FAQs
What does "single-needle" mean?
This means I use only one needle to render my tattoos.
I’m sure you’ve already heard of the term “fine-line” tattoos. Any tattoo rendered with needle groupings of one, three or (debatably)five needles is considered thin enough to be a fine-line tattoo. So single-needle being just one needle, is the smallest and thinnest possible needle grouping within the fine-line category.
This whole video will really help you understand single-needle.
Why does single-needle tattoos fade so easily?
This is both true AND false.
TRUE because they are usually not executed properly so they heal poorly and fade.
FALSE because if executed properly, it will heal well and last.
Single-needle, let alone fine-line, is relatively new in the history of modern tattooing. So because it is new, it’s only natural that mistakes are happening and majority are still inexperienced with the single-needle and fine-line style.
I made this video specifically to clear up this misconception
And here is part 2 of that video.
Why is it so easy to mess up single-needle?
It’s just the nature of working with a finer tool. Painting with a finer brush is more difficult than painting with a bigger brush. Drawing, carving, etching, or any other medium you can think of.
Thinner needle groupings behave differently, requires more control to handle and pierces the skin easier compared to larger needle groupings. It took me time to get used to as well.
check this video out for more info on this.
I see many new tattooers underestimating single-needle. Build a strong foundation and a steadier hand first and then safely attempt it.
this video offers some guidance on this.
What does “black” or “no greywash” mean?
This means I use only an 100% black ink formula to render all the black and grey tones in my tattoos. It’s just my preference.
For black and grey tattoos, it is common practice to use greywash ink formula to achieve the light grey tones instead of using an 100% black ink formula.
Greywash formulas are a mixture of black ink and a diluting medium. They come in percentages or ratios(20/80, 40/60, 60/40, 80/20, etc). And 100% black ink is straight black ink formula.
This part of the video will give you a better understanding.
Is it possible to achieve grey tones with only black ink?
Yes!
With just changes in needle depth, stroke speed, and layering, I’m able to achieve the entire grey gradient with only 100% black ink formula and the use of single-needle.
Watch this part of the video to get a better understanding.
How long have you been tattooing?
I started tattooing around 2013 when I was 21 years old.
Why are your tattoos so expensive?
It takes a lot of time to master fine-line and especially single-needle tattooing. So it is difficult to come by if you’re shopping for this style and quality of tattoo(though prices may go down as more and more skilled tattoo artists emerge). The trendiness also plays a role.
Personally, I have an extensive background in art, specifically drawing. I’ve been tattooing for a number of years now so I am very experienced. I also organize my life around my career so that I can hopefully provide my best service each time. My healed portfolio volume also highlights my consistency.
All that and I still charge lower rates than many other well established fine-line artists out there!
I have more than enough leverage to price what I currently price I’d say.
When will your books open?
I like to book 3 months ahead at most. I usually open up books again around the beginning of the 3rd month that was booked.
Let’s say it’s the beginning of January right now. I’ll keep books open until January, February and March is full. When they are full, I’ll keep books closed until it approaches the beginning of March. Then I will open up books again for April, May and June. And repeat.
Why did you decline my tattoo request?
If I declined your emailed tattoo request, it is most likely due to my lack of interest in it. It is important that I do this!
I prefer to accept projects that I will be genuinely excited for so that I can give my 100%. Think of it this way; the best tasting food is always made with love.
The reasons may be that I’ve done the design too many times, it’s not my style, it doesn’t challenge me or I’m simply not interested. I’m always changing so one season I may decline it but another season I may want to attempt it. It’s difficult to say exactly so I guess the best way is to email and see how I respond.
I also typically decline cover-ups or add-ons to existing tattoos that are not done by me. But you can try.
What tattoo equipment do you use?
My machine is currently the Sol Nova Unlimited 3.5.
My preferred needle is the Kwadron/KwadronPMU 12-01RL(35 single needle) long taper.
This video shows and explains it all.
What stencil equipment do you use?
An Epson printer loaded with InkJet Stencils ink and transparent paper.
Epson 3170, Epson 3000 series or Epson 1170 all work. These are the ones that I know of. I’m sure there’s more out there that I’m not aware of.
Watch this full tutorial on how I set mine up.