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How to Tag Graffiti Letters

Developing a unique style as a graffiti artist has a lot to do with how you create your letters. It may take a while for your tag evolve from a scribble to a style where each character flows seamlessly to the next. A good tag shouldn't look rushed. The writer needs to learn how to expertly manipulate their tools to create a crisp, clean tag that stands out from the rest.

Things You'll Need

  • Ink/paint marker
  • Paper/black book (sketchbook)
  • Spray paint
  • Caps (skinny nozzle)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Practice your letterforms with marker on paper. Write out the whole alphabet, not just your tag name. For a challenge, randomly choose words from the dictionary and use your handstyle to write them out.

    • 2

      Choose a can of spray paint and fit it with a new cap. Skinny caps are most commonly used for tagging, though you can eventually use fat caps (good for creating flares) as you gain better can control.

    • 3

      Hold the can three or four inches from the surface you're tagging, with the nozzle pointed straight ahead.

    • 4

      Use quick, single strokes to recreate the letterforms that you practiced on paper. Focus on one letter at a time. Don't worry about connecting letters at first.

    • 5

      Keep practicing until you achieve clean lines on all of your letters.

    • 6

      Start connecting the letters in your tag until the characters become a single entity.

    • 7

      Embellish letters with crooked or flared tails, but only use these devices if it enhances the tag.

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