I totally get where you're coming from—I thought my thumbs were too short too, and on top of that, I had just gotten my nails done, which made everything feel even harder to control. But honestly, it’s not a dealbreaker—it just means you need to adjust your technique a bit and give your hands time to build coordination.
If you're wearing fake nails or long acrylics
, certain moves (like packet cuts or pressure fans) can feel awkward at first. But you can still absolutely do cardistry—you just have to find grips that work
with your nails instead of against them. Some people even file their nails slightly differently to make room for better control.
Another option (that I’ve seen work well) is using shorter press-ons or flexible fake nails designed specifically for function
-heavy use—like the kind that don’t interfere with grip. So you don’t have to sacrifice the aesthetic for the hobby.
Bottom line: whether it’s thumb length or nails, it’s just a matter of practice and adapting. Don’t give up—it really does get easier once you learn how to work
with your hands, not against them.