We’re here to shed some light on “freehand tattooing.” In today’s age, tattoos have taken more of an artistic route. Gone are most of the dark and seedy street street shops. We’re seeing true artists master the craft of tattoo. Custom tattooing and freehand work has become the true definition of a “good shop.” So what exactly is freehand tattooing and how does it happen? We are here to show you the process of drawing on the body and designing custom tattoos. From Sharpies to Skin freehand tattoo creation is an extraordinary art form.

A freehand tattoo is drawn on the client and then tattooed. We sketch directly on the skin with markers instead of transferring a stencil. This technique can help with the natural flow and shape of the body. This is the best way to take on curvy or angled areas. Also, when a client wants to add to an existing tattoo, the new tattoo can be easily tailored to the empty space.

There are many great reasons to draw directly on skin. let’s start with these.

1. You get an absolute original tattoo design. Something that no one else can have because it’s drawn directly for you.

2. It helps artists express their ideas and it flows directly on the body shape. You can use the muscles and curves to enhance the design.

3. You can see directly what the artist is creating. Together you can make decisions and additions to your piece. It’s also easier to modify and erase ideas as the design progresses.

Not all tattoos can be drawn on paper. Trusting your artist with a custom tattoo is a wonderful freedom. Designing it in markers can provide a risk-free approach to concepts before getting the permanent tattoo.

Here is the process in creating an original design on skin. First we cleanse the area to eliminate any natural body oils. Starting off with clean skin is always important and it allows the markers to flow gracefully. Next we begin the drawing with the lightest color and sketch the basic form. As the details progress we will use a variety of colored markers working from light to dark and gradually build the detail in the design. Then to end we refine it with darker tones to ready it for the tattooing.

Patience is key

Usually, this can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Sharpies, although permanent, are easily erased with tattoo soaps or alcohol. Once the official design is created, the client and artist can inspect the areas thoroughly and make any final decisions before starting the tattoo. Once everyone is excited about the creation we’re ready to go. The tattooing will lightly go over the on-skin drawing. As we tattoo the sharpie will gently wipe away leaving the client with a beautiful original new tattoo.

Going from Sharpie to skin offers a tattoo creation that is original and unique. It can compliment your body’s shape and create an amazing flow with the design. We strive to create on-skin whenever it can enhance a tattoos possibilities. Tattooing has become an incredible art form. We invite you to check out more of our work at bearcattattoo.com or stop in to say hello to the Bearcat Family.