- 1). Draw a design of your tattoo. Once you start tattooing you're pretty committed to the project, so make sure it is something you actually want to have as a permanent feature on your skin.
- 2). Transfer your design to your subject. Wash and dry the skin first. You can either draw the design directly on the skin with a fine felt tip pin, or draw it backwards on waxed paper, then trace over it with a felt pin and quickly press it against the skin.
- 3). Sharpen several bamboo reeds to a fine point, and sterilize them with an open flame. The sharper they are, the more precise they will be, and the less pressure you will need to apply to the needle. This translates into a nicer tattoo, and less irritation.
- 4). Dip a needle in your tattoo ink, and hold it loosely with your non-dominant hand. With a small wooden mallet, lightly tap the back of the needle, using your dominant hand. The needle is very sharp, so you don't have to hit too hard.
- 5). Follow the template you drew on the skin using light, frequent taps to ensure a continuous line.
- 6). Wipe away any blood as you work, so you can see what you're doing. Care for your tattoo by applying some vitamin E to the skin, and keeping it out of sun and water for a few days. Within four days your tattoo should be completely healed.
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