Want to give your BJD a stronger personality and a one-of-a-kind style? A tattoo is a fantastic choice! It can instantly bestow your doll with a unique backstory and character appeal. Whether it's a cool full sleeve or a delicate, tiny symbol, you can create it yourself.

This tutorial will introduce you to the two most popular methods for creating BJD tattoos—one perfect for beginners, and another for advanced hobbyists looking for a challenge.

Method 1: Water-Slide Decals (Beginner-Friendly & Reversible)

This method is like applying an ultra-thin, hyper-realistic temporary tattoo to your doll. It's the most common and forgiving option.

What You'll Need:

• Water-Slide Decal Paper (for inkjet or laser printers): Easily found online.
• An Inkjet or Laser Printer: To print your design.
• Matte Sealant (Mr. Super Clear - MSC): Essential! Used to fix the ink and protect the tattoo.
• Scissors, a small bowl of water, and cotton swabs.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Design & Print:
   Create your desired tattoo design on a computer and print it onto the glossy side of the decal paper. It is crucial to let the ink dry completely after printing!
2. Seal the Ink:
   Secure the printed decal sheet and, in a well-ventilated area, spray a thin, even coat of matte sealant over the design. This step locks in the printer ink and prevents it from running when wet. Let the sealant dry completely.
3. Cut & Soak:
   Carefully cut out your tattoo, staying close to the edges of the design. Submerge it completely in a bowl of clean water for about 30-60 seconds. You'll notice the design film will start to separate and slide from the paper backing.
4. Transfer to the Body:
   Lightly wet the area on the doll where you want to apply the tattoo. Then, gently slide the decal from its backing paper directly onto the doll's body.
5. Adjust & Press:
   Use a wet cotton swab or your fingertip to carefully position the decal and gently press out any underlying water or air bubbles. Ensure the decal lies completely flat against the body's curves.
6. Final Seal:
   After the water-slide decal is completely dry, spray another layer of matte sealant over the area to protect it. This will make the tattoo more durable and give it a matte finish that blends seamlessly with the doll's "skin."

Method 2: Hand-Painting (Advanced & Permanent)

If you're confident in your painting skills, hand-painting can create a truly unique and artistic tattoo effect.

What You'll Need:

• High-Quality Watercolor Pencils or Acrylic Paints: Artist-grade materials are recommended.
• A Super-Fine Detail Brush (liner brush): The finer, the better!
• Matte Sealant (MSC).
• A Magic Eraser: For correcting any mistakes.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prime the Surface:
   First, you must spray a layer of matte sealant onto the clean body part to act as your "canvas." This gives the surface some "tooth" for the pigment to grab onto.
2. Sketch the Outline:
   Use a very light-colored watercolor pencil to gently sketch the tattoo's outline onto the doll. Because the color is light, mistakes can be easily removed with a magic eraser.
3. Paint the Design:
• Pencil Method: Use a sharpened watercolor pencil to draw and color the details directly onto the sealed surface. This method offers great control and is excellent for creating soft gradients.
• Paint Method: Use your fine-tipped brush with slightly thinned acrylic paint to draw the design. This requires a very steady hand but provides more vibrant, opaque results.
4. Seal and Protect:
   Once you are completely satisfied with your painted tattoo and the paint is thoroughly dry, you must spray 1-2 final coats of matte sealant to protect your artwork permanently.

Important Tips to Remember

• Safety First: When using spray sealant, always wear a mask and work in a well-ventilated area.
• Practice in a Hidden Spot: If it's your first time, try practicing on an inconspicuous area like the doll's inner thigh or back.
• Patience is a Virtue: Whether you're using decals or painting by hand, this is delicate work. Be patient with yourself!

Now you know the secrets to adding tattoos to your BJD. Go ahead, unleash your creativity and craft a cool, custom doll that is uniquely yours