Crowland log cabin nail salon: “My clients love being surrounded by nature”
As’ka Baran, owner of Crowland-based nail salon, Holistic Health & Beauty, opens the doors to her unique space – a log cabin nestled in the corner of her garden. “Working from a log cabin brings a sense of connection with the earth and nature,” shares As’ka. “Clients often comment that…
Read MoreA guide to the gel system: when & how to use & troubleshooting tips
Nail pros share insight on the gel system… When to use the gel system Theresa Foddering, Lecenté business development manager & Scratch Stars Shooting Star Award finalist 2025, adds: “If a client has weak or brittle nails that require extra support and strength, hard gel is a great option for enhancements.…
Read MorePowys nail salon: where rustic charm meets luxury beauty treatments
Jodie Evans, owner of Wales salon, Nail Envy, speaks to Scratch about the journey of building her thriving nail business. “Nail Envy is designed to feel like a luxurious home-from-home, combining rustic charm with modern elegance,” says Jodie. “The interior features brickwork, warm wood tones and plush velvet chairs –…
Read MoreLGBTQ+ tech & drag nail artist: the nail industry allows me to embrace my truest self
Birmingham-based nail artist, Anthony Lloyd, shares about his LGBTQ+ journey and the important role nail artistry has played in it… My journey as a member of the LGBTQ+ community has been a positive and affirming one. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been raised in a supportive family environment, and…
Read MoreThe history of nail colour & design: everything you need to know
Nail colour and design have become one of the most popular outlets for creativity and self-expression within the beauty industry. But where did it all begin, and how has it evolved over time? Here’s Scratch‘s deep dive into the history of the industry… 1920s & 1930s According to research revealed…
Read MoreHaving a niche as a nail tech: is it important?
Whether your skills focus is natural nailcare, premium pedis or portrait painting, Scratch investigates the importance of identifying and capitalising on your expertise… What is a niche? ‘Niche’ is a business term used to describe a focused approach to offering goods and services, and tailoring them to a specific consumer…
Read MoreThe nail techs who went from online friends to podcast hosts
Nail techs, Rachel Coast and Evie Glows, started out as online friends within a nail tech community, and have since launched their podcast, The Nail Files. Describing the podcast as ‘relatable, uplifting and a way to facilitate connection’, the duo is passionate about entertaining nail techs with relatable and humorous…
Read MoreBeyond The Brush: The nail tech community built on relationships, support & honesty
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…
Read MoreSuffolk nail artist: ‘My salon isn’t just about treatments – it’s a whole experience’
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…
Read MoreFinalists announced in 2025 nail industry awards for UK&I pros & businesses
For 12 years, Scratch magazine has been recognising excellence in the UK&I nail industry via the Scratch Stars Awards, and is proud to present the finalists for 2025. Hundreds of entries were received between February and March this year, with nail pros, teams and businesses keen to highlight their talents, passions and industry…
Read MoreMeet the mums navigating nail careers alongside motherhood
Learn about mums who manicure, as three mothers share their journeys navigating nail careers alongside various stages of motherhood… Katie Turner of Radiant Nails, Devon Katie Turner has two children, one of whom has been diagnosed with autism, sensory processing disorder and pathological demand avoidance. “It’s always been a challenge…
Read MoreSelf-employment help for nail techs: marketing advice & networking tips
Here’s how to gain the attention of clients by building a buzz around your business… Once you have registered your business, considered tax requirements and made decisions regarding legal, financial and operational considerations, as well as safety and interior design choices, it’s time to build your clientele through effective marketing techniques.…
Read MoreGlossy black, green nude & 2 other nail colours dominating Paris Fashion Week
After London, New York and Milan, the AW25 Fashion Week has concluded in Paris, finishing the season with a stylish bang. Over the past weeks, we’ve seen intricate and daring nail art designs, including nail piercings and embellishments, but the Parisian nail choices have been all about colour. Here are the…
Read MoreBecoming a nail tech at 16: I was the youngest student Bryony Howell had ever trained
17-year-old self-employed nail tech, Ruby Galluzzo, opens up about the journey that led her to pursue a nail career at such a young age. “I first became interested in nails when I was only eight-years-old, but my passion grew massively in 2020 during lockdown. That’s when I really started dreaming…
Read More
Read the latest issue