Do you remember when you first started tattooing? When you first start anything, you're bound to make many mistakes. Tattooing is no exception. However, due to the nature of tattoos, it's important to remember that mistakes, once made, can remain permanently. This time, I'd like to share some common mistakes that many people have probably experienced! If you're just starting out or about to start, please use this as a reference.
1: Incorrect machine vibration speed
This happens when the tattoo machine moves at a speed that doesn't match your hand speed. If the machine moves too fast or your hand speed is too slow, it can cause considerable damage to the skin in a short amount of time. The biggest problem, in addition to that, is that the ink does not enter uniformly. If the drive is too fast, the needle will penetrate the same spot repeatedly.
You can adjust this by simply speeding up your hand or slowing down the machine, but it will take some time until you find the speed that's right for you. Also, many shading machines are designed to be relatively soft on the skin, so if you're having trouble, I recommend trying a shading type.
2: Incorrect pressure
Applying incorrect pressure is particularly evident when shading. If you don't penetrate the skin with the appropriate amount of force where it needs to be delicate, it will be ruined. You need to understand for yourself the right amount of force, from barely touching the skin to pushing the needle into the skin, depending on the situation. This can only be gained through experience.
3: Incorrect Grey Wash selection
While it may not happen often, choosing the wrong "grey wash" can cause increased skin redness. An incorrect grey wash selection means that whether you create your own grey wash or purchase pre-mixed ones, you're likely to have several different shades, not just one. For example, if you're doing a black and grey tattoo, you'll put black in an ink cup and three cups of grey wash, which will have different shades like light, medium, and dark.
If you can achieve the desired shade with the minimum necessary penetration, you can reduce the burden on the skin, which in turn helps prevent skin redness.
4: Skin stretching
Stretching is very important and can be key to achieving smooth shading. The degree to which ink enters uniformly seems to differ between skin that has been relaxed before treatment and skin that hasn't. If the skin is stiff, it can create patchy, weak shades. Try to perform the treatment with the skin as relaxed as possible.
Summary
All of the above are particularly evident when shading. The purpose of shading is to build up layers. You cannot create the necessary depth in one pass with the needle. The key is to start with a light color and gradually build up to darker tones. When you wipe it off, you'll have a soft gradation of shades without redness.
By mastering the basic techniques, avoiding the mistakes mentioned, and accumulating practice, the day will surely come when you can shine as a professional artist!
Reference
This article is a translation and re-edited version of this page.