Mastering the art of Hard Gel Extensions - Sculpt, Repair and Rebuild

Ideal for qualified nail technicians who want to confidently work with hard gel for stronger, longer-lasting nail enhancements.

Designed for nail technicians who are already working with builder gel but are starting to feel its limitations.

Builder gel is a great product, but it isn’t suitable for every client. As nails grow longer or clients become harder on their hands, a stronger, more durable system is often needed.

Hard gel is a completely different product with a different application technique. This course gives you the knowledge and practical skills to use it correctly, safely, and confidently.

This Course Is Designed For You If…

• You’re confident with builder gel but unsure when it’s no longer suitable

• You have clients whose nails are growing longer and need more strength

• You struggle with breakages or retention on “hard-wearing” clients

• You want to confidently offer extensions and structured overlays

• You’ve avoided hard gel because you’re unsure how it differs from builder gel

• You want to ensure you’re fully qualified and insured for the services you offer

Why This Course Matters

Hard gel and builder gel are often confused, but they are not the same.

Using the wrong product for the client can lead to:

• Breakages

• Poor retention

• Frustration for both you and your client

This course helps you understand when and why to use hard gel, so you can choose the right system for each client and deliver better, longer-lasting results.

It also ensures you are properly trained in the service you are offering, supporting safe practice and insurance requirements.

What You’ll Learn

• The key differences between hard gel and builder gel

• When to use hard gel instead of builder gel

• Correct preparation for hard gel application

• Sculpting extensions using forms

• Building strength, structure, and apex

• Repairing broken nails and rebuilding structure

• Refining shape and finish

• Safe infill and maintenance techniques

What You’ll Be Able To Do After Your Training

• Confidently work with hard gel as a separate system

• Know when to use builder gel vs hard gel

• Create strong, durable extensions and overlays

• Reduce breakages for clients who are hard on their hands

• Offer more suitable services based on client needs

• Work within your qualification and insurance requirements

What Makes This Training Different

• Structured teaching from a qualified educator with over 15 years of experience

• Delivered 1:1 or in very small groups for personalised support

• Focus on understanding product choice, not just application

• Real-time feedback to refine your technique

• Ongoing support after your course

What’s Included

• A comprehensive digital training manual for ongoing reference

• All professional products and tools provided

• Hands-on practical training

• Accredited certification upon completion and case studies

Important Information

• This course is suitable for qualified nail technicians

• A model is required for this course

• You will work on both yourself and your model during the training day

Working on a model is an essential part of the learning process. It allows you to experience what it feels like to carry out a full service on another person, helping you build confidence and prepare for working with clients.

You will also complete some work on your own hand, so you can understand how the service feels from a client’s perspective. This helps you develop a more considered, comfortable, and professional approach in your work.

• Case studies are required for certification

• This is a professional qualification in hard gel application

Duration: One day (9.30am - 3/ 3.30pm)

Location: Callander, Stirlingshire

Prerequisites: Manicure & Builder Gel qualifications.

Class size: Maximum 2

Kit: All tools and products for training will be provided for you to use on the day, you do not need to bring your own kit.

Recommended professional tools and products are available to purchase from the studio, you can order these here on the website and collect on the day of your course or also purchase on the day.

Model: You must bring a model with you on the day of your course, both YOURSELF AND YOUR MODEL need to attend with NO PRODUCT ON YOUR NAILS. You will not be able to complete the course if you arrive with product on your nails as part of the course requires you to work on your own nails.

Accreditation: ABT accredited course. On successful completion and receipt of certificate, an exclusive 10% discount off any of ABT individual membership and insurance packages will be available to you. You will also receive a training and reference manual, personalised feedback highlighting your strengths and areas for development and ongoing support from Paintbrush Nails.

Income Potential: Once qualified, this service offers an excellent income opportunity, with an average full set, hard gel extension treatment price of around £45–£60 per client.

This course is ideal if you want to expand your knowledge and offer hard gel as another option for clients, depending on their needs.

Select the course type you require from the drop-down menu. Choose between the full beginner course or a tailored refresher session for already qualified nail technicians looking to update or improve their skills.

• Beginner Course (Full Training)

• Refresher Course (For Qualified Technicians)

Refresher Option: Already qualified but feel out of practice? Select the Refresher Course option from the dropdown above for a personalised session focused on building confidence, improving technique, or addressing specific problem areas. Proof of prior qualification is required.

Courses run on selected dates, so availability can be limited. If you don’t see a date listed that suits, feel free to email me at paintbrushnails@outlook.com and I’ll do my best to arrange one that works for you.