Article: How-To: 3D Lemon and Blueberry Nail Art Tutorial
How-To: 3D Lemon and Blueberry Nail Art Tutorial
Issue No. 085
HELLO AND WELCOME TO BEYOND THE PAINT, A BLOG BY BIO SEAWEED GEL (BSG).
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Summer’s almost here, and as always, it will be serving nothing but colour. From beach days to juicy fruits to sun-drenched afternoons and evenings, the season’s energy is bright, bold, and beautifully playful. So why not let your nails join the party?
In this blog, we're bringing you major summer inspo with a tutorial on 3D Lemon & Blueberry Nails! A deliciously detailed look that’s bursting with personality. Think zesty yellows, deep berry blues, and glossy textures that give your manicure serious main character energy.
We’ve teamed up with the ultra-talented Briana of @nailssbybri_ who walked us through her creative process and the juicy details behind this fruity nail trend. Her exclusive interview is full of expert tips, personal inspiration and product faves.
Whether you're sipping a spritz or dancing under fairy lights, this summer, it’s all about colour and having fun! On your nails, in your style, and in every sun-soaked moment.
Let’s get into it. 💅✨
What inspired you to become a nail technician, and how and when did you get started in the industry?
I’ve always been passionate about beauty and creativity, especially in the small, detailed ways we express ourselves. Nails became my favorite canvas. I officially began my journey over six years ago when I opened my salon in Toronto. What started as a creative outlet quickly turned into a fulfilling career rooted in wellness, care, and expression.
Where are you located and how can we book with you?
I'm based in Toronto, Ontario in a cozy home studio. You can book with me directly through my Instagram page or website. I also take bookings via DM if you prefer a more personal approach!
How would you describe your signature style or approach to nail art?
My signature style is natural and clean with soft, earthy tones—think boho with a touch of elegance. I love incorporating subtle details that reflect positive energy and intention.
What are your favourite tools or products you can’t live without in your kit?
A precise long detail brush, a high-quality e-file + drill bits, and, of course, builder gel—those are my go-tos. I also always keep cuticle oil on hand. It’s the final touch that seals in all the care I put into every set.
What nail trends are you loving right now, and which ones do you think are on their way out?
I’m really loving the return of playful yet minimal designs—like fruit accents, mismatched nails, and negative space art. As for trends phasing out, overly bulky nails with heavy embellishments are becoming less popular. Clients are leaning toward clean, fresh styles.
How do you ensure your clients leave your chair feeling confident and cared for?
I make sure to listen—to their nail goals, their comfort level, and even the energy they bring in. Every appointment is a moment of self-care, and I treat it that way. I want my clients to feel safe, seen, and beautiful when they leave.
What are your top 3 favourite BSG colours?
Think Pink Thoughts – It’s fresh, vibrant, and perfect for summer sets.
Jelly Bean – Soft and flattering on every skin tone.
Seashell – The best iridescent colour there is.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue a career in nail tech or nail artistry?
Start with a love for the craft, and stay curious. Learn your basics well, and always invest in your skills and technique. Build your business with intention—know your values and let them guide your work. And don’t be afraid to stand out with your own unique style.
Feel free to leave us any comments you want our readers to see!
I’m grateful to be a part of a community that values clean, ethical, and beautiful nail care. Thank you to Bio Seaweed Gel for creating products that help artists like me express ourselves while keeping our clients’ nail health a priority. Can’t wait to see what we all create next!
A heartfelt thank you to Briana for sharing her personal motivation, creative process and expert insights with us! Your perspective is truly appreciated and your talent speaks for itself, you are elevating nail art to a whole new level.
With her inspiration and techniques fresh in mind, we’re now excited to walk you through the next part: a step-by-step look at how Briana crafted the stunning 3D Lemon & Blueberry Nails. Ready to see the magic in action? Let’s get started.
How to Create 3D Lemon and Blueberry Nail Art Tutorial
Step 1: Buff & Prep the Nail. Start with a clean, natural nail. Use the 240/280 Bio Seaweed Gel buffer to gently buff the surface for better product adhesion. Cleanse thoroughly to remove any dust or oils.
Step 2: Apply a Sheer Neutral Base. On the nails that will feature French tips, apply a thin coat of Jelly Bean, a sheer neutral shade that complements the soft tones of the design.
Step 3: Lay Down the Solid Colour Nails. Using Chase the Sun, paint one thin, even coat on the index finger. Then, apply Hydrangea to both the thumb and ring fingers to establish your base tones before adding any designs.
Step 4: Paint the French Tips. Using Chase the Sun and Liner Brush #3, carefully paint the yellow French tips. Tip: Mark the center of the free edge with a small vertical line to guide the curve and ensure symmetry on both sides.
Step 5: Sketch the Lemons. With Liner Brush #3 and Lemonade Freeze, outline the shape of the lemons on the index and pinky nails. These soft yellow outlines will act as the frame for your white detailing.
Step 6: Add White Lemon Details. Use a highly pigmented white gel paint to carefully outline the inner portion of each lemon. Begin by marking a small white circle in the center. From there, draw a vertical line from top to bottom and a horizontal line through the middle. Add 2–4 diagonal lines radiating from the center to mimic the natural segment lines of a lemon. Keep your strokes thin and controlled.
Step 7: Add White Stripes to the Blue Nails. On the Hydrangea-coloured thumb and ring fingers, use the same white gel paint to create vertical stripes. Start with a central line and add 1–2 evenly spaced lines on either side.
Step 8: Add Blueberries with Dotting Tool No. 5 Using Yellowknife and Bio Seaweed Gel’s Dotting Tool No. 5, place three small blueberry dots on both the middle and ring fingers for a cute berry detail.
Step 9: Encapsulate the Blueberries. Apply a dollop of Clear Builder Gel X directly over the blueberries to encapsulate and create a 3D, juicy effect. Cure thoroughly.
Step 10: Encapsulate the Lemons. Repeat the same technique on the lemon segments. Place a small dollop of Clear Builder Gel X between the white lines, then gently drag the product outward to fill in the space and enhance shine. Cure to finish.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Thanks for reading our blog, we hope this look zested up your nail inspo! 🍋🫐
Question for you: If you try this nail art look, would you do the same fruits, or which fruits would you go for?
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