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How to Make Temporary Tattoos Without Paper

Contributor
By Lillian Downey
eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)
Henna
Henna
http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1006621

Making your own temporary tattoos without paper can be a great way to try out a tattoo before choosing a permanent design. They can also work well with costumes, stage productions or as a fun event at a carnival or child's party. If you have the supplies handy on a regular basis, you can even make money providing people with temporary tattoos at booths and special events. There are three common ways to make temporary tattoos without paper.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Henna Tattoo airbrush paint Tattoo airbrush machine Stencils Body paint Paint brush
  1. Step 1

    Use body paint. This is the most common way to make a temporary tattoo without using paper. Odds are you have seen this done at the face-painting booth at a party or carnival. You can paint a design you choose on the skin. This usually lasts about one to three days, depending on how much the area is handled, slept on or washed. You cannot just use any kind of paint for this tattoo. It must be a water-based paint designed specifically for use on the body.

  2. Step 2

    Use henna. Henna, or Mehndi body paint, is a long-lasting but temporary form of body art, similar to tattoos. You or someone else paints on the skin using the special henna paint. This is most often done by putting the paint in fine-tipped squeeze tubes. These designs last for a few days or a few weeks, depending on what types of paint are used, and then wear away. This is more of a skin stain than an actual tattoo.

  3. Step 3

    Make a temporary tattoo by airbrushing. You can use specially designed tattoo paint to airbrush a design on your body, using a stencil. You can do this yourself, or have someone do it for you. You will need an airbrush gun and airbrushing paint, but these purchases are well worth it if you regularly work with temporary tattoos or entertainment costuming. This usually lasts two to four days and washes off with soap and water.

Tips & Warnings
  • If you want a more long-term temporary tattoo, many traditional tattoo parlors now offer tattoos made with temporary ink. These can last a few years if well-maintained and are eventually reabsorbed into the body.
  • Never use paint on your body that hasn't been FDA approved for prolonged skin contact. Reactions or poisoning can occur.
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