January 2025 - Practice Guide

Hi there,
Since I’ll be out of town, I’m leaving this guide to help you stay on track. Remember, lining is a fundamental skill in tattooing, so be patient and consistent in your practice. Take time to find the best grip that allows you to create perfect lines in any position.

Week 1 - Lettering Practice

This week, let’s move on from straight lines and practice lettering.

• Use AP1 to create your stencil.

• Cut only one set.

• Apply the stencil to fake skin using deodorant as the transfer medium.

• Let the stencil dry for at least one hour.

• Carefully draw the outline of the letters.

• Focus on maintaining consistent speed and even depth throughout.

If you’re unsure about any step, feel free to ask the other apprentices or managers for guidance.

Feel free to practice more lettering to enhance your skills.

Week 2 - Drawing and Shading Cylinders

We’ll now work on form and shading using cylinders.

• Use AP2 to create your stencil. Use Procreate to draw outlines only.

• Transfer it onto fake skin just like last week. Let it dry for at least one hour.

• Carefully draw the outline.

• Use lines to shade the cylinder in an etching style, building up the volume and depth. Don’t worry about smooth shading for now. Just do it with lining like etching style.

Week 3 - Building Tones with Lines

This week, you’ll practice building tones and textures with lines.

• Use AP3 to create your stencil. Use Procreate to draw outlines only.

• Transfer it onto fake skin just like last week. Let it dry for at least one hour.

• Use only a small liner and 1 black ink for this exercise.

• Build up the tones carefully, paying attention to light and shadow.

In February, we’ll begin working with magnums and round shaders, as well as experimenting with different tones.

If you have any questions or need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at @genyth.nolita or @grimlandsupply

Keep practicing and stay focused. You’ve got this!