Manicure?

[Beauford33]

I use super glue all the time. Works perfectly.

[You_Enjoy_Myself]

I use super glue all the time. Works perfectly.

yeah, i'm trying it now.

[Beauford33]

I jsut put it on my pointer use that to strum if I have to. Got it from Mayer's neon intro on Any Given Thursday

[J_Wyse]

I've been a fingerpicker for ever, playing flamenco, classical, and steel string (takes the biggest toll on the nails).
Keeping them shaped, smooth and a consistant length is very important. I shape them and then use the files that have the 3-4 grades of abrasive to really smooth out the playing surface, and then take some 200 grit sandpaper (or higher) and do the underside of the nail as well. This is all very important for quality tone production.

For maintenence: take some of the Knox gelatine for nails packs a couple of times a day, massage your finger tips to stimulate circulation, and stronger nail growth. Coat them wilt a clear top coat. I have some stuff that has teflon in it that works well.

For broken nails i've used everything from superglue and tissue ( works like fiberglass) to cutting out pieces of beer cups and gluing them on. There is a company that makes "Players Nails" for this purpose.
I've also used the standard drugstore over the counter glue on nails in a pinch (just use real super glue, not the stuff supplied). Shape and smooth them just like a regular nail. For split or chipped nails, this also works and keeps you playing.

once 2 hrs before a flamenco performance, I tore my thumb nail almost off, blood everywhere, but was able to repair with some of the methods listed and the show went on.

Jim

[You_Enjoy_Myself]

Wow, thanks alot for the great info Jim