How to Sketch and Ink a Tribal Turtle Tattoo with DJ Davis – 9 Simple Steps
Discover how to sketch and ink your very own tribal turtle tattoo in just nine easy steps with DJ Davis. This hands-on tutorial is designed to boost my drawing confidence, strengthen my “tattoo muscles,” and help deliver a better tattoo experience for our clients in Almont, MI.
Step 1: Sketch Out the Shape
Draw a Vertical Line
Use it to Shape your Shell
Add your Head and Flippers
Step 2: Fill the Shape with Tribal Patterns
Step 3: Finishing
Use a brush pen to contour and fill the tattoo in solid black. Erase all your pencil marks.
Enhancing Your Drawing
In this step, focus on refining the details of your sketch, ensuring lines are clean and proportions are accurate. This stage is crucial for setting the foundation for the final piece.
1
Refining Your Sketch
Begin by reviewing your initial outlines and making necessary adjustments. Pay attention to symmetry and balance, enhancing the overall composition.
2
Adding Details
Once the basic structure is solid, start adding intricate details. This includes textures, patterns, and any specific elements that will bring your drawing to life.
3
Final Touches
Conclude by adding the final touches. This could involve shading, highlights, or any additional elements that enhance depth and realism.
4
Review and Adjust
Take a step back and review your work. Make any final adjustments to ensure the drawing meets your artistic vision.
Recommended Reading and Purchase Links
This content is based on principles and exercises from How to Draw Tattoos by Erik Barrett. For more comprehensive guidance, you can purchase the book here:
Buy “How to Draw Tattoos: Tattoo Designs Drawing Guide Book with Simple Sketching Instructions and Detailed Steps for Beginners and Experienced Artists” on AbeBooks.

