Making tattoo ink in jail is a dangerous and unsanitary process, but it is sometimes necessary for inmates who want to get tattoos. There are a number of different methods for making tattoo ink in jail, but all of them involve using materials that are readily available to inmates. In this article, we will discuss how to make tattoo ink in jail using three different methods.
The first method for making tattoo ink in jail is to use soot from a candle or lamp. To do this, inmates will hold a piece of paper or cardboard over the flame of a candle or lamp and collect the soot that accumulates on the paper. The soot can then be mixed with water or saliva to create a thick, black ink. However, this method is not recommended because the soot can contain harmful chemicals that can cause skin irritation and infection.
The second method for making tattoo ink in jail is to use pen ink. To do this, inmates will remove the ink cartridge from a pen and crush it up into a fine powder. The powder can then be mixed with water or saliva to create a black ink. This method is somewhat safer than using soot, but it is still not recommended because the ink can contain harmful chemicals.
Gathering Essential Materials
Crafting tattoo ink within the confines of a correctional facility requires ingenuity and resourcefulness. The process begins with meticulously gathering essential materials to ensure the ink’s sterility, effectiveness, and longevity. While the specific availability of materials varies among institutions, the following items are typically essential:
Soot
A primary ingredient for black tattoo ink is soot, which can be obtained by burning various organic materials. Candle wicks, newspaper scraps, and even burnt food can be carefully ignited and collected to yield a fine, black powder. Ensuring the soot’s purity is crucial, as impurities can compromise the ink’s quality and potentially lead to skin irritation or infection.
Metal Objects
Sharpened metal objects, such as needles or safety pins, serve as the instruments for applying the tattoo ink. Their tips should be meticulously sharpened and sterilized to minimize the risk of infection. In some cases, inmates may fashion crude needles from other materials like paper clips or thread.
Water and Salt
Water is essential for diluting the soot and creating a workable ink consistency. It should be as clean as possible, and if available, boiled or filtered to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination. Salt, particularly table salt, is used to enhance the ink’s stability and prevent it from smudging or fading over time.
| Material | Source |
|---|---|
| Soot | Burnt organic materials (candle wicks, newspaper, etc.) |
| Metal Objects | Sharpened needles, safety pins, or makeshift needles |
| Water | Boiled or filtered water |
| Salt | Table salt |
Sterilizing Equipment and Workspace
In an environment like jail, it’s crucial to maintain a sterile environment for tattooing to prevent infections. Here are some steps to sterilize your equipment and workspace:
1. Gather Necessary Materials
You will need:
| Items |
|---|
| Rubbing alcohol (at least 70% concentration) |
| Bleach |
| Soap |
| Water |
| Cotton balls or clean cloths |
2. Clean the Equipment
Wash all equipment, including needles, ink cups, and any other tools, thoroughly with hot soapy water. Rinse well to remove any soap residue.
3. Disinfect with Rubbing Alcohol
Soak the equipment in rubbing alcohol for at least 15 minutes to kill any remaining bacteria. Wipe down all surfaces with cotton balls or clean cloths soaked in rubbing alcohol.
4. Prepare Bleach Solution
In a separate container, mix 1 part bleach to 10 parts water to create a bleach solution.
5. Soak Equipment in Bleach Solution
Immerse the equipment in the bleach solution for 15 minutes. This step is especially important for tattoo needles, as they can harbor bloodborne pathogens.
6. Rinse with Water
After soaking, rinse all equipment thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining bleach residue.
7. Air Dry or Sterilize
Allow the equipment to air dry completely or, if possible, sterilize it using an autoclave or pressure cooker.
8. Clean the Workspace
Wipe down the workspace, including surfaces, chairs, and any other areas that have been used, with rubbing alcohol to disinfect them.
Adjusting Ink Viscosity
Ink viscosity, or thickness, is a crucial factor in successful tattooing. Too thick ink will clog the needle and make it difficult to inject into the skin, while too thin ink will spread too much and create blurry lines. The ideal viscosity can vary depending on the tattooing technique and the artist’s preference.
Methods for Adjusting Ink Viscosity
Adding Water
Adding distilled water is a simple and effective way to thin ink. Start by adding a few drops of water at a time and stir thoroughly. Test the ink’s viscosity on a piece of paper to ensure it has reached the desired consistency.
Adding Glycerin
Glycerin is a clear, viscous liquid that can be used to thicken ink. Add a small amount of glycerin at a time and stir well. Glycerin should be used cautiously, as too much can make the ink too thick and difficult to work with.
Using Mixers
Mixers, such as tattoo machine mixers or electric stirrers, can be used to evenly distribute ingredients and adjust ink viscosity. This method is particularly useful for inks that contain thicker components, such as ash or carbon.
Below is a table summarizing the effects of different additives on ink viscosity:
| Additive | Effect |
|---|---|
| Water | Thins ink |
| Glycerin | Thickens ink |
| Ink Mixer | Distributes ingredients and adjusts viscosity |
Testing Ink Viscosity
The best way to test ink viscosity is to draw a line on a piece of paper. The line should be smooth and even, without any breaks or skipping. If the ink is too thick, it will be difficult to draw a clean line. If the ink is too thin, it will spread too much and create a blurry line.
Filtering and Purifying the Ink
Once the ink has been mixed, it needs to be filtered and purified to remove any impurities or contaminants that could cause infection or damage to the skin. This can be done using a variety of methods, including:
- Cheesecloth or coffee filters: Line a funnel with cheesecloth or coffee filters and pour the ink through it. This will remove any large particles or debris.
- Activated charcoal: Add activated charcoal to the ink and stir it well. The charcoal will absorb any impurities and contaminants.
- Distillation: Distill the ink to remove any volatile solvents or other impurities. This can be done using a simple distillation setup.
- Boiling: Boil the ink for a period of time to kill any bacteria or other microorganisms that may be present.
- Sterilization: Sterilize the ink using a pressure cooker or autoclave. This will kill any remaining bacteria or microorganisms and ensure that the ink is safe to use.
- Additives: Add a small amount of rubbing alcohol or vodka to the ink to help it flow more smoothly and prevent it from fading. Some people also add a small amount of sugar or honey to the ink to help it adhere to the skin.
Once the ink has been filtered and purified, it is ready to use. However, it is important to note that homemade tattoo ink is not as safe or sterile as commercial tattoo ink. Therefore, it is important to use caution when using it and to be aware of the potential risks.
Storing and Preserving Tattoo Ink
Once you’ve created your tattoo ink, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its quality and prevent contamination. Here are some tips for storing and preserving your homemade tattoo ink:
1. Choose a Suitable Container
Store your tattoo ink in an airtight, opaque container. This will protect it from light, air, and moisture, which can cause the ink to degrade.
2. Dark, Cool Location
Store your tattoo ink in a cool, dark place. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can alter its consistency and color.
3. Keep it Clean
Always keep your tattoo ink clean. Avoid touching it with your fingers or any other contaminated materials. Use a sterile needle or syringe to draw the ink from the container.
4. Seal it Tightly
After each use, seal the container tightly to prevent air and moisture from entering. Tightly sealing will help extend the shelf life of your homemade tattoo ink.
5. Test Before Using
Before using your stored tattoo ink, always test it on a small area of the skin. This will help you ensure that the ink hasn’t degraded or become contaminated.
6. Stir Occasionally
If your tattoo ink has been stored for a while, it may have settled. Gently stir it with a sterile needle or syringe before using to ensure an even consistency.
7. Discard if Contaminated
If you notice any signs of contamination, such as mold or discoloration, discard the tattoo ink immediately. Using contaminated ink can lead to infections and other health risks.
8. Check Expiration
Depending on the ingredients used, homemade tattoo ink may have a limited shelf life. Check the expiration date and discard any ink that is past its expiration date.
Safety Precautions for Homemade Ink
Creating homemade tattoo ink in prison can be a risky endeavor, especially without proper precautions. Neglecting these measures could lead to serious health complications, such as infections, skin damage, and bloodborne diseases.
9. Hygiene and Sterilization
Maintaining a clean and sterile environment is crucial for safe tattooing. Use clean needles and equipment, and sterilize them using methods like boiling, baking, or chemical solutions. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling any tattooing materials. Clean the tattoo site before and after the procedure, and apply sterile bandages to protect the area.
| Sterilization Methods for Needles and Equipment |
|---|
| Boiling in water for 5-10 minutes |
| Baking in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes |
| Using a commercial autoclave or steam sterilizer |
| Soaking in a chemical disinfectant solution, such as bleach or rubbing alcohol |
How To Make Tattoo Ink In Jail
Making tattoo ink in jail is a common practice among inmates. While it is not something that is encouraged or condoned by the authorities, it is a reality of life in prison. There are a number of different ways to make tattoo ink in jail, but the most common method is to use soot from a burnt candle or piece of paper.
To make tattoo ink from soot, inmates simply collect the soot from a burnt candle or piece of paper and mix it with water. The resulting mixture is then used to create a tattoo. While this method is simple and effective, it is important to note that the ink can be quite toxic. Inmates who use this method often experience skin irritation and infection.
There are a number of other methods for making tattoo ink in jail. Some inmates use ink from pens or markers, while others use blood or urine. These methods are all less common than the soot method, but they can be used to create a variety of different colors of ink.
It is important to note that tattooing in jail is a dangerous activity. The equipment is often unsanitary, and the risk of infection is high. In addition, inmates who are caught tattooing can face disciplinary action from the authorities.
People Also Ask About How To Make Tattoo Ink In Jail
Can You Get Tattoo Ink In Jail?
Yes, it is possible to get tattoo ink in jail. However, it is not something that is encouraged or condoned by the authorities. Inmates who are caught tattooing can face disciplinary action.
What Do Inmates Use For Tattoo Ink?
The most common method for making tattoo ink in jail is to use soot from a burnt candle or piece of paper. Other methods include using ink from pens or markers, or even blood or urine.
Is It Safe To Get A Tattoo In Jail?
No, it is not safe to get a tattoo in jail. The equipment is often unsanitary, and the risk of infection is high. In addition, inmates who are caught tattooing can face disciplinary action from the authorities.
