In order to build ombre nail patterns with a smooth gradient of colours, the first step would be to clean and trim your nails to a precise length of either oval, almond or square. Use a base coat in order to preserve the nails and to make the colours stick on. Select two or three matching colors, usually a foreground shade, which is a less intense shade, near the cuticle, and the background shade, which is a darker shade, near the tip. Using a makeup sponge, apply the colours and dab it on the nail until the mix appears smooth and soft. It is due to streaking, as each layer should be left to dry a little before it is smeared. Clean polish surrounding the edges, and apply a sleek top later to smooth the gradient to create the appearance of a polished and professional looking ombre manicure.