Something about a half moon mani is really floating my boat right now.  Specifically when the half moon is left completely bare.  It just looks really badass and chic, and thats right up my alley. . .not that I am badass or chic, I just like stuff that IS.  Big diff.

So in order to achieve a very crisp version of this look, you need a stencil.  And that stencil needs to be round and sticky.  I know what you’re thinking, and no doughnuts do not work.  But here are some options that DO:

You can go out and buy little round stencils made specifically for this purpose, and they work great.  I bought the ruffian nail art stencils from Birchbox, and they get the job done. However I have also had great success (borat voice) with Bandaids and portfolio stickers.   So the choice is yours.  If you decide to go with the bandaid method, choose the plastic kind.  Fabric Bandaids make a mess, and it’s the worst of all time.

Start by applying the clear base boat of your choice, and then make sure you completely let it dry.  Have patience, if it’s damp it will get lumpy and then you’ll curse my name.  But then you’ll remember that I said this and forgive me.  Thanks in advance.

Place your choice of stencil over the half moon area of your nails.  You can choose how far down you want the stencil to go, and the further down you place it, the more dramatic it will look.  I like to go deep, because that’s how I roll.  Ooo that sounded tough and serious.

Once you have placed your stickers, you can go ahead and paint on two coats of your color.  I chose OPI “Every Month Is Oktoberfest” Because it’s so beautiful it brings tears to my eyes.

Once it’s dry you can peel the stickers off.  You may notice that not all of the edges are perfect, even though you used stencils and now feel like you are a failure.  You aren’t! blame the stickers so you feel better and then use a small nail art brush and nail polish remover to clean up the edges.

To finish it off just add a shiny top coat and be on your way!  Simple and awesome!