Proper and properly executed shading can make or break a tattoo, let’s be perfectly honest. That is why it is essential to master the art of tattoo shading and make your tattoo designs come alive. Shading, however, doesn’t only make the tattoo look more 3D, but it also helps you cover up any mistakes made in the process of outlining.<\/p>\n
Now, considering you’re reading this article, we’ll assume you’re either a tattoo apprenticeship, or you’re simply interested to see how to tattoo shading works. Either way, you’re at the right place. In the following paragraphs, we’ll talk about the best practices and techniques used to shade a tattoo. So, without further ado, let’s get right into it!<\/p>\n
Maybe you thought we’ll start by explaining the tattoo shading techniques done during the actual tattooing, but that needs to wait. First, you need to practice tattoo shading on mediums other than your client’s skin (you’ll agree that it’s kind of inconvenient to figure out you can’t shade a tattoo properly in the middle of tattooing). So, here are a few ways you can practice the art of shading without any harmful consequences;<\/p>\n
Sure, the majority of those classes and courses require payment, so if you’re on a budget, search through YouTube; there’s a plenty of super cool, elaborate, explicatory videos about shading provided by actual, experienced (tattoo) artists.<\/p>\n
Now, for this, you will need access to an actual tattoo gun (since you probably have one as a tattoo apprentice), and fake skin. You can buy fake skin and synthetic body parts off Amazon, or you can simply buy pork belly for cheaper. Pork belly provides a sensation the most similar to human skin, plus it is super affordable.<\/p>\n
That is why you need to educate yourself on types of shader needles, when and how they’re used, the speed at which shading is lighter or darker, and the way you can achieve certain shading effects. Then, you can continue your practice and turn it into a master technique.<\/p>\n
Also Read:\u00a0How Many Needles Are There In a Tattoo Gun?<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Tattoo Shading Techniques<\/h3>\n
Considering you’re yet to learn about tattoo shading, we’ve decided to also explain the main tattoo shading techniques responsible for almost every known shading effect when it comes to tattoos. From creating 3D effects to having a tattoo appear as if it’s done by watercolors<\/a>, here are the 4 main tattoo shading techniques you need to know;<\/p>\n
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- Brush shading<\/strong> \u2013 this is a shading technique used mostly for portrait tattoos, but also for types of tattoos that require blending. To execute this shading technique, you need to use a long taper needle, which you’ll move like a pendulum, back and forth, applying ink at an angle.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Gradually, the shade will grow darker as more ink is distributed on the skin. During the shading, the tattoo gun remains in place; only the grip rocks the needle back and forth.<\/p>\n
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- Whip shading<\/strong> \u2013 this is a shading technique suitable for a bunch of different tattoo styles. However, it is deemed perfect for applying sketches and flowers due to the effect it provides, which is that of pencil drawing. To execute this shading technique you’ll need a 3-round liner needle, but you can also settle with the needle you prefer to have at disposal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
In order to achieve whip shading, you need to make a quick, curve movement, releasing the needle pressure as the motion reaches the end. This will ensure more pigment is released at the curve, and the tip will appear lighter.<\/p>\n
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- Stipple shading<\/strong> \u2013 this shading technique is used specifically to create dotted lines (for different tattoo styles, of course). For this shading technique, you’ll use a 3 round liner needle with a long taper. Now, the way to execute this shading technique is to either use the whip shading or brush shading motion. Either way, your movement needs to be fast if you want the dots to be further away, or slow if you want to pack in the dots close to each other.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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