Sock Monkey

This design was sent to me by my Aunt.  Thanks Aunt D, they were a big hit at work!!!  I loved the idea of these Sock Monkeys.  The only thing is I wish I had put the eyes farther apart and bought red nail polish for the mouth.  I only had a deep pink but, the over all look worked out.

First: paint entire nail white

Second: use manicure strips to create eye and mouth line

Third: mix white and black polish to create gray if you don't have gray polish.  Then paint eye line

Fourth: paint tips red

Fifth: remove strips while paint is a little wet to avoid smudging

Sixth: when dry, use sharpie to draw monkey face

Seventh: when marker is good and dry cover with top coat

Happy Valentines Day!

This project served to be much harder than expected.  The stickers were too stiff to mold to the shape of my nails and so became much more 3Dimensional than planned.  However, it was cute for about two days.  I recommend either cutting the stickers smaller or writing the words directly on your nail.  Have a great V-Day everyone!!!


First: paint entire nail purple
Second: cover with clear coat to protect and leave tacky for step three
Third: place stickers on flattest area of nail and press into tacky clear coat 
Fourth: handle things very carefully Bahahha

Polka Spots

I wasn't sure how this design was going to turn out as I was painting it.  When I was done though, it turned out to be my favorite so far.  I don't think the photos do it justice.  In person the design is so fun and bright.  I spent the better part of my work days looking at my nails.  


First: paint entire nail white
Second: dip back end of paintbrush in nail polish and decorate nail.  (I changed my mind on the straw b/c the straw gives larger rings rather than dots)
Third: cover nails with clear coat

Pretty in Pink

I've wanted to do a 3D design for some time now.  After searching Michaels' scrapbooking section with a fine tooth comb I found these great pearl stickers and knew they would be perfect.  After starting the project I realized that individual pearls would probably set better than these stickers intended for flat surfaces.  But, after about five clear coats the pearls aren't going anywhere! 

First: paint entire nail pink
Second: paint top of nail with clear coat or lighter pink
Third: immediatly sprinkle nail with glamour dust.  I recommend doing one nail at a time so the glitter really sticks. 
Fourth: apply sticker to desired nail and press lightly into polish
Fifth: cover with a few coats of clear coat and be generous!

"Reflection"

"Reflection" was created for my brother Chris.  He wanted the anterior and posterior views of a male torso with tattoos he eventually plans on getting.  The names on either side of the abdomen are the last names of our parents; Balboa and Olewnik.  I wasn't thrilled with the way the gray background photographed or the size of the letters compared to the size of the torso.  However, it looks amazing in person and even better on the brick wall of his apartment.  Thanks bro for purchasing my first piece of art!!!

Dimensions:  14'' x 10''  unframed
Cost:  $100.00  SOLD

Nautical Stripes

This design was sent to me by my thrifty friend Jessi (www.jessisdesigns.blogspot.com).  Thanks Girl!
First: paint entire nail blue
Second: use polish pen to create white stripes
Third: use a thin paint brush and pink polish to create an accent heart for personality

What I've Been Up To!!!

Since I haven't been able to paint like I want to, I found another creative outlet.  Instead of painting on canvas I've been painting my nails more often.  This new past time has kept my creative streak going while giving me the chance to change the look every week.  Hope you all enjoy the designs as much as I've enjoyed creating them.
Be good to yourself and each other!
S.Olewnik

Sometimes Life Gets in the Way. . .

Hi everyone!
I just started an internship at a Chiropractic office so my painting has slowed down significantly.  On a side note, if you don't see a Chiro regularly I strongly suggest you do.  It'll be the best decision you ever make for yourself or your families.
Now, I did sell a piece recently,  many thanks to Chris!!!  Photos of that will be uploaded soon.  I also have a few little projects I'll be posting so you can all see what I've been working on.
Be good to yourselves and each other!
S.Olewnik