Friday, October 30, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
What makes a good tattoo artist
by Marie Gerber
For many people, getting a tattoo is a big decision and one that shouldn't be rushed. Despite advances in laser technology, a tattoo is generally still thought of as a permanent alteration to your body and you will most likely regret a rushed decision in the years to come. There are many things to consider before getting inked, such as choosing a design that is meaningful to you and that you will continue to appreciate through all the different phases of your life. The location of the tattoo is also important, especially depending on the nature of the design and your future career goals. A tattoo that is highly visible even in everyday clothing or work wear may hinder your success in many career fields, especially if the design could be interpreted as offensive or inappropriate. This is unfortunate and does not hold true for everyone or every career, but it is a very real concern.
However, probably the most important factor in your decision to get a tattoo is your choice of tattoo artist. Not every tattoo artist is the same and you want to do your research before its too late. So, you might ask, what makes a good tattoo artist?
A good tattoo artist
is an experienced tattoo artist. Experience is one of the most important factors in what makes a good tattoo artist. Learning to operate a tattoo machine isn't easy and you want someone who has mastered the art, not someone who is just beginning. There are many tattoo artists out there who are extremely talented when it comes to pen and paper or paint and canvas, but drawing on human flesh with a tattoo machine is an entirely different skill, one which takes time to master. Of course, on the other hand, there are people who are masters at operating a tattoo machine, but who aren't necessarily talented artists.
When checking out potential tattoo artists, the most important thing that you can do is to ask to view an artist's portfolio. In my experience, most tattoo studies will typically have the artists' portfolios on display in the lobby area, or even online, but if not, don't be afraid to ask for examples of their work. By examples, I mean photographs of actual tattoos that they have applied onto skin, not artwork done on paper or other surfaces. And you can't make an educated decision from looking at just a few photographs. If the artist doesn't have a large body of work for you to review, then they are probably inexperienced and you should take this as a sign to move on to the next shop.
You should also ask them how long they have been tattooing. If they have just completed their apprenticeship or are still in the process of completing it, they most likely aren't going to give you a high quality tattoo. Some people will opt to have their ink done by an apprentice because it is usually significantly cheaper than what an experienced artist would charge. However, in this case, you need to remember that a tattoo is permanent and it is well worth the extra cash to have a design that you can be proud of for many years to come.
Also, every tattoo artist will have their own unique style and you should base your choice on whether their style will work well with your design. This is another reason that it is so important to check out various portfolios before making your decision. Does the artist work primarily in black and white or color? Does the artist have a realistic style or more of a cartoon/comic book style? Does the artist tend to work big or small and detailed? Some artists are better at lettering than others. Ask them whether they work from stencils or draw free-hand. Some very experienced artists can create amazing results drawing free-hand, but most artists need a stencil as a guideline.
is a clean tattoo artist. A good tattoo artist will strictly follow all the appropriate safety guidelines and will keep their shop clean and their equipment sanitized at all times. You wouldn't let a surgeon operate on you with a dirty scalpel and you shouldn't let a tattoo artist anywhere near you with an unsanitized needle. The tattooing process involves penetrating one of your body's main protective barriers your skin. There are very real risks involved, including bacterial infections and the transmission of blood-borne diseases, such as hepatitis and HIV. Allergic reactions and skin disorders are also possible risks, but are more likely to result from your bodies reaction to the ink than from unsanitized equipment.
So, how do you know if a tattoo studio is a sterile environment? First, pay attention. The general cleanliness of the shop, including the condition of the waiting area can be a good indication of the artists' regard for cleanliness and sanitation in their work area.
While some studios do have enclosed rooms or booths, in many establishments the artists work out in the open where you can observe their safety habits. Watch to see if the artist washes their hands and puts on a fresh pair of latex gloves for each procedure. If the artist is
interrupted during the tattooing process and handles any other object, such as a telephone, they should put on a fresh pair of gloves before continuing the tattoo.
Also, watch to see that the artist removes the needle and tubes from a sealed package, so that you know for a fact the needle is sterile. All inks, trays and other containers should also be unused.
You should also ask the artist whether or not they use an autoclave machine. An autoclave is a machine that uses heat to sterilize all equipment that isn't disposed of after each customer. Any instruments or surfaces that can't be sterilized using an autoclave, such as drawer handles or sinks should be thoroughly cleaned with a commercial disinfectant. If the owner or artist seems annoyed by your questions, then it's time to say good-bye. An owner/artist should take pride in the cleanliness and safety-habits of their shop and should be more than willing to discuss any of your concerns. Finally, while being observant and asking lots of questions is important, you should also pay attention to your gut. If the shop appears clean and the artist answers all of your questions satisfactorily, but you still have a bad feeling about the place, don't feel guilty that you've wasted the artist's time. If it doesn't feel right, it's not the right place for you.
is an honest tattoo artist. Unfortunately, some tattoo artists are only interested in your money, and will keep their mouth shut if they think that the design or the body part you have chosen will not look good or will not hold up well over time. A good tattoo artist takes pride in their work and wants you to leave their shop with the best possible result. After all, tattoo artists obtain much of their business via word of mouth and they can't afford to have unsatisfied customers. A good tattoo artist can also sense when a tattoo is a spur of the moment decision which a customer might regret even a few hours later and will ask you to come back in a few days if you still want to get inked. Finally, a good tattoo artist will not ink someone who is intoxicated.
is a reputable tattoo artist. As I mentioned before, a tattoo artist obtains much of their business via word of mouth, so reputation is very important. Ask your friends or acquaintances where they got their tattoos and what they have heard about specific artists or shops. If you hear even one horror story about a particular shop, you have reason to be weary. However, word of mouth is no substitute for your own thorough research.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Hawaiian Flower Tattoos
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Hawaiian flower tattoos can be a great way to express your homage to the Hawaiian culture. Get familiar with Hawaiian flowers and what they can symbolize.
Hawaiian Flower Tattoos
By David Schwinler
"Hawaiian flower tattoos" can be a great way to express your homage to the Hawaiian culture. If you're considering a Hawaiian flower tattoo but are reluctant to submit to a common and predictable flower such as a rose or a daisy you should entertain the idea of Hawaiian flower/tropical tattoo. Tropical flowers are often associated as exotic and unusual which evokes images of lush spots of paradise. Hawaii is known for its exotic and flawless flowers. Hawaii is also known for the most variety and abundance of topical flowers than any other place in the world!
Hawaiian Hibiscus Flower Tattoo.
You may want to know the meaning behind a certain flower in order to cement your decision to ink any Hawaiian flower tattoos on your body. Let's look at some flower options for your tattoo.
Hibiscus Flower
1. The Hibiscus is one of the few tropical flowers that are native to Hawaii. The yellow ma'o hau hele hibiscus is the state flower. There are a variety of colors to choose from: white, pink, red, lavender, green, blue, yellow, and orange. A hibiscus flower worn behind the ear of single Hawaiian women represents that she is ready to find a partner for marriage. The traditional meaning of the hibiscus is delicate beauty which could make a great Hawaiian flower tattoo.
Anthurium flowers.
2. Anthurium flowers are commonly bright red and resemble a shape of a heart. Besides the heart shaped beauties, Anthuriums also take the form of tulips. They are the most popular flowers shipped from Hawaii. Anthuriums symbolize hospitality.
Bird of Paradise flower.
3. The Birds of Paradise flower resemble a bird in flight and are colorful and dramatic. The Birds of Paradise symbolizes joyfulness and paradise. If you're looking for a colorful Hawaiian flower tattoo the Birds of Paradise flower could be the right choice.
Orchid Tattoo.
4. Orchids represent magnificence, love, strength, luxury, and beauty. Dendrobium Orchids are popular in Hawaii and have blooms that are shaped like butterflies. Combining the look of the butterfly wings with a Dendrobium Orchid would certainly make a beautiful Hawaiian flower tattoo.
"Pele" Hawaii's volcano and fire goddess.
There are also designated flowers for each island of Hawaii. The official flower of Maui is the pink lokelani (pink cottage rose). The flower of Oahu is the yellow ilima which resembles a tiny hibiscus. Big Island's flower is the red Lehua, a blossom of an ohia tree. According to Hawaiian legend the lehua flower is sacred to Pele, Hawaii's volcano goddess.
Hawaiian flower tattoos are both meaningful and beautiful. A tattoo combining Hawaii's unique and spectacular flowers can be a wonderful homage to Hawaiian culture.
Online Tattoo Galleries are a great resource and have thousands of designs to choose from which include Hawaiian Flower Tattoos Don't decide on a tattoo by going to a shop, flipping through a portfolio for 15 minutes, and trying to decide on a design. Check out the best Tattoo Galleries on the web today. Choose from thousands of designs and get up to $500 off on your next tattoo.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Schwinler
http://EzineArticles.com/?Hawaiian-Flower-Tattoos&id=1333135
Kokopelli Tattoo Designs
Kokopelli Tattoos
By Candis Reade
The Kokopelli figure is associated with the Southwest, specifically the Pueblo Indian regions. Oftentimes, the figure takes on the shape of a stopped flute player, and is generally portrayed to be male. People who decide to get a Kokopelli tattoo are usually in search of something or want to be reminded of something they have received or accomplished. The Kokopelli figure is also described as a storyteller and healer, and thus, people have been known to ink this figure to represent such ideas.
There are many tales associated with the Kokopelli figure and with Kokopelli tattoos. Some say that the figure represents a man who went to village to village and changed the seasons as he went. Thus, the figures sometimes hunched posture is linked to the instruments he played and seeds he planted on his way. This important figure is also an important sign of human fertility. One tale says that he would play his flute at night while the village would sing and dance. Upon dawn, every woman of age would be pregnant.
Kokopelli Tattoos
When planning Kokopelli tattoos, consider experimenting with color. The figure is usually associated with the bright colors of the Southwest: yellows, reds, and oranges are just some of the colors you can consider. If you want something more low-key, consider getting the figures in silhouette in black. You can make this tattoo as detailed you need it to be. Some people like a basic stick-figure playing the flute while other people like to not only fully realize Kokopelli's features but also include a scene of him walking through villages or planting seeds.
Kokopelli Tattoo Design
Consider the placement of the tattoo: if you want something small, the back of the neck or ankle might be good spots for the ink. If you want something more noticeable or large, consider your bicep or your shoulder blades.
Many writers like Kokopelli tattoos because it reminds them of their storytelling craft and of spreading their ideas. People who make their living from the land like the tattoo for obvious reasons. Many women who have had a hard time having children also like the tattoo as a reminder of their struggle or as a way to keep trying despite past failures.
No matter the reason behind one's reason for wanting Kokopelli tattoos, the options for this tattoo are unless.
Candis Reade is an accomplished niche website developer and author.
To learn more about
Kokopelli Tattoos, please visit New Tattoos for current articles and discussions.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Candis_Reade
http://EzineArticles.com/?Kokopelli-Tattoos&id=1565129
Lion Tattoos - Tribal Designs
So you've settled on your choice of tattoo, it has come down to the tribal lion, but where do you go from that? The lion symbolizes many things, and the choice of using tribal designs truly means that you can have a tattoo that is uniquely suited to you. Let's start with the meaning.
Tribal Lion Tattoo - Making Sure Your Tattoo Is The Cat's Meow
By Sylvia Rolfe
So you've settled on your choice of tattoo, it has come down to a tribal lion tattoo, but where do you go from that? The lion symbolizes many things, and the choice of using tribal designs truly means that you can have a tattoo that is uniquely suited to you. Let's start with the meaning of the lion and why you may decide that this king of beast belongs immortalized in your ink.
Tribal lion tattoo design
Tribal lions have a long history in the realm of tattoos. The lion has often been used to represent strength and power; after all, it is the king of beasts. It is also representative of God in other cultures. Whether you choose it for its symbolism or simply its majestic beauty, it can quickly become a symbol of who you are and what you stand for. Power, dominance, strength and vigour. A proud display of your tattoo and a display to the world your internal qualities. No matter why you sought the lion tattoo, it is sure to be one you are proud of.
Lion Tattoos
Just like any tattoo the design can be as simple or as complex as you choose. Make sure you consult with your chosen artist to ensure they have the ability to properly portray the true greatness of this animal. Tribal tattoos require skill to ensure the lines keep form and don't bleed. Don't trust your ink to just anyone do your research and ensure they have the proper ability to reveal the true beauty. You may even be better finding an artist who specializes in tribal artwork to complete your masterpiece.
No matter why you choose the tribal lion tattoo, proper decision making and research in regards to it will help to ensure that your tattoo is the cat's meow and symbolizes all you want it to stand for on its own and for yourself. Don't skimp on the research or instead of the king of beast you may end up with nothing more than a pussy cat tattoo.
To learn more about tribal lion tattoos as well as other designs click here now
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sylvia_Rolfe
http://EzineArticles.com/?Tribal-Lion-Tattoo---Making-Sure-Your-Tattoo-Is-The-Cats-Meow&id=1192365
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