This is how I approach the freehand process. I start with basic shapes, refine them with 2-3 progressively darker inks before doing the tattoo outline. When I draw freehand, the drawing sits better on the body than when I use a stencil. Also I feel when I draw with a bush on the skin I get a different look to the drawing itself, a look I have trouble achieving with stencils. It takes a little time but in my view it is worth the effort.