Press-on nails are convenient for changing a manicure in minutes, and that makes them especially popular during the busy holiday season. No wonder Cranberry Chrissy nails are in demand right now. The Red Aspen design delivers a quick and glamorous look that’s hard to resist. But they only come in one hue and one shape: medium coffin. That’s not everyone’s style and it doesn’t flatter every skin tone. So, we see it as invitation to come up with something even better. This guide has tips to build your own Cranberry Chrissy nails dupe and make it perfect for you.
What are Cranberry Chrissy Nails?
There’s an Idaho-based beauty company called Red Aspen that was founded by two sisters and their friend. They sell “Nail Dashes” or sets of press-on nails. Each of these kits contains pieces to fit small to large nail beds, nail glue, a cuticle pusher, and a nail file. “Cranberry Chrissy” is the product name of the medium-length coffin-shaped style with a burgundy or purple glitter finish.
But what if you prefer almond or stiletto tips? Or if you like longer or shorter nails? And what happens if you order Cranberry Chrissy nails and discover they clash with your skin tone or the outfit you planned to wear? Then we have a solution for you. If you can paint nails, you can personalize a set of press-ons that will be just as brilliant and beautiful, or even more attractive!
LDS Color Craze Gel Nail Polish - 980 Sultry Seduction - Glitter Gel - 0.5oz
How to DIY Cranberry Chrissy Nails
The magic begins with either soft gel tips or repurposing a set of press-on nails. Generally, soft gels are ready to paint with gel polish but press-ons will need to be prepped. Both options can be decorated before you attach them to the natural nails, so you can customize multiple sets and swap them as desired as nail artists do for models at fashion shows.
Redesigning Press-On Nails in 4 Steps
Recycling is helpful for the environment and the budget. Whether you have an old set of press-ons or new ones you just picked up at a discount in our store, you can give them a completely new appearance to match Cranberry Chrissy nails.
Step 1: Select the sizes that fit each fingertip. Rough up the surface with a file and cleanse the debris so that both sides of the press-on nails are clean.
Step 2: For a gel manicure, apply the base coat and cure. Then use a similar cranberry color like DND’s Amethyst Sparkles. It’s dark enough that one or two coats will likely cover up the previous design.
For nail lacquer or regular polish, it’s not essential to use a base coat but it might help prevent chipping if you plan to wear the nails for a week or more.
If needed, you can apply a white or black base to “erase” what was there before, then apply the cranberry shade. This is especially helpful when using cat eye polish.
Step 3: Always finish with a top coat to prevent chipping and enhance the polish color and glitter.
Step 4: Since the personalized press-ons are now a dark color, you won’t be able to adhere them to the natural nails with gel glue that cures in a nail lamp. Instead, you’ll need to use nail glue or two-sided nail tape like what comes in the press-on nail package.
Tips for Perfect Press-On Application
When you’re ready to wear your Cranberry Chrissy lookalike nails, prep your natural nails first. Trim and shape them, then lightly buff the surface to remove the shine. Wipe them with rubbing alcohol to remove the natural oil and dust.
Moreover, it’s crucial to spend time on the cuticles so that the manicure will look more natural and last longer.
When you’re ready to start applying the press-on nails, lay them out in order. Avoid touching them with your bare hands so that skin oil doesn’t weaken the adhesive bond.
Plan on applying the pinky finger first, working your way one fingertip at a time across to the thumb. Put dots of glue on the natural nail and on the back of the press-on nail. It doesn’t take much. If you are too generous with the glue, it will flood your cuticles. Then trying to clean it with acetone may mean having to touch up your Cranberry Chrissy nails.
Now here’s the tricky part. Take a breath and take your time so that things turn out just right. Come in at a 45° angle and make sure the base of the press-on is matched with the curve of the cuticle. Press the tip firmly into place and hold it for 30 seconds while the glue dries.
Once all the nails are in place, we recommend congratulating yourself on a job well done!
Color Suggestions for DIY Cranberry Chrissy Nails
We stock several dupe colors for Cranberry Chrissy nails. Some lean warmer, others cooler. Some are glitter polishes or cat eye gels. Or you can even spice things up with a chrome glaze.
There’s a beautiful burgundy shade in the Bridal Party Glitter Collection. It’s packed with sparkle!
If you prefer chunkier glitter with a hint of other hues, the Champagne Toast Glitter Collection has the perfect color.
And if you love focusing the glitter exactly where you want it, bathe in the light of this captivating gel from the Super Nova Cat Eye Collection.
For a softer cranberry sparkle that looks mixed with champagne, there’s also this elegant cat eye gel from the Villain Era Collection. The caption says “Turn on Shine Mode” which feels completely appropriate.
Finally, the revamped Kiara Sky Gel Pro Collection has “Wine And Only” and it’s HEMA-free! Can you picture how it would look with a coat of Universal Cat Eye gel over top?
How to Remove Cranberry Chrissy Nails
When it’s time to refresh your manicure, press-on nails are straightforward to remove. Since you’re dealing with nail glue instead of gel adhesive, you can simply soak them in warm soapy water for ten minutes. Cuticle oil can help speed up the process. Soon you’ll be able to use a cuticle stick to pop the fake nails off. It’s easiest to remove them if you’ve worn them a few days already. If there’s any excess glue left over on the natural nails, wipe them with acetone or buff them clean.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making Cranberry Chrissy nails your own, with the shape, length, and color you love most. Browse our store for trendy shades and essential nail art supplies to make your manicure dreams come true.