TECH TALK

Laura gilbert anderson maternal mental health

Portsmouth nail pro: What I learned from mental health struggles during pregnancy

By Guest Writer | 15 May 2025

Laura Gilbert-Anderson of Basic Witch Nails shares her maternal mental health experiences and what they have taught her… I was diagnosed with a liver condition during my first pregnancy, so my baby and I had to be closely monitored. If test results weren’t good, it meant days spent at the…

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Beyond The Brush: The nail tech community built on relationships, support & honesty

By Lilly Delmage | 10 May 2025

Gel nail educator & artist, Gemma Siverns, speaks to Scratch about her online community, Beyond The Brush (BTB) – a supportive, educational space she created for nail professionals. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Gemma is a natural mentor. She began her journey in 2000, earning her…

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Suffolk nail artist: ‘My salon isn’t just about treatments – it’s a whole experience’

By Lilly Delmage | 8 May 2025

Allie Eve, owner of The Nail Matrix, opens the doors of her bohemian sanctuary salon, unveiling a space to ‘spark creativity and escapism’. “The Nail Matrix is all about stepping out of the chaos and into a space where time slows down and the world melts away,” explains Allie. “From…

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#TRENDINGTUESDAY Karen Brown, Sanctuary In The City

By Sophie Nutt | 16 October 2018

We want to see the designs trending at your nail desk! Karen Brown, of Sanctuary In The City, reveals that bright pinks have been popular with her clients seeking a spot of winter sun. “Our brights are always popular as they are so eye catching and great for holidays. This…

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MANI MONDAY: Black cat season

By Sophie Nutt | 15 October 2018

Begin the week the right way with some nail inspiration this mani Monday! With just over two weeks to go until Halloween, we’ve already started thinking about ways to spook up our everyday attire – because it’s never too early to embrace the haunting holiday, right? For Halloween-loving clients, try…

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Maddie webster nails

WHAT I’M WEARING: Maddie Webster

By Sophie Nutt | 14 October 2018

We want to see what you’re wearing on your nails! Talented tech, Maddie Webster, wears a vibrant fuchsia hue with cuff detailing on almond nails. “I created these nails using The Gel Bottle Inc. Rose Gold from its new autumn collection and layered fuchsia over the top. “I am off…

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Melanie lewendon nails

Melanie Lewendon shares her thoughts on nail art, competing and our industry

By Kat Hill | 13 October 2018

Tell us about your training… My training has been really varied. I started life out as a beauty therapist 12 years ago. I came 2nd in the World Skills National Final that year for beauty and second in Sebta UK competition. It wasn’t until I stumbled on gel polish I…

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Tita Turner opens up about working with anxiety

By Sophie Nutt | 10 October 2018

It’s World Mental Health Day, and while our industry boasts confidence, communication and creative flair, many nail technicians deal with anxiety on their own everyday, effecting their work and personal lives. Although mental health is being spoken about more openly in recent years thanks to charities and activists, there is…

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Katie barnes nailympia

Why nail techs should push themselves out of their comfort zone

By Katie Barnes | 9 October 2018

Anyone who knows me, knows that I am a nail structure girl through and through. Give me a pink & white challenge and I am in my element and what I would consider my weakness, is art. I can paint a face well, but the steps to achieve it don’t…

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