Below are answers to the most common questions about sizing, wear time, reuse, shipping and returns. If you can’t find what you need, email us at customer.services@artnailery.com.
We are a Proudly Australian-Owned Brand. All orders ship from our AU warehouse for faster delivery.
- All
- Sizing & Fit
- Color & Craft
- Promotions & Pricing
- Shipping & Delivery
- Application & Wear
- Removal & Care
- Special Order & Custom
- Returns & Exchanges
- Safty & Allergies
- Account & Orders
Need Help?
Have a question about sizes, orders, or application? Reach us anytime at customer.services@artnailery.com. We reply within 24–36 hours (AEST business hours).
- Handcrafted Sizes: S / M / L (XS & XL by special order)
- Shipping: AU warehouse, 3–5 business days
- Returns: 30-day return guarantee
Sizing & Fit
Use our Size & Shape Guide to measure each nail in millimeters and match to S/M/L. If you sit between sizes, choose the larger one and lightly file the side edges (5–10s) for a perfect fit.
Two common reasons — both easy to refine:
- Handcrafted micro-variance: Gel/color/top layers and curing can introduce a tiny base tolerance (≈0.2–0.5 mm) in handmade pieces.
- Individual nail anatomy: Curvature and sidewall depth vary by person; your mm width can be right while curvature still affects fit.
Quick fixes (solve ~90% cases):
- If between sizes, choose the larger one and lightly file side edges (5–10s) to match your sidewalls.
- For stronger curves or very flat nails, use premium nail glue or a hybrid (tabs + tiny drop of glue on thumbs/index) for fuller contact.
- Press from the center outward for 20–30s and avoid water for 1–2 hours.
Yes — XS/XL and out-of-stock sizes are available via Special Order.
Where to find details:
- On the product page: see the Special Order section for the basic flow (you can purchase first and we’ll confirm within 48h, or contact us before ordering; typical lead time and general steps).
- Visit our Custom page: all model details & options live here — including mixed-size (mix size), tailored fit, and full Special Order / Custom configurations.
Note: Special Orders are bespoke and non-returnable unless there’s a quality issue.
Mixed sizes / tailored fit: Mixed-size matching belongs to our Custom service and may incur an additional fee.
Note: Special Orders are bespoke and non-returnable unless there’s a quality issue.
Color & Craft
We shoot our products under neutral lighting and use colour-managed workflows with minimal retouching to keep tones true-to-life. That said, minor differences can occur due to:
- Your display & lighting: phone/monitor settings and warm vs cool light at home can shift how a colour appears.
- Handcrafted nuance: layered gel, shimmer and top coats are applied by hand, so micro-variations in tone/texture are part of the craft.
- Finish behaviour: pearl/iridescent/shimmer finishes will look different at various angles and in sunlight vs indoor lighting.
For the best sense of a shade, check all images (studio + lifestyle) and any videos if available. If you need extra reassurance, contact us and we’ll do our best to provide a natural-light reference.
Note: Unopened items are eligible for our 30-day returns policy. Custom and Special Orders are non-returnable unless there’s a quality issue.
Each product lists its finish in the details (e.g., glossy, velvet-matte, pearl, shimmer). All are salon-grade gel finishes designed for comfortable daily wear.
- Glossy: high-shine top coat with smooth feel; easiest to refresh with a thin clear top coat.
- Velvet-matte: soft, non-glare look; avoid oils/hand creams in the first hour to keep the matte effect crisp.
- Pearl / Iridescent: subtle sheen that shifts with angle and light; looks brightest in natural or directional light.
- Shimmer / Glitter: reflective particles sealed under gel; gently pat dry (don’t rub) after water to keep the sparkle uniform.
Care: avoid acetone or harsh solvents on the outer surface; clean only the inner side with isopropyl alcohol. For minor dulling, apply a thin clear top coat to restore lustre (not recommended on true matte unless you want it glossy).
Promotions & Pricing
Yes. Tiered savings apply automatically at checkout on eligible items: Buy 2 = 20% off, Buy 3 = 30% off, Buy 4 = 40% off. Free standard shipping applies on A$79+ (post-discount subtotal).
Notes: Some items (e.g., Custom or Special Orders, gift cards) may be excluded. The cart will show your final eligible discount before payment.
In most cases, discounts can’t be stacked. If you enter a promo code while an automatic offer is active, the system will apply the best eligible option. If a specific code is required for a campaign, it will be stated on the campaign page.
Unless stated otherwise, Custom and Special Orders, gift cards, and any non-discountable items are excluded. Bundle or add-on eligibility is shown on the product page. The cart will automatically exclude non-eligible items from the discount calculation.
Yes — within 30 days of your purchase we offer a one-time price adjustment. We’ll refund the difference so you don’t need to return and re-buy.
Eligibility
- Same product and variant (colour/length/shape), sold on our website in Australia.
- Request made within 30 days of purchase date.
- Excludes Custom and Special Orders, gift cards, limited bundles, or offers that require stacking unique codes.
How we calculate
- We compare your original paid price to the current best eligible price (including any automatic sitewide promo your order would qualify for today).
- We don’t adjust shipping fees or freebies tied to past thresholds.
How to request
- Contact us with your order number and a link/screenshot of the lower price.
- Approved adjustments are refunded to your original payment method, typically within 3–7 business days (bank posting times may vary).
Free standard shipping applies on A$79+ based on the post-discount subtotal of eligible items in your cart. Shipping fees and gift cards don’t count toward the threshold.
Shipping & Delivery
We currently ship within Australia only.
- Carrier: Australia Post (standard & express options at checkout).
- Addresses: residential, business and PO Boxes are accepted.
- Free shipping: on orders A$79+ (post-discount subtotal).
In-stock items dispatch in 24–48 business hours from Australia. You’ll receive a tracking email once shipped.
- Special Order / Custom: crafting time applies first; dispatch follows upon completion.
- Peak periods: during promos/holidays, allow an extra business day for processing.
Shipping is calculated at checkout based on your address and service level.
- Free standard shipping on orders A$79+ (post-discount subtotal).
- Express upgrade options appear at checkout where available.
First, check the tracking link for scans or attempted delivery. If there’s no update for 3+ business days:
- Confirm your address and look for any collection cards.
- Contact Australia Post with your tracking ID to request an investigation.
- Contact us with your order number; we’ll liaise with the carrier on your behalf.
If a parcel is confirmed lost by the carrier, we’ll replace or refund according to stock availability.
Prices: shown in AUD and include GST where applicable in Australia.
Shipping: we currently ship within Australia only. For future international updates, please join our newsletter or Priority Member list.
Application & Wear
Typical wear (with proper prep) — Tabs: ~3–7 days; Glue: ~10–21 days; Hybrid (tabs + tiny glue on thumbs/index): ~7–14 days.
Longevity varies by prep, fit/curvature, and water exposure. For swimming or high-activity routines, choose glue or hybrid. After application, avoid water for 1–2 hours. Full steps please refer to: How to Apply.
For the quickest, most reliable result, focus on clean prep and a firm press. Follow these steps:
- Wash and dry hands thoroughly. Gently push back cuticles, then lightly buff each nail (180–220 grit) and wipe with an alcohol pad until fully clean and dry.
- Pre-size and lay out your tips in order. If you sit between sizes, choose the larger one and lightly file side edges for a snug fit.
- Choose your hold method: use the included tabs for speed and reusability, or glue for longer wear. A popular hybrid is tabs on most fingers with a tiny drop of glue on thumbs/index.
- Align the tip just above the cuticle line, seat the cuticle edge first, then press from the center outward to the sides for 20–30 seconds to expel air and secure the seal.
- Repeat for all nails (many users do thumbs last). Re-press each nail once more after a few minutes to reinforce adhesion.
- Avoid water for 1–2 hours after application. For water-heavy or high-activity days, choose glue or the hybrid method.
For a visual step-through (video + GIF) and pro tips, see our How to Apply page.
Yes. After application, give the adhesive time to set before heavy water or friction. Light handwashing is fine, but avoid water for the first 1–2 hours.
Shower & baths: Quick showers are fine after the initial 1–2 hours. For long hot showers or baths on day one, adhesion can soften—press each nail again afterward to re-seal.
Swimming (pool or ocean): Chlorine and salt water reduce hold. Use glue or a hybrid (tabs + tiny drop of glue on thumbs/index) and ideally allow 12–24 hours of set time before extended swimming. Rinse with fresh water and dry thoroughly afterward.
Workouts: Totally fine. For heavy lifting or high-sweat sessions, choose glue or hybrid and consider shorter lengths/rounded shapes to reduce leverage. Gloves help for weights.
Heat, oils & sunscreen: High heat/steam can weaken tabs; oils and sunscreens may creep under edges. Apply skincare after the set is fully cured and wipe fingertips clean.
If an edge lifts: Dry the nail, clean with alcohol, then replace the tab or add a tiny drop of glue and press from the center outward for 20–30 seconds. Never peel off; see removal steps when needed.
More water-day tips and a step-by-step video are on our How to Apply page.
Quick fix: If one tip lifts, clean & dry, then reapply with a fresh tab (press 20–30s) or a tiny dot of glue on thumbs/index.
Yes — our handmade sets are designed to be reusable. With adhesive tabs and proper care, most customers achieve 3–5+ wears per set. Wearing with glue can be reusable too, but removal must be extra gentle to preserve the finish.
Removal (to protect reusability)
- Never peel. Soak in warm, soapy water or use oil/adhesive remover; lift gently from the sides with a wooden/orange stick.
- Tabs: roll off any residue or use an adhesive remover. Glue: use a debonder or a longer oil soak — be patient and avoid force.
Cleaning & prep for next wear
- Clean only the inner surface with isopropyl alcohol; avoid acetone on the outer finish.
- Before the next wear, lightly buff the inner surface (about 180–240 grit) to improve adhesion.
Storage
- Return each piece to the tray (or labelled pouches). Keep dry and away from heat/sunlight.
- If one nail keeps lifting, switch to a closer size or use a hybrid hold (a tiny dot of glue on thumbs/index).
Tip: A thin coat of clear top coat can refresh gloss. More reuse & care tips: see How to Apply.
Yes — the hybrid hold is a great balance of longevity and reusability: use tabs on most fingers and a tiny dot of glue on thumbs (and/or index) where leverage is greatest.
How to do it
- Prep as usual: push back cuticles, lightly buff (180–220 grit), clean with isopropyl alcohol until dry.
- Apply tabs to most fingers and press firmly.
- For thumbs/index, use a rice-grain amount of glue on the natural nail (or the tip’s inner surface). Avoid skin/cuticle.
- Seat the cuticle edge first, then press from the centre outward for 20–30s. Wipe any squeeze-out immediately.
When to choose hybrid
- Longer lengths or high-leverage shapes (e.g., square/squoval).
- Workouts, frequent typing, or swim days.
- Stronger nail curvature that needs fuller contact.
Aftercare & removal
- Avoid water for 1–2 hours after application (for extended swimming, allow ideally 12–24 hours set time).
- For removal, never peel: tabs roll off; glued nails need debonder or a longer oil/soapy soak. Be patient to preserve finish for reuse.
Note: Hybrid usually keeps most tips reusable; glued thumbs/index may need extra-gentle removal and could reduce future wears if forced. Full steps and video: see How to Apply.
Yes. You can shorten the free edge and refine the shape.
- Use 180–240 grit and file in one direction; avoid aggressive clipping on 3D/embellished areas.
- After shaping, dust off and apply a thin clear top coat if you want to refresh gloss (not for true matte unless you want it glossy).
- Avoid acetone on the outer finish; clean only the inner surface with alcohol.
Stay calm — it’s fixable. Clean and dry the natural nail first.
- Tabs wear: remove any residue, wipe with isopropyl alcohol, apply a fresh tab and press from the centre outward for 20–30s.
- Glue or hybrid: use a tiny dot of glue on the nail (avoid skin), seat the cuticle edge first, then press 20–30s. Wipe any squeeze-out immediately.
Tip: Keep a mini kit (tabs, alcohol wipe, wooden stick) in your bag for quick fixes.
Removal & Care
Golden rule: never peel. Always break the bond first, then lift gently from the sides.
What you’ll need: a bowl of warm soapy water, cuticle oil (or olive oil), a wooden/orange stick, lint-free pads; for glue wear, an adhesive debonder is ideal.
Removal — tabs
- Soak fingertips in warm, soapy water for 5–10 min.
- Apply a little cuticle oil along the sidewalls/edge to seep under the tip.
- Using a wooden stick, lift from the sides with tiny motions. If it resists, soak 2–3 min more and try again.
- “Roll off” any tab residue with fingers or use an adhesive remover.
Removal — glue (be patient to preserve finish)
- Apply adhesive debonder around the sidewalls and under the free edge; wait 2–5 min.
- Gently ease a wooden stick in from the sides; re-apply debonder and repeat until it releases.
- No debonder? Use a warm oil soak (water + a little soap + oil) for 10–20 min, then lift from the sides in stages.
Notes: Avoid pure acetone on the outer finish (it can dull gloss). If you feel pain or see white stress marks, stop and soak longer — never force or twist.
Aftercare & next wear
- Clean only the inner surface of the tips with isopropyl alcohol; avoid solvents on the outer face.
- Lightly buff the natural nail and the tip’s inner surface (≈180–240 grit), then moisturise with cuticle oil.
- Let nails rest dry for 30–60 min before reapplying.
For a short demo and pro tips, see our How to Apply page.
Goal: remove leftover adhesive without scratching the tip or your natural nail.
Tabs residue
- After a warm, soapy soak, roll the residue off with your fingertip.
- If needed, use an adhesive remover (citrus-based is gentle) on a lint-free pad, then wipe dry.
Glue residue
- Apply a debonder along the edges/underside and wait a few minutes; wipe away softened glue with a lint-free pad.
- No debonder? Use a warm oil soak (water + a little soap + oil) for 10–20 min, then gently lift residue—repeat if needed.
Protect the finish
- Clean only the inner surface of the tip with isopropyl alcohol. Avoid acetone on the outer finish (it can dull gloss/colour).
- If you see slight haze on the outer face, a thin clear top coat can refresh shine.
Prep for next wear
- Lightly buff the inner surface (≈180–240 grit) to improve adhesion next time.
- Moisturise cuticles after everything is fully clean and dry.
Store your tips clean, dry and protected from heat or pressure so they stay pristine for the next wear.
- Dry first: After removal and inner-surface clean, let each tip air-dry for 30–60 minutes before putting away.
- Keep in order: Place each tip back into the tray by finger (or use labelled mini pouches if you mix sizes). This makes your next application faster.
- Cool & dry: Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight, bathrooms/steam and heaters. A small silica gel sachet helps in humid climates.
- No weight/pressure: Avoid stacking heavy items on the tray to prevent warping or shifting of embellishments.
- 3D/embellished designs: Wrap in soft tissue or a microfibre sleeve before placing in the tray to protect raised details.
- Travel: Use a hard case and keep away from liquids or sharp objects.
- Size notes: Keep your size map/measurements card with the set; if one nail repeatedly lifts, mark it and plan a closer size or use a hybrid hold next time.
Special Order & Custom
Special Order covers XS/XL sizes and out-of-stock sizes for existing designs.
- Start on the product page: select Special Order and checkout (or contact us first if you prefer). The product page’s Special Order section shows this basic flow.
- We confirm within 48h: we’ll email to verify your size/shape/length and timing.
- Timeline: typical lead is about 4 weeks. If it’s a simple restock, add roughly 2 weeks.
- Bespoke policy: Special Orders are non-returnable unless there’s a quality issue.
Model details & options (incl. mix size) live on our Custom page — that’s where you’ll find tailored fit and configuration info.
Tip: Opt into our emails to be marked as a Priority Member for early previews and pre-order notices.
Because our pieces are handcrafted in small batches, there are times a remake of a specific style isn’t immediately feasible. If that happens, we’ll offer clear choices:
- Switch to a similar in-stock style: we’ll share a curated shortlist matched by length, shape, finish and colour so you can choose an alternative at the same price.
- Priority for the next artisan run: with your consent, we’ll mark you as a Priority Member and notify you first for pre-order or the next restock window.
- Full refund: if none of the alternatives suit, we’ll process a full refund promptly.
Prefer something tailored? See our Custom page for bespoke options (including mix size); additional fees and timelines apply.
We’ll communicate transparently and won’t proceed with any change without your confirmation.
Absolutely — we’re happy to discuss sizing, shape/length and timing before you commit.
- Fastest path: place a Special Order on the product page first; we’ll email within 48h to confirm details. This reserves a spot in our small-batch artisan schedule and usually shortens the timeline.
- Prefer to check first? Contact us with the product link, your preferred size/shape/length and any event date. We typically reply within 1–2 business days.
- Mix size / tailored fit / bespoke: see our Custom page for options and process (additional fees and timelines may apply).
Note: Special Orders are bespoke and non-returnable unless there’s a quality issue.
Yes — our Custom service creates a set tailored to your brief.
- What to send: purpose/event date, style preferences & colour palette, reference images, ten-finger measurements (mm), and preferred shape/length.
- Process: Intake → design proposal & quote (based on materials, artisan hours & complexity) → craft → ship. We’ll confirm the timeline before you pay.
- Fees & policy: Custom work may incur an additional charge and is non-returnable unless there’s a quality issue.
Start here: Custom. Not sure if your idea is feasible? Contact us and we’ll advise.
Timings depend on complexity and our small-batch schedule, but here’s the typical flow:
- Brief — Submit via Custom: purpose/event date, style & colour preferences, reference images, ten-finger measurements (mm), shape/length.
- Proposal & quote — We review your brief and respond in ~2–5 business days with a concept and pricing.
- Approval & payment — Once you approve, we lock the design and schedule your slot.
- Crafting — Most customs complete in ~1–3 weeks; intricate 3D/embellished or mixed-media designs may take 3–4+ weeks.
- QC & dispatch — Final quality check, then ship from Australia with tracking. (We currently ship within Australia only.)
Important notes
- Timelines start after we receive all measurements and your approval & payment.
- Have a hard date? Tell us in your brief and we’ll advise feasibility. Limited rush accommodation may be possible.
- One minor adjustment is usually included at proposal stage; further changes can affect the timeline and quote.
- Custom work is non-returnable unless there’s a quality issue.
Ready to begin? Start here: Custom. Not sure if your idea is feasible? Contact us and we’ll advise.
Yes. With your consent, we’ll add you to our Priority Member list — it’s free for now.
- Early previews of upcoming collections and limited seasonal runs.
- First access to pre-order windows and restock alerts.
- More relevant picks curated to your size/shape preferences (incl. XS/XL or mix-size needs).
How to join
- When you submit a Custom brief, tick email opt-in and we’ll enrol you.
- When you place a Special Order, choose email opt-in at checkout/confirmation.
- Or simply subscribe via the site footer newsletter form.
Privacy: You can unsubscribe any time. We handle your data per our privacy policy.
Returns & Exchanges
We offer a 30-day returns window for unopened, unused items from the delivery date. For hygiene and bespoke reasons, Custom and Special Orders are non-returnable unless there’s a quality issue.
Eligibility: item must be in original condition and packaging, with all accessories included. Change-of-mind returns are accepted if the above is met.
Reach us via Contact Us with your order number, item name and whether you prefer a return or exchange. We’ll reply with next steps and the return address.
Please do not ship anything back before receiving our instructions.
Please contact us within 7 days of delivery via Contact Us with photos of the issue and your order ID. We’ll assess and provide a repair/remake, replacement or refund as appropriate. Packaging may be requested for inspection.
Yes, if the item is unopened and unused. Start an exchange via Contact Us. For tailored fits or mixed sizes, please see our Custom options (additional fees and timelines may apply).
For change-of-mind returns or exchanges, the customer covers return postage. If we confirm a fault or fulfilment error, we’ll provide a prepaid label or reimburse reasonable return postage.
Original shipping fees are non-refundable unless the return is due to our error.
Once your return is received and inspected, refunds are issued to the original payment method typically within 3–7 business days. Your bank or card provider may take additional time to post the funds.
Safty & Allergies
Our press-on nails use salon-grade gel finishes. The included adhesive tabs are pressure-sensitive acrylics; the optional nail glue is cyanoacrylate-based. These are widely used in nail applications, but sensitivities can vary.
- Patch test first: if you have a history of nail/skin sensitivity, trial on one nail for 24–48 hours.
- Avoid skin contact: keep products off cuticles/skin; use minimal amounts.
- If irritation occurs: discontinue use, remove gently and consult a healthcare professional.
Need an extra-gentle approach? Use tabs only and avoid glue; see our How to Apply page for a low-irritation routine.
Glue isn’t mandatory. The included adhesive tabs are ideal for short-term wear and reusability. Choose glue (or a hybrid — tabs on most fingers with a tiny dot of glue on thumbs/index) when you need longer wear or have stronger curvature. If you’re sensitive, start with tabs only.
Allergies differ by person. If you have known reactions to nail adhesives or gels, we recommend:
- Tabs-only wear and avoid glue.
- Strict no-skin contact and minimal product use.
- Patch test on one nail before full application.
Stop use if any redness, itching or heat develops, remove gently (no peeling) and seek medical advice. We’re happy to discuss gentler routines via Contact Us.
Many customers do. If you have concerns, speak with your healthcare provider. Apply in a well-ventilated area, avoid skin contact, and use the smallest effective amount of product. Tabs-only wear is a low-odour option.
With proper prep and removal, they shouldn’t. Key points:
- Do not peel — always soak (warm soapy water/oil) or use a debonder for glue.
- Gentle prep — light buff only (180–220 grit) and alcohol cleanse; avoid over-filing the natural nail.
- Nail care — moisturise with cuticle oil after removal and let nails dry before reapplying.
See step-by-step guidance on How to Apply.
Account & Orders
No — you can check out as a guest. Creating an account simply helps you track orders, save addresses and speed up future checkouts.
Note: Your store account is separate from our newsletter and Priority Member list — each requires its own opt-in.
- Store account: for sign-in, order history and saved details. Not marketing by default.
- Newsletter: general updates, launches and offers. Opt-in via the footer form or at checkout.
- Priority Member: early previews, pre-orders and size/shape–relevant picks. Separate opt-in (e.g., on the Custom brief or Special Order confirmation). You can unsubscribe from any one without affecting the others.
Use the newsletter form in the site footer, or the subscribe block on our Custom page. For Priority Member, opt in on the Custom brief or ask us via Contact Us.
Possibly — if the parcel hasn’t been lodged with the carrier. Contact us immediately with your order number and the full corrected address. If the order has already shipped, we’ll advise options with the carrier (e.g., redirection or collection).
Yes. You’ll receive an order confirmation email right after checkout, and a tracking email once your parcel is dispatched. If you don’t see them, check spam/promotions or contact us to verify your email address.
We accept major cards and common express checkouts available at our Australian checkout. All prices are shown in AUD. Any applicable taxes and shipping are calculated at checkout.

