

A five-day program in New York that combines three courses in one path: the Russian Manicure Foundation Course, Dry Pedicure, and Soft Gel Tips. Hands-on training with live models in small groups.

Booked separately: $2,600 · Advanced Nail Technician Program: $2,300

The nail technician program at Why Not Nails is a five-day path that combines three courses: the Russian Manicure Foundation Course, Dry Pedicure, and Soft Gel Tips. Each course is built around hands-on practice, so the technique you see demonstrated is the one you perform on a live model.
Instructors stay involved at every stage. They demonstrate each technique, correct your work as you go, and explain the details behind it. Classes run in small groups of up to four students, using salon-standard tools and products.
Alongside technique, the program covers sanitation, client consultation, and how to move through a full service from preparation to finished result.
Note: This is skill-specific training and is not a state licensing program or a New York State Nail Specialty License. Students receive a Certificate of Completion from Why Not Nails Academy.

The nail technician training program starts with the Russian Manicure Foundation Course and builds from there. In the first three days you work on e-file technique, cuticle work, structured gel strengthening, and gel polish application, with four live models. Dry Pedicure and Soft Gel Tips follow as one-day courses that apply the same preparation skills to new services.
Core lessons in the nail tech training program include:

This program is the complete path for new technicians. Once you finish it, or if you already work in a salon, you can keep building your skills with:
Each course and module ends with a Certificate of Completion from Why Not Nails Academy.
Looking for a nail technician program near you? Training takes place in person at our academy in Brooklyn, NY.
Want to start smaller? Begin with the Russian Manicure Foundation Course or compare all options on our Course Pricing page.


Learning Outcomes Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

Professional Product Kit ($79 Retail Value):

We Come to You — Nationwide Training Across the USA We deliver on-site training directly to your salon anywhere in the United States, led personally by founder Elizaveta Kolodiy to ensure the highest level of precision, consistency, and results.
for your salon team
by Elizaveta Kolodiy
and efficiency
on-site in all states
“We come to you, so your team can grow together. Stronger skills. Better structure. Real results.”
Elizaveta Kolodiy



Learn gel application, extensions, shaping, and pro skills to start or advance your nail career.

Level up your skills with pro techniques, gel & acrylic extensions, and boost your nail career.
The program costs $2,300. Booked separately, the Russian Manicure Foundation Course ($1,250), Dry Pedicure ($750), and Soft Gel Tips ($600) add up to $2,600, so the program saves $300. Payment plans are available at checkout via Affirm and Klarna. See all course costs on our Course Pricing page.
The program includes three courses: the 3-day Russian Manicure Foundation Course, the 1-day Dry Pedicure Course, and the 1-day Gel Nail Extension Course (Soft Gel Tips). Each includes live-model practice with individual instructor feedback.
Five days in total: three days for Foundation, one day for Dry Pedicure, and one day for Soft Gel Tips. Dates for each course are confirmed when you book.
No. The program is beginner-friendly and also suitable for working nail technicians who want to add these services.
No. This is skill-specific training, not a state licensing program. You receive a Certificate of Completion from Why Not Nails Academy. For licensing requirements in New York, see our Career Guide.
Yes. Each course is available on its own: Russian Manicure Foundation Course ($1,250), Dry Pedicure Course ($750), and Gel Nail Extension Course ($600).
Beautiful nails are just the beginning — for many of our clients, it’s about confidence, growth, and new opportunities. Our students and clients trust us for quality, attention to detail, and a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable — whether it’s your first manicure or the start of your professional journey. Watch the video to hear real stories, real results, and real transformations from the people who chose us.