The 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…
Having 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…
The 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…
Beyond 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…
Suffolk 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…
Finalists 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…
Meet 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…
Self-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.…
Glossy 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…
Becoming 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…
Manchester tech: I run my nail business from a shipping container
Laura Kelly, owner of House of Beauty Manchester, shares what it’s like to run her nail business from a shipping container. “I work from a shipping container yard in Ancoats, on the edge of Manchester city centre. It’s a really special place full of creatives, with a lovely community feel,”…
I’m a Scottish nail artist working in London. Here’s what I miss most…
“If anyone from outside Scotland asks me, I say I’m from Glasgow, but as Scottish folk will read this, I’m actually from Livingston,” smiles Becki Menzies. The nail pro lived in Scotland for 28 years before moving to East London in 2023, where she works within tattoo space, Soteria Studios.…
Miami event gives global nail artists a platform for handiwork to be recognised
Miami has long been a hub for creativity, fashion and vibrant cultural expression, and on 8 December 2024, as part of the Art Basel annual art fair, it hosted The Nail Art Exhibition. Curated by celebrity nail artist, Kleopatra Tsompani, and powered by Booksy, it featured work by 16 nail…
Revealed: the 5 nations that dazzled at a nail art championship in Paris
The 2024 Nations Championship, organised by Cécilia Gimenez of NailArt France Events, brought nail professionals from across the globe together in a dazzling showcase of creativity, skill and nail artistry. The event was held in two parts: live technical tests took place at Disneyland Paris in September 2024, and online…
Revealed: the social media nail stars in NHBF’s Top 100 Influencers Index 2024
The National Hair & Beauty Federation’s (NHBF’s) Top 100 Influencer Index has been revealed for 2024. The Index – now in its fourth year – ‘offers an opportunity to recognise those in the industry who use social media to influence, educate and innovate our sector,’ according to the organisation. In…
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