Stencil making is an essential part of the tattooing trade. In earlier tattooing stencils were made from acetate or plastic sheets. Now we use thermo-fax machines with spirit or "ditto" paper. Of course there are other ways to make stencils that we will cover here.
The first type of stencil making we will cover is making a stencil from "stencil fluid". stencil fluid is simply a liquid dye that can be used to write on tracing paper. After the liquid has dried it then can be transferred to the skin.
Step 1. Stencil liquid can be used like ink. It is sold in bottles and a dip pen or technical pen can be used. For a technical pen we simply replace the normal ink in it with the stencil fluid.
Using a dip pen is self explanatory.
Step 2. Using tracing paper simply draw your design and let it dry.
Step 3. After you have drawn the design let it dry. Prepare the skin for the stencil by cleaning and shaving it. after the skin is dry again we apply a light coat of Speed Stick brand Deodorant. Be sure to wear gloves to protect both you and your client.
Step 4. Now it is time for the stencil to go onto the skin. Place the paper that you have drawn on face down onto the skin. Pat it down being careful not to smudge the design by moving the paper. wait a few seconds and then lift the stencil back off. Viola, you now have the image on the skin.
