Funky fingertips only: inside Lincolnshire’s fun-filled nail art studio
By Jess Watts | 12 September 2026 | Techs & Salons
In a world dominated by ‘clean girl’ aesthetics and minimalist manicures, Lincolnshire-based nail artist, Hannah Gilliatt, is doing things a little differently. From her private nail studio in Waddington, Hannah is championing colour, pattern and personality – one funky fingertip at a time…
Beginning her training four years ago, Hannah made the decision to open her own nail studio a few months after qualifying. “I wanted to create a comfortable but professional space that clients can relax in,” Hannah shares. “I wanted it to reflect aspects of my life, and over the past four years it’s developed into a representation of growth – both personal and professional.”
That vision is evident throughout Hannah Sophie Nail Artist (HS), where a statement leopard print accent wall perfectly captures Hannah’s love of bold design. Cosy corners invite clients to settle in, while the ‘HS Book Swap’ encourages visitors to ‘take a book and leave a book’, adding to the studio’s welcoming and communal atmosphere.
“I love nothing more than colour, animal print and showing my crazy, slightly unhinged personality through my salon design,” Hannah comments.
For the pro, creating a space that feels welcoming to all is just as important as creating eye-catching nails. “I’m proud to be part of the LGBTQIA+ community, and we celebrate Pride all year round at HS,” she smiles. That sense of belonging is something Hannah has intentionally built into the studio, as she adds: “It’s a truly safe space. A friendly face, colour and good music make a salon approachable.”
Hannah’s approach to the customer experience has seen her build a loyal clientele. “My clients’ ages range from 16 to 80,” she reveals. “There’s nothing better than meeting new people from all walks of life.”
Despite the variety of individuals who sit at Hannah’s nail desk, there’s one thing they all have in common: they’re not afraid of colour. “My clients only have funky nails,” Hannah says. The artist’s Instagram bio even states: ‘handpainted funky nails only’.
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“I love to escape the ‘clean girl’ aesthetic – no one comes to me for that; only funky and fun nails leave HS,” Hannah admits.
When it comes to creating statement nail styles, builder gel and polygel are among Hannah’s most popular services. “The strength of the products allows clients to keep their nail lengths without worrying about breakages,” she reveals.
Hannah is also a brand ambassador for WowBao Nails, and uses its products in her studio. “I’m proud to represent some great nail brands. Supporting smaller companies that want to break into the industry reflects my own journey,” she shares.
And with Hannah Sophie Nail Artist flourishing, it seems there’s plenty more to come. “I hope to continue to grow in this space and eventually add more services,” Hannah says.
“I would also like to continue working with small brands that I believe in, while pushing for personal and professional development,” she adds. “TikTok and Instagram are becoming great places for the Hannah Sophie Nail Artist brand to grow, and I hope to show more of my authentic self there.”
