Nail art tutorial: 5 steps to create a watercolour flower design

Floral, Step by Step

Sacramento-based nail art specialist, Alena Muraveva, shares a step-by-step for this watercolour floral style.

“My nail art journey began long before I picked up a nail brush – since childhood , I’ve been immersed in painting with watercolour and oil,” she tells Scratch. “Art was always my way of seeing and sharing beauty. Over time, I felt a deep desire to bring that creativity into everyday life, and what better canvas than nails?

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“I find endless inspiration in the works of traditional painters and the soft, flowing lines of nature,” she continues. “I’m proud to be a multi award-winning artist, winning accolades at Nailympia competitions and the Nail Nations Championship 2024 by Nail Art France Events. These competitions challenged and refined my vision — and I’m excited to continue evolving.”

Step 1

Paint the nail with two coats of white gel polish. Cure after each layer, then apply a matte top coat and cure. This smooth, matte surface is ideal for watercolour painting.

Step 2

Using a dotting tool or fine brush, place five small dots of pink watercolour paint in a circle where the flower will be. These will become the centres of the petals.

Step 3

Using a clean brush that is well saturated with water, gently drag the pink paint outward from each dot to form translucent, petal-like shapes. The matte surface helps the colour disperse beautifully. Once the desired effect is achieved, let it dry for a few minutes.

Step 4

Repeat the same technique to add more flowers and petals below the main bloom. Keep the placement organic and balanced. Allow to dry when finished.

Step 5

Add small black and yellow watercolour paint dots in the flower centres. Then use a fine brush and green watercolour paint to create soft flower stems and delicate leaves. Let these dry, and finish with a layer of matte top coat. Cure.