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OK - granted, I might be crazy and will surely post a follow up if I lose a finger but...I've been shaping my nails lately with a dremel and I'm finally getting a nail shape I like (consistantly). This would probably only apply to those who shape them straight across at a slight angle. Prior to this I was using the 400 grit wrapped around the string method to get the basic line and then follow up with the file (always filing in the same direction - not sure why but does make a difference).
Anyway - Now I use the stone grinder attachment of the dremel at the lowest speed. I hold the dremel still with one hand and very carefully put the nail against the spinning stone (spinning in a direction so it comes up from the bottom of the nail). After I get the shape and length I want I follow up with the usual 800 grit silicon carbide paper for smoothing the egdes.
Just an idea from someone who has struggled with nail shape since I started playing.
RE: Shaping nails with dremel (in reply to edguerin)
I wanted to find a better way to shave.
It was taking so long and I had so much stubble that I decided to try out a scythe. So fast - a couple of swipes and I had baby smooth skin. It was such an improvement, until that one fateful day when it slipped and I cut my head off.
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The universe is indeed expanding - to get away from this planet.
RE: Shaping nails with dremel (in reply to hkrauss2)
Go easy on me - I'm sensitive.
I agree it sounds crazy. My main problem over the years is not nail strength, my nails are pretty strong (maybe that's why power tools are needed) but rather getting a truly straight line consistantly using a file. My dremel does have a very slow speed and the stone grinder is not much more abrasive than a diamond deb file (granted I think those are a little too abrasive). I actually have to apply some pressure to get it to file down the nail and there's no pain if it rubs against the pad of the finger.
I'll post a video of it when the tip of my finger grows back....uh I mean when I have time. You'll see it's not that crazy (still a little crazy though).
Now I'm going to talk with my therapist and maybe have a good cry.
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