other things! Another great coding resource is <b><a href="http://southernspeakers.net/" target="_blank">Southern Speakers</a></b>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>You don't have to be a designer to have a nice blog. Want some cute <u>social media icons</u>, but you can't for the life of you work Photoshop? No worries - plenty of sites out there have done this work for you!<br />
Try <b><a href="http://vandelaydesign.com/blog/social-media/icons/" target="_blank">these</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.webdesignrazzi.com/2014/social-media-buttons/" target="_blank">these</a></b>, or <b><a href="http://www.iconarchive.com/category/social-network-icons.html" target="_blank">these</a></b>!<br />
You can also download social icon FONTS and make your own by simply creating a small graphic with the font. It's as easy as picking the color and typing the letters you want!<br />
<b><a href="http://www.dafont.com/theme.php?cat=717" target="_blank">Dafont has a great selection of social icon fonts</a></b>!<br />
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>Another great coding resource is <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/" target="_blank">youtube</a></b>! Anything from how to do a curved watermark on your images to how to make a logo or code a certain bit of your blog can be found there. Some people learn easier by watching than by reading - youtube it!<br />
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<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>If you are in need of color palette inspiration - try <b><a href="http://design-seeds.com/" target="_blank">Design Seeds</a></b>!<br />
<a href="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.smartshanghai.com/img/star_small_active.gif" /></a>If you are in need of pattern inspiration - try <b><a href="http://thepatternlibrary.com/" target="_blank">The Pattern Library</a></b>!<br />
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I hope I didn't leave anything out, or bombard you with too much information! Bookmark this article and come back if you ever need ideas, or you are ALWAYS welcome to<b><a href="mailto:missymrobinson@gmail.com" target="_blank"> email me</a></b> if you need help or have a question!<br />
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PS - before attempting ANY changes to your blog, always create a backup!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-66591224735866191862014-04-18T18:00:00.000+01:002014-04-18T18:00:00.842+01:00First Place Winner #2 of The Digit-al Dozen's Egg-cellent Easter Nail Art Contest<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Hi DD fans! Ashley (Smashley Sparkles)
here, and I'm excited to share
the winners from the Easter nail art contest we recently
hosted. We actually ended up having two contestants tied for first
place! Rose was one of those two winners, as chosen by the fans
on
Facebook who liked her photo. Her little chick nails are so adorable!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
*****************************************************************************************</div>
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Hi guys, I’m Rose from <a href="http://roselynn787.blogspot.se/">Manicured and Marvelous</a> and today I’m
sharing this really cute Easter mani. Thank you for the ladies of The Digital
Dozen for hosting this awesome contest without which I probably wouldn't have
pushed myself into doing this design. At the end of the day that’s what really
matters when you enter a contest, pushing yourself to achieving your next
artist plateau. Let me show you guys what I came up with:</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TcCYRIcpUpc/U09nG-N5LfI/AAAAAAAA1Lk/IJ7dYzszWEA/s1600/Easter+Baby+Chicks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TcCYRIcpUpc/U09nG-N5LfI/AAAAAAAA1Lk/IJ7dYzszWEA/s1600/Easter+Baby+Chicks.jpg" height="428" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cuteness explosion! I was actually inspired by a photo I
found on Google when I searched ‘kawaii easter’, haha. In this post, I’ll be
covering step-by-step how to create one of the three baby chicks onto your own
nails. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I started off this design by creating the background of
white polka dots on a green base. The polishes I used were Butter London Jaded
Jack for the base and Sinful Colors Snow Me White for the dots. To make it
easier, I use a dotting tool for the dots. Once I’m done I add a fast-drying
topcoat, but be careful not to smear your dots. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P1yDGq3LDG4/U09nG58sjNI/AAAAAAAA1Lo/INF8dKRe5Xk/s1600/easter+mani+step+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P1yDGq3LDG4/U09nG58sjNI/AAAAAAAA1Lo/INF8dKRe5Xk/s1600/easter+mani+step+1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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I like using acrylics paint to design the majority of my
nail art because it’s much easier for me to control. It also leaves so much
more room for mistakes. So using black acrylic paint, I did a rough outline of
the shape for the baby chick. Don’t worry about it being perfect, it’s a very
rough outline. Make sure you add a few lines on the top to give the little guy
some hair. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-39OQgnwwbXA/U09nG5AlKjI/AAAAAAAA1LU/dYUrvuMPXpQ/s1600/easter+mani+step+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-39OQgnwwbXA/U09nG5AlKjI/AAAAAAAA1LU/dYUrvuMPXpQ/s1600/easter+mani+step+2.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Then I go in with white acrylic paint and fill in body but
make sure leave a thin black outline.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RBz0-eslrFY/U09nG1FPQ4I/AAAAAAAA1LY/7H1fE6pY0zM/s1600/easter+mani+step+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RBz0-eslrFY/U09nG1FPQ4I/AAAAAAAA1LY/7H1fE6pY0zM/s1600/easter+mani+step+3.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Now take your yellow paint and go over the white. Doing the
white first before just going in with the yellow creates a more opaque and
smoother look. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QDpe-o0JjVU/U09nG-Zko6I/AAAAAAAA1LQ/iJoxIicoEZ8/s1600/easter+mani+step+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QDpe-o0JjVU/U09nG-Zko6I/AAAAAAAA1LQ/iJoxIicoEZ8/s1600/easter+mani+step+4.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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All that’s left now is the small details of the face. Using
a dotting tool create two black circles for his eyes. For the peak, take a
orange color and make three smaller dots in a triangle and then drag the
dotting tool to connect them. And his little feet in black of course! </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M5ommnRcC24/U09nGxcu_XI/AAAAAAAA1L4/pEeeY1X6CKI/s1600/easter+mani+step+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M5ommnRcC24/U09nGxcu_XI/AAAAAAAA1L4/pEeeY1X6CKI/s1600/easter+mani+step+5.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Add either a matte or glossy topcoat and you’re done!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oMUO4pJ_ZW8/U09nG9AH8hI/AAAAAAAA1L0/b-DZ5kmMuzs/s1600/easter+mani+step+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oMUO4pJ_ZW8/U09nG9AH8hI/AAAAAAAA1L0/b-DZ5kmMuzs/s1600/easter+mani+step+6.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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It’s a pretty simple but very cute design that will make
your friends gush over your nails for sure. I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and
I hope to see some recreations, be sure to tag me <a href="http://instagram.com/roselynn787#">@roselynn787 on Instagram</a>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you once again to the ladies from The Digital Dozen
for having me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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Congratulations to all our winners, and thanks to everyone who participated! I'm sure we will have more nail art contests in the future, so keep a look out for the next one. :) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlXeSn2SfMO7k0QBobYdFItQUQ-08c33BRh6FRs071_RL_IKip6q7yCl_KL2RFHQCrKIIrqNisuWFUqQJ1r1LpM-U0yh7Jyq3XTKRhtlfgsDFTsz5v7y26jZxFgq4SbzvM4NlfHy9kqA/s1600/signature-names-individual.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://i.imgur.com/BtTfiW9.png" height="250" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3138409484842949582.post-55781232287777635092014-04-17T18:00:00.000+01:002014-04-18T17:41:30.826+01:00First Place Winner #1 of The Digit-al Dozen's Egg-cellent Nail Art Contest<div style="text-align: left;">
Hi DD fans! Ashley (Smashley Sparkles)
here, and I'm excited to share
the winners from the Easter nail art contest we recently
hosted. We actually ended up having two contestants tied for first place! Marie-Luise was one of those two winners, as chosen by the fans on
Facebook who liked her photo. The bunny and chick pastel gradient design she made is just perfect for Easter!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<br />
<br />
Holy Moly, this is really an honour, thank you all for voting for me, if it weren't for you I wouldn't be here!<br />
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I am Marie-Luise from <a href="http://lauriestrodesfunwithnails.blogspot.dk/" target="_blank">Lauriestrodes Fun with Nails</a>, a very small corner of the nail blogosphere. I've been a follower of most of the girls in the Digital Dozen for a long time and the Digital Dozen Does *insert appropriate challenge here* is always something I look forward to. Between these lovely ladies there is a constantly flowing fountain of inspiration!!<br />
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It was with some trepidation I decided to enter the Egg-cellent Easter Nail Art Contest since my nail art is still a journey of struggle for me. Sometimes I excel and sometimes I fail epically - and I've been doing nail art for the better part of two years now. <br />
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And since I didn't think I would win I didn't take pictures of the process - which I really regret now. I haven't even taken bottle pictures :D.<br />
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But let's get to the point of this post: How I made this mani. The very first thing I did was cutting out a piece of tape in an egg shape and then painted my nails white. Next I did a sponge gradient on my pinky, middle finger and thumb with four really easter appropriate nail polishes from BarryM: Lemon Ice Cream, Strawberry Ice Cream, Blueberry Ice Cream, and Mint Green. I did it twice to get proper coverage and while I was actually aiming for a more smooth gradient I am really pleased with the rough edges this got. <br />
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I then painted my ring and index fingers with BarryM Mint Green and top coated the gradients with a fast drying top coat. This gets me to the next step a lot faster: The reverse gradient!<br />
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As mentioned I cut out the egg at the beginning - trust me, you do NOT want to do it at this point in the process ;). To have something to grab onto with my tweezers, I cut it a little longer than I wanted the final shape to be and then folded the extra edge under my nail.<br />
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For the reverse gradient you have to wait until the first gradient is totally dry before applying tape otherwise the nether layers will be dragged off when removing the tape. I reversed the colours on my sponge, dabbed my nails and immediately pulled off the taped egg. This makes certain that you get crisp edges which they were before I top coated the design. Somehow - and for the life of me I have no idea why - the egg ended out with jagged edges. And don't ask me why I didn't outline it - I actually have NO idea why!<br />
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The Easter Bunny and the Easter Chick are perfect examples of how my
skills can combine in excellence and fail - all in one mani.<br />
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I painted a white half moon with nails inc. floral street and then painted two ears. To draw the inner ears I used a medium sized dotting tool and Strawberry Ice Cream, then dotted two eyes with black polish - but instead of leaving them like that I went for the more detailed look. I dotted with white and then it all pear shaped: since my dotting tool was too large I ended up covering most of the white. The nose was dotted using my largest dotting tool with Strawberry Ice Cream again. Lastly I painted the whiskers but my brush work was kinda shaky so the left ones got all wonky.<br />
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However, the chick worked out perfectly, using the same techniques as with the bunny for outline and eyes. The polish used for the chick is Cult Nails Feel Me Up. To make the beak I used my small dotting tool and Elevation Polish Sarychev, drawing two opposite triangles. I also used Sarychev to draw the comb.<br />
Not one thing ended up wrong here. <br />
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Then I top coated the rest of the design - and Voila, that is how I made this Easter Nail Art. Needless to say my girls loved it.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Check back in tomorrow for the final winning mani!</span></div>
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