20 Nail Design Hacks To Turn You Into A Pro

School is back in session, but sitting in class isn't the only place you're likely doing some learning.

Every September, with fashion season sprung upon us, your manicured tips should look top notch.

Some of this year's looks are gorgeous, but you're going to need more than a file and some red polish if you want to make any of the looks found on the runway.

Luckily, we've compiled a step-by-step guide to prepping, polishing and perfecting your favorite nail trends. You know what we found? These looks are actually... easy!

We start with the basics, but by the end of this article, you won't believe the designs you'll be able to confidently create!

1. Get back to basics and buy everything from polish remover and clippers to cuticle pushers and foot files. Keep them stored, and keep them clean!

via JewelPie

2. Remove that old polish and start from scratch! You can whiten your nails the same way you whiten your teeth: whitening toothpaste! Just soak and scrub, scrub, scrub.

via Wacky Laki

3. Pick the shape that fits your lifestyle.

via DivineCaroline

4. Thought you just slathered on that nail polish? Think again! Here's how you really paint your nails. Now that you're prepped, you won't believe how easy it is to create number five, one of the most coveted nail designs.

via Lacquerized

5. Try this do-it-anywhere French manicure trick! All you need is a rubber band. Boom.

via Nail Nerd

6. Now you have a use for all that white nail polish! Don't spend your pay check on every pink and blue shade in existence.

via Creating Laura

7. Another ingenious method for a DIY French manicure? Use a Band-Aid!

via De Lune

8. Get this New York Fashion Week favorite and coat your fingers in tape to create the splatter paint look. Brilliant! But you'll be able to make even more catwalk-worthy trends with the trick in number nine!

via Pretty Gossip

9. Use tape. For. Everything.

via Birchbox

10. Make your own matte nail polish with cornstarch and clear nail polish.

via An Onion Exposed

11. Use a gel pen to add details to your nail designs.

via Nail Art Couture

12. The ombre look is way easier than you think. Just lightly mix your nail polish, dab with a sponge and place on top of your nail. Think that was easy? You just need a Band-Aid to make the adorable look in number 13.

via The Nailasaurus

13. A Band-Aid is the best accessory for creating these adorable polka dots!

via WonderfulDIY

14. Put old fishnet stockings to good use.

via Pose

15. Make your own at-home shellac with a coat of nail gel.

via Mint Arrow

16. Now you're sick of your gel nails? Well first of all, stop changing your mind so much. Second, you're in luck. Here's how to take them off at home.

via the Beauty Department

17. Better yet, peel off your nails easily by adding a base layer of glue!

via Wacky Laki

18. Now that you're a nail expert, this plaid design should be a piece of cake!

via StyleCaster | Nailed It

19. Stop trying so hard not to get nail polish on your skin. Just wipe it off with some vaseline! NBD

via Charisa Darling

20. Clean up your fierce new nails with some nail polish remover!

via Makeup and Beauty Blog

Main Image via Pretty Gossip

Collage images via 1. Birchbox 2. Creating Laura 3. An Onion Exposed