Our Best Temporary Tattoo Technique

by Justine Neves December 13, 2019

I don't know about you, but bought those 50 cent and dollar tattoos from the dispensers at the grocery store, arcade or bowling alley when I was a kid. Today, I have dozens of tattoos but temporary tattoos are still such a fun thing to me.

That's why I made my art into temporary tattoos. Also, I have had requests from numerous people to get my artwork tattooed on them or they asked me to tattoo it on them myself. Now I offer a sort of trial or novel experience of my art on the body.

As far as application goes, everyone likely knows generally how to do it. However, I thought I should share what I think is the best process and tips for these temporary tats.

First and most obvious! You have chosen a temporary tattoo you want:

Trim the excess area around the illustration leaving only a little outside the lines. We have found that reduces any shiney area outside of the drawing you may not want:

Use scissors to trim the extra white from the tattoo

Remove the film, place the tattoo in the desired location face down, then soak with water with a sponge, rag or directly under a faucet. It is best to press down as you moisten and soak thoroughly:

Use a wet sponge, rag or apply low pressure water to the back of the tattoo

Once fully soaked and ready, the back should be able to slide smoothly to the side revealing the tattoo. If any area of the tattoo is not sticking, apply more water and pressure to the area until ready:

Slide back of the tattoo to the side once it is ready

That's it! The temporary tattoo should air-dry quickly and you are good to go:

Now you have a unique temporary body art

**Temporary tattoos can last anywhere from a few days to a week depending on placement. Comes off naturally, can be expedited with soap and water.