20 Fantastic DIY Christmas Nail Art Designs That Are Borderline Genius

‘Tis the season to drink and be merry, eat and be jolly, and Christmas-ify your home and yourself. Coordinating your outfit for your Christmas dinner (or lunch) to match the traditional red and green colors may seem a bit on the too much side – sure, it’s cute for kids, but adults? Not so much anymore. So instead of risking looking a little too costumey (unless you are actually wearing a costume), why not opt for themed nails? That way, when you’re complimented on your gorgeous nails, you’ll have the opportunity to shout “Nailed it!” (Oh yes, pun intended)

Jump to:

• 1. Red and Green Glitter
• 2. Candy Cane Tips
• 3. Frosty the Snowman
• 4. Rudolph
• 5. Simple Tree
• 6. Realistic Tree
• 7. Soft Snowflakes
• 8. Deck the Halls…
• 9. Winter Snowfall
• 10. Christmas Pudding
• 11. Santa’s Hat
• 12. Elegant Sparkle
• 13. Christmas Elf
• 14. Present me with a Gift
• 15. Festive Water Marbling
• 16. Abstract Tree
• 17. Alternating French Mani
• 18. Penguin Power
• 19. Festive Coffee & Christmas Cheer Nails
• 20. Mix ‘n Match

1. Red and Green Glitter

You don’t have to be too obvious with the red-and-green combo, so a few glitter flakes on a white or beige base could be the perfect touch. If you can’t find the two colors in one bottle, just get one of each and combine.

2. Candy Cane Tips

This one is a little different to the regular candy cane stripes across the entire nail and that’s exactly what I love so much about this; a little bit of creativity ingenuity.

3. Frosty the Snowman

This snowman is just too cute, and I love the snowed-under effect of the rest of the nails. If you don’t have a superfine brush to make your jolly snowman, simply use a toothpick or bobby pin.

4. Rudolph

Rudolph is always the star of the show! Whether you go full-on with a festive look or just add a cute reindeer accent, this design will definitely spread some holiday cheer on your nails.

5. Simple Tree

For those of you who prefer a minimalist approach with clean lines, have a go at these metallic trees. As long as you have some tape handy, you’ll be able to pull this off easily. Top Tip: Use cello tape instead of painters tape – the polish won’t bleed as much.

6. Realistic Tree

These trees are actually even easier to make since you don’t have to cut the tape triangles – just two thin stripes and you’re good to go! Then you can decorate your trees as you wish.

7. Soft Snowflakes

These snowflakes are perfect for a chilly Christmas, and you can use just about any base color; it doesn’t have to be a traditional color – these would even look great on black nails. Remember, if you don’t have a small tool, simply use the tip of a mechanical pencil.

8. Deck the Halls…

A little accent of holly on your French tips is the perfect small detail to get you looking as festive as you feel. You don’t always have to go all out; sometimes, less is more.

9. Winter Snowfall

With a simple combination of navy polish and silver glitter, you’ve got yourself the easiest snowfall nails!

10. Christmas Pudding

Straight out of medieval England, these Christmas pudding nails are absolutely delish! And they’re not really that tough to make, either.

11. Santa’s Hat

We’ve seen a number of Santa tutorials doing the rounds, but this floppy hat is a new one that I’m totally in love with.

12. Elegant Sparkle

This nude glitter is truly perfect for those of you who prefer a bit of subtle sophistication over the more whimsical approach. A touch of sparkle goes a long way.

13. Christmas Elf

I’ve seen a whole lot of Santas and Rudolphs, but it seems the elves who do all the hard work back at the North Pole are being forgotten! So here’s a toast to those tiny hard-workers!

14. Present me with a Gift

If you have a steady hand, you can actually freehand these little gifts, but if you’re more on the shaky side, just use a bit of tape to get those box shapes. But don’t fret too much over perfection.

15. Festive Water Marbling

Everyone knows about the awesome technique of water marbling by now, so put that into practice with your Christmas colors!

16. Abstract Tree

This one may take a bit more time than the previous trees, but it’s a bit more fun and funky. I’d suggest a white background, though, so that it stands out more.

17. Alternating French Mani

Apply the concept of a French manicure, but just use Christmas colors instead. And to make it just that little bit more interesting, make an alternating finger. Easy, right?

18. Penguin Power

These penguins are beyond charming; why wouldn’t anyone want them on their nails?!

19. Festive Coffee & Christmas Cheer Nails

Warm up your holiday spirit with these cozy coffee-inspired nails, paired with festive Christmas cheer! Perfect for those who love a little seasonal warmth—these nails bring together the best of winter vibes and holiday joy in one cute design.

20. Mix ‘n Match

I love a bit of mixing and matching, especially during this time of year. Sure, it may take a little more time, but with some good TV and a glass of wine, you’ve got all the time in the world.