Attach the desired shading needles to the tip of a tattoo machine.
Dip the needles into gray wash ink to create a solid gray shade. If you want a lighter shade, dip the inked needle into sterile water.
Tilt the tattoo machine so the needles are at an angle when they come in contact with the skin.
Press the foot switch lightly to bring the tattoo gun to life and sweep the needles across the skin in a brushing motion. The motion is key to creating a fading effect.
Squirt alcohol solution onto a clean paper towel and wipe the area before dipping the needle into more ink and continuing the tattoo.