Medieval Nails

I may have mentioned (once or twice!) that I am a bit of a history geek; in fact, I work at an historic house and intern at another! My favourite period is the Regency, but I also have a huge soft spot for the medieval era. A couple of weeks ago I decided to go to a medieval fair that was happening nearby, and knew I had to paint my nails especially for it.

I ummed and ahhed about it, and eventually decided use medieval banner designs as inspiration. Every noble family had their own individual design as a means of identification (particularly in battle). Their range of pigments and dyes was much smaller then, so I used bold, primary colours for the designs.

I used so many colours that it seems silly to list them all, so if you want to know any, please ask. I stamped using a two Bundle Monster plates on my thumb and ring finger; my index was done with a striping brush; the middle finger used a striping brush and a dotting tool; and finally my pinkie used scotch tape. I made the designs up except for the one on my middle finger, which actually comes off a fireback at work!

What do you think of my medieval-inspired nails? Are you a history geek too?!