Levhen Knysh / Tattoo Blog https://levgentattoo.com en https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/ab8vaepxk1-there-is-a-first-post-headline https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/1fkuuef291-title-of-the-second-sample-post https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/cpxl73o4d1-the-third-title-for-the-post Color Realism × Graffiti Tattoo Collaboration https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/color-realism-graffiti-tattoo-collaboration https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/color-realism-graffiti-tattoo-collaboration?amp=true Wed, 19 Nov 2025 22:26:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Collaboration

Color Realism × Graffiti Tattoo Collaboration

Levgen & IM_tattoo Full Chest Piece

An epic tattoo collaboration with the incredibly talented IM_tattoo from Czech Republic. In this video, we combine two completely different tattoo styles, realism and graffiti-inspired graphic design to create one powerful chest piece.
]]> What can Europe's largest tattoo shop teach us? https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/lessons-from-europes-largest-tattoo-shop https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/lessons-from-europes-largest-tattoo-shop?amp=true Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:01:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Tattoo travel

What can Europe's largest tattoo shop teach us?

Scale Matters

Have you ever wondered if there’s a limit to how big a tattoo studio can get? We’re used to cozy shops with 5–8 artists, where every inch of space counts, and the hum of the machines and the chatter of customers blend into a single, continuous din. It seems like that’s the industry standard. But what if I told you that there’s a project in Berlin that’s shattering all conventional notions of a studio’s scale and business model?
I’m currently in Germany, and today I want to talk about how to transform a massive 1,000-square-meter workshop into a truly “homey” and cozy space. For those of us working in the U.S., the issue of optimizing space and managing a large team is always a pressing concern. We’re often afraid to expand because we’re afraid of losing the atmosphere and quality. But the experience of the team at Der Grimm shows that the rules of the game can be changed.

Why Should You Check this Out?

Der Grimm is a massive studio that houses 25 resident artists. Just imagine: even when 5 or 6 artists are working here at the same time, it feels like the place is empty. In this episode, I took a look inside to get a sense of what goes on behind the scenes:
  • The Architecture of Comfort: How to effectively zone a space so that even with 25 stylists on the floor, the client feels like they’re in a private setting rather than at a train station.
  • Services: From an in-house photo studio and a full-service bar to a professional merch printing shop, all located right in the same building.
  • A Magnet for Legends: Why top global artists flock here every month for guest spots, and how this impacts the venue’s reputation.
This video is a breath of fresh air for anyone looking for ideas on how to organize workspaces, design waiting areas, and create a supportive environment for top-tier artists.
If you’re planning to expand your business or simply want to see what one of the world’s most unique tattoo shops looks like from the inside, I invite you to join this tour. Trust me, after what you see, your perspective on designing your own studio will never be the same.
]]> How to Design Black & Grey Tattoos in Procreate https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/how-to-design-black-grey-tattoos-procreate https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/how-to-design-black-grey-tattoos-procreate?amp=true Fri, 19 Apr 2024 23:17:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Education

How to Design Black & Grey Tattoos in Procreate

Have you ever caught yourself scrolling through references for hours, only to find that when it’s time to transfer the design to skin, the image falls apart because it doesn't account for anatomy? In realism, this is a fatal mistake. We aren't working on a flat piece of paper—we are working on a living, contoured body where every muscle movement can either kill your design or make it come alive.
Hey everyone! Today I want to share my internal process for creating designs in Procreate. Many artists grab their stylus the second a client explains an idea, but I believe in a different approach. Before I even open my iPad, I do a "mental drawing"—I imagine the composition in my head for a few hours or even days. This saves a massive amount of time and allows me to hunt for the exact references that will perfectly fit the vision.

What we’re focusing on in this tutorial:

In this new video, I’m breaking down the step-by-step process of creating a high-contrast Black & Grey design for a shoulder piece. Here are a few key points we’ll cover:
  • Dynamic vs. Static: How to position elements, like a portrait and filigree, so they move against each other to add energy to the tattoo.
  • Anatomical Flow: Why it’s crucial to follow the lines of the deltoid and bicep so the design "wraps" the arm rather than breaking its structure.
  • The Magic of Masks in Procreate: My favorite tool. Forget the eraser—I’ll show you how to use Layer Masks to flexibly manage detail visibility and bring back deleted parts at any moment.
  • Mastering Depth and Light: How to use Curves and black overlays to "pop" the volume and make the filigree look like part of the portrait, not just a sticker slapped on top.
I’m convinced that in realism, contrast is everything. Since we rarely use outlines, it’s the strategic distribution of light and deep blacks that determines how your work will hold up over time.
Want to see how two flat images evolve into a massive, 3D-flowing project? Jump into the video—I’m covering everything from tool basics to the final precision cleaning.
]]> Tattoo guest spot in San Diego https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-guest-spot-san-diego https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-guest-spot-san-diego?amp=true Sun, 14 Jul 2024 23:35:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Tattoo travel

Tattoo guest spot in San Diego

Tattooing in San Diego and the World's Oldest McDonald's

Have you ever wondered if the "San Diego vibe" is actually real, or just something we see in movies? Between the historic landmarks and the hyper-talented creative communities, there is an energy here that you just won't find anywhere else. For a tattoo artist, a guest spot in Southern California isn't just about the work—it's about the inspiration you find on the way there.
Hey guys! I’m currently on the road to San Diego for a new guest spot, and I’ve realized that some traditions are worth keeping. Whether it’s stopping at a piece of culinary history or discovering how local shops handle the "grind," California always has a way of surprising me.

What’s inside this episode:

In this video, I’m taking you along for the ride as I explore the roots of SoCal culture and settle into one of the coolest young shops in San Diego. Here is a glimpse of what we’re diving into:
  • A Taste of 1953: I stopped at the oldest McDonald's in the world. We’re checking out their museum, seeing the original multi-mixers, and finding out if a Big Mac actually tastes better when it’s made at a historic landmark.
  • The Suavecito Experience: I visited the home of the world-famous brand Suavecito. If you’re into Mexican-inspired culture and professional grooming, you need to see their flagship store and the incredible merch they’re putting out.
  • Life at Imaki Tattoo: I’m guest spotting at Imaki Tattoo, a shop filled with insane talent—from Japanese traditional to new school and anime.
  • The Best $20 I Ever Spent: I’m revealing a unique shop tradition where a small tip to the manager means you never have to clean your workstation or prep your own setup. It’s a game-changer for focus and workflow.
Being surrounded by artists who still draw everything by hand is the ultimate wake-up call for any creator. I even managed to get some new ink myself while I was there.
Ready to see how San Diego does it differently? Hit play and let's get inspired.
]]> Guest spot in San Francisco https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/guest-spot-in-san-francisco https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/guest-spot-in-san-francisco?amp=true Thu, 17 Apr 2025 22:58:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Tattoo travel

Guest spot in San Francisco

San Francisco is legendary for its steep hills, iconic landmarks, and a price tag that can make even a successful artist do a double-take. For a traveling tattooer, the challenge isn't just about the ink—it's about finding the balance between professional growth and the logistical maze of one of the most expensive cities in America.
I just wrapped up a guest spot in the Bay Area, and I wanted to pull back the curtain on how I manage the "business" side of traveling. From dodging $3,000-a-week Airbnb's to finding the perfect loft-style shop, San Francisco taught me that strategy is just as important as your portfolio.

Strategic Moves: Survival Tips for the Bay

Staying in San Francisco requires a bit of "insider" planning to keep your overhead low and your focus on the work:
  • The Hotel Hack: I skipped the "crazy expensive" $2,000–$3,000 weekly Airbnb rentals and opted for a small, clean hotel outside the city for about $100 a night.
  • Logistics Advantage: By staying 20–25 minutes away, I secured free parking and avoided the nightmare of downtown traffic. Plus, having a balcony for fresh air is a non-negotiable for my morning routine.
  • The "Athlete" Artist: To combat the back pain that comes with our sitting-heavy job, I traded the classic gym for Rumble Boxing. It’s a mix of CrossFit and boxing that keeps your body in "athletic condition" for long sessions.
  • Fueling the Journey: You can't visit California without hitting In-N-Out. Pro tip: If you're trying to stay healthy-ish, order the "Protein Style" burger from the secret menu—it swaps the bun for lettuce.

Loft Life: A Tour of the Studio

The shop I stayed at is tucked away in a chill, hipster-friendly neighborhood—think scooters, coffee shops, and easy parking. It’s a beautiful loft-style space with high ceilings and a very deliberate black-and-green aesthetic.
  • Professional Uniformity: Unlike the "wild market" feel of some studios, every station here is identical, featuring the same green chairs for clients and matching setups for artists.
  • Full-Service Setup: The shop manager preps your basic station every morning—alcohol, green soap, and paper towels are ready when you walk in.
  • Tech & Atmosphere: They’ve integrated a massive wall projector showing nature scenes to keep the vibe relaxed , plus a dedicated charging station for all your batteries and iPads.
This trip was a reminder that the environment you work in—and how you manage your life outside the shop—directly impacts the art you create.
]]> My first tattoo, my tattoo style, my favorite tattoo and advise https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/brandon-graves-interview-levgen-knysh https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/brandon-graves-interview-levgen-knysh?amp=true Thu, 20 Jun 2024 23:05:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Tattoo expo

My first tattoo, my tattoo style, my favorite tattoo and advise

Every one of us remembers that very first tattoo. It’s that moment where fear mixes with excitement, and your hands don’t quite understand what to do yet. My journey started almost 17 years ago, back in 2007, and it was a classic story of the time: fixing someone else’s mistakes.

How It All Began: 17 Years of Experience in One Bottle

My first client was a friend who had just come back from the military with a pretty mediocre dragon tattoo. Before it got to me, three different artists had already tried to "bring it to life," so I was actually the fourth artist in line to work on this cover-up.
The funniest part is that I was so "green" back then that I didn’t even know you could use a simple cup of water to clean your needles. Every time I needed to switch colors—from black to orange or red to yellow—I would completely change out the needle and the nose on my only coil machine. I learned from books and magazines, and I never had an official apprenticeship or traditional shop training. Everything I know today is the result of being self-taught and the occasional phone consultation with more experienced colleagues.

On Style and Philosophy

Over the years, I’ve tried everything: from Polynesia to traditional Japanese. But eventually, I found my place in what I call "Illustrative Realism". It’s the middle ground—not a flat image, but not quite hyper-realism in its purest form either.
In this new interview, we discussed a lot of personal and professional insights:
  • The Dark Side of the Craft: Why long, bold outlines in the Japanese style are my personal "version of hell," despite my love for the aesthetic.
  • Massive Projects: The story of clients from Poland whose tattoos grew from the knee all the way to the armpit, turning into full-body suits.
  • The Golden Advice: Why "no rush" is the most important rule in our industry and how crucial it is for an artist to learn to say "no" sometimes to keep enjoying the work.
Whether you’re just starting your path or looking for a way to avoid burnout in the profession, this video is for you. No hype here—just honest experience and a few "wild" stories about 24-hour sessions.
]]> Tattoo convention in capital of California https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/capitol-city-classic-tattoo-convention https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/capitol-city-classic-tattoo-convention?amp=true Wed, 16 Jul 2025 23:13:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Tattoo expo

Tattoo convention in capital of California

Sacramento is the capital of California, and I expected to see a typical metropolis with skyscrapers and crazy traffic. In reality, the city turned out to be surprisingly quiet and cozy, feeling more like a small town where everything is within reach. But we aren't here for the architecture; we’re here for the Capital City Tattoo Expo—a convention that, this time around, was almost entirely dedicated to "tradition".

Standing Out in a Sea of Tradition

When I walked into the hall, it became clear: I was the odd one out. The room was packed with American traditional, Japanese, and Chicano styles. I was likely the only artist there bringing full-color realism to the table. Surprisingly, being the outlier worked in my favor:
  • The Novelty Effect: Many attendees weren't looking for something specific, and my style became a breath of fresh air for them.
  • Visual Impact: My booth, featuring a bright orange banner and a screen showcasing my portfolio, did a great job of catching people's eyes—it’s much more effective than just asking them to find your Instagram.
  • The Result: Despite the heavy focus on traditional styles, I found a client on the very first day and finished a complex piece on the side of the knee.

Pro Tips for Tattoo Conventions

If you’re planning to hit the convention circuit in the U.S., here are a couple of insider logistical tips:
  1. Stick with the Organizer’s Hotel: I made the mistake of booking a budget studio a 7-minute drive away. It turns out the hotel the organizers offered was right next to the convention center—literally a two-minute walk—included parking, and only cost about $100 more. Always check the convention’s hotel deals; it saves a ton of energy.
  2. Affordable Booths & Supplies: A full booth here was only $500 for three days, which is a steal compared to major shows like Empire State, where prices can exceed $1,000. Plus, the package included essentials like sharps containers, sanitizers, aprons, and even a bag of supplies from sponsors.

Meeting the Legends

The best part of these events is the neighborhood. Just a few booths down from me were absolute titans of the industry: Robert Hernandez from Madrid, who keeps it classic with coil machines and natural light ; the legendary Jack Rudy; Ami James from Miami Ink ; and the incredible Derek Noble, whose work I’ve known since 2010.
The first day was incredibly productive, even with my printer acting up at the last second. There are two more days ahead, and I’m sure there will be plenty more to see.
]]> Tattoo talk #11 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-11 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-11?amp=true Thu, 17 Apr 2025 23:26:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Education

Tattoo talk #11

The life of a tattoo artist is a constant search for balance between artistic vision, technical execution, and physical endurance. Today, I want to address a few questions that come up most often for artists striving to reach the next level in realism.

Palette Secrets: Tricky Colors and How to "Tame" Them

Many people ask how many colors are necessary for a palette. In my experience, 30–35 colors are more than enough for any tattoo I do. However, there are certain pigments that are notoriously difficult and require a specific approach:
  • Magenta: This is one of the trickiest pigments. While it’s not always the easiest to work with, it is still a necessity in the palette from time to time.
  • Difficult Shades: Colors like Slime Green (from Eternal), Mint, or Caramel can be very stubborn when it comes to packing them into the skin or mixing.
  • The Solution: A difficult color isn't a reason to avoid it. You either need to find a technique that works for that specific pigment or try the same shade from a different brand.

Solid Packing: How to Stop Struggling with the Skin

If you feel like you’re "stalling" during the color packing phase, here are a few tips:
  • The Section Principle: I work in sections and try to fill out an area completely before moving on, avoiding going back over already packed skin to minimize damage.
  • Needle Combination: I often start with a 9 Soft Edge Magnum for soft blending, using water to create smooth transitions. Then, I use a Round Shader to get tight to the outlines and pack color more precisely in detailed areas.
  • The Best Way to Learn: While video tutorials help, nothing beats a one-on-one workshop. Having a professional literally guide your hand and show you how to hold the machine can make your progress skyrocket.

Back Health: Staying in the Game Long-Term

Our job is sedentary, and the back is the first thing to pay the price. I’ve been involved in sports my whole life, including eight years of dancing, which gave me a solid foundation. Here are my current rules for staying fit:
  • Consistency: I do at least two to three workouts per week, focusing on boxing, cycling, and stretching.
  • Avoid Spinal Compression: I strictly avoid heavy lifting that compresses the spine, such as deadlifts or heavy squats with a bar on the shoulders. When the bones press together under heavy weight, it leads to the kind of back problems that can end a career.
  • Maintenance: Regular stretching and a professional massage once a month are essential to relieve muscle tension and decompress the spine.
]]> Tattoo talk #10 - my every month LIVE https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-10 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-10?amp=true Thu, 25 Apr 2024 23:58:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Education

Tattoo talk #10 - my every month LIVE

When AI tools like Midjourney first hit the scene, the tattoo community was split. Many feared that artificial intelligence would replace our jobs or kill the need for human creativity. But let’s be real: a machine won't replace handmade art; it will just change the world a little bit. It's like comparing a professional camera to an iPhone—both have their place.
Today I want to discuss how modern technology is shifting the design process and why you shouldn't be afraid of the letters "AI" in your workflow.

AI as the Perfect Tool Against Clichés

I don't use AI to get a finished, ready-to-use sketch. Instead, it’s a powerful tool for sparking ideas. Here’s why it's a game-changer:
  • Breaking the Cycle: When you do the same style every day, it's easy to start using clichés. AI helps you look at a client's request from a fresh perspective.
  • Unique References: To avoid using the same stock images as everyone else, you can generate specific parts of a design through Midjourney. This ensures your collage remains truly original.
  • Visualizing the Complex: Sometimes you have a request and wonder, "How can I create this?". Putting that request into AI can give you a cool starting point to build upon.

My Evolution: From Sharpies to Procreate

Despite the rise of AI, my primary workspace is Procreate. I combine references from all over: Pinterest, Google, professional photo stocks, and even my own photography.
I’ve come a long way in this craft:
  • The Hand-Drawn Era: From 2007 until about 2014, I drew everything by hand—watercolors, pencils, and markers. If a client wanted a pocket watch or a skyline, I’d sketch it on paper before ever touching the skin.
  • Freehand Experience: For cover-ups, I used to take Sharpies and draw directly on the body. It was an incredible experience that taught me how to work with anatomy.
  • The Digital Shift: My first digital steps were on a second-generation iPad in 2013. It was slow and complicated, but it was clear that digital was the future.
Technology isn't a replacement for talent; it’s a way to free up time for what matters most—executing a high-quality piece of art on the skin.
]]> https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/440oeo2f61-copy-tattoo-talk-10-my-every-month-live Tattoo talk #9 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-9 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-9?amp=true Wed, 24 Apr 2024 00:03:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Education

Tattoo talk #9

The Art of "Readability": How to Keep Your Tattoo from Turning into a Mess in 10 Years

Have you ever seen a tattoo that looks like a dark smudge from across the room, and you have to get inches away just to figure out what it is? For me, that’s the biggest mistake in design. A tattoo should be an integral part of the body, and anyone on the street should be able to instantly understand what’s going on—whether it’s on the arm, leg, or neck.

Why Less is More for Longevity

I always stick to a core principle: it’s better to have two or three large, readable subjects than to cram ten small elements into one sleeve. Here is why:
  • Texture and Detail: It is much easier to show depth and realistic textures when you have one large subject to work with.
  • The Test of Time: In 5 or 10 years, large shapes will still look beautiful, whereas a thousand small subjects often turn into a blurry mess that loses its flow.
  • Anatomical Flow: Large-scale designs are easier to place in a way that follows the natural "flow" of your body.
I really developed this perspective while working in Poland. If you want to see masters of volume and simplified forms, check out artists like Toffi or Lukasz Smyku, or follow the Tattoo Fest convention in Krakow.

Packing Technique: Ancient Lessons and Modern Pressure

When people ask about solid color packing, I often tell them to study the Tebori technique. Watching how traditional Japanese artists use sticks to pick color gives you a deep understanding of how to manually drive pigment into the skin.
Here is how I handle the technical side:
  • Movement: When I use a round shader, I mostly use circular movements, but I am always "pushing ahead" to keep the color solid.
  • Needle Depth: I usually run the machine with the needle about halfway in and halfway out of the tip while packing.
  • The Order of Operations: I pack my darks and mid-tones first, leaving "empty islands" of skin for the lightest highlights like yellow, orange, or white. This keeps the lightest colors from getting muddied.
Always remember: even the most solid packing can't save a "shit" design. Spend your days off experimenting and creating new concepts. It’s the balance of a killer idea and flawless execution that pushes you to the next level.
I’ve posted over 60-70 in-depth tutorials and color maps on my Patreon to help you master these techniques.
]]> Tattoo talk #8 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-8 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-8?amp=true Mon, 22 Apr 2024 00:13:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Education

Tattoo talk #8

We’re used to the usual grind: promoting through social media and booking booths at standard tattoo conventions. But what if your ideal client never steps foot in a tattoo expo, yet wouldn't miss a single classic car meet? My recent experience at the Lowrider Show in Phoenix, Arizona, completely shifted my perspective on how to find a new audience.

The Tattoo Lane: New Territory at the Lowrider Show

This year, the organizers of the legendary Lowrider Show decided to introduce a "Tattoo Lane" for the first time. It was a total game-changer:
  • Cultural Synergy: The lowrider and tattoo worlds are deeply connected; most car enthusiasts there are either heavily tatted or very interested in the culture.
  • Fresh Audience: It’s an incredible opportunity to showcase your skills to people who might skip a traditional convention but are ready to get inked on the spot.
  • Specific Niche Requests: I had so many guys asking if I could do a realistic portrait of their Mustang, Camaro, or Chevy. For a realism artist, that is a gold mine.
  • Effective Marketing: Even if your booth isn't perfectly polished, the sheer volume of people stopping by for stickers and business cards is huge.
My neighbor at the show, a local artist named Vinny, was cranking out small $100 walk-ins all day—doing about 10 tattoos back-to-back. It wasn't just quick cash; it was massive exposure to a whole new crowd.

Mastering the Back-to-Back: My "Puzzle" Method

A common question I get is how to plan for a two-day session on a single project. My approach is all about clear navigation:
  1. Map Out the Zones: I plan the design like a puzzle, deciding exactly what gets finished on day one and what is left for day two.
  2. Layer Priority: I look at the composition's "stacking." For example, if a hand is in front of a face, I’ll finish the hand and fingers first, leaving the face for the next day. This keeps the workflow clean and ensures the most visible parts aren't left with "raw" edges overnight.
Don't be afraid to experiment with where you show up. Sometimes the best way to promote yourself is to step outside the industry bubble and go where the people are.
]]> Talk about tattoos #7 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-7 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-7?amp=true Sat, 20 Apr 2024 00:18:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Education

Talk about tattoos #7

Have you ever said "yes" to a client’s idea, sat down at your iPad, and realized you have absolutely no clue how to actually build it? We’ve all been there. In my mind, everything looks simple and ready to go, but translating that imagination into a high-level digital design is where the real work begins.
Today I’m opening up my process to show you how I build a composition from scratch using a few of my favorite subjects: angels, skulls, and fire.

The Blueprint: Why Manual Work Matters

A lot of artists use automatic "auto-cutout" tools to save time, but I’ve found that doing it by hand makes the design much cleaner and smoother. Depending on the complexity, a solid design usually takes me anywhere from one to three hours.
In this session, I’m focusing on a few key design elements:
  • Creating a Narrative: Placing fire between a skull and an angel to create a visual bridge between life and death.
  • Maintaining Flow: I’m looking for lines that follow the "flow" of the body—positioning the angel's face and the lines of the fire to wrap naturally around the limb.
  • Depth and Contrast: I use specific fire references I’ve collected over time, adjusting opacity and contrast to ensure the flame looks like it’s coming from behind the subject and wrapping around it.

The "Pain in the Ass" Designs

People often ask what the most complicated design I’ve ever done is. Usually, it’s not a specific image, but a specific type of project:
  • The "Blank Slate" Client: The most difficult designs happen when a client has no idea what they want. They give you one or two random pictures and say, "Come up with something.".
  • Large-Scale Ambiguity: When I’m working on a full back piece or a sleeve, the mental pressure to create something massive that the client will actually like is a real "pain in the ass.".
  • The Waiting Game: There have been times when my imagination failed me, and I spent two extra hours in the shop while the client waited, just trying to figure out how to make the design work.
At the end of the day, a great tattoo starts with a design that respects both the art and the anatomy. If you can't see the flow on the screen, you'll never see it on the skin.
]]> Talk About Tattoo - pocket watch tattoo https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-pocket-watch https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-pocket-watch?amp=true Wed, 17 Apr 2024 00:23:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Education

Talk About Tattoo - pocket watch tattoo

When you're aiming for that high-level realism, every technical choice matters—from the stroke of your machine to the exact way you approach a gradient. Today, I'm diving into the specifics of my setup and answering some of the big questions about the future of our craft.

Stroke Length: Why I Chose 4.0mm Over 3.5mm

I often get asked if it’s worth upgrading from a 3.5mm to a 4.0mm stroke. I’ve worked with both, and while 3.5mm is a bit faster, I strongly prefer 4.0mm for my style. Here’s why:
  • Solid Packing: If you want to pack color in a single pass, a longer stroke like 4.0mm or 4.2mm is much more effective.
  • Versatility: You can still do beautiful gray wash with a 4.0mm stroke; it just takes a little time to get used to the feel.
  • Technique Match: 3.5mm is great for glazing (applying thin layers one by one), but it doesn't have the same "punch" for solid saturation.

Technical Deep Dive: The Pocket Watch Design

In my latest work with pocket watch designs, I’ve been focusing on creating ultra-smooth gradients under the glass. Here is the breakdown of my technique:
  • The "One-Pass" Philosophy: I don't rush. I go slowly and use reverse movements to ensure the color is solid from the very first pass.
  • Opaque Gray Gradients: I use a mix of opaque grays (typically numbers 3 and 1) to create a full range of tones. I mix them in my caps to create a spectrum from dark gray to a very light gray mixed with white.
  • Magnum vs. Shader: I use a 7 Soft Edge Magnum for the bulk of the packing. For younger artists, I recommend leaving a small gap near the outlines with your magnum and then using a Round Shader to bring the color right up to the edge.
  • Overlapping Lines: Don't be afraid to go over your initial lines with color. If you do your lines quickly with a bit of water (like in neo-traditional work), they won't be overworked when you pack color on top.

Will AI Robots Replace Us?

People often ask if AI robots will eventually take over tattooing. My answer is: never for high-level art.
Think of it like music or film. You can stream lossless quality music on Spotify, but a live concert is a completely different experience. An AI might be able to handle small, simple designs, but a massive, unique project that flows with your anatomy will always require a human touch. Handmade tattoos are about a unique connection to the body that a printer just can't replicate.
]]> Talk about tattoo #6 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-6 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-6?amp=true Fri, 12 Apr 2024 00:26:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Education

Talk about tattoo #6

Creating a realistic portrait is always a game of priorities. Many artists get buried in the details and forget the most important parts: proportions and focus. This leads to a flat, muddy tattoo. In this breakdown, I’m digging into common composition mistakes and showing you my specific system for tattooing hair.

Composition Fails: Don't Let the Details Kill the Subject

Even a technically perfect tattoo can fail if the proportions of your elements are off. Here is what you need to watch for:
  • Object Hierarchy: Your main subject, like a face, must remain dominant.
  • Avoid Oversized Props: If a secondary element—like an ink cap—is too large, it starts to look like a hat rather than a prop, stealing focus from the face.
  • Clean Edges: Don't leave the edges of your tattoo looking rough or "cut out".
  • Support the Splash: If you use a color splash or drops, use smaller drops on the edges to support the main design and help it flow into the body.

Taming the Chaos: Step-by-Step Hair Technique

Hair, beards, and mustaches are some of the most difficult things to tattoo because references are usually chaotic. I use a "large-to-small" method to build a system:
  1. Map the Volume: I start with a Magnum to block in the main volume and shadows. This imitates the mass of the hair using whip shading or waving.
  2. Color Mixing: For natural ash-brown tones, I mix dark brown from Eternal with gray pastels (specifically #1 and #3 from the Pancho set).
  3. Texture and Detail: Once the volume is set, I switch to a Round Shader or Round Liner. This is when I show the specific "way" of the hair and add sharp elements.
  4. Manage Your Focus: Anything behind the central focal point should stay blurred. I use the Magnum for these areas to keep them soft, while keeping the central plane of the face sharp and detailed.
]]> Watch and talk about tattoos #4 - every month https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-4 https://levgentattoo.com/blog/tpost/tattoo-talk-4?amp=true Tue, 02 Apr 2024 00:34:00 +0300 Levgen Knysh Education

Watch and talk about tattoos #4 - every month

In tattooing, as in classical painting, everything is built on nuance. Beginner artists often overload their work with detail or rely too heavily on white pigment, which ultimately kills the realism. Here is how to give your work more depth and technical precision.

The Magic of Highlights: When White is Too Much

One of the biggest mistakes is using pure white everywhere you want to show light. If you look around, you'll notice that true, brilliant highlights only appear on very wet or glossy surfaces: lips, eyes, metal, glass, or skin with water on it. Regular skin doesn't actually have white highlights.
  • Natural Accents: Use colors that are close to white, but not pure white.
  • Minimalism: Leave a little room for the highlight, but don't overdo it.
  • Strategic Placement: Apply pure white pigment only where the light reflection absolutely has to be at its most intense.

Steady Hands: Training Gear and Line Technique

Solid, confident lines are the foundation of any good piece. If you struggle with shaky hands, I highly recommend using a Powerball. It is a specialized piece of sports equipment that trains the muscles in your fingers, wrist, and forearm.
  • Control: Exercising with this ball helps reduce shaking and makes drawing straight lines much easier.
  • Full-Body Movement: To get a long, straight line, don't just move your fingers—move your entire arm and elbow together.
  • Speed and Density: Don't rush; move in one direction to ensure the line is solid and reduces the need for multiple passes.

Depth and Contrast: Combining Gray Wash and Color

Lately, I’ve been using a combination of gray wash for the background and solid color for the main subjects. This creates incredible depth and a softer, more transparent look for the background elements.
  • Custom Mixes: I make my own gray wash using black pigment in different concentrations mixed with water.
  • Solid Saturation: I prefer packing solid color over gray wash rather than using "color washes," as I believe solid color holds up much better over time.
  • Clean Workflow: When wiping away excess ink, always wipe to the side to keep your fresh colors clean and prevent mudding the highlights.
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