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27 Perfect Examples of Bookish Nail Art for Inspiration

Abby Hargreaves

Staff Writer

Abby Hargreaves is a New Hampshire native living and working as a Children’s Librarian in Washington, D.C. She fulfills the gamut of the librarian stereotype with a love of cats, coffee, and crocheting (and likes a good run of alliteration). Her MLIS degree enjoys the company of a BA in English from Hollins University, making Abby an advocate of women's universities. Her favorite color is yellow.

The best advice I’ve ever gotten is to always have a book on you. Take that advice literally with these amazing bookish nail art designs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a total noob, there is bookish nail art is achievable for everyone. Do something simple, subtle, and inspired by, or do a copy-paste of the book cover to your fingertips (if only it were so simple!). While more intricate designs take patience and sometimes a little creativity with tools (toothpicks, anyone?), there’s no shame in going with nails that match the color of your favorite covers if you’re not up for eye-straining work. No matter what you try, just make sure to take a picture and share it with us in the comments!

Remember, these are just ideas to get you started. Grab your favorite cover and get to work designing your own bookish nail art for the world to see. Bookish nail art makes for a great conversation starter, so wear it to your next book club, the bookstore, or the library. Whether you’re showing off your house colors or giving a nod to your favorite publisher, there’s plenty to be said about cool cuticles. Having trouble getting it done on your own? Ask a friend to help out and do each other’s. Or, treat yourself to a manicure to get that perfectly fresh look.

Here are a few ideas to get you started.

 

27 Examples of Bookish Nail Art

Maybe you’d like some generic bookish nail art.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxN7Ui3BRPI/

Or you’re looking to pay homage to your favorite horror.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxC0BXtnE2n/

It’s always fun to incorporate actual books into your bookish nail art.

Be cute, elegant, and ready to (tea) party with this adorable design.

I am not okay because TFIOS!

Try this—you only know if you know; anyone else will love this gorgeous peacock design.

Sometimes, subtle is best.

You might like to go more inspired by.

Get to your inner kid with some classic Shel Silverstein.

Not up for painting? Try a wrap.

Don’t forget to accessorize with matching rings.

I don’t care what anyone says, Mary Shelley would be flattered.

Cute and romantic is the way to go!

The classic Penguin design is the design to beat.

Did you know you can recreate an entire cover on your nails?

Nails are such a great way to celebrate new books!

Harry. Potter.

I think the word you’re looking for is “wow.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ba3LFzSH3WY/

Could you ask for a more perfect palette?

Ideal for anyone, really.

Austin Public Library nailed it.

Talk about a conversation starter.

House pride is important.

Um, whoa.

Shadowhunter nails!

Ready for a pep rally?

https://www.instagram.com/p/_7w0bbmFor/

Who else is ready for Morgenstern’s next novel?

https://www.instagram.com/p/_fEQXYvWep/

 

Need a little help to get started? Check out these bookish nail art tutorials for some guidance.