Choosing the right black ink is an important choice, but it’s often treated like an afterthought. With so many “one-size-fits-all” options on the market, it can be hard to know which black will actually perform the way you need it to in every stage of a tattoo.
Enter our 3-black-ink system, purpose-built around how you work every day. Rather than asking a single ink to handle everything, this system is made up of three distinct formulations, each with its own specific purpose/specialty.
Together, these three black inks cover outlining, shading, and packing, so you can confidently reach for the right black ink every session.
Below, we’ll take a closer look at each ink and explain where it fits in your process.
1. BlackoutOpens a new window
One Black Ink. Total Versatility.
A true all-purpose black ink formulated to perform consistently across outlining, packing, and shading.
Blackout is the workhorse of the World Famous lineup — a glycerin-free, ultra-thin formulation that flows fast and smooth through any needle configuration. It delivers strong, even coverage with minimal passes, making it the ideal choice for black & grey, portraits, or daily studio work. Easy to control across multiple techniques, Blackout provides consistent healed results and rich saturation without compromise.
Best for: All-purpose use (outlining, packing, shading)
Consistency: Ultra-thin, fast-flowing
Pigment Load: High pigment load for strong coverage and clean saturation
“This is my all-around favorite ink. I use it for blackwork, shading, fine line — it all heals great!”
— Geoffrey, World Famous Customer
Shop BlackoutOpens a new window
Tattoo by Jhade LaposOpens a new window
2. Triple Blackout Opens a new window
Bold Saturation and Shading
A high-impact black ink crafted for artists who want the deepest saturation and visual intensity possible.
Triple Blackout is built for bold, heavy saturation with a smooth, controlled feel. Despite its extremely high pigment load, it maintains a thin consistency for steady application — allowing artists to achieve deep, even coverage in fewer passes. It’s the ink of choice for solid blackwork, bold gradients, and large-scale shading, delivering dramatic depth and a velvety finish that lasts.
Best for: Packing and shading
Consistency: Thin and smooth, ideal for slow, methodical work
Pigment Load: Exceptionally high for maximum depth and contrast
“It’s darker than anything I’ve ever used.”
— Alan B.
Tattoo by Lucas MillerOpens a new window
3. Legendary OutlineOpens a new window
Clean, Confident Line Work
An outlining black ink formulated for maximum control, predictability, and crisp line execution.
Legendary Outlining Ink delivers the precision that professionals depend on. Its thin, controlled consistency responds instantly to movement, staying exactly where you place it for sharp, even outlines that heal clean. A balanced pigment load ensures solid black lines, prioritizing clarity and long-term results over heavy saturation.
Best for: Outlining
Consistency: Thin, responsive flow
Pigment Load: Balanced for control and clean healed results
“I love the heal out on this ink. Great consistency for line work.”
— Mahae Deisher
Tattoo by Crystal AlexandriaOpens a new window
A System — Not a Ranking
Each World Famous black ink is purpose-formulated to simplify your workflow:
- Legendary Outlining prioritizes control
- Blackout delivers versatility
- Triple Blackout offers unmatched depth
This system eliminates confusion and overlap — helping you make confident, consistent choices session after session. Once you find your fit, you’ll know exactly which black ink belongs in your setup.
Why Artists Choose World Famous
For more than 50 years, World Famous has created professional-grade tattoo inks trusted by artists worldwide.
Our black inks are artist-first, REACH-compliant, and made in the USA, with uncompromising quality at every stage of production.
Our promise:
- Zero animal products
- Never tested on animals
- Reliable and safe on skin
- Long-lasting and vibrant color retention
Three formulations. One system. Zero complications.
Find your black ink — and own your process.
Shop Legendary Outlining, Blackout, and Triple Blackout →Opens a new window
