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Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Make Tattoo Ink

Many tattoo artists can design and create tattoos; fewer also makes their own inks. Knowing how to make your own ink can be useful to the do-it-yourselfer or in gauging the experience level and knowledge of tattoo artists who are being considered for body art.

Things You'll Need

  • Face mask
  • Gloves
  • Dry pigment
  • Vodka, Listerine, witch hazel or distilled water
  • Medical grade glycerine
  • Propylene glycol
  • Blender and/or mason jars
  • Safety equipment
  • Sterile ink bottles
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sterilize the tools by washing and drying them thoroughly. Soak them in sterilization liquid, such as sterilizing alcohol for 1 minute. Wear a paper mask and gloves.

    • 2

      Mix 7/8 quart of vodka, 1 tbsp. of glycerine and 1 tbsp. of propylene glycol until the mixture is clear.

    • 3

      Add 1 to 2 inches of powdered pigment and stir in enough liquid from Step 2 to create a slurry in a blender or jar that fits on a blender,

    • 4

      Blend the slurry on a low speed for about 15 minutes, then on a medium speed for an hour. If you are using a jar that fits on a blender, release pressure buildup every 15 minutes.

    • 5

      Pour the ink through a funnel into ink bottles or use a baster to siphon the ink into the ink bottles. Also add a sterile marble or glass bead into each bottle to help with mixing.

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