A cat eye magnet is a small, strong magnet held over uncured magnetic gel to pull its shimmer into a line, a band or a pattern before you cure it. M1 Nail & Beauty Supply stocks double-ended magnet pens, large cylinder magnets, French magnet tools and shaped magnets, many of them from MNBS and Mr. Nail.
Types of nail magnets
| Type | Best for | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Double-ended and multi-head tools | Everyday cat eye work, with two or more magnet heads on one tool. | Magnet Tool, several styles, Double-End with Steel Ball, Cigar Magnet 3 in 1, 5 in 1 Nail Magnet Tool, Nail Magnet Tool 10 pcs |
| Cylinder and block magnets | A strong, wide pull for bold bands and full-nail shimmer. | Large Cylinder Magnet, Giant Super Cylinder Magnet, Silicone Single Cylinder, Silicone Rectangle, Cube Magnet |
| French and pattern tools | French cat eye tips and shaped effects. | French Nail Magnet Tool, Little V French Cateyes Metal Plate, Circular Nail Art Magnet, Rotating Cat Eyes Magnet, Heart Shape Cat Eye Magnet 2 pcs |
| Novelty-shaped magnets | Cute shapes for the station or for retail. | Cat Paw Magnet, Nail Magnet Penguin, Cat-Shaped Magnet, Bunny Cat Eye Gel Magnet |
How to choose a nail magnet
- Strength and size. A large cylinder magnet pulls the shimmer harder and wider; a small pen gives finer control for lines and detail.
- One tool, several effects. Multi-head tools and sets put different shapes on one handle, so you can change the effect without reaching for another magnet.
- Keep it off the gel. Hold the magnet close to the nail without touching the wet gel, and wipe off any gel that gets on it before it cures.
Related: Cat eye gel colours, Nail art powder, Gel top coat, Nail art tools, All nail art
Nail magnet FAQ
Do I need a strong magnet for cat eye gel?
A stronger magnet moves the shimmer faster and further, which helps with thick or heavily pigmented gels and bold, wide bands. For fine lines and patterns, control matters more than strength.
Will a magnet work on any gel polish?
No. A magnet only moves the magnetic particles in cat eye or magnetic gel; ordinary gel colour, chrome and glitter do not react. If a cat eye gel stops responding, shake or roll the bottle first, because the particles settle to the bottom.
How do I make a French cat eye?
Apply the cat eye gel, then hold a French magnet tool or the edge of a magnet at the free edge so the shimmer gathers at the tip and leaves the base darker. Hold it for a few seconds, cure straight away, then move on to the next nail.
Order online for in-store pickup at our Markham, Ontario store, usually ready in 2 to 4 hours, or have your order shipped anywhere in Canada.