This is the latest in our weekly series comparing three ways to accomplish common tasks by price and quality. Next Friday, we'll compare three ways to travel to another city.

With the stress of hearing about the daily woes of the U.S. economy, the up-and-down stock market and the mounting number of unemployed Americans, everyone needs a little "me" time.

One of the most popular ways for women to feel pampered is to get a manicure. Having your hands soaked, waxed, massaged and then topped off with your favorite shade of polish can be both relaxing and beautifying -- and it doesn't have to cost a lot.

Women can get their nails done in a variety of ways for varying fees. Check out some of the more popular options and their estimated costs below.

Do It Yourself

The cheapest way to get a manicure is to do it yourself.

You can buy an affordable manicure set at your local retailer, such as Target, where one sells for $9.99. You will also need a bottle of polish, which typically ranges from $1 to $5, depending on the quality and the brand you select. Once you buy the initial kit, you will be able to give yourself numerous manicures for no cost.

While doing your own manicure is cheap, it is also less relaxing. You will miss out on the pampering aspect of having someone else do your nails while you sit back and relax. There is also the potential for messier nails. If your hand is less than steady, you could end up with smudged nails or polish smeared on your hands.

Go To A Beauty School

If you're willing to spend a little bit of money for the enjoyment of having someone else do your nails, going to a beauty school can be an affordable option.

The Aveda Institute charges $15 for a manicure and the Paul Mitchell schools charge from $12 to $20. However, there is a risk with getting salon services at a beauty school. The students are not yet professionals, so there is a chance the person doing your nails could make a mistake. If you're going somewhere special and need your nails to look perfect, you might want to think twice before making an appointment at a beauty school.

But, if you're looking for a little bit of relaxation while having someone else beautify you, opting for a school might be the right, and more affordable, choice.

Go To A Salon

If you want to ensure your nails look good, going to a professional salon might be the best option for you.

However, you will pay for the experience. Going to a professional salon can cost anywhere from $20 to $50, depending on where the salon is located and what kind of services it offers.

But if you need your nails to look good for a special occasion, or you just want to guarantee a positive, relaxing experience, it might be worth it to spring for the more costly services.

Do it yourself
Cost: $0 (after buying the initial supplies)
Convenience: Medium
Quality of work: Low/Medium

Go to a beauty school
Cost: $12 to $20
Convenience: High
Quality of work: Medium/High

Go to a salon
Cost: $20 to $50
Convenience: High
Quality of work: High