Why Handmade Press-On Nails Are the Perfect Sweet Spot: Cheaper Than the Salon, Better Than Drugstore

Let’s be real for a sec—nails are one of the easiest ways to feel put together, but finding the perfect nail solution is no joke. For many of us, the choice is between an expensive salon visit, a pack of drugstore press-ons, or the *just right* middle ground: handmade press-on nails. If you’ve ever wondered why handmade nails are that sweet spot—cheaper than the salon, a little more than drugstore—here’s the breakdown.

1. The Quality of Materials

Drugstore nails are cheap for a reason—they’re mass-produced using low-cost materials and basic designs. This means thinner plastic, less durable finishes, and often a fit that’s *just* off enough to drive you crazy. Handmade nails, though? These are crafted with high-quality gel polish, premium adhesives, and thicker bases, so they look and feel like a salon set. This level of quality costs more to produce, but it's still more affordable than salon-grade gels or acrylics.

2. Custom, Personal Design

Handmade press-ons bring something you can’t find in a drugstore pack: individuality. Unlike mass-produced sets, handmade nails can be custom-designed to match your style, mood, or special event. Whether you want that minimal classy vibe, a set of abstract art nails, or seasonal designs, custom press-ons can make it happen. Plus, since each set is handmade, the artist spends more time crafting, designing, and curing each nail to perfection. It’s like paying for an art piece at a fraction of what you'd spend in the salon.

3. Affordable Reusability

When you buy a set of handmade press-ons, you’re actually investing in multiple uses. Salon nails are a one-time deal, and you’ll be back in two or three weeks for a refill. Handmade nails? They can be reused multiple times if you take good care of them. You’re essentially spreading that cost over several wearings, making each use cheaper and giving you the chance to change your nails up without the repeat cost of the salon.

4. Tailored Fit = No Wasted Nails

The last thing you want is to buy a pack of nails only to find half of them don’t even fit. Drugstore nails are made for the “average” fit, and that can mean a lot of disappointment when your nails are just a bit wider, narrower, shorter, or longer than average. Handmade nails from brands like Six Studios are sized just for you, giving you a tailor-made fit. This means you’re paying for nails that actually work with *your* hands, without the hassle of shaping, adjusting, or compromising.

5. A Salon-Quality Look Without the Price

When you get a custom set of press-ons, you’re getting the same professional look and artistry you’d see in a high-end salon, minus the price of the appointment, damaged nails, and the two hours spent in the chair. With handmade press-ons, you’re getting a luxurious, personalized look that lasts, all while saving on those high salon costs. You get the beauty and quality without breaking the bank—or your schedule.

6. Environmentally Friendly Option

Lastly, there’s the green factor. Drugstore nails tend to be single-use, which means they’re often discarded after one wear. Handmade press-ons, especially ones made to last and reuse, are a more eco-conscious option. They’re crafted with care, designed to be used again, and don’t contribute as heavily to throwaway culture.

So, Why Go Handmade?

If you’re looking for something that hits that “just right” balance, handmade press-ons are where it’s at. They’re affordable compared to salon visits, but they bring the quality and personality drugstore sets just can’t touch. At Six Studios, we’re all about giving you that luxe experience on your own terms. So, when you invest in handmade nails, you’re not just buying nails—you’re buying quality, time, and style. And isn’t that worth it?