How can I use a thermal copier to transfer my drawings?

A stencil is the most commonly used method of applying a design to the skin before tattooing. It consists of creating the design on a sheet of carbon paper and transferring it to the client's skin with a transfer fluid. The charcoal will mark the skin so that the design is reproduced on the area to be tattooed. The stencil is an important step to allow the client to visualize the final result before starting. It also allows the lines and shading to be placed so that there is a solid base from which to begin the session.

Tattoo stencil

A stencil is the most commonly used method of applying a design to the skin before tattooing. It consists of creating the design on a sheet of carbon paper and transferring it to the client's skin with a transfer fluid. The charcoal will mark the skin so that the design is reproduced on the area to be tattooed. The stencil is an important step to allow the client to visualize the final result before starting. It also allows you to place the lines and shading, so that you have a solid base from which to begin the session.

To make the stencil, you will need a hot copy deck, if you have a thermal machine, or a manual transfer deck, if you do not. These decks generally contain one sheet of paper, which is then transferred to the stencil. These sets generally contain a sheet of carbon paper and a sheet of silk on which the carbon is deposited. Thermocopy binders are used to create a stencil using a thermal copier. In this case, you place the binder in a thermal copier. There are several models on the market, from traditional ones that copy the design onto the thermocopied stencil, to the latest generation models that are actual printers connected to your computer, tablet or smartphone. (Like the Brother Bluetooth, for example). 

Thermocopiers

Thermal copiers usually accept A4 and long A4, although some can also accept A3. There are portable, battery-powered models that you can take with you when you are traveling. To make the transfer, once the pattern is on the silk sheet, you need to apply transfer gel to help the charcoal adhere to the skin, then place the stencil on the skin  and all you have to do is confirm with the client before starting the tattoo. Preparing the break with the transfer fluid is an essential step for the charcoal to hold well throughout the session. Again, do not hesitate to ask us for advice, our professional team will be able to answer your questions.