How to Use Star Magnet Cat Eye Tool with Gel Polish
By Nail Art Brushes | Gel Nail Supplies | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to use the Star Magnet Cat Eye Tool to create stunning cat eye nail art with magnetic gel polish. Step-by-step guide with tips.
Quick Answer
Hold the Star Magnet Cat Eye Tool close to your gel polish while it's still wet, then cure to lock in the design. It's that simple—no special skills required.
Why the Star Magnet Tool Works
The Star Magnet Cat Eye Tool from Ballpit Nails has five sides, each creating a different magnetic effect. This means you can switch up your nail art without buying multiple magnets.
It's designed specifically for magnetic cat eye gel polishes, so it pulls the metallic particles into the signature cat eye stripe. The tool is compact and easy to handle, making it perfect for home use.
Choosing the Right Gel Polish
For the best results, use a magnetic gel polish like Clear Skies, a pastel royal blue from Ballpit Nails. Its creamy formula with extreme pigment responds well to magnets, and the anti-spread texture keeps the design crisp.
If you don't have a magnetic polish, the tool won't work—it only affects polishes with metallic particles. Check the label before you start.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep and Base Coat: Apply a base coat and cure it. Then apply a thin layer of magnetic gel polish and cure it. This ensures a smooth foundation for the magnetic effect. Don't skip the base coat—it prevents staining and helps the polish adhere.
- Apply the Magnetic Polish: Apply a second, slightly thicker layer of magnetic gel polish. Do not cure it yet. The magnet needs to work on wet polish to move the particles. If the polish is too thin, the magnetic effect will be weak. Make sure the layer is even and wet.
- Use the Star Magnet: Hold the Star Magnet Cat Eye Tool close to the nail (about 2-3 mm away) for 10-15 seconds. Move it slowly to create the cat eye stripe or other patterns. Keep it still while the particles align. Don't move the magnet in circles unless you want a swirl effect. For a classic cat eye, keep it straight and steady.
- Cure the Polish: Cure the gel polish under your UV/LED lamp for the recommended time. Do not move your hand while curing to avoid disturbing the magnetic effect. If you cure too soon, the design won't develop fully. Give the magnet enough time to work.
- Seal with Top Coat: Apply a top coat and cure it to seal the design and add shine. This also protects the magnetic particles from wearing off. A no-wipe top coat saves time, but any top coat works as long as you cure it properly.
Products That Help
- Star Magnet Cat Eye Tool: Five-sided cat eye magnet designed for magnetic cat eye nail products. Gives you multiple magnetic effects in one tool, so you can experiment with different looks without buying extra magnets.
Star Magnet Cat Eye Tool - Clear Skies - Gel Polish: Pastel royal blue gel polish with extreme pigment and anti-spread texture. The anti-spread texture helps keep the magnetic design in place, making it easier to achieve a sharp cat eye stripe.
Clear Skies - Gel Polish
