Hectographic paper is one of the tools of the tattooists that you may not have heard of ... Or, at least, you have not given it so much importance.
But the truth is that paper is basic both for the client to get an idea of how the design will be and to give a guideline to the tattooist. We see it below!
What is this paper?
As we said, this type of paper is one of the most basic tools of tattoo artists and is used in the earliest stages of tattooing. Although there are many types, most are reminiscent of charcoal paper (the one that was used in prehistory to make several copies when typing) although with a use similar to the paper used in temporary tattoos.
Most hectographic papers consist of three sheets: in the first one is where the tattoo artist makes the design, the second is removed (before drawing it, this middle sheet is usually a “safe” so that nothing is traced by mistake) and the third is where the copy is made and moves to the skin, usually purple in color.
How It Works
Let's see how it works, roughly (we leave the details for the real tattoo artists) how hectographic paper works.
- Firstly, the drawing is prepared (Usually the tattoo artist does it before the client arrives to have everything ready, although it may be expected if you have to finish talking about the design).
- Then, the skin is prepared with a solution so that the ink on the tracing paper sticks well.
- Entonces the template is placed. You can usually talk about the place and check exactly where the tattoo will go at this point.
- Once you have decided the place, The tattoo artist runs a damp cloth or sponge over the stencil to allow the ink to adhere to the skin.
- And ready! Once the stencil is removed, you are ready to start tattooing.
Did you know how hectographic paper worked? Tell us in the comments!