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How to Create a Custom Press-On Nail Set (Step-by-Step Behind the Scenes)

If you’ve ever wondered what actually goes into creating a custom press-on nail set, this post is for you.

Recently, I received my first-ever custom press-on nail order, and I wanted to document the entire process from client communication and design planning to nail prep, painting, quality checks, and packaging.

This order was extra special because the client is a returning customer from my in-person nail service days, so we already had trust and a shared understanding of style. Everything was handled through Instagram, but the process itself can be applied whether you’re taking custom orders through Etsy, your website, or DMs.

If you’re a nail artist thinking about offering custom press-on nails for your business, this behind-the-scenes breakdown will walk you through exactly how I do it.

If you’re brand new, I recommend starting with How to Start a Press-On Nail Business From Home

Step 1: Gathering the Right Information From the Client

For any custom press-on nail order, there are two non-negotiables:

  1. Accurate nail sizing
  2. A clear understanding of the desired design

Before accepting the order, I always discuss:

  • Inspiration photos
  • Nail shape and length
  • Nail size
  • Budget
  • Deadline (when the client needs the set)

This step helps me decide whether I can realistically achieve the look within the timeline and budget. Some sellers collect a deposit upfront, but because this client and I already knew each other, I was comfortable charging after design approval.

If you’re still figuring out pricing for custom or handmade sets, this post pairs well with this step:
How to Price Handmade Press-On Nail Sets (as a Beginner)

Step 2: Creating a Draft Design (Before Touching the Nails)

Once we agree on the direction, I create a digital draft of the design using Procreate on my iPad. I don’t copy inspiration photos directly I reinterpret them into something that fits my style and design level.

While I’m working on the draft, I ask the client to:

  • Measure their nails
  • Send me their nail sizes

This keeps the process moving efficiently and avoids delays later on.

Step 3: Design Approval (So I Don’t Overthink Later)

Before I start painting anything, I always wait for design approval.

This step is crucial. Designing digitally beforehand:

  • Reduces stress
  • Prevents overthinking
  • Keeps the final result aligned with the client’s expectations

Since this was my first custom press-on order, communication stayed on Instagram. Long-term, I’d love to create a more streamlined system, possibly a Google Form to collect all details upfront as custom orders increase.

Step 4: Setting Up the Nail Stand (Left vs. Right Hand Hack)

I use two different nail stands when working on custom sets.

Why?
Because many designs aren’t symmetrical, and I used to mix up left and right hands constantly.

Using different colored holders helps my brain instantly recognize:

  • Which nails belong to the left hand
  • Which belong to the right

It sounds simple, but it dramatically reduces mistakes.

Step 5: Nail Prep (The Most Important Step)

Nail prep isn’t glamorous, but it’s everything.

I start by:

  • Filing the nail tips with a coarse file (instead of a buffer)
  • Removing sharp edges
  • Lightly roughing the surface so gel adheres properly

I personally prefer a coarse file over a buffer because I find gel polish sticks better this way.

Good prep affects:

  • How smooth the final design looks
  • How durable the press-ons are
  • Overall professionalism of the set

Since I usually work on press-ons after my 9-to-5, I set clear timelines with clients and block off time on weekends so I can work calmly without rushing.

Step 6: Painting the Design (My Favorite Part)

This is where the design finally comes to life.

Because I already planned everything digitally, this part feels relaxing instead of stressful. I usually:

  • Choose all colors first
  • Batch apply base colors
  • Build the design in layers

I always finish all painted elements before adding any 3D details. Once the base design is done, I top coat it, cure it, and move on.

3D designs require more focus and patience, so I save them for last.

Step 7: Final Quality Check (Before Packaging)

Before packaging, I do a full quality check:

  • File edges to remove any roughness
  • Clean each nail with alcohol wipes
  • Check nails under different lighting
  • Ensure consistent thickness and an even glossy finish

This is my last chance to make sure everything meets my standards.

Seeing the finished set laid out together is always my favorite moment, it’s when the original idea finally becomes a complete nail set.

Step 8: Packing the Custom Press-On Nail Set

For every order, I include:

  • Press-on application instructions
  • A QR code linking to my website
  • An application kit (buffer, nail file, wood sticks, glue, alcohol pads, nail tabs)

For this client, I also included:

  • Extra nail tabs and alcohol pads
  • A surprise extra nail set as a thank-you

I use custom cardstock cards printed with my logo on the front and a thank-you note plus discount code on the back, making use of both sides instead of wasting space.

You can explore more behind-the-scenes business posts here: The Nail Files

Final Packaging & Pickup

Normally, I package press-on nail orders in padded envelopes with branded stickers printed using a thermal printer. Since this client was local and picking up her order in person, I placed everything neatly into a small gift bag instead.

Everything was packed, checked, and ready to go.

Final Thoughts on Offering Custom Press-On Nails

Creating custom press-on nail sets takes time, communication, and attention to detail — but it’s also incredibly rewarding.

If you’re thinking about offering custom press-on nails:

  • Start with a clear process
  • Set expectations early
  • Design before you paint
  • Never rush prep or quality checks

If you have any questions about custom press-on orders, feel free to leave a comment, I’m always happy to help or turn your questions into future videos.

Thanks so much for reading, and I’ll see you in the next one 💅

Related Posts:

Tools I Use & Recommend (Affiliate Picks)

These are the exact tools I use in my setup and prep process. I’ve added affiliate links below so you can shop them easily — I only recommend what I actually use:

PRESS-ON SUPPLIES:

NAIL STUDIO MUST HAVE:

MY FILMING GEAR:

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