Abstract nail designs are having their moment this year! From retro prints to modern geometry and from splatter to presize patterns, all sorts of Abstract nails are in. A great bonus, they are very easy to do. As long as you have great quality nail art brushes, plus a bit of inspiration… I’m here to help you with both!
With regards to the former, consider investing in the SoNailicious nail art brushes (if you have not yet). As for nail art inspiration, take a look at 10 chic Abstract nail art ideas below:
1. Abstract Speckle nails
HOW TO: First use semi sheer nail polish as your base, then add white, beige and black details. To paint the intricate abstract nail designs like this, use 01 Warrior detailing brush.

2. Abstract Waves nail design
HOW TO: First paint all nails in yellow nail lacquer, then use 02 Needle brush to paint the perfect waves. The Needle brush follows your hand precisely, which makes it easy to paint flawless curves and waves.

3. Retro Waves

4. Fluid Abstract nails
by @alyonaiils

5. Abstract Checkered nails
HOW TO: First create two-toned manicure in red and white, then use a presize detailing brush to paint the intricate checkered patterns over the white parts.
6. One Stroke Abstract nails
HOW TO: To paint the strokes I used the nail polish brush and then added on top the non-fading Gold Flakes foil and small metal studs. Plus, 2 coats of a glossy top coat to secure it all.

7. Geo Abstract nails
HOW TO: Use the super fine liner nail art brush, like 02 Needle to paint the perfect geometric shapes over bare nails. Then using the same thin liner brush add black lines and small details. Finish off with a glossy top.

8. 80s Abstract nail design
by @sohotrightnail
HOW TO: First paint all nails in nude and white to create the base for your manicure. Then using the ultra fine detailing nail art brush add colourful abstract shapes, use dotting tools for black dots and finally with a thin liner brush paint flawless black lines. Secure it all with a glossy top.

9. ‘Lime in the Sky’ Abstract nails
HOW TO: For this nail design I used 02 Needle brush to paint wavy details and 01 Warrior brush (which is perfect for intricate details!) to add tiny black dots.
10. Summer Splatter nails
by @arina_vader
HOW TO: First paint all nails in nude nail polish, then use polish brush to create small abstract shapes on all nails and then add tiny dots using ultra sharp detailing brush like 01 Warrior. Finish off with a matte top coat.

There you have it, 10 chic Abstract nail designs for every taste and for every skill. What I love the most about Abstract nails is that there’s so much room for experiments! You’re free to use any colours and create any patterns, there are literally zero rules and your lines can be as wiggly or sharp as you want them to be. Abstract art celebrates creativity!
PRO TIP: Once finished painting your design, make sure you clean up around cuticles and any mistakes with a sharp angled brush like 04 Slayer brush. Creating Abstract nails can be messy, but your art work will look fantastic once neatly groomed.
Now over to you!
Which Abstract nail design from the above compilation is your favourite? Will you dare to try any?
– Maria, xx
MORE ABSTRACT GOODNESS:
- Spikes and Lines Abstract nail art + how-to
- Purple Abstract nail art + how-to
- Tutorial: Two Toned Abstract nails
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