Comparing Arteza Mica Powders and Perfect Pearls...BONUS Jazz Up Your Manicure Too!

[@bobbyfitzgerald4165]

I dont understand why you dont have millions of subscribers. I love your videos ❤️

[@marypolancodesigns]

Wow, Bobby, that's a huge compliment thank you so much for this!

[@wordscrafter]

Wow, that's a lot of colors! My inner crafty girl is screaming 'i need all the colors!' I love how you're so fair with the comparison. Shows your integrity and and builds trust. Thanks for that. Lol, I love your nails :)

[@marypolancodesigns]

This feedback means so much to me; thank you so very much! I really try to be a good steward of information so that things are fully laid out. :) Thank you!!!

[@SimpLeeBeth]

I bet a metal cuticle pusher would be a good tool for scooping

[@marypolancodesigns]

I bet so, great idea!

[@jesseb5112]

Wonderful video! I LOVE the white perfect pearls in water. I enjoy pearl and iridescent finishes. I'm also seeing the arteza mica powders used on gel plates.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much! Yes they can be used in so many different ways...LOVE them! YAY

[@gwensimmons_gigi1629]

The 4 PP metallic set like yours says 4 /10 grms total weight ... thanks for the review. 😘✨👍🏾 Thank you for validating my sentiments about purple tape.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so much Gwen; great info on the perfect pearls. Hahaha...i KNEW there were others out there like me with the purple tape.

[@lindas.9313]

I don't understand the obsession with purple tape either. I sent mine to my sister, she loves it. I use the clear Scotch Brand Removable tape. I like that I can see the image through the tape as I line up the die and it's never torn my paper.

[@jesseb5112]

@@marypolancodesigns I wonder if the tape preference is partly/mostly environmental. Some people love painter's tape. I HATE it on cards. I love the thin 3m micropore tape to hold down dies. I love purple tape for stenciling, and basic masking. Southern VA is humid!

[@PapercraftsbyCindyellen]

@@jesseb5112 oh that's an interesting idea. FL is humid too. Hate purple tape

[@kkrolf2782]

@@jesseb5112 So, Jesse b …. Explain, please, each of your choices. And why wouldn’t you have only one? I’ve tried the YELLOW FROG Tape, trying desperately to avoid the “skinning” of my card projects and have decided to go back to Micropore. It’s not always QUITE as strong as I’d like, but it doesn’t usually give me problems of pulling up the top layer of the papers. (I DO hope you see this!)

[@traveldreamer4616]

Excellent video. Liked how you demonstrated the versatility of the mica powders. Good comparison to perfect pearls. Thank you for sharing. Great manicure.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Glad it was helpful! I appreciate that so much! These are a great addition to my stash!

[@stanky6261973]

I love black nails and or french manicure.I love the reviews that you do, too. I want these little beauties! Arteza is making all the things!! I love Arteza products, all of them.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Seriously, Arteza is knocking it out of the park! I am waiting for them to send me something crappy so I don't seem like a unwavering cheerleader. lol

[@mishkastern]

Thank you for taking the time to do this. I enjoyed watching your process.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Thank you for this

[@lorenekeable8564]

Never seen this craft, wooooooo, it looks fun and your narrative is easy to follow. Thanks love it.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much 😊 That's so kind

[@jeanannmoale7295]

WOW MARY, a super duper review. You covered all I wanted to know. Thx so much for sharing 🌼

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! YAY love to hear this! Thanks for letting me know.

[@lorenekeable8564]

Omgoodness, your full of great inspiration hugs back.Nails are a rockin

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much!

[@idaloo62]

Love, love, love your videos! It's obvious you have fun with everything you do and it makes watching your videos so enjoyable. Thanks for sharing your creativity, your knowledge, and your enthusiasm!! BTW, your 💅 look awesome! ❤

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much!! This is so kind and encouraging. I appreciate it so much! YAY Thanks for making my day, Helen!

[@ms.h.8216]

I purchased a huge bundle of Mica pigments in sachets last year from Aliexpress and was delighted to see this video for awesome ideas, TYsoVM for sharing! 💐 Here's another idea, mix with Gum Arabic (liquid form ready mixed is best) & Water to create your own pearl watercolour pan paints! If you Google the ratios it'll give you the correct amounts as I don't want to give you inaccurate info off the top of my head! No need for Versamark or Setting Agents as the Gum Arabic binds it 👍 Keep safe and well 💐

[@marypolancodesigns]

WOW! What a share....thank you so much for this! I really appreicate that and will look into it for sure. Thank you! YAY so fun

[@ms.h.8216]

@@marypolancodesigns You're so very welcome 💐

[@kirriesummers5219]

I can see the reasoning for purchasing the Arteza product; it does the same job, so why not. And first, I need to use up all my Perfect Pearls. They have been in a box in a drawer for probably 15 years, untouched. I could get them out for my family Christmas cards. Fun and shiny! Thank you. 🥰🇨🇦💕

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are most welcome! Yes get them out; they are such a fun product! YAY

[@linda5067]

Wow thank you ,Mary keep the videos coming,I love them

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome, be sure to watch the follow up to this video, I explain it more and a product you NEED To make them like Perfect pearls. kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4KqfWqPpMiZZ5Y

[@brianacpratt]

So much fun :). Thanks Mary!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! YAY!

[@JoannaShoemaker]

LOVED this. Thanks for sharing & your nails were beautiful and ooohhhhh so fun!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much!! I'm obsessed with nails lately!

[@alynngreen9130]

I love your swatches so cute!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hehe, I had to make them pretty! lol

[@CardsbyMaaike]

60 colors, sounds like you'll be set for life! great colors

[@marypolancodesigns]

I think so too! LOL

[@leannemitchem8865]

Awesome cards and really cool nails. Love it. Thank you for sharing!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much!! It's my new obsession. hahah

[@staceydailey6394]

That was fun!!! Going into my Amazon cart tonight! Thanks girl!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! These are seriously amazing!

[@yaver999]

Very sensible and smart comparison!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so very much!

[@theresamerritt3644]

You SOLD me on these powders! I have the pearlex powders which I'm sure are pretty much the same. But the assortment with the Arteza........ahhhhh.........and I'm gonna let you in on a little OLD SCHOOL trick for getting your splatter to stick the first time. Get yourself a little travel size pump hairspray. Instead of mixing the powders with a drop or two of waster, use the hairspray. It works GREAT!!! But make sure it's a pump and not aerosol......that may not be so neat.....you can also seal your finished piece with the hairspray of needed.😉

[@marypolancodesigns]

Theresa...this trick is AMAZING! DONE! Sandra from Create in Spain shared to set it with hairspray but this would work great! I have a ton of hairspray lying around! lol

[@lisar9408]

Thanks for sharing. UGH now I have a bad case of the "I want that!" Luckily for my hip pocket, I cant buy Arteza stuff coz they don't ship to Australia. As always, I had fun listening to you and btw, love your nails at the end! I find you super enjoyable to watch and listen to, thanks so much for taking the time you do to create these videos. I for one, truly appreciate it.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Lisa, this means so very much to me; thank you so much for taking the time to be so encouraging and thoughtful! I love making the videos and really enjoy rushing downstairs the "chat" with all of you when you all comment! HUGS!

[@reyannacorf71]

This may not help your pocket but Arteza have a tonne of suppliers on Amazon and other websites available to ship to aus 😅

[@linda5067]

You want to try living in Portugal 🇵🇹 more then half the stuff don’t get here for months then get screwed with 🛃 customs tax

[@JoanOrloffDK]

WOW fabulous powders 😍 I love the colours, your projects and nails lol ❤ thanks for sharing and happy crafting Hugs xx

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much 😊 Big hugs!

[@laurabuehler]

I'm trying to go on a crafty diet, but you keep doing comparison videos (don't stop)! Gonna need these.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahaha...I am sorry! I was asked a few times about the difference between these two. :)

[@barbf.3420]

Thanks for sharing this video. I took out my micas last night and was trying to figure out how to use them. Great review!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh that makes me so happy that it was useful. Definitely use Gum Arabic if you want to use them like paint. THere is a follow up video i did that shows that step by step. kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4KqfWqPpMiZZ5Y

[@Colorfullife2046]

What a fun idea and I love arteza and there products great review

[@marypolancodesigns]

Me too!! Thank you so much! This was fun and I have a few more ideas up my sleeve!

[@SimpLeeBeth]

Have you ever experimented with the pots of loose eyeshadow that they sell at Dollar Tree?

[@marypolancodesigns]

I have not...such a great idea! Thanks

[@MarieZanna]

Yes. Works great!

[@karenreeves5801]

Thanks for this comparison video. Great tips & I love your nails. Look great.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much!This was so fun, Karen! YAY

[@tarabeard]

Love the video. And you have a lovely handwriting!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you! That's so kind!

[@lynneb9946]

Loved the added footage of doing your nails.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Glad you liked it!! YAY! So fun!

[@aliceadler4569]

Dazzling ‼️‼️‼️♥️♥️♥️🎉🎉🎉🪅🪅🪅🌟🌟🌟

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so much!

[@juliewright9016]

Brilliant comparison video. Love the nails!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you! 😊 YAY! So fun!

[@dianec.2943]

Great informative Video! Thanks so much!

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY Thanks for letting me know!

[@sropehorses]

Loved your video! Lol ok, so I absolutely LOVE cosmic shimmer gilding polish and while using it, I've gotten it on my nails....so one day I thought??? Why not put a clear top coat on after the cosmic shimmer polish lol and it worked amazing!! Colors where crazy cool and lasted until I wanted to change colors....." one week" so I hope that was helpful! It was fun stretching my craft supplies as well.

[@marypolancodesigns]

YES so helpful; i LOVE IT! I don't think I have any of that but what a cool idea. Love stretching stuff so much

[@oceandreamer1958]

Great video, Mary. I have had Perfect Pearls for many years. I originally bought them from Stampin’ Up!, I believe. I love them on your nails too! I am going to check out the Arteza. I’m a big fan of their products!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much Debbie! I really appreciate that it was helpful! This was so so fun to play with.

[@kayellwy]

A great review! Guess I'm going to have to have those too... I have lots of Arteza products. They're great!

[@marypolancodesigns]

They are! I'm super impressed with the stuff they keep coming out with. I am waiting for a bad product! lol

[@RoseD2016]

I love your review video’s. Now I want them! Thank you for showing how versatile they can be. I Love your nails! Xx

[@marypolancodesigns]

Glad you like them! That means so much to me! I had a great time with these, still having a great time! lol

[@created2bless322]

This is so cool! I have mica powders in several colors and I can’t wait to play! Beautiful rainbow cards!!! I have a versamark ink dauber, it has a cylinder that is full of sticky ink, it’s a bit messy. I love your nails!!!! Thank you so much Mary!!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much June! I really appreciate it. YES this was amazing fun to have. The rainbow sheen made my heart so happy!

[@taylorjudi]

I think the Arteza do not contain a binder like the Perfect Pearl's, so they are more like Pearl Ex mica powders. Great video. Thanks.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks for the info! I appreciate that! I will look into it more.

[@starlineks]

I saw this in a video as well. I can't remember who it was. They said that water will not seal them, you need a sealer like hair spray or spray sealer. The only reason I did not buy them.

[@sharon94503]

You can add 1 part powder gum arabic to 4 parts pearl-ex or these Arteza, since there is no binder.

[@bonnerdebbie]

Great comparison, awesome nails.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you! 🤗 YAY! So fun

[@nicholewade8677]

Awesome thank you. I've been on the fence about ordering these. Not now 😁

[@marypolancodesigns]

So glad i could help; be sure to pick up some Arabic gum powder too; i hear it's a 1:1 ratio. So excited to get into it and make some more! YAY

[@nicholewade8677]

@@marypolancodesigns Does Arteza sell that too?

[@marypolancodesigns]

@@nicholewade8677 no but its listed in description so you can see it to shop for it

[@nicholewade8677]

Yay! The 60 set is back in stock. Ordered asap. Now can't wait for your video on how to use the mica medium.

[@marypolancodesigns]

@@nicholewade8677 wait no more. I did it kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4KqfWqPpMiZZ5Y

[@norinemueller4588]

Thank you very helpful nail polish genius

[@marypolancodesigns]

You’re welcome 😊YAY!

[@chantalle7340]

I just purchased some. They’re beautiful!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yes they are! SO so fun; don't forget to look into Gum Arabic to mix with the mica to add a bonding agent.

[@denisehbisme]

Lady you always make me smile. Your dome must have been burning hot with all the ideas flying around up there. I must say I noticed your nails right away and you had my dome heating up... Years ago (when you were probably still in grade school) I bought all of the perfect pearl colors available so I must use those b4 switching but I was happy to watch your comparison and review of product use. And thank you for being honest... I am not a fan of that purple tape either! Still using it b4 I get the snot tape you also recommended. ... anyway off to amazon to buy some RPS masking tape. stay safe...

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh good I don't feel so all alone with the purple tape dislike. lol. YES use those perfect pearls. I love them too; such a good product. Thank you for the sweet comment. It makes me so happy to make you smile! :)

[@anikamercier2651]

Love this review! I've been eyeing them and wondering if I should get some. Love your nails at the end!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks Anika! THat was so fun to do; haha...no idea if it was going to work lol

[@mwenpraledorayley]

Oh. Em. Gee!!! You're hilarious Mary and I am here for it! ♥ This was eye opening to say the least. Definitely will try the nail polish trick. 😂 Hugs from Orlando, FL. ☀ 🌴 🏖

[@marypolancodesigns]

Haha...thank you so much! After this video, i did get the Gum Arabic and reviewed it so check that out as well. It's amazing stuff! kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4KqfWqPpMiZZ5Y

[@brandewester-inkspireart3195]

Thanks so much for sharing!! I've been curious about these for a while for paper crafts and nails. I might try watercoloring with them. Thanks to those who commented about gum Arabic as well!! They'll probably be great for gel polish! You can buy Gelish or OPI gel base coat and top coat on Amazon as well as an inexpensive UV light. Only pain about gel at home is soaking in acetone or cotton balls soaked with acetone clipped on you nails to remove them.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yes that is the only reason i won't do gell; although....i would only have to do my nails like every 3 weeks (4 would be acceptable in this environment..lol )

[@helkatww3992]

Thanks for sharing this! I bought these recently, and now I have a better idea of what I can do with them! Thanks also for confessing to not liking purple tape - I hate it too! It always ruins MY projects! Now I know I'm not alone!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much Helen! Check out my follow up video to this as well so you know what to do with gum arabic. It's a game changer. kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4KqfWqPpMiZZ5Y

[@Kimmcdougalcrafter]

WOW! I always learn something new from your videos girl! And of course, I LOVED the nails, I'd try that myself cause I've always loved wearing nail polish! LOL!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much, Kim! I seriously had too much fun with these! I just ran out of time, not will! HAHAH THey are staying on my desk because I Have a few more ideas!

[@Kimmcdougalcrafter]

@@marypolancodesigns Oh I know you were having fun and can't wait to see what else you do with them! LOL! I just spent a pretty fortune on supplies and guess what? I got that large blending brush you recommended and I LOVE IT!

[@createinspain]

If you are stuck, you can use hairspray as a sealant:) Also, you can add the mica to acrylic varnishes, mix it into your nail polish etc. You need to get into nail stamping, you'll love that with mica! The bottles remind me of my colour changing paints, they look totally different in the bottles too.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great tip! and I have the nail stamping on my wish list in Amazon. hahah Great minds...:) Thanks so much Sandra! I hope you are well and staying safe.

[@createinspain]

@@marypolancodesigns We're fine Mary, have fun with the mica!

[@WendyColeArt]

I've gotten nuvo mousse on my nails by mistake and it looks gorgeous! I'm going to intentionally do my nails with it because it really sticks well and you can also put a clear coat on top. I have lots of their colors

[@marypolancodesigns]

Ooooh love thus idea!!! Thank you

[@handiscandi]

Mary, you're always so much fun! I love your videos. This one was especially helpful... I am not a micah kind of girl. But you were selling me all along and once you got to the manicures... Done! I'm going to have to order these from Arteza for sure. I am 55 so they will literally last the rest of my life! Also... I bought the gouaches a while ago and haven't used them. So you've encouraged me to pull those out as well. Thanks! And another job well done. 👏👏👏

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Thank you so much for the sweet compliment! I want to play with them in so many ways! YAY! love them!

[@lorenescreativecorner]

Great review!!! I love Arteza Mica Powders and been using it a lot with my resin projects. Btw my favorite was your awesome nails!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you! I appreciate that so much! They turned out so fun! YAY!

[@cherij9008]

I always LOVE ❤ your reviews! I would buy them, but honestly there's no way I would use that many.! Thank you for sharing!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahaha.....me neither! lol

[@maestra730]

what great fun!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awww my mom says that exact phrase! YAY thank you for that

[@TheKrazysinner]

you can add mica powders directly to your polish before painting your nails as well.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great tip thanks so much!!

[@TheKrazysinner]

@@marypolancodesigns you're welcome, I generally add it to white polish or clear polish

[@libellula3313]

I love the Arteza mica powders and I dip into them for eye shadow too as they are high grade! They are available easily in France. Your fingernails look great

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks for sharing!! I love this!

[@michelegourd5742]

I always love your video's!!! I also love your nails!!! Hope you and family are doing well!! Stay safe!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you! You too! I so appreicate your sweet comments all the time!

[@cherin6037]

Another GREAT video Mary!! Thanks for all the time you take to provide such a wonderful resource for so many crafters!! Special thanks for this specific topic which was current interest for me...and Arteza reviews confused me with their problem of mixing the Micah powders with water (and then powders “disappear”) which, to me, is a big issue.

[@marypolancodesigns]

I am playing with them again today and mixing with water and they work great. I'm setting my project with hair spray! So that should be a great way to do it! I hope this video answered your questions.

[@cherin6037]

Mary Polanco Ok Mary. But, isn’t THAT the difference with Perfect Pearls that do NOT require any setting with hairspray (or other method)?

[@marypolancodesigns]

@@cherin6037 well the jury is out if the dont need ANY setting. Some say yes, some say no. I think most say just spritz with water to set. I had no issues with either when used with embossing ink

[@kkrolf2782]

@@marypolancodesigns I know this is “late to the party”, BUT … if the Arteza is IN WATER as a spritz, but then easily wipes off, I’d say water does NOT set them. BTW, what HAIRSPRAY do you use that does NOT leave its own sticky residue, please. (I’m hoping it’s one of your frugal finds that I can also use on chalk-type pastels! 🤔😉)

[@gloriagibson8772]

Arteza states that their mica powder is cosmetic grade and can be use as such so I was glad to see that you tried it on your nails...❤️ this

[@marypolancodesigns]

I really love these! I have to play with them some more

[@noneyobusiness6582]

I have 2 full.boxs of the arteza mica powders. I will soon have all of the perfect pearls colors as well. One sister gave me some color powder from another company. I've tried them , don't really like them since I've already got the arteza and some perfect perals.

[@marypolancodesigns]

LOVE it! you have a wonderful collection. If you didn't see my follow up video on this, check out Gum Arabic to add to mica in order to make them exactly like perfect pearls.

[@HeidiLilley]

very, very cool, glad to see the arteza works as well as the perfect pearls cause I have about 10 or so of the perfect pearls in my wish list at SSS, I think I can save myself some money and get more product........ when I manage to afford it!

[@marypolancodesigns]

They are gorgeous; played more today. Seems there may not be a bonding agent that Perfect Pearls has, hence the drying off my cards; someone recommended adding a bit of hairspray to set them; done! YAY

[@AwkwardlySatisfying]

Wonderful video, the intro music had some Exorcist vibes and I kinda dig it

[@marypolancodesigns]

hahha YES...that's awesome. I never thought of it like but now I totally hear it...or maybe Halloween, Michael Myers?

[@AwkwardlySatisfying]

@@marypolancodesigns YES! Thank you!! Horror isn’t my jam except for Dr. Sleep.

[@stanky6261973]

You should put a little bead in the little misters. I did when I bought mica powders, I think it was jacard, but, they don't use any binder to make them permanent so I used a dry powder I think it's called "arabica?" and a bead.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yes, thank you so much; so many good tips on this thread!

[@ginaneely1147]

Yes gum Arabic makes a good binder

[@craftingwithcatstammie1716]

Add a little gum arabic to the water you use. That will provide the bunder needed. You should also mist the areas you used the embossing ink with that. Ince the glycerine in it has completely disappeared it too will no longer stick.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much, ordered it recently. So excited to try that too! YAY! I really appreciate it

[@24get24give]

wonderful review, you gotta love Arteza [has anyone learned how to say that correctly yet?]. but I'm wondering can you make paint with Arteza's like you can with perfect pearls?

[@marypolancodesigns]

On their site, they say it like Arteeeeza. So I have to assume they're correct. haha

[@katieanne1394]

When I first saw these on their website, I entertained the idea of buying them for the main intention of using them on my nails. I love pearlescent nails and I think using mica powders looks better than polishes that are pearlescent. But the powders that are sold for nails are kind of expensive, because they are cosmetic grade. I think I am going to have to buy some since they have multiple uses!

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY! Yeah it seems whenever something is marketed toward a certain demographic, the price skyrockets. We do it all the time in the crafting community. I'm always on the hunt for similar but less expensive things.

[@vernaraney9870]

I personally love the mica powders They are so shiny Just beautiful

[@marypolancodesigns]

Same, I really love them too!

[@elizabetheddy1073]

Mary thank you so much for sharing this video, like others have said you have so much fun playing with all your different mediums that you love! Now I wanna get this, but they are out of stock! But I did click the link for the masking paper and just bought some right now! Thank you again I love your videos so so much! I hope you and your beautiful family are all doing great! I’d love to see how these make a powders work with resin?! I guess I’m gonna have to try experimenting myself. But for some reason I’m afraid that I’m gonna screw things up because resident is so expensive! LOL😊💗👍🏼

[@marypolancodesigns]

I've never tried anything with resin so i have no tips, but it sounds like so much fun. Love that masking paper so very much! It's so great!

[@tlbrown6948]

Mary I've been wavering about which set to get. Can you compare the colors in the two boxes to see if it's worth waiting for restocking of the 60 count? Thank you for your informative videos I love them.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hi Trude, thanks for the question. Head to this video i just posted and in the beginning of the video i show you the swatches for both. :) Hope that helps. kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4KqfWqPpMiZZ5Y

[@Coloryourheartout]

Try Mixing water and gum arabic to make it set when you splash it on.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so so much for this

[@ericastwilight]

Look up nail art tools, they have a very tiny scoop with a long thin handle, would be great for these small bottles. I think I need these lol

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks for the tip! I'll check it out! YAY

[@luawannanigra7911]

great video ! thank you :)

[@stanky6261973]

Perfect pearls is .25oz on ranger website.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You Da Best! Thanks!

[@RijackiTorment]

I love Perfect Pearls and have built up my stash with 2nd hand buys (one crafter's destash is another's stash) and deep sales to keep the price low. Even though I have many of the colours (and covet the new ones), I'm thinking I want/need the Arteza ones, too. I also have nearly all the Pearl Ex powders, too, 'cause I love the variety. (Pearl Ex doesn't have any resin, so they do need a fixative when not used with an adhesive.) The "small" quantity in the bottles is deceptive since you use so very little on each application. A little bit goes a long way, like glitter and embossing powder.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much for this; such great information! I realize that they do need some sort of adhesive in them so I will see what else i can use! Thank you!

[@24get24give]

I've always seen gum arabic used as a binder for Pear Ex powders

[@emodablest]

You can find multi-packs of those little applicator spoons on Amazon...

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome thank you so much!

[@BreadandCrafts]

Love this video, and very inspired by the nails at the end! Can I ask what top coat you used? Thanks from uk, keep up the good work and keep safe!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much! Yes the top coat is from Maxus, linked below in the description. Seriously the best stuff i've ever used! Fast drying, super shiny, makes them strong!

[@MsShanarun]

Thanks for the review!! Arteza Mica powders need setting? Arteza Goauche powder do not need setting? (Perfect Pearls do not need setting?)

[@marypolancodesigns]

Perfect Pearls do not need it because there is a bonding agent in them already. Pick up some Gum Arabic and add it to your Arteza mica powders and they become bonded with no need to add anything additional.

[@MsShanarun]

@@marypolancodesigns Thank you so much!!

[@lorimcosh2331]

When I saw the mica powders, I wondered about how it would compare to Perfect Pearls (which I have tons of!) so I’m really happy you did this comparison! BTW- I thought I was the only one who dislikes purple tape- I have ruined so many projects using it 😡😡😡

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks Lori, please check out my follow up video for the micah powders because they will provide more helpful tips. And down with purple tape....she has betrayed me one too many times.

[@cindyhenry1410]

Very informative! New subbie here USA (Michigan) TYFS ❤️

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome! Thank you! and So glad to have you hangin with me! YAY!

[@musicaloveraj]

I've use regularly sinful colors base coat that has light beige tent that in 2 Coats looks like animated Disney princess nails. Sounds wierd but it look very classy. And Seche Vite top coat that dries crazy fast and gives a great shine. Also I use nail thinner as they get thick for longevity. I'm a massive impatient klutz, I do my nails on a cool night 30 minutes topcoat completion to bed I ever have sheet marks, indentions or next. As I use a nail thinner I sometimes I have to do two coats with a good 5 to 10 minutes between to get the exact same results from the top of the bottle. It makes even the cheapest polish last long. I can't give you a comparison but I know for me who is really hard on my Nails, and has brittle thin nails and is a card maker/Crafter. It works really well and for stronger nails are used Trader Joe's jojoba oil. when I'm good about it they get really strong and grow fast we're within a week I need to trim my nails. I hope this helps.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Amber, this is amazing! Thank you so much for the share. I am always in need of people's testimony on nail polish. I will have to check those out! YAY

[@rochellenowik9875]

I love your reviews. I find them helpful and we'll informed. Probably will not purchase as I almost never use my Perfect Pearls. That being said, I might get them out and have a play. Like you I don't like purple tape, I prefer the post-it tape. I also am stingy with my making sheets. I will check out your recommendation from Amazon.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Rochelle....YES get out those Perfect Pearls. They are great to play with and i was hoping that the video would inspire us to bring out what we have! YAY

[@BelindaBecerra]

Question don’t you have to water most the perfect pearls? Did I miss that.? You did amazing job comparing. Thank you. Love your nails

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hi Belinda, I'm not sure what you mean. If you mean add a spritz of water afterward to set them then yes, you do. The micah powders work slightly different in that you have to add an agent to use them exactly like Perfect Pearls or you can just spray your card with hairspray like i did. haha HOpe that answers the question. Let me know.

[@BelindaBecerra]

Mary Polanco yes that’s what I mean. So Micah doesn’t need to be set with a mist of water ?

[@marypolancodesigns]

@@BelindaBecerra yes it needs to be set just like the Perfect Pearl's but water may not be strong enough for things like the splatters I used. I still sis not have any issues with them rubbing off when I used them as watercolors or on the embossing ink. But in splatters they dried up. Someone said to use Arabic Gum Powder with the micah and works perfect

[@tressiesalton2813]

Thanks for a very informative video. Love your designs and nails!! Question: with a product like ....color bursts, would mica powders do the same thing on just wet paper? Spread and set? Or could the mica powders be mixed like with watercolors? 👩‍🎨

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yes they will mix with water to watercolor with them; I"m not sure about how the color bursts work though but i will give that a try. My next video with them will definitely include watercoloring. :) Thanks for the sweet comments!

[@maggiemae987]

Sorry, another question. With the perfect pearls you can stamp, use clear embossing powder & then heat……then add a wee bit of water with perfect pearls and can paint the embossed area & it’s permanent. So my question is can you do the same with the mica?

[@marypolancodesigns]

Ok, with this example, yes, just add a bit of gum arabic to it. Check out this video where I explain it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4KqfWqPpMiZZ5Y

[@kitzymelodie]

Love the nails 😍

[@marypolancodesigns]

Why thank you! So fun!

[@yard2homepropertymaintenan843]

They have things called pop sticks for nail art swatches and they are definitely small enough to fit in the jars ! They are super cheep on wish and you get about 50 in a pack .

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much Trina! I really appreciate the share!

[@yard2homepropertymaintenan843]

@@marypolancodesigns No problem at all 😄💖

[@yard2homepropertymaintenan843]

Mary Polanco hi hon I can’t post pictures here so I put them on your Facebook link for this video if you want to see what they look like and unfortunately the price went up since I got mine last year 😤 but you do get 100 of them for 15$ . Hope it helps 😀💗

[@cherylbettin1715]

Oh my word - I have a mess of those (slight nail polish obsession here) and you're right - they would work great!

[@brandewester-inkspireart3195]

Do these work like color bursts? Can you sprinkle on paper then spray water and watch the color come to life like you demonstrated recently with another brand and product?

[@marypolancodesigns]

I will have to give this a try because others have ask the same. I wonder that too! :)

[@jennynim3203]

Can I use them for making calligraphy inks?

[@marypolancodesigns]

I'm so sorry I really am not sure.

[@sparkle5ms]

Does this Arteza product have a gum arabic binder in it like the perfect pearls does? That is what I would like to know. Does the project with in rainbow colour heart does it smear or smudge if you touch or does it need to be sealed first? Please and thank you.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great question, so sorry that i did not have that info during the video No it does not have a gum arabic binder, but i will be purchasing that to add it. Also, it does not smear off the rainbow after setting it with some hairspray.

[@maggiemae987]

Can you paint with the mica powders?

[@marypolancodesigns]

I don't know exactly what kind of painting you can do with them, but likely not like you would with acrylics.

[@caroletsengouras7570]

Can u use versa mark ink pad?

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh yes, any sticky ink would work

[@lorirobinson7357]

I thought you had to add a binder to use the Arteza mica powder.Is this true? What did you use for a binder?

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hi Lori! YES! I did a follow up video I'll link for you but I used Gum Arabic; made it JUST like Perfect Pearls! Here is the Link to the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4KqfWqPpMiZZ5Y and a link to the binder: amzn.to/3KzIxK1

[@theniffs]

How did the mica powder stay on the nails through washing? Any issues?

[@marypolancodesigns]

Zero issues; it was because i put that top coat over them so they were locked in there under the clear polish. SO FUN

[@theniffs]

@@marypolancodesigns I dont know why I didnt realize you said that lol, makes total sense.

[@jenny3888]

I feel a little silly asking this, but I'm new to using mica powders. When you were working on the hearts on black card stock, how would you cure the powders so they don't come off from the top?

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hi Jenny, add a little bit of gum arabic (powder you can get from Amazon) to the powder; it will make it bonding.

[@jenny3888]

Does my brush need to be wet? Or do I need to spray my art after it’s done to activate the gum Arabic? Thank you so much for your reply!!

[@roseharrington2360]

hi can you tell me what the masking paper is called I have looked on amazon but can find it

[@marypolancodesigns]

It's Rock Paper Scissors Removeable Label Sheets - but I hear they are no longer available. I'm looking for another option

[@roseharrington2360]

@@marypolancodesigns thank you

[@roseharrington2360]

hi i have found masking paper on temu

[@krystinsawyer]

I had same question as Judith: do they contain gum arabic so they stay set once wet, or is a separate gum arabic needed to make them more permanent? Granted, I am asking this question before I have even finished watching the video, so maybe you answer it. 😂 P.S. Your reviews are the BEST! 💖✨ P.P.S. I don’t have any suggestions for base and topcoat for nail polish, but I have been looking into the gel manicure at home sets. Three months ago when I first put them on my watchlist they were $35. Now they’re running $55 since everybody have to do their own manicure at home. But… That often includes the UV machine, a prep coat, basecoat, color, topcoat.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh how fun, are you gonna start trying to do it yourself!? How great! That seems like a decent price actually. The Micah powders were amazing when used with the versamark so I'm not sure what they are missing to be honest.

[@aboveparrcrafts8480]

​@@marypolancodesigns Perfect Pearls have a built in resin and binder which means the mica won't fall off with time. Mica without a binder (eg. gum arabic) will come off with time however, this can be solved by adding a spray coat to the final project

[@DebadooCreates]

Hey Mary great video. I love the rainbow heart cards. You just about had me sold on the arteza until you got to the spatters. Since you mix it with water that should not have fallen off and doesn't with perfect pearls. Nowadays mostly what I use it for is spatters. Back in the day I used to use a lot of pearl EX. When I did my classes one of them was a pearl X class about 10 years or so ago, and I showed a bunch of different ways to use them. At the end I asked if anyone had noticed the final way I had used them and I had to wiggle my fingernails in front of them a little bit but then they got it. I had actually poured some top coat in a paint palette and mixed the Pearl ex into the top coat and then painted my nails with them and they were so shimmery and shiny. Of course I was using 99 cent top coat but it worked great.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yeah, i'm so glad i left that in the video with the splatters drying because I learned from so many comments that i need to add Arabic Gum powder to make them permanent in that way. It's so strange to me because they stayed perfectly on the versamark rainbows. After this, i did a card where i watercolored with them, and again, it worked amazingly. I did set that project with hair spray though, but before i did that the watercolor background was perfect. I can't wait to get that Arabic gum powder in and have some more fun! :)