If you can’t afford a professional tattoo or you don’t have access to a tattoo parlor, you can give yourself a tattoo at home without a tattoo gun, using the "stick-and-poke" method. This process can be dangerous. If it turns out badly, you’re left with a permanent reminder.
Legal Considerations
States regulate tattooing primarily in two ways. It’s illegal for licensed artists to tattoo in unlicensed places, like home. It’s also illegal for licensed shops to allow unlicensed people to tattoo there.
Temporary Tattoos and Preparation
If you’re considering a tattoo but you’re not ready to commit, a temporary tattoo could be a good start. Making your own temporary tattoo is easy – you likely have the supplies at home. It can be a fun family activity these days to pass time indoors.
DIY Tattoo Instructions
You can tattoo yourself at home without a gun by using the following supplies:
- Cotton thread
- Water
- Rubbing alcohol
- Non-toxic marker for drawing ideas
- Ink caps, a shallow bowl or saucer for India ink
- Reputable tattoo ink
Remember: Don’t use sewing, straight pins or safety pins. Dispose of needles safely after every use.
Working with Tattoo Artists
When asking artists to draw something for you, it’s essential to provide your own ideas and inspiration images. Artists can even take your design and add their own spin for something truly unique. So let them include their flair if you want that. The hardest part about self-tattooing is keeping your body relaxed. Each person approaches it differently, but relaxation helps.