inking

Inking is the act of applying ink to a surface as part of a production process. The term appears in art, printmaking, and body art, among other fields.

In art and illustration, inking follows penciling. Artists use brushes, dip pens, or markers to define lines, shapes, and tonal areas. Inks can be water-based or pigment-based and are chosen for permanence and surface compatibility. Techniques include line work, washes, stippling, and cross-hatching.

In printing and graphic arts, inking means applying ink to a matrix (such as a relief block, plate, or screen) so impressions can be made on paper or fabric. Rollers, brayers, or squeegees control ink distribution, and formulations are tailored for adhesion, transfer, and drying.

In tattooing, inking refers to depositing pigment into the dermis with needles. The process requires sterile equipment, regulated pigments, and strict hygiene. Design is applied, needles insert pigment, and aftercare influences healing and color retention.

Overview: Inking has ancient roots in calligraphy and manuscript work and remains central to modern comics, illustration, and printing. Across contexts, ink properties, tools, and technique determine line quality, permanence, and visual effect.