Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Starting Your Own Tattoo Business

When starting any business, it's important to have any required training and/or education. When starting a tattoo business in particular, there may be certain training or certification or other requirements that must be met prior to opening a tattoo studio. Because of the nature of the tattoo business, you will need to know how to properly sterilize the tattoo equipment and educate your customers on how to care for their new tattoo in order to prevent infection. To learn about local license and/or industry requirements you can call the local business office and explain the type of business that you would like to open.

Once your training and any necessary licensing are both successfully completed, you can apply for a tattoo business license. This piece of paper is very important and must be displayed in your tattoo studio each and every day. The best way to do this is to place your tattoo business certificate in a frame and display it on the wall.

Now that you have a tattoo business license, it's time to choose a location for your tattoo studio. Ideally, any place of business would be located in a high-traffic commercial area. The more people that pass by your tattoo business, the better likelihood that they will stop in. In addition, when you advertise your tattoo business or try and explain to someone where it is located, you don't want to have a lot of difficult directions. Instead, a simple 'in town' or 'on main street' would be ideal.

When it comes to advertising your new tattoo business, start small and work your way up. Because your business is new, you are probably working with a limited budget. Rather than starting out with a large print advertising budget, try writing a press release and distributing it to local newspapers, magazines and/or radio stations. Place flyers throughout town as permitted and on the bulletin boards of local stores. If you can afford it, offer a tattoo giveaway and special grand opening prices during your first week of operation. You may also want to consider contacting local radio stations with your plan to host a tattoo giveaway. This approach requires that you allow the radio station to award the winner on air, which will result in even more publicity for your new business when the DJ mentions the contest sponsor.

Don't worry about working with a limited budget, most new businesses are. That's why there are alternate forms of advertising that can help you to get the word out about your new venture without spending a fortune. First and foremost, purchase a large sign to display outside of your business. Make sure that your tattoo business name and any special price offerings are noted for every passerby to see. In addition, decorate any windows in your store with samples of your work recreated as clear window adhesives.

As a final thought to starting your own tattoo business, make sure that you explain the importance of proper tattoo care to your customers. Creating a reference sheet will help to keep your customers informed and will remind them of how often to change the bandage and how to avoid infections.

http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/tattoo-business.html

African Tattoo

Whether it's because of heritage or appreciation of the culture, many tattoo lovers are choosing to purchase an African tattoo. With it's climate ranging from tropical to cold and an abundance of wildlife, there is no shortage of image possibilities.

If you love animals, an African tattoo could be that of a lion, which symbolizes power and strength. Giraffes, deer and elephants, also commonly found on the world's second largest continent, are also popular animals found ranging freely throughout the African plains. Jungle creatures, including snakes, are also present along with various aquatic species.

In addition to it's landscape, varying climates and wide range of wildlife, Africa is known for both it's dance and music. Therefore, an African tattoo may symbolize some type of artistic expression in rhythm and/or movement. In addition, drums are the most commonly used instrument in African music and are therefore an excellent choice for an African tattoo.

Like other parts of the world, religion in Africa is diverse. As is the case with any region, spirituality is an important part of life and is often displayed openly as a sign of faith. Some individuals may choose to wear a symbol of their faith as jewelry, but others may opt for a tattoo to forever display their beliefs.

Because each African state differs in culture, landscape, economy and weather, there are many symbols that can be associated with each specific area. Some individuals may choose to have an African tattoo applied in the shape of the continent itself, but others may prefer a more personalized image that suits their individuality.

If you are considering an African tattoo, take the time to visit a local tattoo studio and inquire about possible options. If the artist does not have specific African tattoo samples, ask if he/she could achieve inspiration for a tattoo from an existing sketch, magazine photo or internet image. Quite often, a tattoo artist can use any type of artwork as inspiration for a tattoo and may be able to offer a unique design for anyone desiring an African tattoo.

A cultural symbol or one of heritage is often best expressed by the individual themselves. This simply means that each individual has different experiences and special moments in their lives that define their future. It is these moments and the symbols that make the most obvious choice for a tattoo. Permanent in nature, a tattoo is much like a memory. Neither can be erased and both have a tendency to transport us to another place and time.

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only. It is not designed to be used as a complete guide to the African culture and should not be used as a recommendation or advice relating to the application of an African tattoo or any specific design. Individuals who are considering getting a tattoo should carefully weigh all of the risks associated with application and should also be selective in choosing a tattoo parlor or artist.

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Feminine Tattoos

For the woman who wants a delicate image permanently inked into her skin, feminine tattoos may be just the ticket. Simply put, feminine tattoos are gender specific and are usually of a more dainty nature because they are designed with a woman in mind. Small hearts, butterflies and other similar images are all popular examples of what many women choose when looking for feminine tattoos.

Butterfly tattoos, which are one of the most popular feminine tattoos in existence, can symbolize several different meanings. As the caterpillar changes and grows into a butterfly, a beautiful change occurs. What was once unappealing has now become a vision of loveliness. Perhaps a butterfly tattoo would signify this change in a woman as she develops a new style, either outward or inward. A butterfly tattoo can also signify freedom, which is commonly associated with wings and flight. Perhaps a relocation, an important career choice or other venture has given a woman the opportunity to soar in a way that deserves recognition.

Flowers, another popular choice in feminine tattoos, are often selected as a symbol of passion or happiness. Red, which is the most popular color in roses, is often associated with love and passion. Yellow flowers signify happiness and joy, which makes this one of the most popular options for tattoo seekers.

A simple name is also very popular among feminine tattoos, which may include the wearer's name, that of her mate or a word that best describes her personality. Common selections include 'sexy,' 'diva,' 'hot' and other similar expressions that are fun choices for the woman who is both confident and feminine. When choosing a tattoo that consists only of letters, a dainty choice is the best way to go versus an overpowering design. If a tattoo is overly large, it loses it's femininity.

Now that you know what some of the most popular choices are, it's important to know where feminine tattoos are most commonly placed. The lower back, shoulder, ankle and hip are all famous locations for feminine tattoos. As is the case with any tattoos, the location choice will largely depend on the wearer's preference. It should be in a location that will not be inconvenient while healing and is not constantly rubbing against clothing material during this time.

Upon completing a tattoo, the artist will explain how to care for the area while it heals, how long to avoid touching the ink and potential warning signs to watch out for regarding infection. If a tattoo is not properly cared for, it can become infected. Therefore, it is always a good idea to listen to the advice presented by the tattoo artist. If extreme redness or swelling occurs, consult a physician immediately.

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only. It is not be used as a recommendation or advice relating to the application of feminine tattoos or any specific design. Individuals who are considering getting a tattoo should carefully weigh all of the risks associated with application and should also be selective in choosing a tattoo parlor or artist.

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Choosing a Back Tattoo

Back tattoos are probably the best kind of tattoos around. And it is very popular too.

Added to this factor, the even surface of the human back also counts as a plus in the aesthetic value of back tattoos.

There are two things you need to consider in getting a back tattoo: symbolism and aesthetics.

Symbolism - There are a number of symbolic meanings behind back tattoos. The placement of each tattoo often alters its meaning, and the placement of a tattoo in the back can have many interpretations.

A back tattoo can mean that someone has turned his/her back on whatever the tattoo signifies. One may choose to have a tattoo of a vice or habit, an ex, and anything they wish to tell people they have left behind in their lives.

In the east, having a back tattoo of an animal, or an organizational logo can mean that someone is “watching your back”. This would serve as a protection for those sporting the back tattoo.

A back tattoo found near the shoulder, especially on a woman, signifies a sort of innocent sensuality.

This enhances the sexual attraction to the wearer, especially if the back tattoo is revealed accidentally.

Another symbolically sensual location of a back tattoo is at the small of the back. It just seems so sexy, somehow… doesn’t it?

The use of back tattoo to convey hidden messages is evident in the fact that a slightly revealed tattoo on a person arouses another person’s curiosity and thus leads to social interaction.

Of course, the symbolism of tattoos also involves the images themselves.

With every image come a dozen or even more interpretations. You need to be careful in choosing a tattoo image that actually symbolizes or reflects your character.

However, for all the interpretations of other people, you need to remember that you are the one getting the tattoo. What’s important is the meaning the back tattoo has for you personally.

Everything else is just a matter of perception.

Aesthetics – You need to make sure that the back tattoo you will be getting actually looks good.

In aesthetics, you need to consider the skill of the tattoo artist. Some people tend to only look at the catalogues of the tattoo artist in order to see if they can get a good back tattoo. However, you also need to see examples of the tattoo artist work on actual akin. This way, you can be sure whether you are getting a quality back tattoo or not.

Included in the aesthetic quality or factor of a back tattoo is its size. Some people prefer small, yet elaborate back tattoos while others choose big, yet comparatively simple ones.

Some people would also prefer their back tattoos to be like frescoes on their bodies, with different elements, making a story on their backs.

Colors are also an important part in back tattoos. Some people prefer “earth” colors, blending those colors with the color of the skin and thus, achieving a “natural’ look.

Some people prefer to have back tattoos with colors that really stand out. This way, their skin color acts as the medium to truly express the image of the back tattoo.

There are some tattoo parlors which offer colorless and 3-dimensional tattoos. More like piercing than actual tattoos, these are getting very popular because of their “modern” look.


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Dragon Tattoo- Your Choices From East to West

The dragon, more popularly seen as a strange reptile that is fond of abducting damsels, breathing fire and mercilessly killing knights, and not to say hoarding treasures had been a part of human culture. For thousands of years, this mythical creature had been the subject of human curiosity and his adoration for art. And while they are often portrayed in the books, paintings and the likes, the modern world has seen the dragon's potential place in the tattooing world.

Thus, its popularity as major tattoo designs.

It is the symbol of power, of fear, of honor, of evil (and sometimes good), of protection, of virtually anything, depending on who you would ask. Nevertheless, dragon tattoos lend themselves so beautifully for the appreciation of both artists and audience.

Both the eastern and the western world adopted dragons in a wide spectrum of art forms including depicting them in body arts.

The cultures in Asia, more significantly the Chinese, Japanese and the Koreans were oriented to the belief that dragons are the benevolent protectors of humanity, the bringer of good fortune, the healer of the sick and the bearer of life. Eastern dragons were extensively used in marking human skin for ages.

Eastern dragon tattoos are significantly more mythical-like than western tattoos. These usually have grinning flat faces, and a serpentine body that extends long enough so as to accommodate a number of feet (only in size). But actually, these dragons only have two pairs of feet, one pair as front legs and the other as hind legs.

These dragon tattoos are also depicted large and elaborately designed, often seen wrapping a person's back or crawling on the surface of the skin. While the art of tattooing is perceived to have spread in many cultures around the globe, it is thought that the earliest tattoos were of eastern dragon designs since the formal art of tattooing actually started in Japan.

Western dragons, on the other hand, were portrayed in the exact opposite of the eastern dragons. They are unmerciful, breath nasty fire, and wreak havoc against humankind.

These dragons are often seen with more reptilian images. Scales cover their entire body and they are characterized with razor-sharp teeth and snouted mouth and face. Their wings are large and powerful as well. Thus, they were considered as the embodiment of evil and myths and legends testify to these attributes. Nonetheless, they are covered with certain degrees of mysteries and mystique that lead other people to conclude of their existence.

In dragon tattoos, western dragons are beautiful creatures with less elaborate designs as compared with those crafted from the eastern dragons. Western dragon tattoos with smoking nostril are popular as well as those that depict impressive span of dragon wings.

With the two types of dragon tattoos compared, it is likely that we discover that eastern dragon tattoos are more elaborately designed than the western dragons are. The latter are also smaller in size.

The meaning dragon tattoos represent may vary with the person wearing it or the person observing it. In a sense, their implications are so varied that it is impossible to contain all them and define them in one heap.

Not only do dragon tattoos testify to some symbolism, they are also so fluid that you may see them covering the entire or majority of the body parts. Some hard core tattoo enthusiasts even choose to adapt a dragon tattoo design that starts from their lower body towards the torso and the above parts.


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All About Heart Tattoos

Heart tattoos are one of the most popular tattoo designs. They are either placed on the arms, wrists, lower part of the leg, or on the chest. Heart tattoos on the chest of the women are said to create a sexier image. For several decades in a row, tattoo enthusiasts never seem to forget the real message conveyed by heart tattoos. These designs are taken to mean one thing, and that is, to symbolize love in a deeper sense and also in a much permanent mode.

The Historical Flashback of Heart Tattoos

Since the outbreak of the early circa 1900s, the heart tattoos have been a fancy to all tattoo enthusiasts most especially to the men. As tattooing became more progressive and famous, several men began exposing their heart tattoos. The sailors typically wore the red-colored heart tattoos with the word “Mom” written in the center while the soldiers involved in the outbreak of the World War II were conventionally seen with heart tattoos with the names of their wives or girlfriends inscribed in them. Back in those years, the tattooing industry helped these men get on with their missions as they somehow had with them a part of their homes as they venture into the battlefields.

Heart Tattoos in the Contemporary Society

With a little inspiration from the olden heart tattoo designs a couple of decades back, today’s heart tattoos are more customized, extraordinary, and integrated with many other symbols and shapes. Also, a lot other heart tattoo designs came to surface. Higher quality of tattoo inks plus a much improved skill of the tattooists have made the heart tattoo one of the most sought-after choices of both the men and the women from various demographical groups.

Heart Tattoo Types

The Sacred Heart. The design shows a heart that is encompassed with thorns and a flame that escapes from its top. For the Catholic people, the Sacred Heart is a religious symbol that depicts Jesus’ own heart as He showed it to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque. Those who go for sacred heart tattoos manifest either strength or a form of devotion to Jesus Christ.

The Locked Heart.

This is much adhered to by couples who prefer to use the design as a sign of their eternal love for each other. Some of these heart tattoos are incorporated with a lock and a key. This design is quite safer than that which includes a name because one need not worry removing it after the relationship comes to an end.

The Broken Heart.

This symbolizes unrequited love, suffering, or the loss of someone dear to the person. At times, names and dates are included.

The Hearts with Names.

Inscribing names together with the heart tattoo is a strong manifestation of deep feelings for someone. This comes as one good way of expressing an everlasting honor to a special person.

The Pierced Heart.

This design is often related to the Sacred Heart. Together with the dagger which cuts the heart into two, meanings such as sorrow, grief, or bravery come along. If there is the arrow that pierces the heart, it signifies strong passion or deep love.

The Anatomical Designs.

Among the rarest heart tattoo designs are those with band aids or stitches. They are usually adhered to by people who’ve managed to survive diseases or defects. They show a heart that has healed.

The Celtic Heart.

Heart tattoos together with Celtic designs are cool to look at. They include loops, bands, and a lot other intricate images.

As can obviously be noticed, there are thousands of heart tattoo designs which come available today. They are more complicated to work on, sophisticated in appearance, and peculiarly crafted. This is one of the main reasons as to why heart tattoos continue to stay in demand.

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Sun Tattoos Meaning

The sun is, in any culture, one of the highest regarded symbols of humanity.

In any mythology, you will find that the sun is depicted as one of the highest in a pantheon of gods.

The sun gives light, heat and life. Ancient civilizations revered it as a symbol of fertility, vitality, and every other quality that gives way to life.

The sun symbol can be seen everywhere nowadays. Knowingly or unknowingly, people have incorporated the revered sun-design on many common objects we see today.

Look at the design of an electric fan; that looks a lot like a sun design, right? Look at the overhead view of the Vatican, a common birthday cake, a coin, a pancake: the round sun symbol can be seen everywhere.

Sun tattoos are sought after because they take the round sun symbols and use it to depict so much more.

There are a whole lot of varieties of sun tattoos: rayed, plain circle, paired with a moon, gothic, tribal, Celtic… the list just goes on and on!!! As said before, each culture has its own depiction of the sun and hey, there are a lot of cultures (including the ancient ones) that exist.

The sun tattoo is preferred by many because it has a number of symbolic meanings that can be adapted by every person.

Some may choose a sun tattoo because of the symbolism of light and knowledge. Often, the sun tattoo can be interpreted as the light of knowledge that shines on the darkness of ignorance. This interpretation is, naturally, preferred by intellectuals.

For others, the sun represents the cycle of life. These people get sun tattoos to remind them to live everyday as if the sunset is fast approaching. They live life to the fullest and enjoy every moment possible.

After all, every second counts, right?

Some interpret sun tattoos as a symbol of fertility. The sun gives life to plants and, indeed, everything else on earth. Sun tattoos are often chosen to depict a person’s ability to “energize’ other people.

Much deeper, and yet, more popular, is the interpretation of the sun tattoo as a symbol of sexual fertility. This goes back to ancient Canaan where the sun-god Baal was also worshiped as a fertility deity.

If paired with a moon tattoo, the sun tattoo even goes deeper into its sexual interpretation. A pairing of a moon and a sun tattoo depicts the union between male and female, both sexually and spiritually.

Sun tattoos are often used to depict divine power and authority. The image of the sun was used, and is still used, by religious leaders.

The sun tattoo also symbolizes immortality or reincarnation. Just as the sun rises and sets each day, people believe in the idea that you may die and then rise again.

This takes root from ancient times when people believed that the sun died at the sunset and was resurrected the next day.

Sometimes, sun tattoos look more like flowers. The depiction of the sun as such pays homage to the sun’s life-giving abilities and natural beauty.

Sun tattoos are considered to be among the best kind of tattoos you can get. Artistically, people may have taken the drawing of the sun to a very high level. After all, we all learn how to draw the sun at a very young age.

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