How To Draw Skull Tattoo

Taking the plunge and getting a permanent piece of artwork can be a daunting endeavor. But, on the plus side, it does mean you can be as creative as you want when it comes to designing your artwork. Drawing a beautiful skull tattoo is a great way to express your unique style and personality. Here are some tips to help you out on your skull-tattooing journey!
Know Your Skull Anatomy
Knowing the anatomy of a skull to get the proportions just right is important when sketching a skull tattoo. This will help your tattoo look realistic and give it a finished look. Draw a basic outline of the skull and sketch in details like the eye sockets, mouth and nose in the right proportions. You can refer to anatomical references to nail down the exact proportions.
Choose the Right Skull (Type and Placement)
Once you have sketched a realistic-looking skull, next it’s time to decide which type of skull to go for. Whether it’s a skeletal, sugar skull, or evil-looking skull – the choices are limitless! When you settle on a type, decide on the placement (arm, chest, and face) etc. to make the process of tattooing easier.
Create a Unique Design
Design adds an interesting touch to your skull tattoo and makes your tattoo stand out. Incorporate different design elements like vines and leaves or surreal elements like flames and water to create a unique design. Lining is what will matter most, so practice making smooth, solid lines.
Explore Your Color Palette
When it comes to your skull tattoo, you can opt for a minimalistic design in all-black ink, or use vibrant colors, it totally up to you. Colors can bring more life to your tattoo. Try to choose the colors that have a significant meaning and help express your personality. Having the right combination of colors will make your tattoo look beautiful and unique.
Select the Right Artist
Before actually going in for the tattoo, it is important to plan and research for a suitable artist for yourself. Look for an experienced, talented, and professional tattoo artist who can bring your artistic vision to life.
Practice Your Shading
A tattoo will look amazing and realistic only when it is well shaded. To get the shading right, practice much which will make it easier to draw while tattooing. You can even use markers to color in some areas and practice the precise shading.
Be Creative and Have Fun
Drawing a skull tattoo is a creative experience and requires lots of imagination. You do not have to go with standard designs and can always come up with something creative and unique. Do not restrict yourself with ideas and let your creative spirit flow.
Remember to Think of the Future
Make sure that whatever design you opt for, it will remain timeless and not lose its relevance with time. Plan your color palette and design carefully to add style and make sure your tattoo will look as good in 10 years as it does today.
Sketch on Yourself First Before Finalizing
It is a good practice to sketch out the tattoo on your body before you go for the final design. This will let you have an idea of how the design will look on you and later you can make changes if needed.
Drawing a skull tattoo is an exciting experience, wherein you can make it as unique as you want. Just make sure to do your research and plan what kind of design and style you want. So grab your pen and sketchbook and get ready to draw your skull tattoo!

Julia is an artist and musician, who grew up in a small town in Ohio, where she played in local bands and painted murals in free time. She moved to NY City to study art at the prestigious Pratt Institute, and then relocated to LA to pursue a music career. Julia loves sharing the knowledge she gathered during the years with others.

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