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How to Print Tattoos on Transfer Paper

It may be surprising, but tattoos are as much a part of history as they are today’s pop culture. In Europe and Asia, this ancient art form may date as far back as the fourth millennium BC, as mummified bodies have been found bearing tattoos. Originally thought to have spiritual and tribal significance, tattoos have grown popular for many more reasons, including cosmetic, memorial and religious. Deciding on the perfect tattoo takes time and should not be rushed. Whether you are thinking about your first or your hundredth tattoo, testing it out with a transfer first is a vital step to getting it right.

Things You'll Need

  • Thermographic transfer paper or Inkjet temporary tattoo paper
  • Ball point pen or hard lead pencil
  • Finished tattoo design
  • Tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose your tattoo design. If the design is hand drawn, scan the drawing to a computer.

    • 2

      Insert the temporary tattoo paper so the glossy side of the paper is the side that will be printed on. Print the tattoo and apply it to your skin as directed by the manufacturer of the tattoo paper.

    • 3

      Use thermal tattoo transfer paper if you don't have access to a printer. Place the paper on a smooth, thick surface with the paper's white side facing up; throw away the milky white tissue layer of the thermal transfer paper. Tape the transfer paper to the surface, and then place the sheet of paper with the tattoo design on top of the transfer paper and tape it into place. Both sheets should now be secure, with the design on top of the transfer paper.

    • 4

      Trace over the tattoo design on the same sheet it’s printed on. Use a ball point pen or hard lead pencil and apply hard, even pressure so the design transfers completely. Remove the tape on both the tattoo design and the thermal transfer paper. Your design is ready to apply, following the directions that came with your transfer paper.

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