The Best Way to Make a Tattoo Stencil

Stenciling tattoos before inking designs results in less chances of mistakes being made.

Stencil making is an important part of the tattoo trade. Stenciling a design onto skin before beginning a tattoo ensures that the design is exactly what the client wants and reduces the likelihood that the artist will make any mistakes. While in the past, tattoo stencils were traditionally made from acetate or plastic sheets, tracing or "ditto" paper is now becoming common.

Things You'll Need

• Stencil liquid
• Dip/technical pen
• Tracing/ditto paper

Instructions

1. Purchase stencil liquid and a dip or technical pen. If using a technical pen, be sure to remove the normal ink, and replace with stencil fluid.

2. Draw the desired design onto a piece of tracing or ditto paper, and let dry.

3. Clean and shave the client's skin, and let it dry. Once the skin has dried, apply a thin layer of deodorant, which enhances the transfer of the ink to the skin.

4. Place the paper face down on the desired area of the body, being sure that the ink is touching the skin. Carefully pat the paper, without smudging the design. After a few seconds, remove the paper.

References

• Professional Tattoo Supplies