BEHIND THE GRAM

Get to know social media nail stars as they offer an insight into their lives & share content creation tips

Mutsa Munyawiri – Chesterfield, Derbyshire, UK @memnails 41.2K followers

My nail journey

During the first lockdown, I followed online tutorials and took part in workshops, so I could develop the skills needed to create bespoke nail designs. I was also keen to learn about nail health and try different nail systems, so obtained a gel nail qualification. After working on clients for just over a year, I realised that I prefer crafting designs on my own nails and creating content for social media.

A day in my life

I wake up, do physio for an hour and eat breakfast. I’ll find nail inspiration on apps like Pinterest and work on other projects until lunchtime, when I’ll sketch and write down ideas. If I don’t have personal responsibilities to attend to, I’ll start working on a nail design or record content for Patreon: a membership platform that content creators can use to monetise their work. I end my day by browsing nail art posts to inspire my own designs.

What makes me happy

I enjoy crafts and going for walks with my mum. My work tends to keep me indoors, so it’s nice to take breaks outside to enjoy nature.

Career highlights

I’m proud of everything I achieved in 2024. It was one of my most challenging years personally, but I was able to create a successful cat eye workshop and series, have my work displayed at The Nail Art Exhibition: part of the Art Basel fair in Miami, and pay homage to some of my favourite fashion moments.

My favourite design

I created a look inspired by Italian design house, Schiaparelli, in collaboration with Canadian nail artist & finalist in the North America’s Star Nail Artist contest, Jennie Shaw (@jennieshaw).It had been on my to-do list for a long time, but I had put it off because 3D nail art isn’t my forte. Jennie offered to create the 3D teeth, and the design came together perfectly. What’s more, I made an amazing friend during the process!

My inspirations

Fashion, sculpted art and music: the latter of which I haven’t tapped into as much. I’m hoping to change that this year.

Social media tips

Engagement hasn’t ever been consistent for me, but followers from the start of my nail journey still support me, which means a lot.

My top tips are:

1. Create and share content that you enjoy. You have autonomy over your profile.

2. Don’t be afraid to inject some of your personality into your content.

3. Log off, if you need to. Sometimes it’s necessary when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Cat eye advice

Practice and have patience. It took me two years to become confident with cat eye nail finishes, but every hour I practiced was worthwhile. Not all magnets are created equally, so pay attention to those used in the cat eye looks you like, and practice using these.

My work on display at The Nail Art Exhibition.

Signature style

The simplest way to describe it is ‘editorial style’, but I also like to create a range of looks and provide something for everyone.