How To Make Prison Tattoo Ink ⋆ binaryage.com

Inside the desolate confines of prison walls, where creativity finds expression in unconventional ways, inmates have devised ingenious methods to create their own tattoo ink. Utilizing everyday objects and readily available materials, they’ve discovered techniques that rival the vibrant hues and permanence of traditional tattoo inks. Join us as we delve into the clandestine world of prison tattooing, exploring the intricate processes and unconventional ingredients that bring forth these intricate body art creations.

One of the most common methods involves extracting ink from the soot of burnt materials. Inmates shave the charred remains of plastic utensils, such as spoons and combs, into a fine powder. This powder is then mixed with water to create a thick, black ink. Alternatively, carbon from burnt rubber or shoe soles can be employed. However, these inks tend to fade or smudge over time due to their lack of binders. To achieve a more durable result, inmates may mix the soot with petroleum jelly or toothpaste, imparting the ink with additional viscosity and longevity.

Beyond the realm of burnt materials, inmates have also ingeniously crafted inks from everyday objects. Crushed blue pen ink provides a vibrant blue hue, while crushed red M&M candies yield a surprisingly vivid red. Coffee grounds, when mixed with water, create a rich brown ink that mimics the appearance of traditional tattoo ink. The possibilities are endless, limited only by the inmates’ resourcefulness and the availability of materials within the prison environment. As their creations adorn their skin, these self-taught tattoo artists leave behind a unique testament to their artistic spirit and the resilience of the human mind.

Gathering the Necessary Materials

Creating homemade prison tattoo ink requires a specific set of ingredients that are readily available within the prison environment. Essential materials include:

Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate):

Procure baking soda from prison commissaries or obtain it from other inmates.
Fine granules allow for easier mixing and prevent clogging in the tattoo gun.
Ensure the availability of sufficient baking soda to create the desired amount of ink.

Carbon Source:

Burned paper, soot, or charcoal is frequently used as a carbon source.
Collect and grind the carbon material to achieve a fine powder.
Consider the availability and quantity required for the desired ink shade.

Water:

Boil water from the prison sink or water fountain to sterilize it.
Allow the boiled water to cool before mixing with the other ingredients.
Ensure a sufficient supply of clean water to prevent contamination.

Material	Source	Preparation
Baking Soda	Commissary, other inmates	Fine granules
Carbon Source	Burned paper, soot, charcoal	Fine powder
Water	Boiled from sink or fountain	Sterilized, cooled

Sterilizing the Burned Charcoal

After your charcoal has been burned, it’s important to sterilize it before using it to make tattoo ink. This will help to prevent infection and ensure that the ink is safe to use. To sterilize the charcoal, follow these steps:

Place the burned charcoal in a glass jar or container.
Cover the charcoal with rubbing alcohol.
Stir the charcoal and alcohol together until the charcoal is completely coated.
Let the charcoal soak in the alcohol for at least 24 hours.
After 24 hours, pour the alcohol off of the charcoal.
Rinse the charcoal with hot water several times.
Allow the charcoal to dry completely before using it to make tattoo ink.

Sterilizing the Burned Charcoal with a Stovetop

If you don’t have time to wait 24 hours for the charcoal to soak, you can sterilize it using a stovetop. To do this, follow these steps:

Place the burned charcoal in a metal or glass bowl.
Cover the charcoal with water.
Bring the water to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the charcoal from the heat and let it cool.
Rinse the charcoal with hot water several times.
Allow the charcoal to dry completely before using it to make tattoo ink.

Sterilizing the Burned Charcoal with a Pressure Cooker

If you have a pressure cooker, you can use it to sterilize the burned charcoal in a matter of minutes. To do this, follow these steps:

Place the burned charcoal in a jar or container.
Add water to the jar, filling it about halfway.
Place the jar in the pressure cooker.
Close the lid of the pressure cooker and lock it into place.
Pressure cook the charcoal for 15 minutes at 15 pounds of pressure.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure cooker to cool naturally.
Remove the jar from the pressure cooker and let it cool completely.
Rinse the charcoal with hot water several times.
Allow the charcoal to dry completely before using it to make tattoo ink.

Creating the Black Ink

Creating the black ink is a process that requires a few key ingredients and careful attention to detail. Follow these steps to make your own prison tattoo ink.

1. Gather your materials

* 1 cup of soot (from a candle or fireplace)
* 1/4 cup of water
* 1/2 teaspoon of sugar

2. Mix the ingredients

* In a bowl, combine the soot, water, and sugar. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and form a paste.

3. Heat the mixture

* Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan and heat over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Remove from heat and let cool

* Once the mixture has simmered for 10 minutes, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

5. Transfer to a container

* Once the mixture has cooled, transfer it to a small container with a lid. Be sure to label the container clearly so that you don’t mistake it for something else.

Using the Tattoo Ink

Once you have created your tattoo ink, you are ready to begin tattooing. The process for using homemade tattoo ink is similar to the process for using store-bought ink, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Test the Ink First

Before you start tattooing, it is important to test the ink on a small area of skin. This will help you to make sure that the ink is not causing any irritation or allergic reactions.

Use Sterile Equipment

It is important to use sterile equipment when tattooing. This will help to prevent infection.

Clean the Skin

Before you start tattooing, clean the skin with soap and water. This will help to remove any dirt or bacteria that could cause infection.

Apply the Ink

Apply the ink to the skin using a tattoo needle. Be sure to insert the needle at a 45-degree angle and to pull the skin taut.

Wash the Tattoo

After you have finished tattooing, wash the tattoo with soap and water. This will help to remove any excess ink and to prevent infection.

Apply a Bandage

Apply a bandage to the tattoo. This will help to protect the tattoo from infection and to keep it clean.

Care for the Tattoo

Keep the tattoo clean and dry. Apply antibiotic ointment to the tattoo twice a day. Avoid picking or scratching the tattoo. The tattoo will take several weeks to heal completely.

Additional Tips for Using Homemade Tattoo Ink

Use a small amount of ink at a time.
Do not overwork the skin.
Use a sharp needle.
Be patient. Tattooing takes time.
If you are not sure how to do something, ask for help from a professional tattoo artist.
Use gloves to avoid cross-contamination.
Never share needles or ink with anyone else.
If you experience any pain, redness, or swelling, stop tattooing and consult a doctor.
If you have any concerns about the safety of homemade tattoo ink, talk to your doctor.

Sterilizing the Tattoo Equipment

Maintaining a sterile environment is crucial to prevent infection and ensure the safety of your tattoo. Follow these steps to properly sterilize your equipment:

1. Clean the Equipment with Hot Water and Soap

Thoroughly wash all tattoo equipment, including needles, tubes, and grips, with hot water and antibacterial soap. This removes dirt and any organic matter.

2. Soak in a Disinfectant Solution

Submerge the equipment in a disinfectant solution, such as bleach solution or rubbing alcohol, for the recommended duration to kill any remaining microorganisms.

3. Rinse with Sterile Water

After soaking, rinse the equipment thoroughly with sterile water to remove any residual disinfectant.

4. Air Dry

Allow the equipment to air dry completely to ensure all moisture is removed, as it can facilitate bacterial growth.

5. Sterilize with Dry Heat

Wrap the equipment in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2 hours to kill all microorganisms.

6. Autoclave

If possible, use an autoclave, a medical device that uses high pressure and steam, to sterilize the equipment. This provides the most effective and reliable sterilization.

7. Use Disposable Needles and Tubes

Whenever possible, use disposable needles and tubes to avoid the risk of contamination and cross-infection.

8. Keep the Tattoo Area Clean

Before tattooing, clean the skin thoroughly with an antiseptic solution to minimize the risk of infection.

9. Wear Gloves

Wear sterile gloves during the tattooing process to prevent the transfer of bacteria from your hands to the skin.

10. Additional Safety Measures

Measure	Purpose
Use a new, sterile needle for each tattoo	Prevents cross-infection
Dispose of used needles and tubes properly	Prevents accidental needle sticks and contamination
Keep the tattoo tools in a clean and organized workstation	Minimizes contamination and promotes a sterile environment
Regularly disinfect work surfaces and tools	Prevents the spread of bacteria
Maintain proper ventilation in the tattoo area	Reduces airborne contaminants

How To Make Prison Tattoo Ink

Prison tattoo ink is often made with unconventional materials, as inmates have limited access to traditional tattoo supplies. Here’s how to make prison tattoo ink using commonly available items:

Charred Materials

Charred materials, such as burnt wood, paper, or food, can be ground into a fine powder and mixed with water to create a black ink. However, this ink is not as stable as other methods and may fade over time.

Eye Cosmetics

Some prisoners use crushed eyeshadow, eyeliner, or mascara as tattoo ink. These cosmetics contain pigments that can be suspended in water or petroleum jelly to create a temporary tattoo. However, the safety of using these products for tattooing is questionable.

Toothpaste

White toothpaste can be used as a base for tattoo ink. Mix it with ash or dirt to create a gray or black ink. However, toothpaste is not sterilized and may cause infections if not used properly.