"Tattoos????" Topic

I've started painting some Fistful of Kung Fu figures for a friend. A couple of the Yakuza figures are shown with rather elaborate tattoos. How in God's name do folks manage to paint tattoos on 28mm minis? Sometimes I think these elaborately detailed models are actually the "3 ups"!

Nick

Other than micro brushes (single bristle), magnifying glasses, and lots of patience, give:

1) print your own waterslide or dry transfer (rub off) decals
2) ultra fine point Sharpies

a shot.

Hasslefree do a range of tattoo decals which might help.
link

Pushing it! Very few can do it properly and unless you are one, I would avoid before ruining the model.

Decals would probably be the best bet. Other than that, I guess it would have to be micron pens or micro-brushes with a very few very stiff bristles.

Doug

^^^ Maybe some kind of pen with a wash.

I agree with combatpainter; almost no one has the ability to paint a tattoo and have it look like a tattoo instead of paint.

I'd go with the Big Jim link. :)

Folks, Thanks for all the input. When I told my friend about my research findings, he said he was fine with no tattoos at all.

Hi,
I just got two sets of Hasslefree tattoo transfers and I think they should do the trick with my North Star Yakima.
If you do want to try and paint tattoos there is a good tutorial on the Bushido web site.
All the best,
George.

If you are adept at painting fine detail, eyes, banners, lace and piping etc., then tattoos can be accomplished.

That Japanese fella that combatpainter posted has been done using glazes. You basically make progressive glazes that are a mix of the tattoo colour and flesh colour; A skill all of it's self. Then ofc you need the sight, steady hand and tools to apply it, along with a good deal of confidence and courage!

I think I would be tempted to practice some plain blue woad tattoo's on something first.