💅 Lacquer Library

A specialized collection manager for nail polish enthusiasts to catalogue, track, and curate their collections. This project transitions a traditional static spreadsheet into a dynamic, mobile-first database application while serving as a practical refresh of modern Python and Flask development patterns.

🌟 The Vision

The "Lacquer Library" addresses a common enthusiast struggle: managing a collection that outgrows standard spreadsheets. The application provides a "digital rack" accessible from a desktop for bulk editing and optimized for mobile devices for real-time logging at the manicure table.

🧠 The Learning Journey

This project documents a return to active development after a hiatus since 2022, focusing on:

• Core Skills: Mastering Python 3.12 syntax and modern Flask patterns.
• DevOps: Utilizing WSL 2 (Ubuntu 24.04 LTS) and professional Git workflows.
• Problem Solving: Transitioning from legacy skills to building a production-ready, mobile-responsive tool.

✨ Key Features

• Comprehensive Cataloguing: Tracks enthusiast-level data including formula health (thinner added), coats required for opacity, and specialized finishes (Holo, Magnetic, Thermal).
• Integrated Workspace Inventory: A dedicated tracking system for essential tools and supplies, including magnet quantities, liquid levels (acetone, thinners), and nail care hardware.
• Mobile-First "At the Desk" Logging: A Tailwind CSS-powered UI optimized for quick data entry on mobile devices, allowing for real-time logging during swatching or manicures.
• Advanced Filtering & "Vibe" Search: Filters collections by aesthetic (e.g., "Spooky," "Office Professional") or treatment type (Base/Top Coats) rather than just primary colour families.
• Manicure History & Personal Playbook: Logs manicure frequency and maintains a "playbook" for favourite layering combinations and specific magnetization techniques.
• Maintenance Alerts: Visual flags for bottle age, formula modifications, and low supply levels for essential liquids.

🛠️ Tech Stack

• Backend: Python 3.12 with Flask
• Database: SQLite with SQLAlchemy (ORM)
• Styling: Tailwind CSS
• Environment: Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (WSL 2) on Windows 10

🚀 Getting Started

Prerequisites

• Python 3.12+
• WSL 2 (Ubuntu)

1. Clone the repository:

   git clone [https://github.com/sarah-browning/lacquer-library.git](https://github.com/sarah-browning/lacquer-library.git)
   cd lacquer-library

2. Set up the virtual environment:

   python3 -m venv venv
   source venv/bin/activate  # Or use your 'activate' alias

3. Install dependencies:

   pip install -r requirements.txt

4. Run the development server:

   python app.py

📈 Roadmap

• Phase 0: Environment Setup & "Smoke Test"
• Phase 1: Database Schema Design & SQLAlchemy Models
• Phase 2: Mobile-Responsive "Add Polish" Entry Form
• Phase 3: Searchable Inventory Grid with Tailwind CSS
• Phase 4: Advanced Filtering by Finish, Colour Family, and Vibe
• Phase 5: Manicure Usage Tracking & Historical Logs

🔍 Detailed Database Schema (Development Goals)

The application utilizes a relational structure to manage complex enthusiast data, personal observations, and workspace logistics.

1. Polish & Treatment Table (The Core)

• ID: Primary key.
• Brand & Shade Name: Core identifiers.
• Sub-Category: Distinguishes between Standard Polish, Topper, or Treatment (Base/Top Coats).
• Collection: Seasonal or limited edition grouping.
• Swatch Number: Physical swatch stick inventory link.
• Finish Type: Categorized (Shimmer, Holo, Creme, Flakie, Jelly, etc.).
• Special Properties: Booleans for Thermal, Solar, Magnetic, Reflective, or Scented.
• Opacity Score: 1–3 scale for coats required.
• Thinner Added: Boolean flag for formula modification.
• Status: Active, Destash, or Empty.

2. Tools & Supplies Table

• Tool Name: Identifies magnets, files, and liquids.
• Category: Grouping by use (Prep, Magnet, Removal).
• Quantity: Essential for tracking multiple magnets for specific techniques.
• Supply Level: Tracks remaining volume for liquids like Acetone or Clean-up brush solution.
• Notes: Performance observations (e.g., "Best magnet for crisp lines").

3. Usage Logs & Personal Notes (Relational)

• Date Worn: Logged every time a polish is used.
• Application Notes: Observations like "Dries slowly" or "Chipped after 2 days".
• Custom Techniques: Log favourite magnetization patterns or specific magnetic tool requirements.
• Layering & Pairings: Notes on successful combinations (e.g., "Perfect over a black base").
• Manicure Combo: Links to specific Base/Top coats used from the Treatment category.

4. Vibes & Aesthetics (Many-to-Many)

• Vibe Name: Tag-based system (e.g., "Cozy," "Office Safe").
• Vibe Context: Context for why a polish fits a specific aesthetic or season.

⚖️ License

Distributed under the Apache License 2.0. See LICENSE for more information.