How to Start a Tattoo
Once you have created your tattoo design and transferred it onto a stencil, you are ready to start your tattoo. A few simple tips will give you an idea about the first steps of doing a tattoo.
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Things You'll Need
- Latex gloves
- Prepared tattoo stencil
- Tattoo inks
- Tattoo needles
- High quality paper towels
- Petroleum jelly
- Rubbing alcohol
Instructions
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Put on your latex gloves before you start. Set up your tattoo machine and prepare to begin the tattoo. Make sure that all of the surfaces and tools have been thoroughly sterilized before you begin.
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Apply your tattoo stencil to the skin and allow your client to decide if the position works. Give them plenty of time to decide, as this tattoo will be permanent. Allow the ink to set on the skin for at least 5 minutes before starting the tattoo.
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Organize your tattoo inks as the tattoo stencil is setting. Have all of the colors you will need, plus additional equipment (such as extra needles, paper towels, petroleum jelly and rubbing alcohol) ready to go before you start.
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Spread a thin layer of petroleum jelly over the tattoo stencil before starting. You should use a new tube of lubricant for each tattoo to avoid the spread of disease and blood contamination. Applying petroleum jelly will keep the ink from splattering. You will have to reapply the jelly various times throughout the tattoo. To make life easier, place a small dab of petroleum on the back of your hand for easy access.
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Keep a clean paper towel in your hand at all times to pick up small droplets of blood and excess ink. Always use the best paper towels you can find; inexpensive brands tend to shed and fall apart. Now you are ready to outline the tattoo.
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