How to Mix Tattoo Ink

Tattoo ink with varying pigments

Tattoos allow an avenue of self-expression unlike any other. If you're interested in giving yourself a tattoo or perhaps tattooing a friend, you need to know how to make your own tattoo ink. Before you attempt to mix tattoo ink, you should have some tattoo experience and familiarity with aseptic techniques.

Things You'll Need

• Paper Mask
• Rubber Gloves
• Vodka
• Glycerine
• Propylene Glycol
• Mixing Bowl
• Blender
• Powdered Pigment
• Baster
• Ink Bottles

Instructions

1. Put the paper mask on your face, covering your mouth. This will ensure you don't inhale any damaging fumes.

2. Wear rubber gloves throughout the process to protect your skin.

3. Mix 7/8 quart of vodka, 1 tablespoon propylene glycol and 1 tablespoon glycerine together in a bowl. Continue mixing until the liquid is clear.

4. Scoop one to two inches of powdered pigment into the blender. You can use more or less pigment powder, depending on the shade of ink you wish to achieve.

5. Add the vodka mixture into the blender.

6. Blend on a light speed for 10 to 15 minutes.

7. Increase the blending speed to a medium level and continue blending for 1 hour. Take a short break from blending every 15 minutes.

8. Use a baster to remove ink from the blender and put it into the ink bottles.

9. Store the ink away in a cool, dark place until it is ready to be used. Sunlight and some indoor lighting can change the shade of the inks.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't wish to use vodka, you may use witch hazel instead.

• You can find dry pigments at tattoo supply stores as well as online.

• Keep tattoo ink away from heat. It can lead to altered coloring.