First I lay down a very thin layer of acrylic on the nail bed since I am constantly changing my nails but you can use gel also if you rather. Then I lay down my glitter gel or whatever you choose for a background...I dont cure this layer yet since its easier for me to place the canes in it uncured. Then place your canes however you like...then I cure two minutes and it helps to keep them in place. I then cap it all in clear being careful to float the gel over the canes so the ones that do want to move, dont. Cure that for two minutes....I then take off the form and turn the finger over and cure the underside. Shape, and top gloss...waaallaaa!!! Its that easy girlie...