Getting Started

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Getting started with nail polish making can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. The best way to learn is by experimenting with samples and trying different products to see how they behave together.

We always recommend starting small. Use the smallest spoon in our measuring set and add product gradually, swatching as you go. It’s much easier to build up your polish than to correct a formula that’s too concentrated.

Creating a Glitter Top Coat

Making a glitter top coat is simple and beginner-friendly. You’ll need:

Empty bottles
Glitter Suspension Base
Mixing balls
Glitter

Steps:

Add two mixing balls to your empty bottle.
Add your glitter, then fill with suspension base.
Shake well to combine.

Our measuring spoons make it easy to control how much glitter you’re adding. Because different glitters vary in size and weight, start with a few small scoops and adjust until you reach your desired look.

Basic Color Creation

For solid colors, we recommend ProColor and ColorDrop pigments, available in liquid or paste form. These highly concentrated colorants are designed to blend smoothly and help avoid clumping that can occur with some dry matte pigments.

Liquid pigments should always be diluted with a suspension base. Some pigments are thicker and may benefit from adding a small amount of base directly to the bottle for easier dispensing and to help prevent drying over time.

ProColors & ColorDrops can be mixed together to create custom shades. On their own, they produce non-shimmery finishes, but you can easily add shimmer, flakes, or other pigments for sparkle and dimension.

To lighten a color:

Add ColorDrop Arctic White or ProColor Cosmetic White for a crème finish
Skip white entirely for a jelly finish

Using Pigments & Micas

Pigments and Micas can be used to create colored polishes, but they are typically very sheer and may require more product to achieve opacity.

Both micas and pigments naturally create a shimmery finish.

Choosing the Right Suspension Base

Selecting the right suspension base plays a big role in how your polish performs. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:

Glitter Suspension Base
Our go-to base for glitter polishes. This thicker formula is designed to keep heavier glitter evenly suspended for smooth, sparkle-packed results.

Mica Suspension Base
Ideal for polishes without glitter. This smooth, classic base works beautifully with mica pigments and pearlescent finishes, offering great shine and wear.

Gel-ish Suspension Base
Creates a glossy, gel-like finish without the need for a lamp. It adds body and depth to your polish. This is not gel polish and should not be cured under a lamp.

Quick Dry Suspension Base
Designed for speed, this base dries significantly faster than traditional suspension bases and blends especially well with fine pigments and liquid pigments.

Matte Suspension Base
Use for matte polishes or as a matte topcoat. Any pigments or additives can be used with this base to achieve a flat, modern finish.

Product Overview

ProColor & ColorDrop – Adds color
Mica – Adds color and shimmer
Pearlescent Pigments – Adds rich color and shimmer
Flakes – Adds flecks and sparkle, sometimes with added color
Shimmers – Adds shimmer; color depends on the specific pigment
Glitter – Adds sparkle in sizes ranging from .002” to .094”

All of these products can be mixed and layered to create endless looks. We always recommend purchasing small amounts and experimenting—hands-on experience is the best way to learn.

Happy Creating!

We love seeing what you make! Be sure to tag us on Instagram @GlitterUnique so we can admire and share your creations.