Gabby's Hobbies offers unique, fandom-inspired press-on nails

MISSION, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A local business owner took a special way of art you can wear on your fingernails, to express your personality and give the final touches to your everyday outfits.

Gabby, owner of Gabby's Hobbies, hand-paints sets of nails that suit her clients' fandom needs.

Gabby began her journey in hand-painting nail sets as a hobby by watching YouTube videos when she was 10 years old.

During the pandemic, in June 2021, she told ValleyCentral that her friends and family encouraged her to start a business in selling press-on nail sets.

"During lockdown, I was on my phone a lot, and I saw a lot of small businesses doing really well, so lockdown gave us a lot of exposure," she said. "My friends and family were always telling me that I should sell my nails, and that gave me the inspiration and motivation to do it."

She said creating press-on nail kits is a lengthy process that takes up to five hours to create, but the result is always worth it.

Additionally, creating custom press-on nails is a great alternative for those who may have a gel or acrylic nail allergy but still want to have a cute manicure.

"Because you don't have to be touching the gel, and it's already cured, you don't have to be using UV gel. It's just air-dry glue; it is safer and healthier for your nails," Gabby said.

Gabby has a variety that fits anyone's style, from K-Pop fandoms to Comic-Book girlies, even popstar icons such as Olivia Rodrigo and Taylor Swift-inspired nail designs. There is something for everyone.

Out of all the designs she has created, she says her favorite is the pastel Minecraft design.

For those who are learning the tips and tricks to make their press-on nails last as long as salon-quality, Gabby has some advice.

She said it takes a bit of practice, but advises to prep your hands by buffing your nails and dehydrating them with alcohol, followed by a "nice layer" of nail glue on the nail and pressing it on gently.

Press the nail for approximately 20 seconds, then continue the process again. She advises that the best time to apply your nails is before you go to bed. Additionally, she says that you should not get your nails wet for at least two hours after applying them.

For updates on Gabby's next press-on nail collection or pop-up shop, visit her Instagram page @gabbys.hobbies2 or her Etsy shop.