Online Tattoo Gallery

Interested In Getting A Full Sleeve Tattoo?

2009-12-16T06:02:00.000-08:00

Have you wondered what a full sleeve or half sleeve tattoo is? Maybe you have heard about them or even want one but you are not sure exactly what they are, how to go about getting one, nor ow much they are going to cost. Well, get ready to learn all of the above and a lot more. Full sleeve, half sleeve and even quarter sleeve tattoos are very hot and in right now. They have become a very popular spot for tattoos in both men and women. There are many women today that sport full sleeve tattoos and love them greatly!

What Is A Sleeve Tattoo? So if you are wondering what I am talking about it is a large arm tattoo. Sleeve just comes from the shirt sleeves that typically cover our arms and a sleeve tattoo is a full tattoo design that frequently covers up the whole arm in the tattoo design. You can get a variety of different lengths which will mean different amounts of the arms will be covered. For example a half sleeve tattoo is typically from the should down to the elbow or forearm area. A full sleeve then is all the way down to the wrist with the tattoo design.

The Two Paths Of A Sleeve Tattoo There are really many different ways to go about getting a sleeve tattoo. However, most of the ways fall into two common categories or steps for getting the work done. The first way is through individual tattoos and the second way is through one complete project. Which one you choose to have done will really be up to you and what you like. Also you will have to take into consideration any existing tattoos you already have in the area.

The Individual Tattoos Path: This is the path where an individual gets a bunch of individual tattoos over time. These are all tattoos on their arm but most often in a variety of places. For example one might get a big dragon on their shoulder in one sitting and then a few months or year later get some flames going up their forearm. Eventually the individual decides why not connect all for the individual tattoos into one design and they go about connecting them for a unified full sleeve tattoo.

One Project Method: Another way in which people will go about getting a sleeve tattoo design is to design the whole tattoo at one time. This is not done by connecting up individual designs but instead starts with a blank slate and the design is unified and created at one time. This can make for a wonderful looking sleeve tattoo that is very unified and well put together.

Designs, Inspiration and Custom Work Once you have made the decision to get a full sleeve tattoo there is a good deal of work ahead of you before you start getting the ink done. You want to really take your time with this process and don't get frustrated. You see finding the perfect design can be difficult and most often you will not find any pre-made flash that will fit exactly what you want. It is therefore advisable to instead take your time and really contemplate the tattoo design that you want to get. Think about things you like and what you want the tattoo to represent. Then look at pictures and ideas from other people's tattoos. Find things you like and things you dislike about other people sleeve tattoos. Keep a journal or jot your ideas down some where. If you spend some time looking online you can easily find a ton of tattoo designs and pictures of other people's tattoo to get an ideas of what you want.

What Is Hot: One place to get started with finding a design is to think about what you have seen and what is popular in sleeve tattoo designs already. Below are some guidelines of more popular themes for sleeve tattoos. However, these are just meant to spark an interest and should not just be used because they are popular. You want your body art to express something about you so just use the ideas as inspiration.

Flame Tattoo Sleeve - Flames are a great tattoo design that looks wonderful on the arm and as part of a overall sleeve tattoo. Very frequently these flames will start off down at the wrist and then burn their way up the arm. Towards the end of the flames other elements can be incorporated into the design.

Sleeve Tattoo Designs: Tribal - Tribal sleeve designs are another great tattoo design that can commonly be done as a sleeve. Tribal tattoos are typically made up of large bold lines done in black and they look great from a distances and really stand out. Therefore they make great sleeve tattoos designs. Don't feel you have to go with the standard tribal designs either as there are many different native cultures that used tattooing. You can go with something really unique like a Maori tribal design.

Tattoo Sleeve Ideas: Celtic - Another way to go and one that is very popular is to integrated a Celtic tattoo design into the sleeve. Just think about Anthony Kiedis from the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. He has a pair of wonderful Celtic forearm tattoos that could easily be extended into a full sleeve. There are step patterns, spirals, human and animal along with the classic knot work designs. These again make use of bold black lines of ink which can be intricate and bold at the same time.

Floral Patterns - Floral patterns also make great sleeve tattoo designs. The vines, buds, and flowers can easily be intertwined up and throughout the arm. These are great for women and also very popular among men.

The Time and Cost Factor: You should consider carefully the costs and time commitment involved in getting a full or even half sleeve tattoo. They can be rather costly and time consuming and so you want to plan ahead and ensure that you can complete the project before you get started designing it. Typically it can take 25 hours of time to complete just the tattoo part of the work and this number can go up drastically depending on the design and the shop. As far as cost it can be hard to project again it depends on the shop. the experience of the tattoo artist and the amount of work they currently have. Of course when they are super busy they are good but you will have to pay more. Very rough guidelines in terms of price would be anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 dollars.

While the time, commitment and choosing the perfect design can all be a challenge if you are really dead set on getting a full or half sleeve tattoo then go for it. Just learn that it will take time and there is no use in rushing things along. Especially take your time to choose a design that you are happy with and you will end up with a wonderful piece of body art.

Source: http://www.artipot.com/articles/129308/interested-in-getting-a-full-sleeve-tattoo.htm

Tattoo Sleeve Design

2009-12-16T05:58:00.000-08:00

Over time, sleeve tattoos are starting to become more and more popular among men. This happening is perhaps due to the rising number of celebrity and famous males having this kind of ink done into their body. What is a sleeve tattoo? This basically refers to the tattoo that wraps the upper region of the arm which includes the shoulder to the elbow. Some people call this as the half-sleeve tattoo. Do not however confuse this to the full sleeve tattoo which is the type that wraps the arm and go all the way into the wrist. In case the particular tattoo design starts from the area of the elbow down to the wrist then this kind is known as the quarter sleeve tattoo.

Having an extraordinary sleeve tattoo designs will mean that you are creating a bold statement because of their amazing size and complexity of the design. This also suggests that a methodical consultation to a reputable and well-known tattoo artist should be done before you decide to ink something into your body. A tattoo sleeve designs is not a little girly tattoo that you can get anytime.

To prevent yourself from going into any kind of trouble, it is necessary to find out the cost and the time that one will have to spend in getting this particular kind of tattoo. However, the time frame will normally vary depending upon the difficulty of the design that one wishes to get. As usual, the longer the time frame in doing the tattoo is then the higher the cost will be. Discuss every detail first with your tattoo artist to prevent any conflict later on. On most instances, a sleeve tattoo will be done for a number of sessions and it may lasts for about two hours. On the other hand, for full sleeve design, this will last for more than a multiple sessions and it may take more than twenty long hours of work.

Here are some of the most popular tattoo sleeve designs:

- Tribal Tattoo Sleeve - This is recognizable because of their bold dark lines hence they tend to be recognizable even on a distant.

- Japanese Designs - Generally, Japanese designs are very famous for their detailed designs and because they have a deep symbolic meanings. All the while, this design never fails to be exceptionally beautiful which make them the best choice for full sleeve tattoo.

- Flame Tattoo Sleeve - If you are looking for the most extravagant designs, this one is the choice to go for. Many people find this design as sexy especially when the flames are printed with dark red and golden yellow colors.

- Celtic Sleeve Tattoos - The intricate knot which the Celtic deigns are known for would make a good sleeve design.

It would be wise not to go for a particular design just because you've seen a celebrity to use this. You should never fail to consider if such will also fit your body.

Nathaniel Givens has studied tattoos for over a decade. He's written several eBooks on the subject and has a website at Tattoo Sleeve Designs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nathaniel_Givens

Sleeve Tattoo Designs

2009-12-16T05:55:00.000-08:00

The Sleeve tattoos are becoming increasingly popular amongst men these days and is probably due to the increasing number of celebrity males getting this sort of ink done. A sleeve tattoo can be described as a tattoo which wraps around the upper part of the arm from shoulder to elbow. This is some times referred to as a half-sleeve tattoo while a tattoo which wraps around the arm and extends all the way down to the wrist is known as a full sleeve tattoo. If the tattoo starts from the elbow area to the wrist then this is called a quarter sleeve tattoo.
These types of tattoos mean you are making a bold statement due to there size and complexity. This means you will need to have a through consultation with a tattoo artist you know has a good reputation for going this type of tattoo. This is not a small girly tattoo to get.
It is essential find out the time and cost for a sleeve tattoo. The time taken will depend on the complexity of the design. The longer it takes will of course mean more cost to you. You must discuss this with your tattoo artist. A typical sleeve tattoo is done over a number of sessions which last about two hours. A full sleeve design are done over multiple sessions and may involve over twenty hours of work.
Popular sleeve tattoo designs include -

Tribal Tattoo Sleeve - These look fantastic from a distance due to their bold dark lines.
Flame Tattoo Sleeve - The most extravagant of flames start from the wrist area then up along the forearm over the shoulder and down one half of the body.
Japanese Designs - The Japanese are known for their detailed designs and have deep symbolic meanings. At the same time they are exceptionally beautiful. They make an excellent choice for a full sleeve tattoo.
Celtic Sleeve Tattoos - The intricate knot work of Celtic designs often make a great design. They usually have a load of detail in the interweaving lines.

Please remember that you should not ever get a tattoo because you spotted your favourite celebrity with a sleeve design you thought was great. You should instead find a design that appeals to you by doing you own research. It should have a powerful and symbolic meaning to yourself only.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/visual-art-articles/sleeve-tattoo-designs-726052.html

Tattoo Sleeves – A Fake Tattoo

2009-12-16T05:53:00.000-08:00

Why are people fond of tattoos? It’s a question that is intriguing to most. There is a speculation that getting tattoos are addictive and if you have tried one, you will be coming back for more. So with everything said and done on how people get into the tattoo hype, would Fake tattoos be able to replace the essence of having a tattoo?

Fake tattoos are forms or ways of mimicking the real tattoo. Having an artist draw on your skin using removable ink is a way fake tattoos are implemented.

The Henna Tattoo
While the Henna tattoo idea is somewhat quite similar to the real thing, I still consider this fake because it does not stick to your skin. But what comprises a Henna tattoo, and is getting one worth it? For one, henna tattoos similar to the real tattoo art can be placed anywhere, but if it’s going to wear off anyway, why put it in places people won’t see right? So probably it is commonly placed in the neck/nape, the arm, the leg (lower part) so that people can actually appreciate your tattoo. Common reactions are, awed, wowed, or disgusted. Yes some people do not like the tattooing idea.

Another thing to consider with the henna tattoo is the artist. Since it is similarly implemented as the real one, your artist should be great at it. For one not to infect you with anything, second, so your tattoo will look cool and not look like a 5 year old doodle.

With the above said, ink plus artist equals being expensive. Yes, getting a Henna Tattoo can get quite expensive and the reason for it is that it’s not permanent. After a few days it’s gone, and if you happen to want to get it placed again, you pay again. So is it that worth it?

Some would say yes due to the mask it creates, the mystery and awesomeness it actually gives its bearer. For others that is priceless so no matter what the effort amounts to, it’s definitely a catch.

The Tattoo Sleeves
Has anyone heard of this? A sleeved tattoo? Well yes, it exists and its just like the real thing. These tattoos are created similar to a stocking where people can just wear them either on their legs or their arms. These fake tattoos are designed to cover the full arm where it will seem that you got a tattoo all over and for sure everyone will be talking about you. Difference with Henna tattoo is that, you can have a small tattoo as a sleeve, it’s always the full sleeve where it covers the whole arm or legs. But the benefit of this fake tattoo is that it is not only made for show, but for sun protection as well. Cool huh?

Having a tattoo is great, since it promotes art. And these tattoo sleeves definitely promotes art and culture. Why? Because for one, it can penetrate the mainstream where great art can be displayed. Two, the sleeve is the artist’s canvass, its just up to the artist how to demonstrate his great talent on it.

The price, well it’s definitely cheaper than the Henna tat, just a few dollars and you got it. And also, it is wearable, so when the day comes when you don’t feel like having that tattoo effect on your peers, you take it off. Tattoo sleeves are cheap, so you can have a variety of tattoos on you, everyday or even every week. And the best part is, it does not stick to your skin. You can take it off anytime.

So are these fake tattoos worth it? Try one and see for yourself. Either a henna or a tattoo sleeve will be a good way to try and have a tattoo.

Source: http://justarticles.net/Art/165653/71/Tattoo-Sleeves-A-Fake-Tattoo.html

The Tattoo Wars: Miami Ink Vs. La Ink

2009-12-16T05:48:00.000-08:00

Kat von D and Ami James never really saw eye to eye in that inking reality TV series Miami Ink. So, it was hardly surprising to audiences when Kat packed up her bags, left Ami’s shop, and moved back to Los Angeles. It was not surprising either when Kat was offered to have her own spinoff of this reality TV show when she opened her own tattoo shop on La Brea Avenue in Los Angeles. That reality TV spinoff is none other than LA Ink.

Similarities between the Two Reality TV Shows

Is LA Ink just a carbon copy of Miami Ink? Do they have the same kind of business going on, just in different locations? LA Ink, being a spinoff of Miami Ink, does have similarities with its parent reality TV program in that it aims to demystify the idea of getting a tattoo and disproving whatever myths and misconceptions the public may have over tattoos. Just like with Miami Ink, viewers of LA Ink get to see Kat and her crew in action, taking in clients, discussing with them the tattoo designs they want and offering suggestions whenever improvements to the original design are needed, and then getting the actual tattoos done on their clients.

Where the Similarities End

But format is where the similarity ends. Many fans of both reality TV shows were quick to note that LA Ink has more to it than what Miami Ink had. For one, the location of Kat’s shop is close to Hollywood, and so it attracts more recognizable celebrity clientele. Of course Miami Ink had its own celebrity clients, but the LA Ink crew’s clients had more star power, simply because they come from Hollywood. Notable guest appearances in LA Ink included Tom Green, Ja Rule, Eve and Jared Leto.

Another notable difference between Miami Ink and LA Ink is Kat von D’s unique touch in tattooing. Perhaps now that Kat no longer had to deal with Ami’s constant scrutiny back when she was still with Miami Ink, she was able to shine on her own. It became more and more obvious to fans of both reality TV shows that the tattoo designs Kat and her crew worked on were more stellar in quality and aesthetics than those made by Ami and his group.

It has been proven that LA Ink is a lot better than Miami Ink anyway. The ratings of LA Ink on its first season premier were the highest that the TLC channel got in all its history for a reality TV series. Also, on December of 2007, LA Ink was pitted against Miami Ink and the other spinoff London Ink as to which show is popular, has the best employees and has the best artwork. Which emerged as the winner? It was none other than LA Ink.

Kat von D made an absolutely right decision to leave the guys at Miami Ink. LA Ink is really a stellar deal.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hardware-articles/the-tattoo-wars-miami-ink-vs-la-ink-363982.html

'Miami Ink' – Enter the World of Tattooing!

2009-12-16T05:45:00.000-08:00

5 friends come together to start a new lease of life by opening up their own tattoo shop in Miami Beach, Florida. Ami James and Chris Nunez plan to start a tattoo shop at a place called LoveHate lounge co-owned by them. So, they come along together with some of their old and skilled tattoo artist friends, Chris Garver, Darren Brass and Yoji Harada, to open up a parlor- Miami Ink.

Miami Ink is a show aired on TLC which portrays the happenings at this shop. It's a great TV series that shows many interesting people walking in to get their tattoos done and the show has also succeeded in capturing the feelings of the customers and the process of the artist in a great way. Season 1 started with a grand opening party in the first episode where the shop is set up and the first customer gets a tattoo of the Hawaiian Islands. Slowly as the episodes go by, it becomes prominent that business picks up and their friend Yoji gets married to his fiancée Bridgette. Season 1 ended with Ami injuring himself.

Season 2 begins with Ami buying his dream car and later Yoji getting the pressure as Ami threatens to release him from apprenticeship, if he doesn't improve his drawing skills. After several interesting episodes where Kat Von D returns and helps out while Ami is out, the season ended with Darren inking a musician while Ami gives a tattoo to a girl helping in memorializing her father. In season 3 Kat leaves 'Miami Ink' and ventures out having an ambition to set up her own shop. Season 4 was all about Kat coming back on a surprise visit and once again tensions growing between Ami and Kat.

After completing 4 full seasons, 5th season was back with Ami and Nunez traveling to Las Vegas while well known tattoo artist Joe Capobianco fills the place of guest artist in the shop. Season 5 ended with Ami and Nunez being judges at a bikini contest and a new customer, Joni getting a tattoo of her own piece of art onto her back.
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/television-articles/miami-ink-enter-the-world-of-tattooing-745821.html

Tips For Getting Tattoo Lettering Ideas

2009-12-16T05:41:00.000-08:00

Instead of getting a design, why not get a tattoo lettering if you cannot make up your mind? While there are hundreds of tattoo designs which you can choose from, they can be sometimes too overwhelming that you no longer know what it is that you want. For this reason, there are several people who choose getting a quote tattoo instead.

Normally, people who choose this option will choose Bible verses or from their favorite book. It could either be a letter or word which have a special meaning to the person getting a tattoo. There are also other people who get the names of their loved one tattoo on their skin. Whatever you choose, there are some things you have to keep in mind with getting this tattoo.

Aside from the message being tattooed on one's body, they also have to carefully choose what font they want. There are so many fonts which they can choose and the most famous ones include Gothic, Tribal Scroll, Old English, Medieval, Arial, or even a Script Calligraphy. Aside from the fonts mentioned, there are also some people who choose script characters from other cultures like Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Arabic, and also even Khmer.

There are some instances where you first have to choose the words you want to get tattooed with before you choose a font. But there are also some cases where it works the other way around. But whichever way works for you, the quote you chose must be something of importance to you. It can either be a religious or spiritual verse, poetry, or even some personal messages. However, when you are choosing the content, you have to make it short. Not only is this necessary, it is also practical. There are some quotes which, when written on paper, can consume a whole paragraph. With tattoos, these are hard to do. The acceptable length is just two lines. This is because if it is over that, the letters can be too small for you to read or you might even run out of body space.

If you are considering getting inked with the name of your significant other, you must think this thoroughly. Even if there is an available option to remove a tattoo through laser treatment, you should not do something as crazy as this. You must first make sure that that person will never leave you or you will never leave before you decide to get inked with his name. Otherwise, all that trouble, pain, and money is just useless.

Nowadays, more and more people are choosing to get a tattoo lettering instead of a tattoo design. This might be because they are more personal and unique. But whatever decision you choose, you have to keep in mind that they are permanent.

Source: http://www.articlebliss.com/Art/330334/304/Tips-For-Getting-Tattoo-Lettering-Ideas.html

Sexy Tattoo Design Ideas For Women

2009-12-16T05:38:00.000-08:00

A well done tattoo on a woman placed in the right spot can really be sexy. That is only my opinion of course, but as a heterosexual male who has seen thousands of tattoos, good and bad, on women I feel I can offer some advice on what I think are some of sexier tattoo designs for women and where they look the best. You may or may not agree but I hope this article will help women looking for tattoo ideas.

* Cheery blossom tattoo across the shoulders. The reason I like the cherry blossom tattoo on women, and on the shoulders in particular, is that it is not just one large flower or a group of flowers. The cherry blossom flowers are small and attached to the tree stem. The tree stem can flow into all sorts of directions. Plus, the linear formation of the stem is narrow and can accentuate the female body, especially on certain areas of the body. This linear design with an intermix of the cherry blossoms can be used very effectively to cover a large area of skin. Why the shoulders? Well, I have seen cherry blossoms on other areas of a woman and they look good, but the shoulders and the chest area offer the perfect place for this tattoo design. It is one of the sexiest parts of a woman's body anyways. This tattoo design done properly can really provide some added hotness to a sexy woman.

* Phoenix tattoo on upper side hip area. I like the phoenix tattoos because they can be very linear, colorful, surreal and can present great imagery. It depends on the design, but I have seen some beautiful phoenix tattoos covering large areas on skin and look real sexy. The reason I pick the upper side hip area is that it can go off into different directions. It could wonder up in the ribs and breast area. Or it could rap around the hip and reach the buttocks region. Or it could reach the pubic bone and beyond. I've seen phoenix tattoos on arms, legs and even hands, but the best and sexiest place on a woman I have seen is on the upper side hip area. Just a thought for you women thinking of the phoenix tattoo. Here is a thumbs up from me.

* Heart tattoo on butt. Usually this looks better if it's a good sized heart on one side of the butt. Left or right both seem to work. The top of the tattoo should peek out when wearing jeans and show completely when wearing a bikini in my opinion. The heart is one of the most popular tattoo designs of course, but I am picking it because it is sexy and almost always seems to look pretty good. If you want a great heart tattoo though, pick a killer design and choose a good place to put it. You have my vote of where that is.

Source: http://misterarticle.com/Art/2429/1/Sexy-Tattoo-Design-Ideas-For-Women.html

Full Sleeve Tattoo Ideas

2009-12-16T05:35:00.000-08:00

Getting sleeve tattoo work requires you to think carefully about your design options. Here are some full sleeve tattoo ideas to consider:
1. Flames.
Here's an easy sleeve to consider. Flames, or inverted flames, can fill up the arm nicely and the coloring can really pop out. You can of course incorporate other designs with the flames, but for those wanting a simple sleeve idea, flames can work as your base and you can go from there.
2. Japanese Work.
Japanese work is great for sleeves. The key to finding good full sleeve tattoo ideas is studying the flow of the design and determining if the work flows well together. With Japanese designs the flow is excellent. Another great thing is that this type of work never goes out of style. It's stood the test of time and seems to always be popular, unlike other styles such as tribal.
3. Tribal Designs.
Speaking of tribal, these are full sleeve tattoo ideas to consider as well. Polynesian tribal has been very popular for sleeve work. These also flow very well and there are many options to consider. While all sleeves are pretty intense, tribal can really stand out. The problem as mentioned before is that tribal seems to have been overplayed in recent years, with everyone and their brother (and sister) jumping on the bandwagon. The trend seems to have died down somewhat, but many view this choice as a fashion statement that has come and gone.
4. Custom Make Your Design.
This really is the best option overall. The key here is to pick out a number of tattoos that you really like. You can do this by visiting an online tattoo gallery and checking out the unlimited number of high quality work available. Collect your favorite designs and bring them to your tattoo parlor. Ask the artist his thoughts on creating a sleeve out of what you have chosen. He or she can design something for you or make recommendations based on how well the work appears to flow together.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Full-Sleeve-Tattoo-Ideas&id=2396638

Exceptional Tattoo Ideas

2009-12-16T05:32:00.000-08:00

Getting a tattoo is considered "in" these days. People from all walks of life are getting tattoos for themselves. Tattoos were considered to be for hippies or junkies in the earlier times, but in today's time, tattoos have found liking in the bodies of people of all ages irrespective of the nature of their work. Almost everyone wants to sport a tattoo in some or the other design on their bodies. Most of the people who wish to get a tattoo do not know exactly what type and where to get proper tattoos from.

Online portals provide a large variety and designs of tattoos that one can get done on their bodies. People can surf from a large variety of cool tattoo designs which are available on the website's gallery. There is a wide range of standard or normal tattoo designs available on the portal. For people who are looking at some extraordinary designs can also look for some cool tattoo ideas that are available on the website.

Tattoos are available in various forms and designs and most of the designs have some or the other meaning, based on which the person gets the tattoo done on his body. The most common forms of tattoos which are very popular amongst people are dragons, tribes, koi fish, wings, armbands, musical symbols, religious etc. Apart from being simply being cool tattoo ideas, all these forms have some or the other definite meaning as well. While a dragon tattoo might signify power, invincibility and strength, a tribal tattoo design might signify mystery. Koi fish has relevance in Japan, where it is considered a symbol of love, affection and friendship. While wings signify freedom, an armband for some is a symbol of being in control. Similarly, music symbols and religious tattoos signify a deep sense of relationship with soul and self belief.

One of the reasons why people who are getting a tattoo on their body choose tattoos which have certain specific meaning is because a tattoo is something which is going to be a permanent mark or symbol on the body. It will remain a life long companion, so it makes sense to have something which has relevance and specific importance in ones life. This way he will be able to keep the tattoo with him all through his life without having any sort of regrets about it.

There are people who get tattoos on their body as a mark of respect or remembrance for someone. Some people dedicate tattoos for their loved ones. Tattoos are also considered as ways and means of expressing oneself and most of these are related to being free and independent in life. On the hindsight, getting a tattoo done on the body can be serious hazard to the life of the individual who is getting it done. One should never get a tattoo in the rush of blood or on impulse. It can have serious implications from health point of view on the individual. Safety, security and hygiene are something which should be given relative importance before getting a tattoo as it involves use of needles and tattoo ink.

Source: http://www.abcarticledirectory.com/Article/Exceptional-Tattoo-Ideas/311142

Tattoo Ink

2009-12-16T05:29:00.000-08:00

With tattoo ink, it mostly breaks down into two groups. The first group all has the same base, just different pigments, and the second group all has different bases. Inks can be water or alcohol based. Obviously, the first group makes mixing colors quite a bit easier, but the second group is able to produce bolder, more colors.

It is always the preference of your tattoo artist which ink they use, as buying an entire line of another brand of ink would be way too costly. So if which brand of ink that is used on you is important, you might have to try a few tattoo artists to find the right match.

There is a few reasons why people might care about what kind of ink that is used in their tattoo. If you want an all white tattoo, youll want to get it done with one of the pure pigment group inks. Or if you are health conscious, you might want to make sure the tattoo ink doesnt contain one of the following: Antimony, Arsenic, Beryllium, Cobalt, Lead, Lead compounds, Nickel and Selenium. These are collectively referred to as toxic metals, each of which is a toxic chemical that is known to be carcinogenic and/or may result in reproductive harm. Also, animal rights activists and vegans who dont want any animal products in their ink can only use Starbrite inks, as all other brands use animal glycerins instead of vegetable ones.

How to find out what is in your tattoo ink is very difficult. Since it is not a food or drug, ink companies do not need to divulge their ingredience list. They do, however, need to have a warning at their site if they contain any toxic metals or chemicals. Ask your tattoo artist ahead of time what brand of ink/pigments they use, and then you can go to that companys website.

If you are allergic to a lot of pigments and chemicals that are in most beauty products, you might have trouble with some inks. Most companies are producing hypo-allergic inks now, but so far no company has produced a hypo-allergic red ink. Since red is a primary color, the only way to avoid using it is to choose a design that doesnt use red in it at all. Luckily, orange and purple are completely different pigments and not actually mixed with red, unless your tattoo artist has a very limited color palette.

Source: http://www.tattooinfo.net/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=27

White Ink Tattoo

2009-12-16T05:25:00.000-08:00

Are you interested in getting a white ink tattoo? Then, read on this valuable information about this way, that is quite interesting but slightly different from the traditional tattoo.
They differ from the traditional tattoo in the sense that it does not involve the usual process of outlining and stenciling in black ink. It is done completely in white ink and it is quite distinctive like a ghostly image. Majority of them look like scars or brandings and most of the people choose it for this very purpose as they wish to have a one that does not look obvious or evident in the work environment.
The pattern or design of the white ink tattoo shows like a brand or a scar, slightly lighter in color than the skin. If it is cared out well, then it will last for a lifetime. The artists feel that these tattoos are best suited for folks with pale skin color. These tattoos work well in the areas that are protected from direct sunlight like chest, back or the underside of the arm. The ink is not easily absorbed into the skin and hence, it needs to be passed several times over to ensure that it has sunk completely inside the skin.
Simple designs look great and the bets designs would be Celtic patterns, tribal heart designs and so on. The popularity of white ink tattoos is growing by the day, but one needs to be completely aware of all the issues related with it. It may cause some sort of reaction by some people and these include swelling, itchiness, oozing and others. So, it would be a good idea to discuss all the issues with an experienced artist.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?White-Ink-Tattoo&id=2301179

New ink promises easy tattoo removal

2009-12-16T05:23:00.000-08:00

You once adored Janie, but Laura is your honey now. That dragon circling your arm wowed your college buddies, but the executives in the office aren't nearly as impressed.

Just as the number of Americans sporting tattoos has soared in the past decade, so has membership in another group: people who want their bodywork removed. Only then do they come to know the truth -- that laser tattoo removal is painful, expensive and may not do the job completely.

Soon there may be a solution to the phenomenon of tattoo regret -- removable tattoo ink. A company founded by doctors says it will begin selling such ink early next year. The ink is applied just as with any tattoo, and will remain in place as long as desired. But if the owner later decides that the artwork has to go, it can be removed fully and safely with a single laser treatment.

The founders of the New York company making the removable ink, Freedom-2 LLC, say their goal is to help those who have come to regret permanently decorating their bodies. But backers say the technology will not only simplify tattoo removal, it will create an expanded market for body art -- since consumers can be now assured that the tattoo will come off easily and without exorbitant cost.

"I think it will open a floodgate for people who want tattoos," says Dr. Bruce Saal, a Los Gatos dermatologist who specializes in laser tattoo removal and has invested in the company. "People will say, 'I want to do something a little wild. Now that I know it's not a lifelong commitment, I'll do it.' "

But others wonder if tattoo artists and their customers will spurn the new ink if it doesn't meet their artistic needs.

Almost one-quarter of U.S. adults have at least one tattoo, according to a study of 500 Americans published September in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Of those, 17 percent were considering removal, the survey found.

Many doctors who perform laser tattoo removal, however, say that as many as half of all people with tattoos eventually want them off.

"A very high majority of people would desire to have them removed if there was a simple and easy way," Saal said.

Most conventional tattoos can be removed, but even a simple, small, one-color tattoo can require several laser treatments at a cost of around $1,000. Removals of large, multicolored tattoos can require more than a dozen laser treatments and cost $5,000 or more. And no, laser tattoo removal is not covered by medical insurance.

Multiple treatments are needed to avoid skin damage from the laser. During conventional tattoo removal, brief pulses of energy are aimed at the tattoo, heating skin cells and breaking up the ink particles. Then the body's natural ability to remove foreign particles clears away the ink fragments. The top layer of skin, however, often bleeds slightly and forms scabs. Because of the inflammation produced by the laser, only a small area of skin can be treated at one time.

There are other complications, too. Doctors often don't know which type of ink was used, at what depth the ink was applied and other factors that could help make removal easier, Saal said. (He is a member of Freedom-2's scientific advisory board.) Scarring can occur if multiple treatments are needed, and some tattoos can't be completely removed.

Some people who have gotten tattoos in recent years may have assumed that laser tattoo removal would deftly deal with any regrets, says Dr. Tina Alster, director of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington and who is not associated with Freedom-2.

But, she adds, they are often stunned to learn of the cost and time involved. "They thought it would be as easy to take off as to put on -- in just one session," she said. "But now with this new dye and polymer, we will be able to remove it in one session."

Freedom-2's ink is removable because it is encapsulated in tiny beads made of polymethylmethacrylate, a synthetic material commonly used in surgical glue and in many types of artificial joints. The fact that the ink is encased in the tiny spheres doesn't affect the application of the tattoo or its appearance, says Martin Schmieg, chief executive of Freedom-2.

"Our inks look and feel and give a result equal to the current tattoos," he says.

Because of the way the beads are constructed, they fall apart when laser energy is applied, Schmieg said. Unpublished tests on humans and animals show that only one laser treatment is typically needed to fully remove a Freedom-2 tattoo and that most Q-switched lasers that doctors use for tattoo removal can be used for the job. A one-time laser treatment to remove a tattoo should cost less than $1,000, Schmieg predicts.

The new ink will be slightly more expensive than conventional ink but will likely add only about $50 to the cost of most tattoos, Schmieg says, because most of the cost related to tattooing is for the artist's time and talent.

The company will sell only black ink initially but will eventually add other colors. It is also developing a "time-limited tattoo," which will consist of ink in biodegradable polymer beads that dissolve and fade over time.

But tattoo artists may prove lukewarm to the idea of removable artwork. According to Dr. Stuart Kaplan, a dermatologist in Beverly Hills who does laser tattoo removal and isn't associated with Freedom-2, tattoo artists are picky about the colors of their inks. They care about whether they blend well and are durable. An inferior or expensive ink won't fly.

Tattoo artists are also unlikely to be swayed by the convenient removal factor because as a rule, they don't think about tattoo removal, says Sailor Bill Johnson, executive director of the Orlando, Fla.-based Alliance of Professional Tattooists.

"That's not our concern," he says. "If someone comes into my tattoo studio and says, 'I may want to remove it later,' we'd just try to talk them out of getting one."

Johnson says part of the experience of tattooing is the commitment. When someone has "Sophia Forever" inked on his biceps, the sentiment is that Sophia is permanent, just like the tattoo. Besides, says Johnson, "You make that decision in your life that you are going to put this artwork on your body. It's a statement that you don't worry about what other people think of you."

Johnson says he won't use the ink. "To me, it's a negative to the profession."

But Chris Winn, a San Diego tattoo artist, says he was instantly intrigued when he heard about the ink at a tattoo convention.

"I think it will be interesting to see the different ways this can bring in clients," he said. "I think it will bring in a group of people who love tattoos but are afraid to get them."

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/12/24/MNGLLN35S21.DTL#ixzz0ZrEb81Sf

The Beauty of Celtic Tattoo Designs

2009-12-12T12:51:00.000-08:00

Celtic tattoo designs are among the top favorite tattoo design choices among people who want to get inked. Celtic
tattoos, with its beautiful knots and symbolisms, are very intricate and interesting pieces that are sure to capture any person’s attention. It not only is pleasing to the eyes, but it actually packs a lot of history, culture and heritage into the design.

The history of the Celts goes back thousands of years ago. At some point, the whole of Europe was actually Celtic, and England was governed completely by the Celts. They had their own language, culture, and religion. The symbols that they used during those ages served as the basis for today’s modern Celtic tattoos.

Originally, the Celtic people worshipped several gods and goddesses but as time passed, they were eventually exposed to Christianity. This change is evident in the symbols and shapes that they use, which incorporated many Christian elements such as crosses and stars. Most of the Celtic tattoo designs used today were also based on symbols form illuminated manuscripts and ancient art from England, Scotland and Ireland.

The Celtic warriors covered their bodies with tattoos as a sign of their courage and strength. During wars, they went to battles bare-chested so their tattoos can easily be seen by their enemies. It was thought that their tattoos could instill fear and intimidation in their rivals and enemies, and they wore it proudly. During those times, having numerous tattoos was a sign of fearlessness and bravery.

Today, Celtic tattoo designs have evolved, incorporating several traditional Celtic symbols into the tattoo. Most of these designs were customized to portray the different representations in Celtic art.

A prominent feature that makes Celtic tattoo designs a favorite is its intricate and elaborate knot work. These knots look like interwoven ropes or vines and are usually designed to form a certain shape or pattern for the tattoo. The possibilities are virtually endless, as these knots can be made to form any shape from the simplest crosses and circles, to the more complicated stars and other combinations. And what’s especially interesting about this knot is that it forms a complete cycle, and there’s basically neither beginning nor end to a Celtic knot. It just goes on an on to form your desired tattoo design.

If you’re one of those individuals fascinated with Celtic tattoo designs or if you have a Celtic heritage and you want to express your pride in being a Celt, getting this tattoo is definitely for you. However, you must keep in mind that because of its intricacies, not many tattoo artists can give you the precise line placement and details needed to ink an impressive Celtic tattoo. It is usually one of the tougher tattoo designs and if you want to get inked, it helps to choose the right tattoo artist who has a lot of experience in inking Celtic designs.

Celtic tattoo designs are beautiful tattoos for those who have an eye for detail and intricate art work, and for those who appreciate the rich history and culture that comes along with it.

Celtic Tattoos

2009-12-12T12:47:00.000-08:00

Celtic history goes back thousands and thousands of years. Early Celtic people were well known for their skills in artwork of jewelry, metal, and even weapons. They were warriors as well, regarded as fierce fighters by the Romans. Throughout Ireland, there are many examples and evidence of Celtic artwork and Celtic crosses.

Over the years, modern Celtics evolved and established symbols for themselves along the way. Throughout North America, Celtic people often wear these symbols to let others know that they are a Celtic descent. The symbols and knowledge have been passed down through the years, as there is little no written history. Tattooing however, keeps the Celtic tradition alive with the infamous Celtic cross and other popular Celtic designs.

Most Celtic tattoo designs come from Ireland, where the evidence of Celtic history is very strong indeed. The Trinity College found in Dublin, Ireland, contains many manuscripts that document the Celtic heritage and symbols. The height of Celtic tattooing however, occurred during the era when stone and metal work was really popular.

Celtic knot tattoos are some of the most popular and most common designs, featuring loops with no end that symbolize a never ending cycle of dying and rebirth. There are also Celtic animal tattoo designs as well, which are similar in design to the knot tattoos, although the cords in the design normally terminate in heads, tails, and feet. The pure knot tattoo designs are normally never ending, unless an individual adds an end to symbolize a spiral.

The meaning behind the knots in Celtic tattoos defies any type of literal translation and is found at a much deeper level. The interlacing of the knots expresses the repeated crossing of both physical and spiritual elements. The strands and their never ending path is a popular design for Celtic tattoos, representing life, faith, and love. For many years, Celtics have used these designs for emotional as well as heritage purposes.

Those who are from a Celtic descent, Irish, Scots, or Welsh, normally find a Celtic tattoo to be a great way to express their heritage pride. These tattoos help to reestablish pride, and give tribute to one’s ancestors. The tattoos aren’t easy to do, most taking several hours. Unlike other tattoo designs, Celtic tattoos are among the hardest designs in the world.

If you are from a Celtic descent and have decided to get a Celtic tattoo, the first thing to do is find an artist capable of doing the tattoo. The designs are very difficult and not all tattoo artists can do them. It’s always best to find a tattoo artist who has a background in Celtic designs, as this will ensure the tattoo is done correctly. The artist who does the tattoo needs to have an eye for detail and exact line placement – which is a skill that not all tattoo artists possess.

Doing your research before you get your tattoo is very important for more than one reason and finding a tattoo artist who specializes in Celtic tattoo's may be your best option if you want Celtic designs. Many tattoo artists excel in certain styles some will do portraits better than other while some will have very vivid imaginations and be able to create the most wonderful freehand tattoo's.

choose your artist carefully and don't be afraid to ask for examples of the work.

Unique Cat Tattoo Designs

2009-12-12T12:45:00.000-08:00

With the recent rise in popularity of tattoos, many pet owners decide to get themselves a tattoo of their favorite pet friend. Cat lovers are definitely favoured in this matter, as there are plenty of cat tattoo designs avialable.
Tattooing a cat’s face on your body is a traditional but highly popular approach. For cat owners, getting such a tattoo is a great way of honoring the relationship they have with their pet.
Those who suffer from a loss of their furry friend often go for a design that is supposed to keep the cat’s memory alive. This can also be a successful way of getting over the sadness and pain that the pet’s death has caused.
Not everybody knows that cats had a very special place in the ancient Egyptian culture. They were a symbol of fertility and motherhood, associated with the moon. In the Egyptian Book Of Dead the cat was pictured as the defeater of the evil Apep. If you are looking for a sumbolic element in cat tattoo designs, getting an Egyptian-style cat tattoo will probably be the right choice.
Wild cat tattoo designs are also popular and often look very impressive. The lion - the king of the jungle, is often chosen by those who want to manifest their strong personality and inner strength. A tiger, on the other hand, is a frequent choice of women who want a sexy tattoo on their body.

How to Get Your First Tattoo

2009-12-12T12:13:00.001-08:00

How to Get Your First Tattoo

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

So you decided to move up from temporary to permanent. Here's how to make the big leap.

Steps

Think of a design you want to get.Make sure it is something you feel comfortable showing off, and that you want on your body until you die.
Make a rough sketch of your design. It doesn't have to be perfect. Tattoo artists are just that: artists. If you can give a good idea of what you want, your artist can really fly with it.
Find the location on your body that you want to put it. Make sure it fits. Not too big, and not too small.
Touch up your design. Smooth out the lines, add a basic color scheme, and make it fit to your desired location.
Find an artist. The recommendation of a friend who has a tattoo you like a lot can help. Consider a few locations that are near where you live. You don't want to travel too far.
Pick a few and check them out. Make sure the place is clean, and the artists are friendly. You're going to develop a pseudo-relationship with your artist. So be nice back to them. Ask to see the sterilization records for the equipment, they will be happy to show you.
Choose the artist whose work you like best and tell him or her you want a tattoo. Tell your artist everything you know. What it is, where it's going, how big, etc.
Negotiate your price. Ask how much it will cost; that way you can get the money the day of the tattoo, or transfer it from account to account, however you want to do it. Once you discuss the tattoo you will usually be asked to leave a deposit ($50 or so) and make an appointment. The deposit goes to the total price of your tattoo, so don't worry. Leave the rough drawing with them so they can improve upon it, and make it unique, just for you.
When the big day comes, shower well. You don't want to be smelly for your tattoo. Pay attention to the location you are getting it. The tattoo artist will shave the location where you are getting the tattoo. So you can shave before you go, if you'd like.
When you get there, go over the new and improved picture, and make sure it's OK. Remember, this is forever inked into your skin. If there's anything - any little thing - about it that isn't what you want, stop right there, and let your artist know. You don't have to have a fit about it, or get panicked. Just say, "Hey, this part right here? I'm not crazy about it. I would like a little more/less...." whatever it is. The artist will probably not get upset or take it personally - after all, s/he is trying to read your mind a little bit, and if it's not exactly the thing, he or she is a pro who knows it can be easily tweaked. If the artist does get defensive, angry, or belligerent about the changes you want, thank him or her and go elsewhere. You are the one who will wear this image for life, and if the artist isn't willing to make it wonderful for you, s/he's not the one for you.
Relax. You are going to be nervous, but calm down as much as you can. The tattoo artist will make sure it doesn't hurt a lot. When you get in the chair, sing something to yourself in your head, or talk to the artist. Make sure you do everything he/she says, move this, sit back, etc.
Take a final look when it's finished. Make sure they didn't miss anything. They'll be happy to touch it up, if they need to.
Listen to all the care instructions your artist gives you. Tattoo artists know how to take care of tattoos and your skin, so listen well.
Take care of your tattoo as instructed. You'll have a piece of artwork that you can enjoy forever.

Tips

Make sure the tattoo is something you want. You don't want a neon green and pink butterfly on your arm forever, if you hate butterflies.
Make sure to check out the tattoo parlor and artist well. You don't want some dirtbag giving you a tattoo in some broken down shack.
Save! You don't want to come up short on cash when you go for the tattoo. Bring more than they tell you.
Tip! Nothing upsets artists more than people who don't tip. They don't make much from the parlor itself, they make their money from tips. Tip by size. A small tattoo should be like a $30 tip. If you get a large one, it should be around $60 or $70.
Shower. Being clean is the best way to prepare for the big day, and care for your tattoo. They can get infected, and it's not pretty.
Go temporary before going for the permanent. When you have selected a design and a place (on body) to do the tattoo, get a temporary tattoo for some time and see if you are comfortable with the tattoo. If you feel odd, select another design and a place. This will give maximum satisfaction (and zero worries) when you get it permanent.
It's okay to be nervous!. It's perfectly normal and natural to feel a few butterflies before you get a tattoo, If your worried about how nervous your going to get then bring a good friend along.

Warnings

Remember this is permanent. You can't just wipe it off. It is there for good. Until you get a cover-up or get it removed (by laser surgery).
Everybody handles pain differently. What was painless for your best friend may be the exact opposite for you. Don't get too deep into the fat/bone/nerve debate over which area is the most or least painful, because every person is different. A simple way to test your tolerance without needles, is to simply pinch yourself. Regardless, do not let pain decide where your tattoo should be placed - pain is temporary and the tattoo is not! If you choose an area known to be painful (like ribs) just be patient through the pain.
Remember - don't drink alcohol, or take drugs before your appointment! Don't even take painkillers, as they are also blood thinners!
Eat well before your appointment. It is a good idea to bring along some water, juice, or a non-messy snack to have handy in case your blood sugar starts to drop. Most tattoo parlors have hard candy around, but it's good to bring your own just in case, because tattoo artists don't like their clients passing out in the shop.
Skipping out on your appointment will lose your deposit, and most likely the artist won't want to tattoo you. If you can't make it, call ahead and tell them so you can make a new appointment on a better day.

Things You'll Need

A design. You can make your own, take one from online, or use on from in-store. The tattoo parlor will usually have designs all over the walls. Remember though, it is considered very rude to copy other's custom tattoos.
Money. You can't get a free tattoo, unless of course, it's free tattoo day at the parlor.
Courage. You can't wimp out on your first tattoo. It will hurt, this is a feeling that you have never felt before. Some people love it, and some hate the feeling! But when the tattoo is done, you will be happy that you got it, and will be back for more!

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Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Get Your First Tattoo. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Not Be Afraid to Get a Tattoo/Piercing

2009-12-12T12:10:00.001-08:00

How to Not Be Afraid to Get a Tattoo/Piercing

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Does the needle freak you out as well as the gun? Here's how to survive.

Steps

What kind of piercing/tattoo are you getting? If it's your ears you're getting pierced, you don't have to worry at all. It never hurts. It's just quick as a pinch, then they sting a bit for a few minutes.
To conquer your fear, know all about getting it done. How does a pro do it? If you have a friend with tattoos or piercings, ask her/him about the pain.
Take deep breaths when you think about what you're afraid of. Soon your mind will think that getting body art done isn't scary or nerve-racking, but perfectly fine, even calming.
When you go to get it done, breathe deeply. If you're getting something pierced, ask the piercer to do it when you least expect it. That way the pain is barely noticeable, and you probably won't even know it is pierced after it is! But if you're getting a tattoo ask the artist to drift you into conversation so you take your mind off the pain.
What really helps with tattoos is to sip on a bottle of water (or a sugary drink if you're prone to fainting)during the tattooing process. Having hard candy to suck on helps too. It keeps your mind off the pain. It also helps to bring a friend who can you can talk to, a lot, through out the whole thing. This makes everything go by faster. Also, if you go to a good tattoo shop, they will usually have a lot of cd's to choose from and you can listen to whatever you want while they tattoo you.

Pain Factor

Bellybutton: Not very bad, but it will hurt. It will be over so fast you don't have a chance to react...and once it's in it doesn't really hurt, just a little sore.
Ear piercing (not including lobes): The harder the part in the ear the more painful.
Tattoo: The pain varies depending on where it is.
Nose piercing: Similar to the ear cartilage piercing. *Will cause eyes to water*
Septum piercing: Very painful for some people, for others totally painless.
Lip piercing: Not very painful. Slight pain when done but stops when it's in.
Tongue piercing: If done by a skilled piercing artist, you will feel no pain at all until afterwards. Tongue piercings are sore for 3-5 days, and remember that it is not good to eat solid food for a few days.

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Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Not Be Afraid to Get a Tattoo/Piercing. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Fix a Bad Tattoo

2009-12-12T12:00:00.000-08:00

How to Fix a Bad Tattoo

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

So you've finally worked up the nerve to get inked. You go to the parlour, talk to the artist, make all the right moves, and you're not happy with the outcome. It can be devastating, especially if the tattoo has some significant meaning.

Steps

Live with it for a bit. If you're mostly happy with it, and it's just some minor details that turned out wrong, wait for a bit before you rush to get it fixed. You can possibly learn to live with, possibly love, the flaws that make it unique.
Identify what is wrong with it. Wrong colours? Did it turn out messy? Are you getting chronic infections? Whatever the case, you'll need to isolate the problem. This will make it easy when you go to the laser technician to get it fixed.ask a few artist and notice what they all say.
Research. Research where you're going, how much it costs, the history of the technician, and the reputation of the clinic. Get a tattoo lasered off can be just as dangerous as getting one.
Explain exactly what you want! That last thing you want is for someone mess up fixing the tattoo you messed up.Any good artist will know what is wrong as corrections are done all the time. A touch up or correction will most likly be the answer unless is is really bad then it may need to be lasered or covered up .

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Fix a Bad Tattoo. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Choose a Tattoo Design

2009-12-12T11:58:00.001-08:00

How to Choose a Tattoo Design

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Choosing a tattoo should be a thorough process. They are intended to be forever, and removal is expensive. The more planning that goes into your design of choice, the more likely that you will enjoy your tattoo later in life.

Steps

Be happy with what design you have on your body. As long as you like it, that's the most important thing. That being said, there are factors that can make you love or hate your tattoo.
Find a design that has meaning for you. Even if you cannot draw, a little practice and patience can get you a good outline, at least. Most tattoo artists will help you redraw and redesign a tattoo.
Stay away from the art (known as "flash") shown in the studios except as inspiration. It is better to go with a unique and original design than a mass market design - "flash" is designed by excellent artists then sold to tattoo artists around the country and around the world.
Find an artist or designer and ask them to make a custom design for you. Many tattoo artists are also conventional artists, or can at least reproduce a traditional drawing, sketch or painting onto your skin.
Find a style that you especially like, and an artist that works in that style. Most artists will do what you want, but also excel in certain "looks." Check portfolios, and compare the different styles: old school, new school, naturalistic, Asian, black and white, etc.
Writing, in any form or language, should be thought over twice as long. Check and recheck the meanings of any words or idiograms of a language you aren't fluent in. Choose quotes carefully. Search for a font you like, or create your own.
Consider carefully what body part you want your tattoo on. Some places you'll look at it every day, some almost never. Consider how likely it will be that you will need to cover it with clothing or otherwise at some point.
Try to get a printout of the design, and see how the design will fit against your skin.
Use henna to get a temporary version of the design. You won't be able to see different colors, or certain looks, but you will be able to judge the feeling of a tattoo. Henna lasts a week to a month.
Think about it a lot. When you are certain, wait some more just to make sure.

Video

Tips

Think back to 10 years ago. If you had gotten a tattoo back then, what would it most likely have been? If you don't like the idea of having that on your body, don't get a tattoo now. Chances are, in 10 years, you'll regret getting it.
Think forward, as well. Is your tattoo going to look good even when you're old and wrinkled? Chances are, a tribal dragon or Hello Kitty won't.
The number one tattoos that artists are asked to cover up, after homemade tattoos, are names. If the person is not dead, or your child, names are usually not the best idea.
Asian characters are a popular choice, as it is a way to get a meaning in a design. The tattoo studio walls are not the place to trust when looking for a character. Many have double meanings, nuances, things that may give an impression that wasn't intended.
Often members of a family will get matching or complimentary tattoos. Often, younger generations will incorporate elements of older family members tattoos in their own designs.
A band, TV show, or comic book character you love today may not be something you want to carry around forever on your skin. If you're thinking about getting a tattoo such, think about how big of an impact it had on you. If you've fallen in and out with others like this, then wait a few years before you decide to get it. But, if it made you have hope in a rough time in your life, helped you find out who you were or something along those lines, then it would be better.
Don't be afraid to get a tattoo that doesn't have a deep meaning if you love the design. If you love Winnie the Pooh enough to look at him forever, get that Pooh Bear.
The darker and more filled-in a tattoo is, the longer it takes to remove. Which means more money, more pain, and more time. Multicoloured tattoos will take longer to remove as they will require multiple treatments with different wavelength lasers for each pigment type. Completely black ink however, is easiest to remove by laser as it absorbs the beam on all wavelengths, breaking up the pigment easier.
Feet, hands, and faces need more touch-ups, and more attention to heal properly. Expect to pay more for these areas. Some artists refuse to do facial or hand tattoos on a person that doesn't already have visible tattoos.
If you feel hesitant, either about the design or the artist, don't go through with it.
Go temporary before going for the permanent.

Warnings

Some people are against cultural appropriation, where someone takes a meaningful aspect of another's culture and uses it for fashionable reasons. If you are getting a tattoo of a traditional symbol, you should know the meaning and history of that symbol.
Laser tattoo removal is very expensive, painful, and time-consuming - in fact, much more expensive and more painful than any tattoo. In most cases it can completely remove tattoos. Tattoo cover-ups are cheaper, but find an artist that specializes in them. It's best to be certain about your design. Think about it. Dwell on it.
Tattoos can get infected, and should be washed and treated as wounds. Follow your artists aftercare instructions.
Most tattoos will need touch-ups through your life. Using sunscreen and moisturising daily will help your tattoo look new for years. After 10-30 years, expect to need touch-ups to combat blurring.
Be extremely careful when getting Kanji characters as tattoos if you've found the design on the internet or tattoo parlour wall. You may think it means "Peace, love, harmony" but for all you know the characters could be straight off a soy sauce packet, or worse.
Think before getting a tattoo. Will you like the design in the future? What will you do when it fades? Are you sure you want it where you put it? What will people think at a job interview? These are all things to consider before you get a tattoo. A tattoo is a big commitment and you should be prepared for the outcome, may it be good or bad.
Don't forget that if you chose to get someone's name, that person might not be around for ever. They could leave and you would have their name on your body.

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Choose a Tattoo Design. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Care for a New Tattoo

2009-12-12T11:56:00.001-08:00

How to Care for a New Tattoo

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Choosing a reputable tattoo artist is only part of the equation. Even the best tattoo can be ruined by poor aftercare. Guidelines vary from artist to artist, but here's an overview of what you need to do to keep your tattoo clean, bold and clear.

Steps

Listen to your tattoo artist. If you've done your homework and chosen a good tattoo artist, he or she will provide detailed instructions, and you should follow them carefully. Think of your tattoo as having a warranty; if you don't follow the artist's instructions, you might void the warranty and he or she won't give you free touch-ups.
Leave the bandage on. Recommendations vary as to how long you should leave the bandage on: anywhere between two hours[1][2] to 24 hours (if a thick, absorbent, non-stick ABD wound dressing is used).[3] Your tattoo artist will give you a timeframe. The important thing is to not expose your tattoo until that time has lapsed. That means avoiding the temptation to flash your new tattoo to your friends, even if just for a second. Be patient. The bandage is there to protect your tattoo from airborne bacteria, which can penetrate through your broken skin.[1]
Soak the bandage with warm water when removing it. This is optional, but recommended if the bandage is stuck to your tattoo and offers resistance.
Wash the tattoo. Most artists recommend lukewarm water and mild, unscented liquid antibacterial or antimicrobial soap.[1] Use your hands (not a wash cloth) and gently remove all traces of blood so it doesn't scab.[2] Pat (don't rub) dry with a clean towel or a paper towel.
- After the initial washing, don't use antibacterial soaps anymore.[1]
- Some tattoo artists recommend letting the tattoo "air out" for about ten minutes before going to the next step.[4]
Apply ointment. Many tattoo artists advise that you use ointment for 2-3 days. Ointment lasts longer than lotion, reducing the number of times you need to apply it, thus lessening the amount of rubbing.[3] Just remember that more is not better. Apply a thin layer, just enough to make the tattoo shine, or else you'll suffocate the tattoo.[2] Apply it twice a day.[2] Switch over to lotion when your tattoo artist says so.
- Don't use petroleum based products.[1]
- Most tattoo artists will recommend using lotion that has no scent, color, sparkles, etc.
Continue washing and applying ointment or lotion as directed by your tattoo artist until the tattoo heals. The tattoo might look cloudy for a few days as it heals. This is called "onion skin". You'll know you have "onion skin" when the tattoo looks clearer when wet.[4] Your tattoo is likely to peel, with small flakes of colored skin falling off. Don't pull off the flakes, or else you might pull the ink out; let them fall out on their own.[2] This is likely to happen within the first 4-7 days. There might be a second flaking, this time clear, within two weeks. Full healing will take 4-6 weeks.[3] Until the tattoo is fully healed, keep the following in mind:
- Avoid soaking the tattoo. Take short showers, don't go swimming, don't go in saunas, etc. Soaking can draw out ink.
- Keep the tattoo away from sunlight until it's fully healed. Don't apply sunblock; cover it up with loose clothing.
- Do not scratch or pick at the tattoo. You might pull off pigment and reopen your tattoo to infection. If it itches, spray it with rubbing alcohol or slap it with your (very clean) hand to sting it and take away the itch.[2] Alternatively, you can massage in lotion.[3] Avoid friction, especially on hands and feet.
- Don't shave the tattoo until it's fully healed. If you shave around it, don't let the shaving cream or hair irritate or infect the tattoo.
- Avoid salt water completely.[4]

Video

Tips

Even after your tattoo has healed try to avoid exposing it to the sun without sunscreen. Sunscreen with a 30 SPF or higher will work the best - though SPF numbers over 30 do not provide much further advantage than an SPF of 30. Sunlight over time fades tattoos.

Warnings

Disease and viruses may be spread through the tattoo process when a dirty needle is used. This is why it is important to find a reputable shop. Remember, you will get what you pay for.
Do not use products like Neosporin: if you read the label they tell you they are not for puncture wounds (and remember, your tattoo is just thousands of little puncture wounds). This will cause the skin under and around your tattoo to heal too quickly.
Do not let your tattoo "dry out" while it is healing - about three weeks.
Even after your tattoo has healed, it may feel a little bumpy. This is because the ink still needs to "settle." This usually takes about four weeks.

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Care for a New Tattoo. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

Cat Tattoo Designs

2009-12-07T10:01:00.000-08:00

The most important part of having a tattoo done lies in choosing the right tattoo designfor you. There is a wide range of tattoos for you to choose from where you have to make your decision based on your nature, your perception to life, your likes and dislikes or as a means of showing your affection to another. You have a choice from animal tattoos, bird tattoos and any other item of significance to be used as a tattoo.

The best choice for a cat lover would be a cat tattoo. It is important that you choose a tattoo artist who is an expert in animal tattoo designs. This way, you will be sure you get the right tattoo picture as a tattoo. Some animal tattoo artists have a portfolio for you to go through and decide on the right cat tattoo for yourself. Then there are artists who can create your cat tattoo with the help of any cat picture that you present to them.

The Egyptians are considered to be the greatest cat lovers as they worshiped cats so much that if a person killed a cat, either accidentally or on purpose, the person would be sentenced to death. Deceased cats of that era were mummified and buried in their own casket, in special graveyards.

Not only were the Egyptians obsessed with cats, many people from around the world are hung on to cats because of their graceful, fluid and aloof nature. Cats have always been portrayed and associated with the night, along with mystery. In fact, mythology states that the goddess Freya had a cat that pulled her chariot. It was these types of stories that made people believe that cats were magical, and were associated with witches.

The black cat is the preferred choice for Halloween decorations as it symbolized witchcraft and evil. In fact, Norse mythology states that a black cat crossing the path is a symbol of bad luck. However like other symbols, other countries have different associations with the cat. In places like England and Japan, a black cat is considered to be a god omen.

So to be on the safer side, if you wish to have a cat tattoo, avoid a black cat tattoo design. Instead get a cat tattoo design of your favorite breed like the Russian Blue, Siamese, Burmese, Angora or the popular tomcat. Even a cat tattoo of the famous Cheshire cat from the classic ‘Alice in Wonderland’ is a great idea for a cat tattoo. Moreover, this is a cat tattoo that will always be smiling!

Remember that a tattoo is something that will be with you for your lifetime. Of course, it is possible to get a tattoo removed; but it is an expensive procedure which may involve surgery. So think twice on where you place your cat tattoo; it should not be the reason for you not getting a job in the future. There are some employers who don’t like employees with tattoos so choose the right location and the right cat tattoo for yourself.

A History of the Hawaiian Flower Tattoos

2009-12-07T09:57:00.000-08:00

Do you know why Hawaiian flower tattoos are so popular there? This is because they have a history of tattoos there. There are lots of flowers in the island of Hawaii and some of the flowers symbolize faith in God. This is the reason most residents have a Hawaiian flower tattoo on them.

Sea sides are not the only things that are famous in Hawaii. Their tattoos are also famous. Most of these Hawaiian flower tattoos are taken from very old designs in tribal art and culture that resided within the island only. This is why it might seem that Hawaiian flower tattoos are very new and fresh and they continue to grow with popularity each day but in reality these tattoos have been there since a long time.

Hawaiian Flower Tattoo- A Tradition

There was a time when Hawaiians used to visit temples regularly to pray so that their family and friends were protected from harm and happy. This concept of protection led them to devise a means for the protecting their relatives. The Hawaiian flower tattoo is a symbol of this protection. But this is not all.

The tattoo also designates a certain social status to a person. So you see native Hawaiians do not wear the tattoo for fashion purposes only. There is a deep inherent meaning in each of the Hawaiian flower tattoos. They protect the person and they also give him/her a personal identity.

Meanings of Flowers

The different flowers of the Hawaiian flower tattoos also embody different meanings. One flower will mean one thing and another flower will mean something else.

For example, orchids will not mean the same thing as plumerias. If you are looking for wealth and strength you should go for orchids. But hospitality and warmth are signified by plumerias. As different flowers mean different things, the best way is to choose a flower that goes with your personality.

You might wonder whether you will get a flower in a particular color you like. Dont worry; there are lots of vibrant colors available. Red, orange, pink or yellow- you name it and your tattoo can be of that color! This is because Hawaiian flowers are usually bright, so in most cases you are likely to find a flower of the color that attracts you.

Hawaiian flower tattoos are not only available in different colors; they are also available in different shapes and sizes. You can get one done according to your choice. If you want to have a fresh yet feminine tattoo, Hawaiian flower tattoos are your pick.

Most-Popular-Flower-Tattoo-Designs

2009-12-07T09:54:00.000-08:00

Flower tattoos are most popular among women. The majority of people choose to select floral tattoos according to the meaning of different flowers.

The rose is one of the most popular among flower tattoos, along with baby’s breath, which means pure heart, the buttercup and it’s symbol of riches, the carnation and it’s meaning of love.

The daisy is a favorite among floral tattoos as it symbolizes innocence.

The sunflower means beauty and the tulip with it’s meaning of enchantment.

As you can see, each flower is not only different in appearance, but in symbolization as well.

A men who choose floral tattoos will often accompany it with a name or other symbol. An example may be a rose with the name of his spouse or mate.

This article is for information purpose only. Before the purchase or application any tattoo, an individual should make sure that the artist is properly trained and licensed to produce a safe and quality tattoo. Any tattoo is not to be applied by an amateur or anyone who has not been properly trained in the handling and sterilization of tattoo equipment.

Why Finding Good, Quality Pictures of Tattoo Designs is Hard

2009-12-07T09:49:00.000-08:00

I am sure you have spent a fair amount of time looking for pictures of tattoo designs. I will bet quite a pretty penny that you haven't found much good, quality draw artwork, too. Why do I make such a bold prediction? Well, I do it because only about 10% of people truly find the sites that have great artwork. The rest see the same generic, cookie cutter pictures of tattoo designs and here's how you can keep that from happening to you.
It's actually a lot simpler than you might think to pin point fantastic tattoos and picture galleries. Most folks just get caught in a horrid loop of sites that have absolutely nothing of value. It's like every websites you head over to has pages stacked with generic junk and decade old cookie cutter pictures of tattoo designs.
That's no way to go about looking for ideas and drawings for your next tattoo. Do you ever wonder why some people get such generic tattoo designs inked on their body? Well, now you know why a lot of them do it. They just can't find the good stuff! One of the huge reason behind this is that they are too reliant on search engines to find pictures of tattoo designs. Long story short, it's just not going to work if you want to see fresh, crisp, quality drawn artwork.
All that pops up are horrid sites that are clutter with tons of generic junk and that's it. You get bypass much of those unworthy sites, though. You do it by switching over to forums when looking for pictures of tattoo designs. Now, you aren't going to find the actually artwork in these forums, but the forums can easily be used to find the absolute best galleries throughout the web. The bigger the forum you use, the more past and present topics they are going to have on tattoos and various related subjects. This is here people just like you and me share their findings of truly amazing artwork. It is the hidden galleries you find in here that usually take tons of pride in having the best stuff.
This should only be used if you dread looking through generic pictures of tattoo designs and finally want to see what good artwork looks like.