What's the temperature like in your salon? Is it too cold or too hot? I've found recently that the temp is making me pay much closer attention to my mix ratio--I have to recalibrate it every day, it seems!
One thing that sticks out for me, though, is that you're so new. Mix ratio definitely takes practice to get right.
So don't get discouraged, you will eventually get it. May I suggest trying a smaller brush and picking up smaller beads, instead of trying for the larger beads for now? The smaller beads are so much easier to control, especially for a newbie. Also, try to find someone who's been in the biz awhile to mentor you, and look for as many continuing ed classes as you can! Education is invaluable.
BTW, nail biters are difficult even for experienced techs, and yes, what happened with your client frequently happens with nail biters. They will find any little bits they can to pick and bite, and pretty soon, the enhancement is gone. The trick with these folks (well, one or two of the tricks, anyway!) is to keep the nails short--and I mean SHORT--and maintain them more frequently than usual. I will see a nail biter once a week for the first month or two until the natural nail grows out a bit. The nails really have to be baby-d, if you know what I mean.
Hope this helps! Let us know how it goes.
