Grey Wash Tattoo Ink: Everything You Need to Know

May 30, 2022 - 3 years ago

Grey wash tattoo designs are one of the most popular ink styles around—and for good reason! They look amazing, and black and grey tattoos have a certain level of sophistication that colour tattoos sometimes can't quite replicate. In this blog post, we'll discuss everything you need to know about grey wash tattoo ink.

Impressive grey wash tattoo design by Sponsored Artist, Ladislav Hacel (@hacelladislav)

What Is Grey Wash Tattoo Ink?

Grey wash tattoo ink is a special type of black and grey ink that is used to create a 'shaded' effect in tattoos. It helps achieve a softer, more gradient-like appearance that looks more natural than solid black ink—perfect for black and grey tattooing styles.

Grey wash tattoo sleeve by Sponsored Artist, Adam Hawkes (@adamhawkestattoo)

Pre-Mixed vs. DIY Grey Wash Ink

There are two main types of grey wash tattoo ink available: pre-mixed grey wash sets and DIY mixes. Pre-mixed inks are ready to use straight out of the bottle, making them a convenient choice for beginners or those short on time. On the other hand, mixing your own grey wash gives you more control over shading and tone for a truly customised finish.

Black and grey cherub tattoo by Sponsored Artist, Troy Tuck (@troytucktattoo)

How to Mix Your Own Grey Wash Ink

If you're feeling adventurous, you can make your own grey wash by diluting black tattoo ink with solutions such as distilled water or witch hazel. Experiment with different ratios to find the perfect shade—but be sure to note your measurements so you can recreate the same blend later.

Recommended Grey Wash Tattoo Inks

We stock some of the best grey wash tattoo inks to suit every artist’s needs. Some top picks include the 4 Stage Greywash Set from Empire Inks and the striking Victor Portugal Shading Set, which comes in a custom signature tin.

So there you have it—everything you need to know about grey wash tattoo ink! Whether you're just getting started or you’re an experienced artist, the right grey wash can take your tattoo shading to the next level.

Shop grey wash tattoo inks