While traditional line art is captivating for clients, some people may want to color their tattoos with vibrant hues. While it may seem straightforward, a poorly done color job could look faded or patchy as a result. To color pack your tattoo with ease, learn more about the process and the tools you’ll need for vivid shades on any skin color.
1. Use the Right Needles
Choosing the right needle grouping will help you fill the color of the tattoo precisely. Magnum needles (M1 or M2) are often standard for color packing, as their formation deposits ink evenly. Maintain a soft, consistent pressure to blend the colors with every pass.
2. Adjust Machine Speed
When packing color, a slower machine speed can deliver better results. While people may want to increase their speed for a quick fill, a reduced speed allows for more control and deeper ink saturation.
Work in small, deliberate circles to build up bold and even color. Moving in straight lines from side to side will deposit a pale tint of color and could even slice the skin. As a way to protect your clients while color packing your tattoo, work in a diagonal pattern across the skin.
3. Layer Gradually
Achieving vibrant colors that last requires a layered approach. Start with a light layer and build up gradually for even coverage across the tattoo. Avoid overworking the skin, which could lead to scarring or uneven ink distribution.
4. Prepare Your Ink in Advance
When working with multiple colors, you’ll need to work efficiently with all your tools at your station. Prepare your workstation ahead of time and stock up on a variety of ink container options to have all of your necessary colors close by. This allows you to quickly switch between shades without interrupting your flow or risking contamination.
5. Blend for Smooth Transitions
When working with gradients or multiple tones, focus on blending the colors for smooth transitions. Feather the edges between colors using a soft, consistent motion. This will create a natural finish that looks polished and professional.
Keep in mind that each color will appear differently depending on the undertones of the skin color. For instance, a red color may appear pinker on lighter-colored skin. If your ombre fades into the skin color, be sure to mix your ink accordingly to fully blend the color.
Once you wrap up your color packing design, be sure to sanitize, rinse, and dispose of any materials used in the process. This will keep your business clean and safe for all your clients. With this new skill under your belt, you’ll be able to meet your customer’s demands and color pack your tattoo with confidence.