Train in acrylic tips or sculpting?

[Ginandtan]

I want to train in acrylic extentions, but the school I’m looking to train with does separate courses in acrylics, either tip application or acrylic sculpting, I can’t really afford to do both at this point so I’m wondering if anyone could share their experience and advise me on which one is best to take? I like the idea of sculpting but not sure if that’s harder to do as a beginner. TIA [emoji39] xx

 

[Trinity]

It's like trying to choose between high heels and wedges - some people will swear sculpting is easier, some will say tipping is more consistent.

Many years ago sculpting was seen as 'more skilled' - everyone was taught tipping, then those who wanted to up their skills moved on to sculpting. Now some techs start with sculpting as they can't master tip blending, which is actually quite easy if you're shown properly.

I believe sculpting is harder because you need to ensure the form is fitted correctly for the entire structure including lower arch, c-curve and sidewalls, tips eliminate some of these issues are they are perfectly shaped to start with.

I think its' easier to transition from tips to sculpting than the other way round

 

[Anna Ljungberg]

I would talk to the school and see what they recommend, it might be that one of the courses is a beginner course and you can take the other as a shorter skill building course, or something similar.

 

[Acrylic83]

I tried to sculpt as a begginer but found it difficult. The school i went to used tips. I past there 26 week course and i just attempted sculpting again 4 weeks after the course finished and they look neat and i did this on myself so far lasted a week.

Ive practised with the tips around 50 times before attempting scuplting again

Id say from experience try tips and then graduate to sculpting. You dont need to do the two courses. Then get your self some good forms and you should be fine.

I prefer sculpting because they are stronger and theres no chance of lifting just my opionion.

 

[Ginandtan]

Thanks so much guys! Enrolled on my course with tips and really excited!

 

[Trinity]

Thanks so much guys! Enrolled on my course with tips and really excited!

Excellent! let us know how you get on, it's terrifying but exciting at the same time. Be prepared to be utterly euphoric one day then utterly depressed another, just when you think you've cracked it you'll come across a problem but it's because you know what you should be doing, it's just about mastering it now. Enjoy

 

[NZNailz]

Agreed that learning wise, tips is best to start with (so you can master product control) before moving onto sculpting however, I'm a firm believer that everyone should know how to sculpt. You're going to get some clients who a tip - just.won't.fit!

 

[Ginandtan]

Thanks for your advice guys! Deffo keeping the ‘utterly euphoric and depressed another day’ in mind. I remember trying to master eyelashes and doing my first ever sets thinking I can’t do it! So I’m really excited to see how I improve. Just a little update, I did my first ever full set today, on bitten nails, I know the cuticle area is WAY too thick I’ve been advised to blunt the edge of the file (as I was scared of cutting them). Using NSI attraction if anyone has any recommendations of acrylics brands, brushes and some constructive criticism that would be amaaazing! Never sure if I’ve done tip too thin or thick! Luckily their family so can soak off and try again! Xx

 

[Acrylic83]

Omg you've got the gift.