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How to Tag like a Real Graffiti Artist. Think you've got what it takes to be an urban graffiti
artist? Follow these steps to become da 'hood's next da Vinci. You will need Lingo Creativity
Hardcover sketchbook Pencils Pens Markers Plywood Spray paint Spray-can tips Latex gloves
Paint respirator Legal wall Stickers (optional) and fire extinguisher (optional). Do not graffiti
public or private property without obtaining permission. Step 1. Master the lingo. A "writer"
is a graffiti artist, a "king" or "queen" is a great writer, a "toy" is inexperienced,
and a "crew" is a group who work together. A "tag" is a simple work of graffiti, a "throw-up"
is more complicated, and a "piece" is a very complex work of graffiti. Step 2. The foundation
for all graffiti art is tagging your nickname on a visible space. Develop a nickname and
lettering style that are unique to you. The style you create can be used for your tags,
throw-ups, and pieces. Use your influences. Look to anything from album covers to comics
to consumer products for inspiration. Step 3. Start a black book, a hardcover sketchbook
where you and other writers can develop ideas. Write tags, throw-ups and pieces in full color
with pens, pencils, and markers. Contribute to other writers' black books, too. Step 4.
Practice techniques by painting on a large piece of plywood in a well-ventilated area.
Use a variety of spray-can tips to control spray-paint flow. Consider wearing gloves
and a respirator anytime you use spray paint. Experiment with tagging techniques that don't
involve traditional spray paint like putting up stickers, using fire extinguishers filled
with paint, and etching on glass. Step 5. Learn the ropes from a crew. A crew will admit
you based on work they've seen in public or in your black book. Joining one can help improve
your work and get you involved in group projects. Take time to learn the etiquette of tagging,
like which tags can and can't be written over. Step 6. Find places to write on by searching
for "legal walls" online. Cities around the world have established legal spots for writers
to craft their masterpieces. Step 7. Go out and write! Express yourself as much as legally
possible. With hard work and the help of a good crew, you'll go from toy to royalty in
no time! Did you know Tagging was popularized in part by a 1971 _New York Times article_
about the graffiti artist Taki 183.