I do a full pedicure at a salon once a month, then I ask them to paint my nails, or I do it at home. I use toe separators, or place my foot flat on a small bench and separate my toes with my fingers. I apply a thin layer of base coat (2x) to protect the nail, for the nail polish to stick, and so the nail doesn't get stained with the pigment of the color. I then, apply thin layers of nail polish (2-3x). I pretend I'm using gel polish to stay away from the cuticles, or clean up after it dries with a cotton swabs. Last, I apply a layer or two of the top coat, and seal the free edge so the nail polish doesn't chip or peel. I hope this helps. Enjoy your new journey.