How to Make Tattoo Ink?

How to Make Tattoo Ink?

Making your own tattoo ink is easier than you might think. Not only does it save money and time, but it also allows for a personal touch when creating the perfect design. In this article, we’ll answer frequently asked questions about making tattoo ink from scratch, including what materials are needed and how to go about preparing the mixture. We’ll also provide some useful tips to make the process smoother. So let’s get started!

Way To Use Homemade Tattoo Ink

Homemade tattoo ink can be used in the same way as store-bought ink. The main difference is that it has not gone through the process of sterilization and therefore should only be used once on one person. It is not recommended to share homemade tattoo ink with anyone else.

When using homemade tattoo ink, it is important to use a clean needle and set of gloves, as you would with any other tattoo ink. The same care should be taken when sterilizing the area before and after tattooing.

To apply the homemade ink, dip your needle into the mixture, making sure it is not too wet or runny. Apply in short strokes over your stencil, adding layers until the desired color and depth are achieved. Rinse with cold water and allow to dry. [1]

Way To Use Homemade Tattoo Ink

With homemade tattoo ink, you have complete control over the color and consistency of your ink. Experiment with different mixes to get the perfect hue or saturation that works for you!

What Is Tattoo Ink Normally Made Of?

Tattoo ink is typically composed of a pigment, which gives the tattoo its color, and a carrier solution that suspends the pigment particles. Pigments are usually derived from naturally-occurring minerals or synthetically produced materials that can produce various hues when added to different carrier solutions. The most common carriers used in tattoo ink are distilled water, witch hazel, and glycerin. [2]

Effective Methods For Creating Homemade Tattoo Ink

Using A Dry Pigment

Making tattoo ink at home is not as complicated as it seems, and can be done with only a few simple items. The most popular method for making homemade tattoo ink uses dry pigment. To start, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials:

  • Dry pigment (any color of your choice);
  • Sterile distilled water;
  • A container to mix the ingredients in;
  • Small funnel;
  • Non-metallic strainer;
  • Glass or plastic bottles for storing your finished product;

To begin, add a teaspoon of dry pigment into the mixing container. Then pour the sterile distilled water into the container until it is about halfway full. Stir the pigment and water together until you get a thick paste-like consistency.

At this point, pour this mixture through the strainer into a separate container. This will remove any large chunks of dry pigment that may be present. Once all of the larger pieces have been removed, you can now funnel your ink into the glass or plastic bottles. [1]

Now, you’re ready to use your homemade tattoo ink! Make sure to store it in a cool, dark place and discard any unused ink after three months.

Using Wood Ashes

Another method of making homemade tattoo ink is by using wood ashes. To create your own, you will need the following items:

  • Wood ashes;
  • Strainer or cheesecloth;
  • Small container;
  • Sterile distilled water;
  • Glass or plastic bottles to store the finished product;

Begin by gathering some wood ashes. It is important to use untreated, natural wood ashes as opposed to those made with charcoal or BBQ briquettes. Next, pour the wood ash into a small container and then slowly add sterile distilled water until the mixture resembles a thin paste.

What Is Tattoo Ink Normally Made Of?

Strain this mixture into another container using a strainer or cheesecloth. This will help remove any large pieces of wood ash that may be present. Once all of the larger pieces have been removed, you can now funnel your ink into the glass or plastic bottles. [1]

Your homemade tattoo ink is now ready to use!

Ancient Ink

For those looking to make their own ink in the style of ancient artisans, a recipe from thousands of years ago is available. To begin, you will need the following items:

  • A mortar and pestle;
  • Gum Arabic;
  • Iron sulfate;
  • Oak gall nuts (crushed);
  • Honey;
  • Glass or plastic bottles to store the finished product;

Start by combining the gum arabic and honey in a mortar and pestle. Then, add iron sulfate and oak gall nuts until you have a thick paste-like consistency. Once this is done, funnel your ink into glass or plastic bottles, and your homemade tattoo ink is ready to use!

No matter which method you choose, making homemade tattoo ink is a fun and easy activity that can help you create beautiful art. Just remember to use sterile distilled water and store your finished product in a cool, dark place. Enjoy! [2]

Tattoo Shop Ink Mix

Although making your own tattoo ink at home is a great option, many professionals prefer to mix their own custom inks with professional-grade products. Tattoo shops typically have access to more resources than the average person. They can purchase pre-made tattoo pigments in various colors and create custom blends for clients. This allows them to match colors more precisely and achieve desired effects.

To make a professional-grade tattoo ink mix, begin by gathering the necessary items:

  • Pre-made pigment colors;
  • Sterile distilled water;
  • Non-metallic strainer;
  • Glass or plastic bottles to store the finished product;

Start by pouring a teaspoon of each pigment into a container. Then, add sterile distilled water until the container is about halfway full. Stir these ingredients together until you achieve a thick paste-like consistency before straining it through the non-metallic strainer.

Once all of the larger pieces have been removed, you can now funnel your ink into the glass or plastic bottles. Your professional-grade tattoo ink is now ready to use! Enjoy creating beautiful art with your custom blends. [2]

Making homemade tattoo ink can be an exciting and creative activity, especially if you’re looking for a unique mix of colors and effects.

Prison Ink Recipe

Prison Ink Recipe

Prison ink is a unique type of homemade tattoo ink that has been passed down through generations. It’s made using simple ingredients and provides a deep, dark black color — perfect for creating bold tattoos. To make your own prison ink, you will need the following items:

  • Pencil lead;
  • Baby oil or cooking grease;
  • Sorbitol;
  • Plastic bag to store the finished product;

Start by crushing the pencil lead into a powder using a mortar and pestle. Then, add equal parts of baby oil or cooking grease and sorbitol until you have a thick paste-like consistency. Once you’ve mixed all of your ingredients, funnel your ink into a plastic bag and store it in a cool, dark place. [3]

Blackberry Ink Recipe

Blackberry ink is a great homemade tattoo ink option if you’re looking to create beautiful colors with natural ingredients. To make your own blackberry ink, you will need the following items:

  • Freshly picked blackberries;
  • Water;
  • Cheesecloth or strainer;
  • Glass or plastic bottles to store the finished product;

Start by crushing the freshly picked blackberries in a mortar and pestle to make a thick paste-like consistency. Then, add just enough water to thin it out until it reaches your desired texture. Once this is done, strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a strainer before funneling your ink into a glass or plastic bottle.

Your homemade blackberry ink is now ready to use! Enjoy creating beautiful art with this unique and natural option. Remember to store your finished product in a cool, dark place. [4]

Prussian Blue Ink Recipe

Prussian blue ink is a popular homemade tattoo ink option that produces a deep and dark blue color. It’s often used to create bold and vibrant tattoos. To make your own Prussian blue ink, you will need the following items:

  • Prussian Blue pigment;
  • Sterile distilled water;
  • Non-metallic strainer;
  • Glass or plastic bottles to store the finished product;

Start by pouring a teaspoon of Prussian Blue pigment into a container. Then, add sterile distilled water until the container is about halfway full. Stir these ingredients together until you achieve a thick paste-like consistency before straining it through the non-metallic strainer.

Once all of the larger pieces have been removed, you can now funnel your ink into the glass or plastic bottles. Your Prussian blue ink is now ready to use! Enjoy creating bold and vibrant tattoos with this professional-grade tattoo ink mix. Store it in a cool, dark place for optimal longevity.

These are just a few of the various homemade tattoo ink recipes you can create. Whether you’re looking to achieve vibrant colors or deep and dark shades, making your own ink can be an exciting and creative activity. Enjoy creating unique tattoos with these homemade options! [4]

Brown Ink Recipe

Brown ink is a great homemade tattoo ink option if you’re looking to create beautiful tattoos with natural ingredients. To make your own brown ink, you will need the following items:

  • Ground Coffee;
  • Water;
  • Cheesecloth or strainer;
  • Glass or plastic bottles to store the finished product;

Brown Ink Recipe

Start by adding a tablespoon of ground coffee to a container. Then, add just enough water to create a thick paste-like consistency. Once this is done, strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a strainer before funneling your ink into a glass or plastic bottle. [4]

Black Permanent Ink Recipe

Black permanent ink is a popular homemade tattoo ink option that produces a deep and intense black color. To make your own black permanent ink, you will need the following items:

  • India Ink;
  • Isopropyl alcohol;
  • Non-metallic strainer;
  • Plastic bag to store the finished product;

Start by combining India Ink and isopropyl alcohol until you have a thick paste-like consistency. Once you’ve mixed all of your ingredients, strain the mixture through the non-metallic strainer before funneling it into a plastic bag. Your black permanent ink is now ready to use! Enjoy creating bold tattoos with this professional-grade mix.

Remember to store your finished product in a cool, dark place for optimal longevity. With these homemade tattoo ink recipes, you can create unique and beautiful art with natural ingredients. [4]

Risks Of Using Homemade Tattoo Ink

Making your own tattoo ink has its risks. Not only do you have to take the necessary safety precautions when dealing with hazardous materials, but also you need to make sure that the ingredients are of a high enough quality for a safe and successful tattoo.

The most common homemade tattoo inks use ingredients such as India Ink, ashes, soot, charcoal, gunpowder, and more. While these ingredients may seem harmless, they can cause allergic reactions or even result in skin infections if prepared incorrectly. There is also the risk of contamination when mixing homemade ink which can lead to complications such as rashes, boils, or even blood poisoning. [1]  

Find A Tattoo Artist

Before you start making your own tattoo ink, it is important to find a reputable tattoo artist that can provide advice and guidance. It is important to choose an experienced and licensed artist who has plenty of experience with this type of work. Make sure they have the necessary licenses and certifications in place as many states have requirements regarding proper sterilization techniques.

Finding a reputable tattoo artist will help ensure that your ink is as safe and clean as possible. It’s also important to find out about their experience with creating custom colors for tattoos, as this can make a huge difference in the outcome of your tattoo. [1]

The Difference Between Homemade And Purchase Tattoo Ink

When it comes to tattoo ink, you have two options: homemade and purchased. Homemade tattoo ink is made from natural ingredients that can be found around the house or in a health food store. This type of ink is typically more vibrant than purchased inks and can often last longer. However, homemade ink may not always meet safety regulations, and it is important to note that homemade inks may produce unpredictable and less consistent results than purchased inks.

The Difference Between Homemade And Purchase Tattoo Ink

On the other hand, purchased tattoo inks are typically more predictable and safe, as they often meet safety standards set by the government. Purchased ink can also provide a wide range of colors to choose from and is usually easier to use than homemade ink. The downside of purchased inks, however, is that they may fade more quickly and are often more expensive than homemade inks. [1]

Use Precaution

When making your own tattoo ink, it’s important to remember that the process can be dangerous if not done properly. Wear protective gloves and a face mask to prevent any contact with potentially hazardous materials such as inks, dyes, or other chemicals. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outside if possible. Before using any inks or dyes, always read their safety data sheets to make sure you understand the proper procedure for handling them. [3]


FAQ

Can I use pen ink for a tattoo?

No, pen ink is toxic and not recommended for use on the skin. It’s important to use non-toxic tattoo ink that will not cause any adverse reactions or infections within the body.

What can I use instead of tattoo ink?

There are a few different options for creating a temporary or permanent tattoo. Temporary tattoos can be created with henna, jagua, and vegetable-based inks. Permanent tattoos require the use of specialized inks that have been approved for skin contact by the FDA. These include cosmetic pigments, soluble dyes, and iron oxides.

How do you make homemade black tattoo ink?

Making homemade black tattoo ink is relatively simple and can be done with items found around the house. To make it, you’ll need rubbing alcohol, India Ink, and either a coffee filter or cheesecloth. Start by mixing 1 part rubbing alcohol with 5 parts India Ink in a bowl. Strain the mixture through the cloth or filter, and you’ll have homemade black tattoo ink.

How to make black ink?

Making black ink is a simple process that requires just three ingredients: gum arabic, water, and a large pinch of carbon black. Start by boiling 1 part gum arabic in 8 parts water until it’s completely dissolved. Once the mixture has cooled, add a pinch of carbon black and stir until it’s completely dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool and strain it through a cheesecloth or paper filter before using.

How do you make homemade ink?

Making homemade ink is a fun and simple activity that can be done with just a few ingredients. To make it, you’ll need a clear base like vodka or rubbing alcohol, plus pigments such as food coloring, coffee, tea, or berries. Start by mixing the base and pigment together in a bowl until you reach your desired color. Once you’ve achieved the desired color, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and store it in an airtight container.

Can I use eyeliner as tattoo ink?

No, eyeliner is not suitable for use as tattoo ink. It’s important to use a non-toxic ink that has been approved for skin contact by the FDA. Eyeliner contains chemicals and dyes that can cause adverse reactions or infections within the body.

How do you make homemade ink?

How do you make easy tattoo ink at home?

Making tattoo ink at home is relatively easy and can be done with just a few ingredients. To make it, you’ll need 1 part rubbing alcohol and 5 parts India Ink, plus either a coffee filter or cheesecloth for straining the mixture. Simply mix the two ingredients together in a bowl and strain it through the cloth to get homemade tattoo ink. 

How to make a permanent tattoo at home?

Making a permanent tattoo at home is not recommended, as it can be dangerous and cause infections or adverse reactions. Permanent tattoos require the use of specialized inks that have been approved for skin contact by the FDA. It’s important to seek professional help from a licensed tattoo artist if you want to get a permanent tattoo.

What’s tattoo ink made from?

Tattoo ink is made from a variety of different ingredients, depending on the type of ink used. Popular ingredients include cosmetic pigments, soluble dyes, iron oxides, and vegetable-based inks. It’s important to use a non-toxic tattoo ink that has been approved for skin contact by the FDA.

Useful Video: How to make Natural Tattoo Ink – carbon black

Conclusion

Making your own tattoo ink is a great way to customize and personalize the tattoos you create. It’s also a lot of fun to experiment with different colors and shades! However, it should be noted that this process can be very dangerous if done incorrectly. Proper sterilization of both materials and workspace is essential for safe practice. Additionally, it’s important to remember that homemade ink isn’t FDA approved and may come with a number of health risks. Do your research and take precautions before attempting this practice.

The best way to ensure a safe tattooing experience is to acquire professional-grade, pre-made inks from reputable companies instead of risking injury or infection by making your own. With the proper supplies and care, you can create beautiful and unique tattoos that will last a lifetime!

Thank you for taking the time to read this article on how to make tattoo ink. We hope it has been informative and helpful in your search for the perfect ink color and shade. Safe tattooing!


References:

  1. https://ink-match.com/insights/how-to-make-homemade-tattoo-ink/#gref
  2. https://tattify.com/how-to-make-tattoo-ink/
  3. https://womens-fashion.lovetoknow.com/tattoos-piercings/homemade-tattoo-ink-recipe
  4. https://www.thoughtco.com/easy-ink-recipes-3975972