Nail art apparatus and related methods and kits

Abstract

Nail art apparatuses and related methods and kits are provided. The apparatus features a base with at least one peg extending upwards therefrom and a handle extending from the base. Each peg is configured to receive a respective nail tip thereon. In some embodiments, multiple pegs are arranged in staggered rows. In some embodiments, each peg is angled with respect to the base and may optionally be textured and / or rubberized. In some embodiments, the base comprises an upper plate with pegs detachably coupled to a lower plate from which the handle extends. The apparatus addresses issues related to the stability, accessibility, and ergonomics in nail set designing, improving efficiency and precision for nail artists and technicians.

Description

NAIL ART APPARATUS AND RELATED METHODS AND KITSCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present disclosure claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 690,303, filed September 3, 2024; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 693,701 , filed on September 11 , 2024; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 737,653, filed on December 21 , 2024; the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of nail art tools. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to nail art apparatuses for holding nail tips and related methods and kits.BACKGROUND

[0003] The field of nail art and gel nail products has seen significant growth, with an increasing demand for high-quality, professionally crafted press-on nails and intricate nail art designs. This growth presents a substantial commercial opportunity for innovative tools that enhance the efficiency and precision of nail technicians and enthusiasts.

[0004] Press-on nails, particularly those handmade by skilled artists using professional-grade materials, have become highly sought after. However, there are few specialized tools available to create these types of nail sets and hold the nails while the artist is working on them. Some artists re-purpose other products that are intended for other purposes, such as stands that were made to display finished artificial nail tips. However, these products are designed to be used as stationary displays and are optimized for aesthetic purposes, not for functionality to be used while the artist is working. As such, conventional display stands and holders have poor stability and accessibility, which limits the overall user experience.

[0005] Due to the limitations of current solutions, users sometimes modify existing products or make their own versions out of household products. However, these modified or “do-it-yourself” products can be inconsistent and still lack the functionality required to create high quality nail art.SUMMARY

[0006] In one aspect, there is provided an apparatus for holding one or more nail tips, comprising: a base having a forward edge and a rearward edge; a handle extending from the base, the handle configured to be gripped by a user to allow manipulation of the base; and one or more pegs extending upwardly from the base, wherein each of the one or more pegs is configured to removably support a respective nail tip of the one or more nail tips.

[0007] In some embodiments, the one or more pegs comprises two or more pegs, the two or more pegs being arranged in at least one row.

[0008] In some embodiments, the at least one row comprises a first row and a second row, and wherein the pegs of the first row are horizontally offset from the pegs of the second row.

[0009] In some embodiments, the pegs of the second row are taller than the pegs of the first row.

[0010] In some embodiments, the pegs of the first row are positioned along the forward edge of the base and the pegs of the second row is positioned along the rearward edge of the base.

[0011] In some embodiments, each peg of the one or more pegs has a top surface that is angled downwards towards the forward edge of the base.

[0012] In some embodiments, each peg of the one or more pegs has a textured and / or rubberized surface.

[0013] In some embodiments, the handle extends from the forward edge or the rearward edge of the base.

[0014] In some embodiments, the handle comprises a flat portion proximate the base and an angled portion extending therefrom, the angled portion being angled upwards relative to the base.

[0015] In some embodiments, the base comprises an upper plate and a lower plate, and wherein the one or more pegs extend upwardly from the upper plate and the handle extends from the lower plate.

[0016] In some embodiments, the upper plate and the lower plate each comprise one or more complementary alignment features to detachably secure the upper plate to the lower plate.

[0017] In some embodiments, the one or more complementary alignment features are magnetic features.

[0018] In some embodiments, the one or more complementary alignment features are mechanical features.

[0019] In some embodiments, the one or more pegs are detachable from the base.

[0020] In some embodiments, the one or more pegs are integral with the base or permanently coupled thereto.

[0021] In some embodiments, the handle is detachable from the base.

[0022] In some embodiments, the handle is integral with the base or permanently coupled thereto.

[0023] In another aspect, there is provided a method comprising: providing any embodiment of the apparatus disclosed herein; positioning a respective nail tipof the one or more nail tips on a respective peg of the one or more pegs; and applying nail art to each respective nail tip of the one or more nail tips.

[0024] In some embodiments, wherein the method further comprises using the handle to manipulate the base of the apparatus.

[0025] In another aspect, there is provided a kit for nail art comprising: any embodiment of the apparatus disclosed herein; and at least one additional component selected from: instructions for use; one or more sets of unfinished nail tips; one or more nail polishes, gels, or varnishes; and one or more nail art decorations.

[0026] Other aspects and features of the present disclosure will become apparent, to those ordinarily skilled in the art, upon review of the following description of specific embodiments of the disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Some aspects of the disclosure will now be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0028] Figure 1 is a top view of an example nail art apparatus, according to some embodiments;

[0029] Figure 2 is a top view of the apparatus of Figure 1 , showing nail tips attached temporarily;

[0030] Figure 3 is a side view of the apparatus in Figure 1 , shown on a flat surface;

[0031] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 ;

[0032] Figure 5 is a top view of the apparatus of Figure 1 with optional rubberized and textured surfaces;

[0033] Figure 6 is a top view of another example nail art apparatus, according to some embodiments;

[0034] Figure 7 is a top view of the apparatus of Figure 6, shown partially assembled;

[0035] Figure 8 is a top view of a lower plate of a base of the apparatus of Figure 6;

[0036] Figure 9A is a top view of an upper plate of the base of the apparatus of Figure 6;

[0037] Figure 9B is a bottom view of the upper plate of Figure 9A; and

[0038] Figure 10 is a top view of another example nail art apparatus, according to some embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Generally, the present disclosure provides a nail art apparatus for holding nail tips. Also provided are related methods and kits.

[0040] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms of “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0041] As used herein, the terms “top” and “bottom”, “upper” and “lower”, “upward” and “downward”, “forward”, “rearward” and the like refer to the typical orientation of the disclosed apparatus during normal operation; however, a person skilled in the art will recognize that these are relative terms that are used for ease of description only and do not limit the orientation of the apparatuses described herein.

[0042] The apparatuses disclosed herein can be used to hold nail tips during the application of nail art as well as other nail work such as filing and shaping of nail tips. As used herein, “nail”, “nail tip”, “press-on nail” and the like are used interchangeably to refer to any type of artificial nail that can be applied over and / orextend from a natural fingernail. The term “nail art” as used herein refers to the application of nail polish, gels, varnish and the like as well as any other decorative elements that can be applied to a nail tip including, but not limited to, glitter, gems, charms, rhinestones, stickers, studs, beads, and more. The apparatuses disclosed herein can also be used to move the nail tips in and out of ultraviolet (UV) and light emitting diode (LED) nail lamps or any other suitable device to cure the applied nail art products if needed.

[0043] An example nail art apparatus (10) will be discussed with reference to Figures 1 to 5. The apparatus (10) comprises a base (11 ) with a forward edge (12) and a rearward edge (14). Extending outwardly from the rearward edge (14) is a handle (16), configured to be gripped by a user to allow manipulation of the base (11 ). The handle (16) may be integral with the base (11 ) or may be coupled thereto by any suitable means. In the latter embodiments, the handle (16) may be detachably or permanently coupled to the base (11).

[0044] As can be seen in Figures 3 and 4, at least a portion of the handle (16) may be raised (i.e. angled upwards) with respect to the base (11 ). In this embodiment, the handle (16) comprises a flat portion (17) proximate the base (11 ) and an angled portion (19) extending therefrom, the angled portion (19) being angled upwards relative to the base (11 ). The flat portion (17) helps the base (11 ) to stay flat on a surface without tipping, while the angled portion (19) can be gripped by the user to move or manipulate the apparatus (10), for example, to move the base (11 ) under a UV or LED nail lamp.

[0045] The apparatus (10) further comprises one or more projections or “pegs” (18) extending upwards from the base (11 ). Note that not all pegs (18) are labeled in Figures 1-5 for simplicity. Each peg (18) is configured to support a respective nail tip (24) thereon (visible in Figure 2) in a removable manner such that the nail tip (24) can be supported by the peg (18) while the user is working on it and then removed when the nail tip (24) is finished and ready to be applied. In this embodiment, each peg (18) has an approximately oval cross-section such that it issimilar in shape to a nail tip (24). However, other embodiments are also contemplated including pegs (18) with elliptical or rectangular cross-sections or any other suitable shape.

[0046] As shown in Figure 3, each peg (18) has a respective top surface (21 ), which may be approximately flat or slightly concave. As can be seen in Figure 3, in some embodiments, the top surface (21 ) may be angled downwards towards the forward edge (12) of the base (11 ). In some embodiments, the pegs (18) are angled such that angle a in Figure 3 between the top surface (21 ) and the horizontal plane is between about 0 and about 20 degrees, between about 2 degrees and about 10 degrees, or more particularly between about 5 and about 8 degrees. In other embodiments, angle a may be any other suitable angle. This angle tilts the nail tips (24) supported by the peg(s) (18) towards the user to provide greater visibility of the surface of the nail tip (24) as the user is working. In addition, the angled pegs (18) help prevent the flow of nail products towards the back of the nail tip (24) and help reduce strain on the artist’s wrist during use.

[0047] In some embodiments, the peg(s) (18) are integral with the base (11 ). In other embodiments, the peg(s) (18) may be coupled to the base (11 ) by any suitable means. In the latter embodiments, the peg(s) (18) may be detachably or permanently coupled to the base (11 ). In some specific embodiments, the peg(s) (18) can be mechanically or magnetically attached to the base (11 ) in a manner that allows them to be detached and replaced.

[0048] In this embodiment, a set of ten pegs (18) are arranged in two rows on the base (11 ). The forward row (20) is located along or near the forward edge (12), while the rearward row (22) is positioned along or near the rearward edge (14). The pegs (18) of the forward row (20) are horizontally offset from the pegs (18) of the rearward row (22), thereby providing a staggered arrangement. This staggered arrangement of the pegs (18) ensures that the nail tips (24) do not interfere with one another, allowing for efficient and precise work. In this embodiment, the forward row (20) has six pegs (18), while the rearward row (22) has four pegs (18). Thisarrangement leaves room for the handle (16) on the rearward edge (14), while keeping the apparatus (10) compact. However, other variations are possible and the number of rows and pegs (18) per row can be varied as well as the spacing between the pegs (18).

[0049] In some embodiments, the pegs (18) in the rearward row (22) are taller than those in the forward row (20), facilitating streamlined access to each nail tip (24) during the application process. For example, the pegs (18) in the forward row (20) may be between about 0.2 inches and about 0.8inches, or more particularly between about 0.4 and about 0.6 inches in height. The pegs (18) in the rearward row (22) may be between about 0.4 and about 1.0 inches, or more particularly between about 0.6 and about 0.8 inches in height. As one non-limiting example, the forward pegs (18) may be about 0.48 inches and the rearward pegs (18) may be about 0.75 inches. The ratio of the height of the forward pegs (18) to the rearward pegs (18) may be between about 1 :1 to about 1 :2, or approximately 1 :1.5 in some embodiments. The height of the pegs (18) may be selected to facilitate visibility to the user while also being at a suitable height for the curing of nail products under a UV or LED nail lamp. In other embodiments, if curing with a UV or LED nail lamp is not required, the forward and rearward pegs (18) can be up to several inches in height.

[0050] The base (11 ), the pegs (18), and the handle (16) may be constructed from one or more rigid or semi-rigid materials. The material may be opaque, clear, or translucent and may be acetone-resistant or non-acetone-resistant. The material may be ultraviolet (UV) resistant or non-UV resistant. In some embodiments, the material may be a plastic. As one non-limiting example, the material may be a thermoplastic polyamide (nylon) such as Grilamid™ TR 90UV. In other embodiments, the base (11 ), the pegs (18), and the handle (16) may be constructed from any other suitable material and embodiments are not limited by the specific materials discussed herein. In embodiments in which the base (11 ), the pegs (18), and the handle (16) are all integral with one another, they are made of the samematerial. In embodiments in which one or more of the base (11 ), the pegs (18), and the handle (16) are separate components, they can be made of the same or different materials.

[0051] Optionally, at least a portion of the apparatus (10) may have a rubberized and / or textured surface. As used herein, “rubberized” refers to a surface being coated or otherwise treated with rubber. The term “rubber” is used interchangeably with “elastomer” and refers to any elastomeric polymer or copolymer as well as composite materials such as rubber-plastic composites. As used herein, “textured” is inclusive of any rough, raised, grooved, and / or patterned surface.

[0052] Figure 5 shows an embodiment of the apparatus (10) with the handle (16) and pegs (18) having both rubberized and textured surfaces. In this embodiment, a thin strip (25) of rubber is coupled to the top of the handle (16). The strip (25) may be any suitable size and shape to extend along at least a portion of the handle (16). In some embodiments, a similar rubber strip (not shown) is adhered to the bottom surface of the handle (16) as well. The strip (25) may be adhered to the handle (16) by a suitable adhesive or otherwise coupled to the handle (16) by any other suitable means. In alternative embodiments, the entire handle (16) may be wrapped in a rubber material.

[0053] In some embodiments, a portion of the rubber strip (25) is also textured with a plurality of small raised projections (26) formed in the rubber. The projections (26) may be any suitable shape and size. In this embodiment, the projections (26) are small round nodes; however, alternative embodiments are also contemplated such one or more teeth, ridges, spikes, etc. The projections (26) can cover all or just a portion of the strip (25).

[0054] In the embodiment in Figure 5, each of the pegs (18) has a rubber layer or cap (27) on its top surface (21 ). Note that not all of the caps (27) are labeled in Figure 5 for simplicity. Each cap (27) may be approximately the samesize and shape as the top surface (21 ) of the peg (18). Alternatively, the cap (27) may be slightly smaller than the top surface (21 ) (e.g. to just cover the center of the top surface (21 )) or may be slightly larger (e.g. to wrap around the sides of the pegs (18) to some extent). Each cap (27) may be the same rubber material as the strip (25) or a different material. The caps (27) may be adhered to the top surface (21 ) of the peg (18) by a suitable adhesive or otherwise coupled to the peg (18) by any other suitable means. In this embodiment, the caps (27) are also textured with the same or similar projections (26) as the rubber strip (25) on the handle (16). In other embodiments, the caps (27) may have any other suitable texture.

[0055] In alternative embodiments, the handle (16) and / or pegs (18) may be rubberized without being textured or may be textured without being rubberized. For example, at least a portion of the surface of the handle (16) and / or pegs (18) may be roughened or projections could be formed in the material of the apparatus (10) itself without the addition of a rubber material.

[0056] Rubberizing and / or texturing the handle (16) helps the user to maintain a strong grip on the apparatus (10). The rubberized and textured pegs (18) help to secure the nail tips (24) and avoid slipping or shifting of the nail tips (24) while the user is working on them.

[0057] Another example apparatus (30) will be discussed with reference to Figures 6 to 9B.

[0058] The apparatus (30) is a “two-piece” apparatus compared to the “one- piece” apparatus of Figures 1 -5. The apparatus (30) comprises a detachable upper plate (31 ) and a lower plate (34), that together form a base (35) similar to that of the apparatus (10). A handle (36) extends from the lower plate (34) in this embodiment. Figure 6 shows the upper plate (31 ) and the lower plate (34) fully assembled into the base (35) and Figure 7 shows the upper plate (31 ) partially detached from the lower plate (34). As discussed in more detail below, the detachable upper plate (31 ) may be magnetically and / or mechanically attachable to the lower plate (34),providing flexibility for the user to work on multiple sets of nail tips simultaneously and to save space and create less waste in construction materials.

[0059] Figure 8 is a top view of the lower plate (34). The lower plate (34) has a forward edge (37) and a rearward edge (38) as well as an upper surface (39) and a lower surface (not shown). In this embodiment, the handle (36) extends from the rearward edge (38). The handle (36) may be integral with the lower plate (34) or may be detachably or permanently coupled to the lower plate (34). The handle (36) may have any of the features of the handle (16) of the apparatus (10) discussed above.

[0060] Figures 9A and 9B are top and bottom views of the upper plate (31 ), respectively. The upper plate (31 ) has a forward edge (49) and a rearward edge (52) as well as an upper surface (51 ) (visible in Figure 9A) and a lower surface (53) (visible in Figure 9B). The upper plate (31 ) includes a small forward protruding portion (46) located at the approximate center of the forward edge (48) to assist in the easy removal of the upper plate (31 ) from the lower plate (34) when needed. The upper plate (31 ) may also include a small rearward protruding portion (47) located at the approximate center of the rearward edge (52). The rearward protruding portion (47) can be used by the user to grasp the upper plate (31 ) when nail tips are attached thereto, without interfering with the nail tips. Additionally, as shown in Figure 9B, the upper plate (31 ) may comprise ledges (50) along the rearward edge (52), on both sides of the rearward protruding portion (47), which help secure it in place during use.

[0061] The upper plate (31 ) comprises at least one peg (32). Note that not all of the pegs (32) are labeled in Figures 6-9B for simplicity. In this embodiment, a set of ten pegs (32) are arranged on the detachable upper plate (31 ) in a similar staggered configuration as in the apparatus (10), with a rearward row (42) of pegs being taller than a forward row (44) to facilitate access to the nail tips. The pegs (32) may have any of the features of the pegs (18) discussed above with respect to the apparatus (10). The pegs (32) can be integral with the upper plate (31 ) ordetachably or permanently coupled thereto. In some specific embodiments, the pegs (32) can be mechanically or magnetically attached to the base upper plate (31 ) in a manner that allows them to be detached and replaced.

[0062] The lower plate (34) further comprises one or more alignment features (40) on its upper surface (39) (shown in Figure 8) that align with one or more complementary alignment features (54) on the lower surface (53) of the upper plate (31 ) (shown in Figure 9B) for secure attachment of the detachable upper plate (31 ). In this embodiment, the alignment features (40) and (54) are magnetic features that magnetically attach to one another. More specifically, the alignment features (40) comprise permanent magnets (43) and the alignment features (54) comprise metallic areas (55) that are attracted to the magnets (43). For example, the metallic areas (55) may comprise ferromagnetic metals such as iron, cobalt, or nickel or may comprise any metal alloy containing a sufficient amount of a ferromagnetic metal to exhibit an attraction to magnets. Alternatively, the alignment features (54) could be permanent magnets having opposite polarity to the magnets (43) of the alignment features (40).

[0063] The magnets (43) may be embedded within suitably sized recesses in the lower plate (34) to be approximately flush with the upper surface (39). Similarly, the metallic areas (55) may be embedded within suitably sized recesses in the upper plate (31 ) to be approximately flush with the lower surface (53). Thus, the lower plate (34) and the upper plate (31 ) can securely contact one another without interference from the magnets (43) or metallic areas (55). The metallic areas (55) may be slightly larger than the magnets (43) to help the user make contact between the metallic areas (55) and the magnets (43) when the user is lining up the upper plate (31 ) up with the lower plate (34).

[0064] In this embodiment, two magnets (43) are provided on opposite sides of the lower plate (34), proximate the rearward edge (38) with the metallic areas (55) being at complementary positions on the upper plate (31 ). This positioning allows for secure attachment of the upper plate (31 ) to the lower plate (34) whilealso enabling easy detachment of the upper plate (31 ) when the user grasps the protruding portion (46) along the forward edge (49) of the upper plate (31 ). However, other variations are also possible and embodiments are not limited to the specific number, shape, size, or position of the magnets (43) and metallic areas (55) disclosed herein or shown in the Figures.

[0065] In other embodiments, the alignment features (40) and (54) may be mechanical features that mechanically engage or interlock with one another. As one non-limiting example, the alignment feature (40) could be one or more raised projections and the alignment feature (54) could be one or more complementary grooves that receive the projection(s) therein.

[0066] Figure 10 is a top view of another example apparatus (60). The apparatus (60) is a simplified version of the apparatus (10) designed specifically for working on fewer nail tips. For example, the apparatus (60) may be used for practicing art techniques or creating "highlight" nail tips that are popular additions to press-on nail sets. The apparatus (60) comprises a base (62) and one or more pegs (64) extending upwards therefrom. Extending from the base (62) is a handle (66). As with the previous embodiments, the pegs (64) and handle (66) may each be integral with the base (62) or detachably or permanently coupled thereto. In some specific embodiments, the pegs (64) can be mechanically or magnetically attached to the base (62) in a manner that allows them to be detached and replaced.

[0067] The pegs (64) are similar in construction to the pegs (18) and (32) of the apparatuses (10) and (30) and are at a slight angle to allow the nail tips to be angled towards the artist for the application of nail products. This embodiment of the apparatus (60) is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to maneuver and ideal for quick, focused work on individual nail tips.

[0068] Other variations of the apparatus are possible. For example, although a specific number, spacing, and arrangement of pegs is shown in the Figures, it will be understood that all of those features can be varied and embodiments are notlimited to the number, spacing, and arrangement of pegs as disclosed herein. In addition, the features discussed above with respect to one embodiment can be combined with features of any of the other embodiments. A person skilled in the art will also understand that any specific dimensions or measurements disclosed herein are for example purposes only and do not limit the possible dimensions of the apparatus. It is also noted that the figures are provided for illustrative purposes and may not be precisely to scale.

[0069] Embodiments of the apparatus disclosed herein have a number of advantages over existing nail art tools. The ergonomic design, including the staggered peg arrangement in some embodiments enhances the user experience by reducing strain and improving access to each nail tip during the application process. The staggered pegs also prevent interference between nail tips and enhance efficiency and precision during nail art application and curing. In addition, in some embodiments, the rearward pegs are raised higher than the forward pegs, allowing easier access to all nail tips without obstruction. This design not only improves the workflow but also ensures that the artist can visualize the entire nail set while working, which aids in achieving cohesive and intricate designs. The height of the pegs is selected to ensure successful curing of the nail products, addressing another important aspect of nail art.

[0070] In some embodiments, the pegs are slightly slanted, which assists in viewing the nail tips to be angled towards the artist during the design process, reducing strain on the artist's wrist. The combination of these features ensures that the apparatus is both functional and user-friendly, significantly enhancing the process of creating press-on nail sets and practicing nail art.

[0071] The handle of the device is also ergonomically designed and may be raised to facilitate easy handling, particularly when placing the apparatus in and out of the curing lamp. This feature also minimizes the exposure of the user’s fingers to UV or LED light, addressing a common safety concern.

[0072] The apparatus is designed to be lightweight and easy to handle, making it an ideal tool for nail technicians and enthusiasts. Its compact design ensures that it fits within standard nail lamps, allowing for seamless integration with existing equipment. The apparatus can hold one or more artificial nail tips, enabling the user to work on a full set simultaneously. This capacity enhances efficiency, saving time by allowing all nail tips to be worked on together.

[0073] In addition, different embodiments of the apparatus also have some unique advantages. The ability to detach the peg plate in the two-piece apparatus(30) provides additional flexibility, allowing for the simultaneous preparation of multiple nail sets or easy storage when not in use. The smaller one-piece apparatus (60) is particularly suitable for specific use cases, such as practicing intricate designs on a limited number of nail tips, making it a versatile tool for both professionals and enthusiasts.

[0074] Also provided herein are methods of using the disclosed apparatuses to apply nail art to one or more nail tips. To use any embodiment of the apparatuses described herein, the user may position a respective nail tip on each of the pegs. The user may the apply nail art to the nail tips as desired. As the user is working, they may grip the handle with one hand to hold the apparatus steady as well as to manipulate the apparatus’s position as they work on different nail tips. Once the nail tips are complete, the user can use the handle to move the base of the apparatus under a UV or LED nail lamp if needed and then remove the apparatus once the curing process is complete. The user can then detach the finished nail tips when they are ready to be used or packaged for sale. For the two-piece apparatus (30), the user also has the option of detaching the upper plate (31 ) with the nail tips still attached, for example, to allow the polish on the nail tips to dry. A new upper plate(31 ) can then be attached to the lower plate (34) to start work on a new set of nail tips. In embodiments in which the pegs are detachable, some of the pegs can be removed as the nail tips thereon are completed and new pegs attached to the base to start work on new nail tips.

[0075] Also provided herein are methods for making embodiments of the disclosed apparatus. The apparatus, or any part thereof, may be made by three- dimensional (3D) printing, injection molding, or any other suitable process. In some embodiments, the method comprises making the entire apparatus as a single integral unit. In other embodiments, the method may comprise making a base, making a handle, and coupling the handle to the base. To make the two-piece apparatus (30), the method may comprise making a lower plate with alignment features and making an upper plate with complementary alignment features. The handle may be formed integrally with the lower plate or may be made separately and coupled thereto. In some alternative embodiments, each of the pegs of the apparatus may be made separately from the base and complementary magnetic or mechanical features can be included in the pegs and base to allow them to be assembled in a detachable manner.

[0076] Across all embodiments, the apparatus may be constructed from a rigid or semi-rigid material, or any other suitable material. Furthermore, the apparatus may be made from an opaque, clear, or translucent material. The apparatus may be made from acetone non-resistant material or acetone resistant material.

[0077] Also provided are kits comprising the apparatuses described herein and at least one other component. In some embodiments, the kit comprises the apparatus and instructions for use. In some embodiments, the kit further comprises one or more sets of unfinished nail tips and / or one or more nail polishes, gels, varnishes, etc. In embodiments in which the kit comprises the two-piece apparatus (30), the kit may comprise the lower plate (34) and two or more upper plates (31 ). In embodiments in which the pegs are detachable from the base, the kit may include a set of ten pegs and, optionally, one or more additional replacement pegs in case a peg is lost or damaged. In some embodiments, the kit can also include one or more nail art decorations such as glitter, gems, charms, rhinestones, stickers, studs, beads, and more.

[0078] Although a few embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made to these embodiments by those skilled in the art without changing or departing from their scope, intent or functionality. The terms and expressions used in the preceding specification have been used herein as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof.

[0079] In interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. The term “comprises” and "comprising" should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps not expressly referenced.

Claims

CLAIMS:1 . An apparatus for holding one or more nail tips, comprising: a base having a forward edge and a rearward edge; a handle extending from the base, the handle configured to be gripped by a user to allow manipulation of the base; and one or more pegs extending upwardly from the base, wherein each of the one or more pegs is configured to removably support a respective nail tip of the one or more nail tips.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the one or more pegs comprises two or more pegs, the two or more pegs being arranged in at least one row.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the at least one row comprises a first row and a second row, and wherein the pegs of the first row are horizontally offset from the pegs of the second row.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the pegs of the second row are taller than the pegs of the first row.

5. The apparatus of claim 3 or 4, wherein the pegs of the first row are positioned along the forward edge of the base and the pegs of the second row is positioned along the rearward edge of the base.

6. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each peg of the one or more pegs has a top surface that is angled downwards towards the forward edge of the base.

7. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein each peg of the one or more pegs has a textured and / or rubberized surface.

8. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the handle extends from the forward edge or the rearward edge of the base.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the handle comprises a flat portion proximate the base and an angled portion extending therefrom, the angled portion being angled upwards relative to the base.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the base comprises an upper plate and a lower plate, and wherein the one or more pegs extend upwardly from the upper plate and the handle extends from the lower plate.11 . The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the upper plate and the lower plate each comprise one or more complementary alignment features to detachably secure the upper plate to the lower plate.

12. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the one or more complementary alignment features are magnetic features.

13. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the one or more complementary alignment features are mechanical features.

14. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the one or more pegs are detachable from the base.

15. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the one or more pegs are integral with the base or permanently coupled thereto.

16. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the handle is detachable from the base.

17. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the handle is integral with the base or permanently coupled thereto.

18. A method comprising:providing the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 17; positioning a respective nail tip of the one or more nail tips on a respective peg of the one or more pegs; and applying nail art to each respective nail tip of the one or more nail tips.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising using the handle to manipulate the position of the apparatus.

20. A kit for nail art comprising: the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 17; and at least one additional component selected from: instructions for use; one or more sets of unfinished nail tips; one or more nail polishes, gels, or varnishes; and one or more nail art decorations.

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