Abstract: A stencil for applying tattoos or cosmetics to the body includes a stretchable membrane which includes an aperture of selected shape for confining application of the tattoos or cosmetics. A peripheral frame may be attached to the membrane and be adjustable in peripheral length and shape for altering the shape of the aperture formed within the membrane in response to the shape of the peripheral frame. At least a pair of stencils may be temporarily attached by a member of adjustable length for positioning left and right stencils on the body during application of tattoos or cosmetics to the body within the template area of the aperture.

Abstract: An array of elongated needles for penetrating skin is assembled in single or multiple tiers with the tips or points thereof substantially aligned along an axis or plane that is skewed in non-perpendicular orientation relative to the axes of elongation of the needles. The needles are rigidly confined in the assembly within a common base portion that extends to a boundary limit remote from the tips which is oriented along an axis or plane that is skewed in non-perpendicular orientation relative to axes of elongation of the needles. The axis or plane of the needle tips may be substantially parallel or non-parallel to the axis or plane of the boundary limit to promote selected resilient flexure characteristics of the needles in the portions thereof between the boundary limit of the base and the needle tips.