Fitting Large Scale Tattoo Stencils To The Body

[39:18] “I’ve cut down on so much prep time. Most of it now is figuring out what needles you’re gonna use and the drawing. I sweep, I mop, I print the stencil and it’s already on the wall waiting for the client.”

— Andre Malcolm

Even with the advancements in stencil technology, such as Andre's Large format printer and stencil gels, applying large-scale designs on the human body can still be challenging and intimidating. Paper was not originally intended for this purpose, making it tricky to handle. Here are a couple of noteworthy approaches taken by Andre and Jake.

Jake mentions the option of printing multiple 8.5x11 sheets of stencil paper and puzzle piecing the design together using tape. While this method can be time-consuming and cumbersome, it proves effective for covering larger areas like the back or torso, especially during the outline or greyline phase. On the other hand, Andre utilizes a large format printer that can produce a full body stencil within minutes. Although this may involve higher upfront costs with machinery and paper, it significantly saves time in the long run. However, Andre's method of application applies to both cases.

When applying such monsterous stencils, it is advisable to make relief cuts in the paper beforehand. This allows the paper to crinkle and buckle less as it is pushed against the body. In the clip, Andre explains and briefly demonstrates his method of setting the stencil in one shot, streamlining the application process.

While applying and managing large-scale stencils can present challenges, utilizing the right techniques and tools can greatly facilitate the process, ensuring smoother and more efficient tattooing experiences.

Thanks for reading!

Watch the Full Episode:

Full Back Stencils On One Sheet?! | Andre Malcolm | EP 235