An informed "tattoo talk" can be surprising and enlightening for both parents and teenagers.
Parents and teens
Tattooing has a bad name for many parents of teens. Parents regard it as irreversible self-mutilation, done in a passion and to be regretted later, or as a purely negative act of defiance. Teens see it as a sign of their emerging autonomy and identity, a way of fitting in (what’s wrong with that?), or simply as an aesthetic embellishment of their bodies, a more permanent version of trendy clothes and make-up. Once these two views collide, how to get out of the impasse?
Legal age?
Parents, don’t think the issue is a dead one, since in some countries and most US states there is a legal age for tattooing (usually 18, check though; there is very little FDA involvement). First of all, teens are notorious for “finding a way” (to put it euphemistically). Secondly, in some localities a signed parental consent form can lower the required age (this is not always the case, so check). Either way, it is safe to say that you will come across the issue sooner or later.
The tattoo talk
First off, if you think that the “tattoo talk” is of the same kind as the talk about smoking or unsafe sex, may I suggest otherwise. There are good reasons for getting a tattoo (given, of course, first of all, that it is legal). There are bad reasons too. If you sit down to discuss all of these, either party may change their mind, everyone will learn, and an agreement becomes at least possible.
Tattoo history and responsibility
The key for both of you is information. Research the long and truly venerably history of tattooing together. Discover the societal and psychological functions of tattooing in general and of tattoo images in particular. Become aware of the implications and responsibilities of bearing a tattoo: if you carry a tattoo, you carry a message.
Then discuss the reasons why your teen wants one. What is the message they want to convey, and is this particular tattoo, or any tattoo, the best way to go? Are they merely giving in to a peer-pressured fad – “a permanent reminder of a temporary feeling," to quote Jimmy Buffett (how uncool!)? Or have they grasped something more essential, more meaningful about the custom, and might that not be admirable? Or, from the teen’s perspective, a little too much to handle after all?
Research on the internet
The internet is the first place to look, but be selective. Commercial websites that want to represent tattooing in a legitimate background, sell their ad space to venues that are less than acceptable to a parents who are already on their guard. Better not direct your Mom to a “History and Culture of Tattooing” page that is likely to bombard her with the flashing images of barely clad women, or (heaven forbid) an ad for a motorbike!
On the other hand, both you and your parents might be tempted to regard the more “respectable” information on museum or academic sites as so much history and anthropology, irrelevant to your modern Western situation. So what if Otzi, the Copper Age “Ice Man”, got inked 5,000 years ago, or if the Maoris still use it to show social status and to mark rites of passage? But consider this: getting a tattoo means attaching yourself not just to a group in your present day and place, but also taking your place in a rich fabric woven over millennia and by many cultures.
Further reading
So read on about the history of tattooing, and its many functions and meanings.
If and when you do go ahead (hopefully together), read these tips, resources and facts about tattooing among US adults.
Were you hoping for a list of the good and the bad reasons? I am sorry to disappoint. But you’re both of you old enough to come up with those.
http://tattoosbodyart.suite101.com/article.cfm/tattooing_for_parents_and_teens
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Tattoo tips
Information about safety, techniques, pain, removal, temporary tattoos, and some facts about tattooing among US adults
You’ve researched the history and cultural significance of tattooing. You’ve determined which message you want to show the world and whether, upon deep consideration, a tattoo is the best way for you to do so. You’ve chosen an image and you’re itching to hit the tattoo parlor and get your ink. But first consider these tips and consult the following resources:
* Research the tattoo shop or artist you want to go to. If your country or state have established safety and permit procedures, be sure to choose a licensed shop (for US, see here). Where tattoo shops are not inspected, be extra vigilant and inspect before you act.
* Educate yourself about the techniques, the pain of getting a tattoo, as well as after care and potential complications. You can find more information here.
* Research the procedures for removing a tattoo: laser treatment, dermabrasion, salabrasion, scarification… Realize that these are as painful and expensive as they sound, and not always successful. Read more here.
* Test-drive a tattoo: try out your chosen image, its effect on your family and friends, and its appeal after a period of time, by having it applied with a temporary airbrush or with henna. Less permanent inks and techniques are being developed and will soon hit the market.
* If you haven’t reached the legal age, know that no good tattoo artist will give you a tattoo. If one is prepared to give you one anyway, think twice: do you want a tattoo from someone who is prepared to break the law? Can he be sanitary and safe? Can he be a good artist?
Some tattoo facts from the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (telephone survey of 253 women and 247 men, conducted in 2004 published in 2006):
* In the U.S., almost one out of four adults (24 percent) between 18 and 50 has at least one tattoo.
* Of all US adults between 18 and 29, a whopping 36 percent or one in three, has at least one tattoo.
* Nearly two-thirds of those who have tattoos got them before they turned 24.
* 13 percent of the respondents in the survey had problems with healing.
* None of the respondents had a tattoo removed, but 17 percent has considered it.
http://tattoosbodyart.suite101.com/article.cfm/tattoo_tips
You’ve researched the history and cultural significance of tattooing. You’ve determined which message you want to show the world and whether, upon deep consideration, a tattoo is the best way for you to do so. You’ve chosen an image and you’re itching to hit the tattoo parlor and get your ink. But first consider these tips and consult the following resources:
* Research the tattoo shop or artist you want to go to. If your country or state have established safety and permit procedures, be sure to choose a licensed shop (for US, see here). Where tattoo shops are not inspected, be extra vigilant and inspect before you act.
* Educate yourself about the techniques, the pain of getting a tattoo, as well as after care and potential complications. You can find more information here.
* Research the procedures for removing a tattoo: laser treatment, dermabrasion, salabrasion, scarification… Realize that these are as painful and expensive as they sound, and not always successful. Read more here.
* Test-drive a tattoo: try out your chosen image, its effect on your family and friends, and its appeal after a period of time, by having it applied with a temporary airbrush or with henna. Less permanent inks and techniques are being developed and will soon hit the market.
* If you haven’t reached the legal age, know that no good tattoo artist will give you a tattoo. If one is prepared to give you one anyway, think twice: do you want a tattoo from someone who is prepared to break the law? Can he be sanitary and safe? Can he be a good artist?
Some tattoo facts from the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (telephone survey of 253 women and 247 men, conducted in 2004 published in 2006):
* In the U.S., almost one out of four adults (24 percent) between 18 and 50 has at least one tattoo.
* Of all US adults between 18 and 29, a whopping 36 percent or one in three, has at least one tattoo.
* Nearly two-thirds of those who have tattoos got them before they turned 24.
* 13 percent of the respondents in the survey had problems with healing.
* None of the respondents had a tattoo removed, but 17 percent has considered it.
http://tattoosbodyart.suite101.com/article.cfm/tattoo_tips
Your New Tattoo
Want a tattoo or just curious about the procedure? Worried about things such as safety, likeliness of infection or what's in the ink itself? Read on.
There is no specific legislation surrounding tattooing or piercing practices in Canada. Any regulations and enforcement of them fall under provincial guidelines. There are no age regulations to get tattooed in Canada; some shops however require written permission from a guardian for a person under eighteen.
Health Canada has issued guidelines for tattoo artists, piercers, and practitioners of electrolysis. Alberta has also issued guidelines for artists practicing within the province. A reputable shop will abide by these guidelines and be willing to answer any of your questions, but ultimately it is up to you and your own judgement whether you feel the shop and artist are safe and conscientious.
The first steps
Be clear and concise when you go into the tattoo shop and talk to the artist. You need to discuss more than just the art that will be on your skin forever! Ask how long the artist has been working. Ask about their sterilization methods. Take note if the shop is clean, the work area should be well lit, the floor should not be carpeted, and the staff willing to answer your questions. Come in several times, look through the artists look-book, get a feeling for the shop, and decide if it is the right place for you.
The shop should use an autoclave to sanitize its reusable tools. Some artists use disposable tools, but these are lightweight and some feel that they do not give the same artistic results. An autoclave uses heat, steam and pressure to kill pathogenic organisms. This is the safest way. If the shop you are considering does not use one, it is best to walk out the door. You’ve after all spent hours choosing your tattoo, the artist is just as important.
Getting the tattoo
When you go in to get tattooed, make sure you are clean. Never tattoo skin that has warts, acne or other abrasions. This should be a no brainer but you might be surprised how many people come in unwashed. Also don’t drink beforehand. There is of course some bleeding anyway, but alcohol thins your blood and causes excessive bleeding. If it’s pain you’re worried about, your body releases endorphins to deal with the pain, making you feel a ‘natural high’. If you feel you need to take a break that is okay too, your tattooist is a professional who expects this. Your tattooist should open everything in front of you. She should wear plastic gloves and also wrap the tattoo machine in disposable plastic. The needles should be new, opened in front of you and disposed after each customer. The ink should be put into small disposable containers. She should also wipe the area of skin to be tattooed with an antiseptic. All this will protect you and her from blood borne pathogens.
Tattoo ink
Some people may have an allergic reaction to the colour in their tattoo. This is possible but very rare. Tattoo inks are composed of a carrier and pigment. Most pigments used are metal salts, some may be plastics and there may be vegetable dyes used as well. The pigment is what gives your tattoo its colour, and what it is will vary between companies. The carrier is what keeps the pigment easily mixed preventing clumping, and therefore easy to apply, and also disinfected. The safest and most common carriers are ethyl alcohol, purified water, witch hazel or glycerine. If you are worried about allergic reactions talk to your tattoo artist. Rest assured she does not want you to have a reaction either! This is her art and livelihood after all.
Aftercare
So now you’ve taken the step, and been tattooed, congratulations! Be aware that more infections are reported after tattooing than piercings, usually due to improper care. With proper care a tattoo will heal up within 3-4 days. Some tips to avoid infection: Wash your hands before you apply ointment to your tattoo. Air causes scabs to form, so keep air off your ink! Make sure the tattoo is covered with A&D Ointment (which is the top choice among tattoo artists), which not only makes sure you heal nicely, but that the colours heal nice and bright. You can also use vaseline, or a 100% cocoa butter stick, but never use a lotion during this initial healing stage; most have alcohol in them, which is drying. You want something that stays slick and covers the surface of your tattoo.
However, when your tattoo has healed you want to switch to a lotion, as ointments have pulling agents that can fade a tattoo. For long-term care, apply sunscreen anytime you go outside. A really nice one to use is a hemp based sunscreen stick, or tattoo balm. Sun will fade your tattoo. So take care of your artwork and let your tattoo do its thing!
http://tattoo-body-art-health.suite101.com/article.cfm/your_new_tattoo
There is no specific legislation surrounding tattooing or piercing practices in Canada. Any regulations and enforcement of them fall under provincial guidelines. There are no age regulations to get tattooed in Canada; some shops however require written permission from a guardian for a person under eighteen.
Health Canada has issued guidelines for tattoo artists, piercers, and practitioners of electrolysis. Alberta has also issued guidelines for artists practicing within the province. A reputable shop will abide by these guidelines and be willing to answer any of your questions, but ultimately it is up to you and your own judgement whether you feel the shop and artist are safe and conscientious.
The first steps
Be clear and concise when you go into the tattoo shop and talk to the artist. You need to discuss more than just the art that will be on your skin forever! Ask how long the artist has been working. Ask about their sterilization methods. Take note if the shop is clean, the work area should be well lit, the floor should not be carpeted, and the staff willing to answer your questions. Come in several times, look through the artists look-book, get a feeling for the shop, and decide if it is the right place for you.
The shop should use an autoclave to sanitize its reusable tools. Some artists use disposable tools, but these are lightweight and some feel that they do not give the same artistic results. An autoclave uses heat, steam and pressure to kill pathogenic organisms. This is the safest way. If the shop you are considering does not use one, it is best to walk out the door. You’ve after all spent hours choosing your tattoo, the artist is just as important.
Getting the tattoo
When you go in to get tattooed, make sure you are clean. Never tattoo skin that has warts, acne or other abrasions. This should be a no brainer but you might be surprised how many people come in unwashed. Also don’t drink beforehand. There is of course some bleeding anyway, but alcohol thins your blood and causes excessive bleeding. If it’s pain you’re worried about, your body releases endorphins to deal with the pain, making you feel a ‘natural high’. If you feel you need to take a break that is okay too, your tattooist is a professional who expects this. Your tattooist should open everything in front of you. She should wear plastic gloves and also wrap the tattoo machine in disposable plastic. The needles should be new, opened in front of you and disposed after each customer. The ink should be put into small disposable containers. She should also wipe the area of skin to be tattooed with an antiseptic. All this will protect you and her from blood borne pathogens.
Tattoo ink
Some people may have an allergic reaction to the colour in their tattoo. This is possible but very rare. Tattoo inks are composed of a carrier and pigment. Most pigments used are metal salts, some may be plastics and there may be vegetable dyes used as well. The pigment is what gives your tattoo its colour, and what it is will vary between companies. The carrier is what keeps the pigment easily mixed preventing clumping, and therefore easy to apply, and also disinfected. The safest and most common carriers are ethyl alcohol, purified water, witch hazel or glycerine. If you are worried about allergic reactions talk to your tattoo artist. Rest assured she does not want you to have a reaction either! This is her art and livelihood after all.
Aftercare
So now you’ve taken the step, and been tattooed, congratulations! Be aware that more infections are reported after tattooing than piercings, usually due to improper care. With proper care a tattoo will heal up within 3-4 days. Some tips to avoid infection: Wash your hands before you apply ointment to your tattoo. Air causes scabs to form, so keep air off your ink! Make sure the tattoo is covered with A&D Ointment (which is the top choice among tattoo artists), which not only makes sure you heal nicely, but that the colours heal nice and bright. You can also use vaseline, or a 100% cocoa butter stick, but never use a lotion during this initial healing stage; most have alcohol in them, which is drying. You want something that stays slick and covers the surface of your tattoo.
However, when your tattoo has healed you want to switch to a lotion, as ointments have pulling agents that can fade a tattoo. For long-term care, apply sunscreen anytime you go outside. A really nice one to use is a hemp based sunscreen stick, or tattoo balm. Sun will fade your tattoo. So take care of your artwork and let your tattoo do its thing!
http://tattoo-body-art-health.suite101.com/article.cfm/your_new_tattoo
Tattoo Removal Methods
There are several different methods for tattoo removal nowadays. In the late 1980's laser treatments have become the most popular and it is still the best method to remove tattoos without any scars. Before laser treatment was used, one or more of the below explained removal methods had to be used for removal which were often painful and scar including surgeries.
Dermabrasion
This is a method where the skin is being "sanded" with a wire brush or diamond fraise, a type of sanding disc, to remove the surface layer (Epidermis) and also parts of the Dermis, the layer where the tattoo is imbedded. This process may leave scars.
Salabrasion
A salt solution is used to remove the pigment. It is sometimes used in conjunction with dermabrasion, but has become less common.
Cryosurgery
In this method the area the tattoo was placed is frozen prior to it's removal.
Excision
This was the most common method prior to laser surgery. A dermatologist removes the tattoo with a scalpel and closes the wound again with stitches. If larger tattoos had been involved, a skin graft had to be taken from another part of the body to cover up the removed area.
Scarification
Involves removing the tattoo with an acid solution and creating a scar in its place.
Camouflaging
Injections with new pigments either to form a new pattern or cover a tattoo with skin-toned pigments are used to cover the tattoo. Please note that injected pigments tend not to look natural because they lack the skin's natural translucence.
This methods above are still used today in certain cases but laser surgery has become the standard treatment for tattoo removal. Laser treatments offer a bloodless, low risk, effective alternative with minimal side effects.
http://tattoojoy.com/tattoo_articles/tattoo_removal_methods.htm
Dermabrasion
This is a method where the skin is being "sanded" with a wire brush or diamond fraise, a type of sanding disc, to remove the surface layer (Epidermis) and also parts of the Dermis, the layer where the tattoo is imbedded. This process may leave scars.
Salabrasion
A salt solution is used to remove the pigment. It is sometimes used in conjunction with dermabrasion, but has become less common.
Cryosurgery
In this method the area the tattoo was placed is frozen prior to it's removal.
Excision
This was the most common method prior to laser surgery. A dermatologist removes the tattoo with a scalpel and closes the wound again with stitches. If larger tattoos had been involved, a skin graft had to be taken from another part of the body to cover up the removed area.
Scarification
Involves removing the tattoo with an acid solution and creating a scar in its place.
Camouflaging
Injections with new pigments either to form a new pattern or cover a tattoo with skin-toned pigments are used to cover the tattoo. Please note that injected pigments tend not to look natural because they lack the skin's natural translucence.
This methods above are still used today in certain cases but laser surgery has become the standard treatment for tattoo removal. Laser treatments offer a bloodless, low risk, effective alternative with minimal side effects.
http://tattoojoy.com/tattoo_articles/tattoo_removal_methods.htm
Origins of Tattoos
Believe it or not but most scientist believe the origins of tattoos date back to about 3300 B.C. They believe that certain marks found on the skin of the "?TZI", a mummified body of an iceman found in the italian alps, were considered tattoos back in his days. If their acceptance is true, these marks on his body represent the earliest known evidence for tattoos in history. All we know for sure up until now is, there are tattoos found on Egyptian and Nubian mummies dating from about 2000 B.C. Classical authors also mention the use of tattoos in ancient societies like the old Greeks, Germans, Britons, Romans and Gauls.
The tattoos we know nowadays were discovered by Europeans while exploring north america and the south seas of the pacific ocean. Their first contact with cultures like the American Indians and Polynesians also were the first contact of so called "civilized" people with tattoos. The word tattoo was first mentioned in James Cook's records from his 1769 journey to the south seas. The natives of Tahiti, this is were Cook's expedition went to, called the marks on their bodies TATTAU which was translated into TATTOO by Cook. Due to their exotic appearance, tattooed Indians and Polynesians where showcased at circuses and fairs during the 18th and 19th century all over Europe and the US.
http://tattoojoy.com/tattoo_articles/origins_of_tattoos.htm
Early Tattooing Methods
Different cultures developed a vast variety of different tattooing methods.
In many North and South American Indian tribes the tattoos were applied by simple pricking. Other tribes simply rubbed color, mostly made out of ash into scratches they carved into their skin and many Arctic and Subarctic tribes mostly Intuit.
Some tribes in eastern Siberia made needle punctures through the skin, and a thread was drawn under the skin coated with pigment to apply the color.
In Polynesia and Micronesia the pigment was pricked into the skin by tapping on a tool shaped like a small rake. A similar method is still used today by famous tattoo artists in Asia and other different countries. It still is almost the same procedure than it was 300 years ago, except for the sterilizing, and it is considered a honor to receive a tattoo that way by a Japanese Tattoo Master.
The Maoris of New Zealand, who are probably the most famous people in the world for their tattooing, used the same technique for tattooing as they used to carve wood. A small bone cutting tool was used, to carve shallow, colored grooves in complex designs on face and buttocks, by striking it into the skin.
In the 1700s, after the Europeans arrived and introduced metal to the natives, the Maoris began using the metal settlers brought for a more conventional style of puncture tattooing.
http://tattoojoy.com/tattoo_articles/early_tattooing_methods.htm
Tips on How To Get Started As An Tattoo Artist.
Tattooing is traditionally an apprenticeship based art.
Apprenticeships last approximately three years before they are considered professional artists. You are making permanent, often visible changes to another human being and if proper procedure isn't followed, you could be jeopardizing that client's health and emotional well-being. By taking advantage of the knowledge of experienced, professional artists, you will avoid many costly mistakes. Unfortunately it is very hard to get one because very few proffesional tattoo artists wil give away their "Sectrets" to anybody.
Still, there is a chance of getting into one of those apprenticeships and here are a couple of tips what to do:
First of all you should put together a kick ass portfolio, anything reflecting your skills with composition, color and line work. Take your time with creating the flash and have at least two sets of flash ready when you walk into a studio. One set, about 5 pages, in black & white and another set, another 5 pages, in color. The sheets should not be smaller than 14x11 inches. As i said take your time with drawing the flash and be as creative as you can be. Tattoo artists always like to check out new flashes and if you did a good job and impressed him you might have a better chance of getting the apprenticeship. A good artist will see right away if you have the potential to become an artist yourself.
After you're done drawing the flashes start visiting local studios and talk to the shopowners. Here is a little tip for what to say and what to do, too.
Make sure you check out the studio a couple of days before you walk in there asking for an apprenticeship. Check out if the artists are friendly, if the shop is a professional one, if they have any pics hanging on the walls of recently done work so you can get an idea of how the quality of the studio all together is. If somebody asks you if you need some help just say you are looking around. When walking into the shop asking for the apprenticeship make sure the shop is not to crowded. If it is just wait and go there another day cause they might say "We don't need anybody" to you, just because they are to busy at the moment and don't have time to talk to you.
Make a bunch of copies of your flashes and walk into the studio of your choice. Ask for the person in charge and let them know you have some tattoo flash for sale. As I said above, atrists always like to check out new flash so make sure they accidently see them already when you walk into the studio. Don't throw the sheets on the counter or right into his face, just carry them around in your hand, not covered by anything like an envelope so everybody in the shop can see it. But remember, you are there to get an apprenticeship not to make money of tattoo flash, so if they are interested in the flash, keep the price low. If you already got into talking about your flash, mention that you are looking for an apprenticeship and if they are looking for somebody to work in the studio. Your attidude is also important when talking to the artist. Don't be a smart ass and tell him "You Know" when he is talking to you because you don't know, otherwise you wouldn't be there asking for an apprenticeship. Just be friendly, confident and show interest. The rest is up to the artist and your work.
Don't be dissapointed if it doesen't work in the first studio you walk into. Make sure you leave your name and number at the studio and tell them to give you a call if they ever needed somebody.
As I said above it will not be easy to get an apprenticeship at a tattoo parlor but it's not impossible. Still, you will get a lot of "no's" but keep trying and be persistent. The hardest part is to get the artist looking at your artwork and the tips above might help you out. But the most important part is your work, so make sure you do the best you can
http://tattoojoy.com/tattoo_articles/tips_on_how_to_get_started_as_an_tattoo_artist.htm
Applying a Tattoo - From Sterilization to the Bandage!
The main focus of the tattoo application today is safety. Any puncture wound, this is what a tattoo machine is doing to your skin, bares the potential for an infection or disease.
The best and only acceptable method to sterilize tattoo equipment today is an Autoclave. An autoclave is a heat, steam and pressure unit, also used in hospitals, achieving and maintaining up to 132 degrees Celsius (270 degrees Fahrenheit) under 7 Kilograms (15 pounds) of pressure for 15 minutes. Others maintain 121 degrees Celsius (250 degrees Fahrenheit) under 5 Kilograms (10 Pounds) of pressure for 30 minutes. Most autoclave are running 55 minutes from a cold start to ensure a complete sterilization. To eliminate the possibility of contamination almost all tattooing materials like ink cubs, needles, ink, gloves etc. are just used only once but there are some reusable materials as the tube or the needle bar which must be sterilized. They are put into special pouches with indicator strips on them and then left in the autoclave for a complete circle. The indicator strips change the color once the sterilization is completed. Sterilizing with an autoclave ensures killing every living microorganism. The sterilization usually takes place before the customer comes into the parlor and will probably not be seen by him. The only thing you will see is the pouch the needle bars were sterilized in, but this will be explained more exactly later on.
Other tattooing equipment like spray bottles, clip cords and the tattoo machine itself is supposed to be covered by plastic bags to prevent contamination.
Before beginning the actual procedure of tattooing itself the artist will wash his hands and disinfect his working area with an EPA approved disinfective, put on new gloves and follows this guidelines:
- He puts new plastic bags over the spay bottles, the tattoo machine and the other equipment described above.
- Takes out new ink caps and puts tattoo ink in them.
- Opens up a sealed pouch autoclave sterilized equipment and clamps it onto the tattoo machine.
- Disinfects and shaves the area to be tattooed.
- Moistens the area and places a stencil with the outlines of the tattoo on it.
After taking of the stencil again he will let it dry for a couple of minutes and the start the actual tattooing procedure.
Depending on the width of the outlines the artist uses different tipped needles and starts going over the stencil with the machine. Right handed artists usually start at the bottom of the right hand side and work up, while left handed artists usually start from the left side so the stencil of the outlines won't be lost when cleaning a permanent line. For outline work a thinner ink is usually used than the ink for shading and coloring because it can be easier wiped away from the skin without smearing. As he is going over the stencil and is working the ink into the skin, the tattoo machine is buzzing and smooth clear lines should be appearing where the needle pierces the skin.
Once the outlines are done the tattooed area is cleaned with antiseptic soap and water. If needed the artist will go over some outlines again to make sure the outlines are the way they are supposed to be.
After that and possibly a little break the shading is added. For the shading he will use a different needle and probably a different machine than he used for the outlines. Each artist works differently and using a different machine is up to the artist depending on her or his experience and preference.
When the shading is done the tattooed area is cleaned again and is now ready for color. When applying the color, the artists usually goes twice over each colored line to ensure a solid and even coloration with no "Holidays". On uneven looking areas the color has either faded during the healing process or the artist missed an area of the skin. This does not mean he or she did a bad job, it's just that you can't really see those spots during the application.
After the coloration the tattoo is sprayed and cleaned again. The artist will then use a disposable towel to remove any blood and plasma excreted during the tattooing procedure. Bleeding always occurs during tattooing even under normal circumstances, but most of it stops after a few minutes. If alcohol or illegal drugs have been used prior or during the process the bleeding could hold on longer and there could be other complications. No tattoo artist will tattoo a person under the influence of alcohol or drugs anyway.
When done cleaning the tattooed area for the last time, the artist will then apply a bandage over the tattoo to prevent it from bleeding any more, getting blood and still excreting tattoo ink on your clothes. This bandage is supposed to be taken off about 2 hours after completion.
http://tattoojoy.com/tattoo_articles/applying_a_tattoo.htm
Carey Hart Of Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company
Carey Hart, co-owner of the Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company featured on A&E's reality television show Inked, initially gained fame as a freestyle motocross star. Carey invented the "Hart Attack," a motocross trick including a back flip on a 250cc motorcycle.
Carey Hart's interest in the tattoo industry led him to start a tattoo company in Las Vegas with John Huntington called Hart & Huntington. When John Huntington decides to leave the business, Carey forms a partnership with Thomas Pendelton and they work together to make the Las Vegas tattoo parlor a successful business venture.
Carey Hart is currently dating pop music superstar Pink.
The other characters featured on Inked include Monica (the shop manager), Clark North (a tattoo artist), Quinn (a greeter), Dizzle (an apprentice), and Eric Pele (also known as Big E, another tattoo artist). The reality show Inked can be seen on A&E and is set in a shop inside of Las Vegas’s Palms Casino Resort. Television schedule times: 9PM Eastern/8PM Central.
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Carey-Hart-of-Hart---Huntington-Tattoo-Company/5531
Carey Hart's interest in the tattoo industry led him to start a tattoo company in Las Vegas with John Huntington called Hart & Huntington. When John Huntington decides to leave the business, Carey forms a partnership with Thomas Pendelton and they work together to make the Las Vegas tattoo parlor a successful business venture.
Carey Hart is currently dating pop music superstar Pink.
The other characters featured on Inked include Monica (the shop manager), Clark North (a tattoo artist), Quinn (a greeter), Dizzle (an apprentice), and Eric Pele (also known as Big E, another tattoo artist). The reality show Inked can be seen on A&E and is set in a shop inside of Las Vegas’s Palms Casino Resort. Television schedule times: 9PM Eastern/8PM Central.
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Carey-Hart-of-Hart---Huntington-Tattoo-Company/5531
Tattoo Sketches - Finding The Right Tattoov
Tattoos sketches come in many shapes and sizes. They come in numerous colors and styles. Choosing a tattoo can be extremely hard especially when you consider how long-term they really are. There are also many different types of tattoos. From dragon tattoos to patriotic Tattoos, this guide may help you decide the right one for you.
If you are going to get a tattoo it is important to know just exactly what you want. Many people browse through tattoo sketches to help them choose the kind of tattoo they are looking for. In the world of tats there are so many options that become available. Depending on who you are can make a considerable difference in the style you choose. Most commonly, you will often see people with celtic tattoos, oriental tattoos, butterfly tattoos and many more. So how do you know which one is right for you. Here is a list of things to consider before buying a tattoo from a parlor.
1. Make a list - Make a list describing yourself in one to three word phrases. This allows you some self-reflection time and to get back down to your roots. With tatoos, you want people to see the real you, an emblem of what you stand for.
2. Think of symbolic objects that have appeared to you throughout your life. Think about things that hold meaning for you. Are you a part of any groups or clubs? Do you work in some sort of trade? Discover what you are truly passionate about, even if you are simply passionate about life in general, think of something that reflects just that.
3. Take in to account how perminant tattoos really are. Make sure you get something that isn't just a fad for you or something you will lose interest in, make it meaningful.
4. To help with ideas, look up the specific styles of tattoos available, you can find different types of tats such as abstract tattoos, belly button tattoos, cartoon tattoos and many other styles. If you are oriental, you may want an oriental tattoo or a dragon tattoo or something that symbolizes your heritage.
5. Tats are a symbol of expression that becomes a part of you. If possible, think about yourself at your very core of existence, the most basic simple solution is probably the best. If you plan on getting numerous tats, keep this in mind as well.
Getting a tattoo is a fun and exciting way of self expression and body modifaction. Above all else make it meaningful and don't forget to able to enjoy it. As a start be sure to go over and over the many available tattoo sketches and become familiar with what is available.
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Tattoo-Sketches---Finding-the-Right-Tattoo/246702
If you are going to get a tattoo it is important to know just exactly what you want. Many people browse through tattoo sketches to help them choose the kind of tattoo they are looking for. In the world of tats there are so many options that become available. Depending on who you are can make a considerable difference in the style you choose. Most commonly, you will often see people with celtic tattoos, oriental tattoos, butterfly tattoos and many more. So how do you know which one is right for you. Here is a list of things to consider before buying a tattoo from a parlor.
1. Make a list - Make a list describing yourself in one to three word phrases. This allows you some self-reflection time and to get back down to your roots. With tatoos, you want people to see the real you, an emblem of what you stand for.
2. Think of symbolic objects that have appeared to you throughout your life. Think about things that hold meaning for you. Are you a part of any groups or clubs? Do you work in some sort of trade? Discover what you are truly passionate about, even if you are simply passionate about life in general, think of something that reflects just that.
3. Take in to account how perminant tattoos really are. Make sure you get something that isn't just a fad for you or something you will lose interest in, make it meaningful.
4. To help with ideas, look up the specific styles of tattoos available, you can find different types of tats such as abstract tattoos, belly button tattoos, cartoon tattoos and many other styles. If you are oriental, you may want an oriental tattoo or a dragon tattoo or something that symbolizes your heritage.
5. Tats are a symbol of expression that becomes a part of you. If possible, think about yourself at your very core of existence, the most basic simple solution is probably the best. If you plan on getting numerous tats, keep this in mind as well.
Getting a tattoo is a fun and exciting way of self expression and body modifaction. Above all else make it meaningful and don't forget to able to enjoy it. As a start be sure to go over and over the many available tattoo sketches and become familiar with what is available.
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Tattoo-Sketches---Finding-the-Right-Tattoo/246702
Important Tips For Getting Your First Tattoo
Getting your first tattoo can be the most important decision you may make regarding your personal aesthetic and the statement it carries to the World. It should not be a rushed decision, nor should it be one made lightly. People that stumble into a tattoo parlor and randomly pick flash off the wall that semi-interests them late at night after a few pints at the local pub, often regret their decision for the rest of their life. The process may not be exactly the same for any two people, but the tips I outline in this article will give you a guideline of things to consider when settling upon your first tattoo design that will lead to you being proud of your artwork whenever you look at it or show it to someone else – even years down the road when you have almost completely forgotten that you even have a tattoo!
The first tip is patience. Do not rush into a design decision. Be sure that the design you settle on meets all of the emotional requirements you will place on your first tattoo. Remember, painful surgery or cover-ups are the only ways to get rid of a tattoo once you have it and both options take a lot of money and thought to implement.
Think of a theme. Here I do not mean that you need one, but you should consider it early if you decide that you do what to embrace a theme. If you get a permanent piece of art that doesn’t fit your theme idea, it will either be out of place on your body in contrast to future tattoos or you are back to cover-ups or surgery. Some people only get one tattoo. That is fine, of course, but most people that get ink once get the fever (like I did) and plan out many return trips to their favorite artist to balance out the tattoos they already have.
Choose your artist well. Be sure to shop around for someone that has consistently great art. All artists will have a portfolio of their own designs and final tattoos in their parlors. If they do not, avoid them!
Talk to other people who have tattoos you admire. The do not have to have tattoo styles or designs that you want yourself, just decent solid art of which they can be proud. Word of mouth recommendations are usually the best for an artist. Things to ask about an artist include cost, cleanliness, and heavy-handedness. Good artists usually charge less for art they like, design, or rarely get a chance with which to work. Once you get a good recommendation, talk to the artist about cost in terms of what they enjoy and their own designs if you do not already have one in mind. Be sure to discuss the health code issues, as different states and countries have different health regulations. Always go to the artist and parlor that adheres to the regulations or exceeds them.
Some artists are more “heavy-handed” than others. This works for and against you. Artists that place the ink deeper into your skin will cause slightly more pain (if you have any pain at all – more on that below), but they will also be giving you a tattoo that will last longer and stay brighter with proper care.
Placement is a major factor. Be thinking about if you want other tattoos and how the one that you ill get first will interact with tattoos you may get later. Certain areas of your body will be much more sensitive than others. This can be an attraction for some as well as a turn of for others. Know you body’s limits and think about where you are going to have your design placed. Test placing is standard. Pay close attention to this step. Don’t let an artist rush you through it (although usually they are quite helpful with this step.) Again, this will be there permanently, so do not take this step lightly.
Make sure you design says something emotionally to you. Do not just get a cartoon or a heart with a name on it on a whim. Take out a piece of paper and write down all of your favorite things, artistic or otherwise, and try to narrow down what you are attached to personally. I am a Tibetan music specialist and I have a love for old bad monster movies and therefore I have a theme of Tibetan art featuring Tibetan mythological creatures, for instance.
Back to the artist and the design: some artists specialize in a particular type of art. Seek these artists out if you have a theme or special style in mind. In my case, I found a great artist that studied Tibetan art informally. His work converting my designs to flash was superb and I am very proud of my tattoos because of it (as is he, for that matter.) Let me say again, shop around and do not rush into anything.
One way I found to seek out a great design is using custom tattoo design software and images found online. I provide a review of some of the sites I have looked into on the website listed in my by line resource. Play around with images you find online, especially if you do not have a local tattoo artist to visit. That way you can be prepared to drive to an area that does have many tattoo artists and shop around in one trip. Show the designs you are considering to someone that has a tattoo already and if possible take them with you to get your first tattoo. Assuming all goes well, you can be that person for someone else next time.
Once you get the tattoo, he artist will provide you with heath and care suggestions. Pay attention to these as the tattoo will heal properly and last longer. You can avoid fading, blotchiness, infection, and a myriad of other undesirable things if you merely adhere to the care tactics presented by the parlor. I regularly get compliments on my tattoo as being bright or new-looking, and I got my first tattoo over four years ago.
A well-thought out, well-placed piece of quality artwork will be your pride and joy for years to come, if you exercise patience and do a bit of online and word-of-mouth research. It is as simple as that! Have fun with your first tattoo and welcome to the World of sporting a stunning, inspiring tattoo!
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Important-Tips-for-Getting-Your-First-Tattoo/279805
The first tip is patience. Do not rush into a design decision. Be sure that the design you settle on meets all of the emotional requirements you will place on your first tattoo. Remember, painful surgery or cover-ups are the only ways to get rid of a tattoo once you have it and both options take a lot of money and thought to implement.
Think of a theme. Here I do not mean that you need one, but you should consider it early if you decide that you do what to embrace a theme. If you get a permanent piece of art that doesn’t fit your theme idea, it will either be out of place on your body in contrast to future tattoos or you are back to cover-ups or surgery. Some people only get one tattoo. That is fine, of course, but most people that get ink once get the fever (like I did) and plan out many return trips to their favorite artist to balance out the tattoos they already have.
Choose your artist well. Be sure to shop around for someone that has consistently great art. All artists will have a portfolio of their own designs and final tattoos in their parlors. If they do not, avoid them!
Talk to other people who have tattoos you admire. The do not have to have tattoo styles or designs that you want yourself, just decent solid art of which they can be proud. Word of mouth recommendations are usually the best for an artist. Things to ask about an artist include cost, cleanliness, and heavy-handedness. Good artists usually charge less for art they like, design, or rarely get a chance with which to work. Once you get a good recommendation, talk to the artist about cost in terms of what they enjoy and their own designs if you do not already have one in mind. Be sure to discuss the health code issues, as different states and countries have different health regulations. Always go to the artist and parlor that adheres to the regulations or exceeds them.
Some artists are more “heavy-handed” than others. This works for and against you. Artists that place the ink deeper into your skin will cause slightly more pain (if you have any pain at all – more on that below), but they will also be giving you a tattoo that will last longer and stay brighter with proper care.
Placement is a major factor. Be thinking about if you want other tattoos and how the one that you ill get first will interact with tattoos you may get later. Certain areas of your body will be much more sensitive than others. This can be an attraction for some as well as a turn of for others. Know you body’s limits and think about where you are going to have your design placed. Test placing is standard. Pay close attention to this step. Don’t let an artist rush you through it (although usually they are quite helpful with this step.) Again, this will be there permanently, so do not take this step lightly.
Make sure you design says something emotionally to you. Do not just get a cartoon or a heart with a name on it on a whim. Take out a piece of paper and write down all of your favorite things, artistic or otherwise, and try to narrow down what you are attached to personally. I am a Tibetan music specialist and I have a love for old bad monster movies and therefore I have a theme of Tibetan art featuring Tibetan mythological creatures, for instance.
Back to the artist and the design: some artists specialize in a particular type of art. Seek these artists out if you have a theme or special style in mind. In my case, I found a great artist that studied Tibetan art informally. His work converting my designs to flash was superb and I am very proud of my tattoos because of it (as is he, for that matter.) Let me say again, shop around and do not rush into anything.
One way I found to seek out a great design is using custom tattoo design software and images found online. I provide a review of some of the sites I have looked into on the website listed in my by line resource. Play around with images you find online, especially if you do not have a local tattoo artist to visit. That way you can be prepared to drive to an area that does have many tattoo artists and shop around in one trip. Show the designs you are considering to someone that has a tattoo already and if possible take them with you to get your first tattoo. Assuming all goes well, you can be that person for someone else next time.
Once you get the tattoo, he artist will provide you with heath and care suggestions. Pay attention to these as the tattoo will heal properly and last longer. You can avoid fading, blotchiness, infection, and a myriad of other undesirable things if you merely adhere to the care tactics presented by the parlor. I regularly get compliments on my tattoo as being bright or new-looking, and I got my first tattoo over four years ago.
A well-thought out, well-placed piece of quality artwork will be your pride and joy for years to come, if you exercise patience and do a bit of online and word-of-mouth research. It is as simple as that! Have fun with your first tattoo and welcome to the World of sporting a stunning, inspiring tattoo!
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Important-Tips-for-Getting-Your-First-Tattoo/279805
Too Many Tattoo Designs
Getting a tattoo is a cool thing nowadays. However, because it is a permanent thing that you will have to wear all your life, you have to think about what model you want to get, and where you should place it. Or simply choose to get a temporary tattoo.
A tattoo can show the belonging to a certain group or it is simply a marking that looks cool. Many people get tattoos nowadays, and the tattoos are said to be a new form of body art.
So, if you are planning to get one, you should definitely check out the models and the possibilities that you have when it comes to mark your skin for good. People choose to get tattoos on different parts of their bodies; some simply cover all their skin with tattoos, so the tattoos are like armor for them.
But where can you find the coolest tattoos? If you haven’t got any clue on how should your tattoo look like, you can get an idea from the numerous online tattoo galleries. You can get a tattoo that is in the form of a text, some letters, Chinese or Japanese calligraphy, or you can get all sorts of shapes of tattoos. The star shaped tattoo is a very popular one to have, but there are several ways to represent the star: there are 4-pointed stars, 5 or even 9 pointed stars. Each have a different significance, so make sure you know what you get tattooed on yourself.
Women usually prefer more delicate tattoos such as flowers, butterflies, fairies. However, the number in which a flower or a butterfly is represented are also very varied, so if you are thinking about one of these models, browse through some models to find the one that you would like to adorn you skin. If you want to get a totally original tattoo, you can visit a tattoo shop and ask the artist to draw you something special. Another idea to find a tattoo is to look at the VIPs. Many of them wear a tattoo, and you could get inspired by one of these tattoos that the celebrities have.
Is it tough to decide which one you get? Then you should try a temporary tattoo, and see if you like it. Wear a different tattoo each week and decide which one you want for good. This is the advantage of a temporary tattoo: it goes away.
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Too-Many-Tattoo-Designs/277603
A tattoo can show the belonging to a certain group or it is simply a marking that looks cool. Many people get tattoos nowadays, and the tattoos are said to be a new form of body art.
So, if you are planning to get one, you should definitely check out the models and the possibilities that you have when it comes to mark your skin for good. People choose to get tattoos on different parts of their bodies; some simply cover all their skin with tattoos, so the tattoos are like armor for them.
But where can you find the coolest tattoos? If you haven’t got any clue on how should your tattoo look like, you can get an idea from the numerous online tattoo galleries. You can get a tattoo that is in the form of a text, some letters, Chinese or Japanese calligraphy, or you can get all sorts of shapes of tattoos. The star shaped tattoo is a very popular one to have, but there are several ways to represent the star: there are 4-pointed stars, 5 or even 9 pointed stars. Each have a different significance, so make sure you know what you get tattooed on yourself.
Women usually prefer more delicate tattoos such as flowers, butterflies, fairies. However, the number in which a flower or a butterfly is represented are also very varied, so if you are thinking about one of these models, browse through some models to find the one that you would like to adorn you skin. If you want to get a totally original tattoo, you can visit a tattoo shop and ask the artist to draw you something special. Another idea to find a tattoo is to look at the VIPs. Many of them wear a tattoo, and you could get inspired by one of these tattoos that the celebrities have.
Is it tough to decide which one you get? Then you should try a temporary tattoo, and see if you like it. Wear a different tattoo each week and decide which one you want for good. This is the advantage of a temporary tattoo: it goes away.
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Too-Many-Tattoo-Designs/277603
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