So, you're looking to get started in the exciting world of graffiti art? One of the first things you'll want to learn is how to do hit ups. This guide will walk you through the process, from choosing the right spot to perfecting your style. Remember, respecting the law and private property is paramount. This guide is for educational purposes only; always obtain permission before tagging any surface.
Understanding Hit Ups in Graffiti
A hit up, also known as a tag, is essentially your signature in the graffiti world. It's the foundational element, your unique identifier that establishes your presence within the graffiti community. Think of it as your artistic calling card. It’s the first step before more complex pieces. Mastering your hit up is crucial before moving on to more intricate graffiti styles.
Key Elements of a Successful Hit Up:
- Simplicity: A hit up should be quick, clean, and easily recognizable. Avoid overly complex designs; focus on a simple, legible style.
- Legibility: Your tag needs to be readable, even from a distance. Experiment with different letterforms and styles until you find something that works for you.
- Consistency: Maintaining consistency in your style is key to building a recognizable brand. Once you've settled on a style, stick to it.
- Speed and Efficiency: Graffiti is often about speed and precision. Practice your hit up until you can execute it swiftly and efficiently.
Choosing the Right Spot (Legally and Ethically)
This is extremely important: Always obtain permission before tagging any surface. Graffiti on private property without permission is vandalism and can lead to serious legal consequences. Seek out legal walls or designated graffiti areas in your community. Many cities now provide designated spaces for graffiti artists.
Finding Legal Walls:
- Check online: Search for "legal graffiti walls [your city]" to find locations near you.
- Contact local art organizations: Many organizations promote graffiti art and can help you find legal locations.
- Look for community projects: Some communities have initiatives that encourage graffiti art as a way to improve public spaces.
Essential Materials for Hit Ups
You'll need a few essential items to get started:
- Markers: These are ideal for hit ups due to their versatility. Sharpies, Molotow markers, and Krink markers are popular choices.
- Spray Paint: This is more advanced, better for larger pieces. Start with cans in a variety of colors.
- Stencils (Optional): Stencils can help create clean, consistent tags, especially when you're starting out.
Practicing Your Hit Up:
Before hitting the streets (legally, of course!), practice your hit up on paper or a sketchbook. Experiment with different letterforms, styles, and techniques until you find something that you are comfortable with and looks good.
Tips for Practice:
- Start simple: Focus on creating a simple, legible tag before moving on to more complex designs.
- Experiment with different styles: Try different letterforms, thicknesses, and angles to find a style that suits you.
- Practice your speed and accuracy: The goal is to create a clean, consistent tag quickly and efficiently.
- Consider different surfaces: Practice on different surfaces (paper, cardboard, wood) to get a feel for how your marker or spray paint behaves.
Taking Your Hit Ups to the Streets (Legally)
Once you've mastered your hit up in practice, it's time to take it to the streets – remember, only in legal and permitted areas. Choose a location that offers a good background and won't be immediately obscured by other tags.
Staying Safe and Legal
Remember, graffiti is a powerful art form, but it's essential to stay within the bounds of the law. Vandalism has serious consequences. Always obtain permission, be respectful, and choose your locations wisely.
This guide gives you a foundational understanding. Continue learning, practicing, and respecting the community and laws surrounding this artistic expression. Good luck and have fun!
