Wood manicure sticks are also known as orange wood sticks and orange sticks.  They are small-diameter dowels with ends beveled in two different fashions or pointed. These sticks are made from white birch, a close-grained wood that machines smoothly and offers a versatile product. It was originally intended for the care of nails in manicures and pedicures, though white birch has found numerous other uses outside the salon. One example is in the electronics industry since they are non-conductive and can hold parts precisely in place. However, manicure sticks are typically used to clean fingernails and to push back cuticles. They are inexpensive and very portable, making them a great way to maintain nails on the go.

Common Sizes for Manicure Sticks

The typical size of a manicure stick is 5/32” in diameter and a length of 4 – 4.5″, though some applications prefer as long as 7’’ and sometimes are requested at diameters as large as 3/16”. Manicure sticks are sold in bulk quantities.

Secondary Operations

The end of the manicure stick is beveled to push back the cuticle. Beveling can be offered in two ways. The first way is a double bevel, creating a flat screwdriver-type end. The other is a single bevel, which creates a rounded and crisper edge. The other end of the stick is often pointed, similar to a pencil point.