I have a hard time getting both sides of an almond nail perfectly even, so I buy almond press-ons instead of trying to shape square tips into almond nails. I can wear them as-is or trim them into short square or short coffin nails. One set gives me several different looks without buying every shape.
This is one of my favorite ways to make a press-on set more versatile. The trick is trimming the length first and then filing the sidewalls differently depending on the finished shape.
What You Need
- Almond press-on nails
- Nail clipper
- Nail file
- Nail buffer
How to Make Short Square Nails
- Trim the almond nail straight across to the desired length.
- File both sidewalls straight and parallel.
- Keep the free edge full width and completely flat.
- Gently sharpen the corners without making them uncomfortable.
- Buff the edges until both hands match.
How to Make Short Coffin Nails
- Leave the nail slightly longer than the short square version.
- Trim the tip straight across.
- File both sidewalls inward to create a noticeable taper.
- Keep the end narrower than the nail bed but completely flat.
- Buff and compare both hands for an even shape.
Grace & Roots Tip: A short coffin nail needs a little more length than a short square nail. If it is cut too short or the sides are not tapered enough, it will look square.
Optional Finishing Steps
Once the press-ons are on, they’re ready to wear as-is. If I decide to add my own nail art or polish, or to strengthen the nails, I gently buff the existing shiny surface, then add my nail art and/or polish. After that, I add builder gel and a top coat. Any gel product should be cured completely according to the instructions and kept off the skin and cuticle area.
Shop What I Use
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I only share products I have personally used or would genuinely recommend.
Beetles Press-On Nails Kit, 720-Piece Short Almond Set
FAQ
Can almond press-on nails be reshaped into square nails?
Yes. Trim the pointed end straight across, then file the sidewalls straight and parallel to create a short square shape.
Why does my short coffin shape look square?
The nail may be cut too short or the sidewalls may not taper enough. Leave slightly more length and file both sides inward while keeping the tip flat.
Can square press-on nails be reshaped too?
Yes, square tips can be shortened or tapered into other shapes. I start with almond tips because creating a balanced almond shape from scratch is the part I find most difficult.
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