Dan Vallance

Tattoo Ideas

7 Tips To Come Up With An Awesome Tattoo Idea

7 Tips To Come Up With Awesome Tattoo Ideas

Coming up with an idea for a tattoo can be difficult. In order to help, we share 7 tips to come up with awesome tattoo ideas.

Are you thinking about getting a tattoo?

Whenever people run out of ways to express themselves, tattoos are the next best option out there. These skin arts are amazing at letting you express your feelings and interests. Some tattoo artists perform self-tattoos on occasion, showing off their skills as an artist.

Because of this, tattoos have grown in popularity in recent years.

Despite the rise in popularity though, only a few people have gotten new tattoos as of late. For the most part, this is because people find it hard to come up with great tattoo ideas.

Often, this stems from the embarrassment that your idea may not be as great as you thought. You might also have trouble thinking of something to become a permanent addition to your body.

Today, we’ll help you come up with a great tattoo. Below are seven tips to help you get the right tattoo for you.

1. Use Something Meaningful from Your Past

A key characteristic of tattoos is that they hold a special meaning to the bearer. It’s a good idea to take things from your memory when thinking of a design. This should help you get closer to thinking of an idea.

Memories taken from the past are also great as first tattoo ideas. Most of the time, people want something which gives them a sense of nostalgia when they deciding the first tattoo. This tip makes it easier for them to accomplish that feeling.

This also makes it easier to explain the meaning behind your tattoo. One thing people with tattoos experience the most is having people ask why they have a certain tattoo. Since it’s taken from your personal past, answering this question will not only be easy, it will also be full of details.

2. Keep It Simple

A common mistake with people thinking of design ideas is they tend to overthink. This often leads to them coming up with complicated ideas that, when put on paper, doesn’t make sense to anyone. This happens more than you would think and a lot of people fail to get the tattoos they want because of it.

To prevent this from happening to you, keep it simple. A lot of people underestimate the power of having a simple tattoo. Small yet cool tattoos are a rising trend today and there’s a good reason behind it.

Before, when people would think of tattoos, they thought of full-back, colorful ones. While they’re amazing works of art, the trend became tired over time. A simple tattoo serves as a refresher at our current time.

A minimalist tattoo can also have a lot of meanings. It will be up to the beholder to find out what it’s trying to express.

3. Inspire Yourself with Ideas from the Internet

If you’re struggling to come up with an idea, it’s often best to browse the internet for ideas first. There are a lot of tattoos on display for you to view there. This is a surefire way to get some inspiration for your own tattoo.

Doing this also makes it easier for you to explain what you want to the artist. The problem most tattoo artists have is their clients don’t explain what they want well. This tends to lead to a lot of unsatisfied customers and demands of a refund.

By browsing the internet though, you’ll have the chance to snap a screenshot of the design you want. This makes it much easier to convey your desires to the artist.

That said, make sure you don’t copy the exact tattoo of a public figure if you like their design. Tattoos are the intellectual property of an artist. Having a copy of their work on you may open up lawsuits like copyright suits and the like.

4. Consider Using Animal Tattoos

Animal tattoos are popular for many reasons. For one, they can be cutesy and straightforward. Another reason is they tend to symbolize many things.

For example, having the tattoo of a lion may mean strength in many aspects. Wolves, on the other hand, tend to symbolize the fierceness of the bearer. There are endless possibilities for animal tattoos and the meanings behind them, making the task of choosing a tattoo easier for you.

5. Use the Design to Convey a Message

A good idea for coming up with a tattoo is to use it to convey a powerful and meaningful message to you and the people around you. This is shaping up to be a popular trend because of the many symbolisms surrounding our society today. You can use the symbol of a foundation or such for this.

A great example of this is women around the world using the feminist symbol as a tattoo. They mean to inspire everyone around them to become an advocate for true equality all around.

You can also opt for a small tattoo like the date of an important event. This can serve as a reminder for all about what transpired during that day.

6. Think of How You Want the Art Style to Be

Before thinking of what to put as your tattoo you may want to consider the art style you want your design to have. Some art styles work with certain themes of designs. Cartoon, realism, abstract, and symbolism all have a certain genre that works best for them.

7. Think of the Area You’ll Put It On

If you’re still having trouble coming up with an idea, taking a look at the area you want a tattoo on is a great way to help. Like with the art style of your intended design, there are certain areas that work best with the tattoo you want to have.

For small tattoos, it’s often best to place them somewhere you can show people with ease. Places like the wrist or even the ankle are great for them.

For bigger ones, you may want to consider a body part with more area to work with. Your entire arm, chest, or back are popular places for such tattoos.

Come Up with an Awesome Tattoo with the Help of These Tattoo Ideas Today

It’s hard to come up with fresh tattoo ideas nowadays. With the help of our guide though, you’ll be coming up with awesome ideas in no time. Start getting inspired now!

Looking for someone to put your idea from concept to reality? Contact us here and we’ll do an amazing job for you!

To learn more, contact us here.

History of Tattoos in America

Walk Through the History of Tattoos in America

The Americas have a rich tradition of tattooing. Continue reading here to find out more about the history of tattoos in America.

Thinking about getting a tattoo? Do it! You’ll be joining the many that have come to understand the rich art that is tattooing.

Though, tattooing wasn’t always viewed that way.

Before you go jumping the gun, let’s take a look at the history of tattoos in America. You’ll be surprised to find how this art form has developed, and may even find inspiration for your next piece!

Let’s dive in.

Early History of Tattoos in America

Towards the end of the 19th century, tattoos were widely considered taboo in America. Socialite Ward McAllister had this to say about them: “It is certainly the most vulgar and barbarous habit the eccentric mind of fashion ever invented. It may do for an illiterate seaman, but hardly for an aristocrat.”

Though socialites like McAllister may have looked upon tattoos with disgust, there were many who valued tattoos for what they represented. Those in the military, especially, shared the understanding that tattoos were symbols of courage and patriotism.

Records of these 19th century-style tattoos were found in naval logs, letters, and diaries written by seaman. The designs of these traditional American tattoos developed from the artists who traded and improved upon each other’s styles. The tattoos evolved a series of stories and symbols that united soldiers and sailors across the World Wars.

The most well-known tattoo artist of the time was Martin Hildebrandt. In 1870, Hildebrandt opened a studio on Oak Street in New York City, considered the first tattooing establishment in America. He worked there for over 20 years, where he would soon see a shift in the country’s perception of tattoos with the rise of the traveling circus.

The Circus Sideshow

The traveling circus was the spectacle of the year for many small, rural towns across America. There, those who never left their homes and farms could experience such wonders and horrors that seemed out of this world.

One of these sideshow attractions was that of the fully tattooed person.

Frank and Emma DeBurdg were one of these exhibits. Along with the usual designs of patriotic insignias and religious symbols, the couple also displayed tattoos they shared to represent their relationship and bond.

Frank had tattooed on him a beautiful script with the words “For Get Me Not” inscribed above a pretty portrait of his wife, Emma. She, in return, had their names beautifully adorned and displayed prominently for all to see.

This display of affection for one another caught the attention of the public, appealing to their romantic senses. The DeBurdgs saw great success touring America and Europe, and with their exposure so did the art of tattooing gain appreciation with the public.

O’Reilly’s Invention

Traditional tattooing was a bit cumbersome for the artist.

Early tattoo artists used a needle attached to a wooden handle. They would dip this needle in ink and then manually stab the skin two to three times to imprint the ink onto a specific spot. The technique required great dexterity and mental fortitude.

Samuel O’Reilly revolutionized the practice almost overnight.

In addition to being a talented artist, O’Reilly was a skilled technician and mechanic. He theorized that if up and down motion of the needle could be automated, the artist could tattoo nearly as quickly as they could draw on paper.

In 1891, O’Reilly released his invention and offered it to the public along with enriched colored inks, tattoo designs, and other tools. Tattooing in the United States was turned on its head overnight. O’Reilly was swarmed with orders for his invention as more and more artists entered the field of tattooing.

World Influence

Working class men in America commonly adorned tattoos primarily as symbols of masculinity and pride. Soldiers and sailors that served on foreign lands, however, brought home with them a different form of body ornamentation.

While on their travels, these soldiers and sailors experienced the practices and customs of the indigenous cultures of Asia, Africa, and the South Pacific. Their individual uses of tattoos were a bit different from that of typical American art.

This caused a revival of interest in tattoos in American societies across the country. That is to say, specifically, the rebel youth culture of the late twentieth century.

The Beatniks of the 1950s and the Hippies of the ’60s gained a great appreciation for Asian tattooing practices. They admired the personal expression of spiritual and mysticism found in these cultures.

Conversely, the youth of the Punk movement in the ’70s and ’80s used tattoos as symbols of rebellion. They found solace in tattoos as a representation for their feelings of imprisonment by society’s standards for class and decorum.

Modern Tattooing Practices

While tattooing was once a taboo topic in America, now it’s a rising career field for many fledgling artists.

More and more artists are being professionally trained in academies across the country. A study done in the late 1980s estimated that the number of trained artists per year has doubled in comparison to the number of artists that graduated in the ’70s. However, not as many galleries are being built to host the works of these young artists.

But there are plenty of people looking for tattoos.

As a result, these trained artists are bringing with them the plethora of skills and techniques they’ve learned from these art programs. They carry a sense of innovation and experimentation, already giving rise to new tattoo styles such as New Skool and Bio-Mechanical.

What was previously a disdained and marginalized artform, tattooing has been undergoing a process of cultural reform the past few decades. New meanings of tattoo are being developed by gallery exhibits and critics that reframe the practice for what it is: art.

Get Tattooed Today!

There you have it—the rich history of tattoos in America!

If you’re in the area, give us a shout and we can give you an in-depth look at our history with tattooing. Our artists are always happy to give a consultation on any tattoo or design!

To learn more, contact us here.

wedding ring tattoos

Forget the Diamonds: The Top Tips and Ideas for Wedding Ring Tattoos

Wedding ring tattoos – With 2.3 million couples getting married each year, it’s hard to come up with a unique idea to represent you and yours. But, modern brides are setting new trends every day.

The traditional wedding ring is no exception. Yet, that ring may not be what you’re expecting, these days. Today’s brides are choosing wedding ring tattoos over the diamond.

You read that right. Couples are getting tattoos. Right on their ring fingers to represent the wedding band.

Well, why not?

They’re beautiful. It’s a permanent symbol of your bond. And, if you get the right one, it’s timeless and classy, too.

It checks all the boxes of a traditional wedding ring, without investing 3 months wages.

So, how are couples choosing the perfect wedding ring tattoos? Let’s find out!

Wedding Ring Tattoos: Tips and Ideas to Help You Choose!

It’s not exactly a new idea, but it’s definitely gaining ground. Maybe because tattoos are more popular than ever. Or, it could be the savings involved.

Wedding ring tattoos are far less expensive than a traditional wedding ring. You can get one for $50 to $2,000, depending on the design and the artist. That’s a lot of money you can save for the honeymoon!

But, the real reason may have more to do with the tattoo itself. The most valuable thing about a wedding ring tattoo is not the price tag. It’s the meaningful design that a couple chooses together.

They’re personalized in a way that the traditional ring isn’t. And, that’s what couples want.

Choose Your Style

Every couple is unique, and so is their personal style. That style will merge into your ring tattoos.

Only about 16% of the world has tattoos. That already makes you unique. But your tattoo style says even more about you.

Here are a few styles to consider.

Traditional/Classic
Tribal
Colorful
Symbolic
Bold & Blackwork
Watercolor
Cultural

There are many more styles to choose from. The style you choose depends only on your preferences.

Symbolism is Important

Here’s where it gets personal. Choosing a wedding ring tattoo should include something symbolic. Something special that represents the relationship between you and your spouse.

Find good symbolism in your past, present, and future. Consider how you met, what you like to do together, and your favorite things.

Places you’ve traveled to and struggles you’ve overcome can be meaningful symbols, too. Find something that represents your relationship and its special strength.

Here are some ideas to think about.

Special Places: beaches/waves, mountains, sunshine, palm trees
Health and Wellness: heartbeats, peace, double hearts, yin/yang, lotus
Love and Closeness: hearts, love knot, Claddagh, Celtic Knot
Dreams, Spirit, and Strength: moon, crescent moon, clouds, stars

These are just a few symbols. Do your research and you’ll find one that suits you! Remember, not all symbols are simple enough for a tattoo. So, make sure you choose one that works.

Speak with your tattoo artist to see if it can work in your ring tattoo.

Keep it Simple

A simple tattoo makes a classy statement. It’s also the best bet for this situation.

Why?

To start, fingers are very small areas! Your tattoo artist will have an easier time and do a better job on a simple design.

Here are a few more good reasons to keep it simple.

It’s a painful area – less is more
Simple lines and shapes look better
Simple finger tattoos blurless
Easier to touch up later

Choosing a simple design doesn’t mean you’re settling for boring. Talk with your tattoo artist to get it right!

Plan It Before You Ink It

This isn’t the kind of tattoo you do on a whim. It’s far more important and symbolic than that. Take the time to plan your design before you have it done.

Choosing an Artist

This is the most important part of the whole process! You need to choose a tattoo artist that understands your vision. And, one that can do the work in the style you like.

Start by checking out some tattoo artist’s online. Look at their web portfolios and read reviews from past clients. Narrow it down to three artists that seem good.

Then, schedule appointments with your top three choices. Meet, ask a few questions, and get to know your potential tattoo artists.

Ask if they have experience with wedding ring tattoos. It’s not a deal breaker if they’ve never done one. But, make sure they are confident they can do the work.

Take a look around the shop. You’ll get a feel for how they handle their business.

Is it clean? Professional? Do you feel comfortable here?

You’ll need to come prepared to discuss your design vision or look at options. Talk about pricing, too. It’s ok if they give you a range, as long as it works for your budget.

Schedule Design Visits

Once you decide on an artist, you’ll need an appointment to plan and complete your tattoo design. Bring notes about your ideas with you. If you’re not sure, as for guidance.

Most artists have many, many options you can choose from right in the shop. But, whatever you choose, personalize it a little bit. Then, negotiate to have it removed from the options.

This is yours. No one else should have it.

Picking the Right Time

Schedule inking appointments, next! It’s up to you whether you do it before or after the wedding.

Talk to your artist about what it’s like to get a tattoo. This can help you choose the right day.

Getting it done on your wedding day is not the best option. Think about everything else going on that day. It’s a very busy day, and you don’t want to add to it.

You can always use plain bands as your symbol during the ceremony. For best results, don’t rush your tattoo appointment. Schedule it during a time when you can relax and enjoy the moment!

Talk to a Tattoo Artist, Today!

Don’t go the traditional route. Look into wedding ring tattoos, instead! They’re personal, symbolic and beautiful.

It’s a unique and meaningful way to represent your marriage!

To learn more, contact us here.

Tattoo Sleeve

Roll Up the Sleeves: The Top Must-Know Tips for Planning a Tattoo Sleeve

The Top Must-Know Tips for Planning a Tattoo Sleeve

Tattoo sleeves can look awesome. But, you need to plan them right. Read on to learn the top tips for planning a tattoo sleeve.

Thinking of getting a tattoo? You’re not alone: four out of ten adults in the U.S. have at least one tattoo.

However, if you really want to stand out then a tattoo sleeve may be the way to go. This high impact tattoo design typically starts at the shoulder and extends all the way down your arm, ending just before your wrist. It also covers your entire arm like a piece of clothing; hence, the name.

This type of tattoo is rather extensive, however, and requires some planning. Here are some tips on achieving the tattoo sleeve of your dreams that you’ll love for the rest of your life.

Take the Time to Find the Right Design

This is the most fun part of getting a tattoo sleeve, but it may also require a lot of research. Take the time to determine the tattoo design you want. After all, it’s only going to stay on your body for the rest of your life (or unless you decide to have the tattoo removed.)

You can start by browsing tattoo sleeve ideas online. Instagram, Pinterest, and of course, tattoo shop websites are great places to start to find cool designs.

It’s important to choose the right tattoo color. Do you want a full-color design or a black and white one?

Should the design have special personal meaning to you? Will it reflect perhaps your astrological sign, your favorite flower, movie, or music idol?

These are all important questions to ask yourself and you should definitely know the answers before you schedule a consultation with a tattoo artist. If you know someone with a tattoo sleeve that you absolutely love, it may be a good idea to choose the artist they used so you can achieve the same effect.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Once you determine a design or have some concrete ideas for one, now you can schedule a consultation with a tattoo artist. They will fine-tune the design idea for you and let you know how long and how many appointments the tattoo will require.

You should bring photos of the artwork you have in mind and the designs that you like. However, try not to overwhelm the tattoo artist with too many ideas and themes. You should decide for yourself some of the specifics so they can work with you and your vision to create a sleeve tattoo you’re in love with.

Prepare for Some Discomfort

The most nerve-wracking aspect of getting any tattoo is the pain factor. The good news is some parts of the body are more comfortable to get a tattoo on than others. You can refer to a tattoo pain chart to get a better idea of which body areas are the most sensitive.

The bad news is a tattoo sleeve involves putting part of the design on your shoulder, which does tend to be a more sensitive area for most people. The flesh around the shoulder bone is thinner, which makes this part of the tattoo a little more painful.

There are several layers to your skin. Tattooing requires that the tattoo needle be inserted into the dermis part of the skin, the deeper area that contains nerves and pain receptors.

The needle is basically injuring the area every time it’s inserted (which can be hundreds of times per second.) This sends a signal to the brain that something is wrong, which is the reason why we feel pain when getting a tattoo.

However, there are a few steps you can take to make the process more comfortable.

Prepare for Your Tattoo Session

One of the best things you can do the day of your tattoo appointment is to stay hydrated and eat a healthy meal. Try to avoid alcohol and drinking too many caffeinated beverages before your appointment as both can cause dehydration.

Keeping your body hydrated and eating a balanced meal the day of your session will help keep your blood sugar at a healthy level. This will help prevent you from passing out and it also helps the skin absorb the ink better.

Get a good night’s sleep the night before. Shower or bathe as usual and don’t apply any lotions, oils, or moisturizers to the arm getting the tattoo.

You’ll also want to avoid taking any over-the-counter medication until after your appointment. Many of these medications can thin the blood just like alcohol can.

You can ask your tattoo artist to stop by raising your other hand or saying something if a portion of the tattoo becomes very uncomfortable. Ask them if it’s possible to take a break from time to time.

Chatting with your artist (as long as it doesn’t distract them) is another good tactic to help keep your mind off the tattoo application.

Healing Each Section of Your Tattoo

A tattoo sleeve is a very involved design that can’t be completed in one sitting. So, you will need to follow the tattoo artist’s instructions on tattoo healing after each visit. This will help keep the area clean and prevent infection.

They may give you bandages to place over the tattoo for a specified amount of time. You’ll want to gently cleanse the tattooed area with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water. You should also limit sun exposure to the area.

You’ll be repeating the process after each section of your tattoo is completed.

We Can Give You Your Dream Tattoo Sleeve

Getting a tattoo sleeve requires some preparation, but many people who have one will tell you it’s well worth it. A well-done tattoo sleeve leaves a lasting impression and helps you express your individuality.

Here at Skin Factory Tattoo, our tattoo artists are well experienced in tattoo sleeves as well as all kinds of tattoo designs. When you’re ready for a tattoo consultation, contact us.

To learn more, contact us here.