Black and grey is one of the most popular tattoo styles in the industry. Known for smooth shading, high contrast, and timeless look, they can range from soft realism to bold designs.
We had the opportunity to watch one of our talented sponsored artists, Keith Burke, create an incredible medieval-style black and grey tattoo in his studio, Blunt Force Ink.
If you’re looking to understand this style and the techniques used to perfect designs, we break down the techniques and tattoo supplies used to create this piece.
Watch the full video below to see the entire process and learn the secrets behind professional black and grey tattooing.
How To Tattoo Black And Grey
Creating a black and grey tattoo is all about contrast, texture, smooth shading, and controlled movement. During the session, Keith used several key techniques to build depth and detail in the design.
- Pendulum motions for smooth lines. The pendulum hand motions help keep tattoo lines smooth, consistent, and flowing naturally with the shape of the design.
- Cross hatching for texture. Cross hatching is used to slowly build texture and value with multiple passes. Layering the shading gradually creates a softer transition and gives the tattoo more depth without overworking the skin.
- Circular motions for blending. Circular hand motions help blend darker areas smoothly, especially in sections like eye sockets, shadows, and teeth. This creates a softer black and grey gradient while maintaining strong contrast.
- Using negative space for highlights. Negative space is essential in black and grey tattooing. Leaving open skin areas untouched allows highlights to stand out naturally and helps create more dimension throughout the tattoo.
Best Black And Grey Tattoo Ink
Choosing the right tattoo ink is important for achieving smooth blends, solid blacks, and clean shading transitions. For this medieval-style design, Keith used:
- Allegory Blak Ink. A rich, consistent black ink that works well for lining, shading, packing, and creating high-contrast details.
- Allegory Shading Solution. Used to dilute black ink for smooth gradients and soft black and grey blends. Ideal for creating multiple wash tones and smooth transitions.
Best Tattoo Machine For Black And Grey
The Bishop Power Wand Packer in a 4.2 stroke length is a popular choice for black and grey tattooing thanks to its balanced weight distribution and minimal vibration making it comfortable during long sessions and offering a consistent needle hit. It’s perfect for:
- Smooth shading
- Strong colour packing
- Bold linework
Other Supplies for Black And Grey Tattooing
Alongside the right tattoo machine and ink, having reliable tattoo supplies can make a huge difference to the overall tattooing process. From precision cartridges to skin protection and efficient workstation setup, these are some of the extra tools Keith used throughout the session to help achieve clean, consistent results.
- DaVinci V2 x Troshin #3RLONLY Cartridges – Made in collaboration with Mister Troshin and Bishop, these cartridges feature an extended 1mm needle protrusion for improved precision, control, and accuracy. The extra long design eases tension for a sharper and harder hitting feel.
- Inkeeze Glide – Helps soothe and protect skin during tattooing while improving comfort throughout the session.
- Tattoo Spray – Provides instant protection for fresh tattoos and helps to reduce itching, redness, and inflammation.
- Hive Cups – Designed to prevent tattoo cartridges from rolling away and drying out during the tattoo process.
