How to Make Temporary Tattoos
Temporary tattoos are having a major moment! From music festivals to birthday parties, these fun body art pieces let you express yourself without a lifetime commitment. Whether you want to test out a design before getting permanent ink, create matching tattoos for your friends, or just add some flair to your look, a custom temporary tattoo is the perfect solution.
In this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know about making your temporary tattoos at home. You’ll learn different methods, application tips, and how to make them last longer. Ready to become a temporary tattoo pro?
What is a Temporary Tattoo?
A temporary tattoo is a design that sits on top of your skin instead of being permanently injected into it. Unlike real tattoos that use needles and permanent ink, these designs use safe materials that wash off over time.
There are several types of temporary tattoos you can choose from, and they include:
- The Sticker Tattoos
- The Henna Tattoos
- Airbrush Tattoos
- DIY Marker Tattoos
They’re also great for people who can’t get real tattoos due to age, job requirements, or personal preferences.
How to Draw a Temporary Tattoo
There are a couple of ways to draw a temporary tattoo; all you need to do is choose the most convenient method for you.
Eyeliner or Skin-Safe Marker Method
This is one of the easiest ways to create your own design. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Eyeliner pencil or skin-safe markers
- Baby powder
- Hairspray
- Cotton swabs
Follow the instructions below to draw a temporary tattoo with an eyeliner of skin-safe marker:
- Plan your design on paper first.
- Clean the area where you want the tattoo and make sure it’s completely dry.
- Draw your design slowly and carefully with your eyeliner or marker.
- Once you’re happy with the outcome, lightly dust the area with baby powder.
- Apply hairspray over the tattoo to seal it.
This method typically lasts about a day, making it perfect for parties or events.
Temporary Tattoo Paper Method
For more professional-looking results, you can make your own transfer tattoos using water slide paper. This special paper has an adhesive backing that lets you print designs and transfer them to your skin.
For the temporary tattoo paper method, follow the simple instructions below:
- Create or find a design on the internet.
- Remember that the image will be reversed when you apply it, so flip the text backwards in your design.
- Using an Inkjet printer, design your art on the water slide paper.
- Cut out your design with scissors.
To get your desired result, face the tattoo down on a clean and dry skin. Then, cover it with a wet cloth and hold down for 30 seconds. Slowly take away the paper backing, and your design should transfer to your skin.
These tattoos can last up to a week and look very realistic.
Henna Method
Henna creates beautiful, long-lasting custom temporary tattoo designs that can last up to two weeks. You can buy henna paste at beauty stores or make your own using henna powder and water.
Below are the steps involved in drawing a Henna temporary tattoo:
- Apply the thick paste to your skin in your desired pattern using a small squeeze bottle or cone.
- Let it dry completely – this usually takes 2-4 hours.
- Once dry, gently scrape off the paste.
Henna is perfect for special occasions like weddings or festivals, where you want customized temporary tattoo designs that last longer.
Perfume & Paper Transfer Method
This trendy method uses regular paper and perfume to transfer printed designs. All you have to do is:
- Print your design on regular paper using an inkjet printer.
- Leave the ink to dry and spray perfume over the printed design.
- Quickly press the wet paper face-down onto your clean skin and hold firmly for 30-60 seconds.
- Peel away the paper carefully.
How to Put On a Temporary Tattoo
Proper application is key to getting great results with any temporary tattoo method. The first step to doing it right is to prep your skin by:
- washing the skin surface with soap and water
- drying it completely
- If the area is hairy, consider shaving it for better adhesion.
However, the instructions below will guide you to put on a temporary customized sticker tattoo properly:
- Clear protective film.
- Place the tattoo face down on your skin.
- Use a damp cloth or sponge to wet the back of the paper thoroughly.
- Press down and hold for 30 seconds, ensuring the paper remains stationary.
- Slowly peel away one corner of the backing paper.
- If the design isn’t transferring completely, press back down and wait longer.
Once applied, let the tattoo dry completely before touching it. This usually takes 5-10 minutes.
How to Take Off Temporary Tattoos
To remove temporary tattoos, be gentle so as not to irritate your skin. Here are the best methods:
Baby Oil Method: Apply baby oil to the tattoo for a few minutes. Then, rub in circular motions.
Makeup Remover: Any oil-based makeup remover works well. Just apply it, wait a minute, and scrub with a cloth.
For Stubborn Tattoos: If the tattoo won’t come off easily, try using a bit of rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball. Always moisturize the area afterward since alcohol can dry out your skin.
Avoid using harsh materials to remove tattoos, as this can damage your skin.
How Long Do Temporary Tattoos Last?
The lifespan of your temporary tattoo depends on the type and how you care for it:
Marker/Eyeliner Tattoos: These usually last 1-2 days with proper sealing.
Transfer/Sticker Tattoos: Expect 3-7 days, depending on the quality and placement.
Henna Tattoos: These can last 1-3 weeks as they stain your skin.
Airbrush Tattoos: Professional ones can last 5-7 days.
Several factors affect how long your tattoo will last:
Skin Type: Oily skin tends to break down tattoos faster than dry skin.
Placement: Areas that get a lot of friction (hands, feet, joints) wear off faster.
Water Exposure: Frequent showering, swimming, or sweating shortens tattoo life.
Skin Care: Using exfoliating products or scrubbing will remove tattoos faster.
How to Make Temporary Tattoos Last Longer
Want to extend the life of your long-lasting custom temporary tattoo? Try these tips:
Pre-Application Prep: Exfoliate the area gently 24 hours before applying your tattoo. This removes dead skin cells so the tattoo adheres better.
Sealing Techniques: After applying any drawn-on tattoo, dust lightly with baby powder or setting powder, then spray with hairspray. This creates a protective barrier that helps the design last longer.
Smart Placement: Choose areas that don’t get a lot of friction or stretching. Inner wrists, ankles, or shoulder blades are good choices.
Gentle Care: When showering, try to avoid scrubbing the tattooed area directly. Pat it dry instead of rubbing with a towel. Use gentle, moisturizing soap rather than harsh cleansers.
Where Can I Buy Temporary Tattoos?
While making your own tattoos is fun, sometimes you want professional-quality designs or need custom temporary tattoo bulk orders for events. That’s where custom printing services come in handy.
FastPrintStar offers high-quality custom temporary tattoo services that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you need custom temporary tattoo designs for a wedding, corporate event, sports team, or just want to order custom temporary tattoo pieces with your own artwork, they’ve got you covered.
Their service lets you upload your own designs or work with their team to create something unique. You can order custom temporary tattoo sheets in small quantities or get custom temporary tattoo bulk orders for larger events. The tattoos are made with skin-safe materials and professional printing techniques that ensure vibrant colors and sharp details.
What makes FastPrintStar special is its attention to quality and customer service. They use premium materials that last longer than typical store-bought temporary tattoos, and their customized temporary tattoo options mean you can create exactly what you envision. Plus, their quick turnaround times make them perfect for last-minute events or parties.
Conclusion
Making temporary tattoos at home is easier than you might think! Whether you choose the simple eyeliner method for a quick design, try the transfer paper technique for professional results, or go with henna for longer-lasting art, you now have all the tools you need to create amazing temporary body art.
Remember to always prioritize skin safety by using appropriate materials and gentle removal methods. Start with simple designs while you learn the techniques, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and styles.
Temporary tattoos are a fantastic way to express your creativity, test out potential permanent tattoo ideas, or just have fun with your look. So grab your supplies and start creating – your next temporary masterpiece is waiting!
