Dan Vallance

Best Tattoo Styles

10 Best Tattoo Styles to Consider for Beginners

If you are thinking about getting your first tattoo, certain designs will fit your situation. Here are the best tattoo styles to consider for beginners.

Are you thinking about getting your first tattoo soon? Are you still unsure about what kind of tattoo you want or what style you want it in?

Don’t hesitate to learn more about the various tattoo styles available. These can last a lifetime, after all, so take your time to discover which ones work best for you. Fortunately, we’ve got an in-depth right here for you.

Keep reading to learn more about the top ten best tattoo styles you can get.

1. Astrology-Based Tattoos

After Italy and Sweden, the USA has is one of the most tattooed countries in the world. 46% of Americans have at least one tattoo. It’s a sign of the changing times.

It means we are losing the stigmatization often associated with tattoos. It also means that people feel freer to express themselves without fear of judgment.

For a long time, astrological signs have been inspirations for tattoos. They’re great because they are universal, even Chinese astrology. You can also find a lot of great design styles that integrate astrological symbols in unique and creative ways.

2. Single-Word Tattoos

There is a simplistic yet graceful look to placing a single word on a blank space. The word can be anything you desire. It can be “euphoria,” “Lumos,” or any other word that means something to you.

Words carry subjective meaning to each of us. It’s a great idea for people who want small and discreet tattoos. You can also choose a combination of letters that don’t need to make up words or punctuation marks.

3. Fading Tattoos

If you want to ink in optical illusions on your body, fading tattoos are a great choice. You don’t even need to find a tattoo artist who uses “invisible” ink. All you need is one that knows how to create the illusion of fading.

Consider the wrist tattoo of dots that look like they’re “fading out” at a glance. When you take another second for a closer look, you’ll see that the dots only reduce in size. This size reduction creates the illusion of a fading wrist tattoo.

4. Science-Themed Tattoos

If you’re a big science nerd, consider a tattoo that shows it. The realm of science has a lot of potential for simple yet elegant tattoos. You can get a tattoo of molecular structures, formulas, and more.

Plus, everything in the world has a relation to science, be it abstract of physical. Do you want to remind yourself to be happy whenever you see your tattoo? Instead of inking in a line of “be happy” on your arm, consider a tattoo of the molecular structure of serotonin.

5. Single-Line Tattoos

There is an art to creating a tattoo design that’s only made up of a single line. It’s a great tattoo style for those who want a safe and simple yet elegant tattoo. It has a unique and minimalistic look.

It’s one of the best tattoo choices for couples if one partner feels hesitant towards getting inked. If done well, single line tattoos look clean and chic. Plus, you can get anything done with a single line, from sailboats to penguins.

6. Blackwork Style

When you say blackwork style, in technicality, you’re talking about an umbrella term. Blackwork is the tattoo style that focuses on creating body art with only black ink. This can include a uniquely shaped ink splat or a stylistic geometrical design.

Despite the limitations of using only black ink, you can do a lot with blackwork. A lot of blackwork tattoo artists make some of the most mind-blowing work. Beginners can consider having a small yet detailed design. It’ll match well with any expansions you may plan of having later.

7. Watercolor Style Tattoos

If you don’t like heavy black-only tattoos, consider the watercolor tattoo style. This one often takes out all the black lines from a traditional tattoo. It’s a modern tattoo style that makes your skin look like paper or canvas.

It’s one of the best tattoo styles for you if you prefer a whimsical and poetic aesthetic. Note that this isn’t a simple tattoo style. When you decide on this style, pick an artist who has experience with watercolor tattoos.

8. Tribal Tattoo Style

When you hear tribal tattoo, your mind likely goes to the bold, sharp, and curved lines that often make up the tribal tattoo style. While this is one of the most popular tattoo styles, true tribal tattoos are thousands of years old. They have a different look, especially since tribal tattoos are indigenous body art.

When you consider this tattoo style, think of Polynesian, Maori, or aboriginal tattoos. Think of the iconic tattoo of The Rock or the Samoan tattoo of WWE Superstar’s Roman Reigns.

One in five Americans has a tattoo. While having a tattoo is now more accepted in the workplace, face and neck tattoos are still a big no-no. If you plan on getting your first tribal-style tattoo, it’s always safe to keep it far from your face and neck.

9. Japanese Style Tattoo

From mythological creatures to beautiful geishas, Irezumi has a unique and bold look. They often tell stories or myths from the culture. Irezumi or Japanese-style tattoos also often end up as dramatic and powerful masterpieces.

If you’re into foreign tattoo designs, consider Irezumi or a modern take on it. Since creating Irezumi is also seen as an art, the craft takes everything into account. That includes how the tattoo ages and looks from various angles.

10. New School Style

Are you a big fan of Sailor Moon, the PowerPuff Girls, or Ren and Stimpy? Finally, here’s a tattoo style that you will love. The new school tattoo style isn’t all that new in reality.

It entered the spotlight in the late 80s till the early 90s. It featured an animated aesthetic that took after the cartoons that aired in those years. Today, the new school tattoo style has evolved into something more timely.

Find the Tattoo Style for You

That ends our guide on the best tattoo styles for beginners to consider. We hope you found a tattoo style that matches your aesthetic and preferences. We also hope you now have a clearer idea of the tattoo design you want that will fit your body and look.

Do you want to learn more about what you need to do when preparing for tattoos? Check out our blog for guides on getting a tattoo, finding other tattoo styles, and more. If you have any inquiries about getting tattoos, feel free to talk to us.

To learn more, contact us here.

Tattoo Ideas to Celebrate a Baby

9 Spectacular Meaningful Tattoo Ideas to Celebrate a Baby

Congratulations, you have a new baby. The perfect way to outwardly show your eternal love for your child is a tattoo. Checkout our meaningful tattoo ideas now.

Are you a new parent wanting to celebrate the birth of your child a little differently? Have you been thinking up ways to show the world your eternal love and adoration for your baby?

Well, firstly congratulations on your new baby! Secondly, have you been thinking of a meaningful tattoo idea?

Before you begin selecting get a good idea of where you’d want the placement to be, and what kind of style you’re looking for. This will help narrow down your options to find the perfect meaningful tattoo for you.

Decide if there are a few fonts that you really like, and whether or not your tattoo will be in color. This will save you tons of time trying to select more options within your options!

Are you ready to get into some options for a meaningful baby tattoo? Keep reading on for some unique and some tried and true tattoo ideas to show your love permanently.

1. Their Birthday

Probably the most seen baby tattoo ideas that people get is their baby’s birth date.

You can put your own spin on it by going with different fonts, abbreviating the date, or just going with Roman numerals. The choices and possibilities are endless with how you want it to look.

2. Longitude & Latitude Coordinates

A bit of a unique spin on tattoo idea, using longitude and latitude coordinates are another meaningful way to show your love.

This is a good one especially if you’re family moves around and you may not have children in the same location. It also works if they are all born in the same place and have ‘one for all’ type of tattoo.

Some people choose the coordinates of the hospital, their home addresses, or the city/town in general where they live. You can get creative with this one but just remember to make sure it’s accurate!

3. Foot or Fingerprint Tattoo

A classic commemorative example is footprint and fingerprint tattoos. People have different spins on how they do this.

For example, you can get the prints done in the shape of a heart, or just have the print on its own without a pattern or design to them. It’s, of course, your choice to make.

You should research and contact a good tattoo artist first to ask them for what you need to do to get your baby footprint tattoo ideas in ink. Some artists might have their preferred methods of doing these and it’s worth the ask ahead of time.

4. Their Birthstone

If you’re a fan of colored tattoos getting your baby’s birthstone is also on our list of unique tattoo ideas. For this one, you can opt for a round gemstone type tattoo, or even go for a little stalagmite colored in with the right color.

In the event you decide to have more children, you can add on another stalagmite and have a little stalagmite family going!

5. Their Zodiac Constellation

Some people get their child’s zodiac sign, but what about something more unique like the zodiac constellation?

When your baby is born, there is a specific zodiac star pattern in the sky for a certain amount of time. This is how people get their zodiac signs.

A great tattoo idea can be mimicking what the sky showed the night your baby was born with a couple line segments that marked their birth into the world.

6. Their Initials

Baby name tattoo ideas top the list of common tattoos, but have you considered just doing initials?

If you’re looking to get something a little smaller, your baby’s initial can be a great option for you. Similar to the birth date tattoo, you have the option of a large variety of fonts and styles to choose from for this tattoo.

7. Heartbeat

Hearing your baby’s heartbeat for the first time can be one of the first most emotional and heartwarming experiences of parenthood. Did you know you can capture it?

During your baby’s sonogram, the doctor listened to and recorded your baby’s heart rhythm. You can ask your doctor for a copy and take it to your tattoo artist to have them copy it onto your skin.

This is definitely a unique way to show your eternal love, and also having a memory of when you heard their heartbeat the first time with you forever.

8. A Flower

Another option that people go for is getting a flower.

Typically, parents will pick a flower that represents their child or something one that they favor, and tattoo it on themselves. If you end up having more children, you can turn your one flower into a lovely family bouquet.

The options of tattoo ideas for flowers are endless and you can easily swap for a colorless option if you’d like as well.

9. A Heart

Last but not least, we’re ending off our list with one of the classic baby tattoo ideas; a heart.

Don’t be shy to get a little creative with this one. Options you can look at are having their name or initials inside the heart or part of outline, you could put their birthdate, or just simply an outline without any colour.

Tattoo Ideas To Celebrate

When it comes to tattoos like these, make sure the one you pick is something meaningful to you. Take your time in making a decision and take all aspects of the design into consideration. Decide what colours, shapes, and styles you like best before heading to a tattoo shop.

Once you’ve decided on what you’d like to go with, or if you need a little help in deciding what would look best, contact your local tattoo shop to book an appointment.

Be sure to check out the rest of our site for more informative tattoo content!

To learn more, contact us here.

Retro Tattoo Styles

7 Retro Tattoo Styles That Still Rock

Are you planning to get a tattoo for the first time? Or do you already have a couple and wish to add another one that will never go out of style? Then one of the best options to consider is the retro or old-school tattoo styles.

The love affair between Americans and tattoos go a long way. And today, more Americans are getting tattoos compared to almost a decade ago.

Not to mention, there are more tattoo choices today than ever before. But why should you consider going retro on tattoos? What are the classic styles that will still make you stand out in this modern age?

Continue reading below for seven retro tattoo styles deserving of a spot on your skin.

1. The Classic Americana

First on our list of timeless old-school tattoo styles is the Classic Americana. You can easily spot this traditional style tattoos through some key elements. It features solid colors, iconic imagery, and bold black lines.

Classic Americana tattoos trace its roots from way back to the 18th century. But it first became popular in the mainstream tattoo scene in the 1930s. It was tattoo artist Norman “Sailor Jerry” Collins who popularized the style.

Back then, Classic Americana tattoos often depicted animals, roses, pin-ups, skulls, and nautical themes. You can even see people sporting this tattoo style with a standard heart tattoo.

2. The Japanese Style

Another old-school option is the Japanese tattoo style or Irezumi. It features remarkable artistry and deep and dark history. Irezumi traces its origins from the Jomon Period (10,000 BCE-300 CE).

However, modern Japanese style tattoos rose to prominence between the years 1603 and 1868. This was during the Edo Period where Japan deemed tattooing as illegal. Hence, the Japanese often associated tattooing to crime, as well as filial piety.

Furthermore, the older Japanese people shunned on tattooing for another reason. They claimed that tattoos somewhat disrespected the body. In turn, they viewed tattooing as a way of breaking the codes of obedience and respect.

As for the designs, Japanese tattoos feature very large images. These images are big enough to cover the entire back. Other areas where artists place the tattoos include the arms and legs.

3. Stick and Poke

Stick and poke tattoos became one of the hottest tattoo styles back in the 1970s. The name originated from the manner of inking the tattoo on the skin. The tattoo artists do not use any machines to ink the skin.

Instead, they use a rod-like contraption where they attach a needle on the end. Thereafter, they dip the needle into the ink and apply it to the skin by hand. The ink settles deep into the skin as the artist pokes the needle dot by dot.

When it comes to the designs, they are far less intricate compared to other tattoo styles. Most of the recent designs feature bold lines with minor decorative patterns.

Check out our Maui Tattoo shop or our Las Vegas Tattoo shop

4. Black and Grey

Some people call black and gray tattoos as “jailhouse” tattoos. Legend has it that this particular style started inside the prison. In prison, inmates use inks and handmade machines for tattooing.

Artists had to improvise when it came to the materials. They used pen ink and cigarette ashes to make the tattoo ink. They converted old guitar strings into needles.

But on the outside, black and gray started to gain a following in the 1970s. Artists use different techniques in creating their designs.

However, the key lies in the shading variation. Good artists can combine deep and soft shadows and hues. To get more solid grey tones, they mix black ink with white ink.

This leveling in the shades is the secret to keeping your black and grey tattoos from fading.

5. Blackwork

If the black and grey style showcases a fusion of two colors, blackwork tattoo proudly boast solid planes of black. Most of the time, blackwork artists depict geometric shapes.

Sometimes, they present abstract patterns. But the common denominator is that they tend to use minimalist images and symbols. This is because of the tattoos Polynesian origins.

But in western culture, blackwork tattoos became fashionable in Europe during the 18th century. It was the laborers who often sported this particular tattoo style.

Today, you will be one of the coolest if you have one on the arms or at the back.

6. Abstract

Though some people may consider abstract tattoos as relatively new, you can trace its roots toward the end of the 19th century. It was a time when artists were feeling the need to come up with a new form of art.

They want this new art to represent the changing landscape in science, technology, and philosophy. Hence, they started to move to the more creative use of shapes, colors, and expressions.

Today, abstract tattoos are a sight to behold. They showcase visual excellence, as well as conceptual beauty.

7. Realism

Last but not least are the tattoos that use realism. Realism tattooing became popular in the 1970s inside California’s Chicano prisons.

As the name implies, these tattoos look realistic. Thus, they come in virtually any color the artists want.

Some use a mixture of bright and dark colors. Others stick to the neutral black and white tones. The color choice depends on the subject and theme of the tattoos.

These subjects can be objects, animals, scenery, or people.

Important Reminders for Before Getting a Tattoo

Retro Tattoo Styles

Regardless of the retro style tattoos that you pick, there are certain rules that you need to observe. And if it is your first time going through the artistic needle, you need to know some hard facts about tattoos.

First, you will feel a constant scratching on your skin. But after the first 15 minutes, your adrenaline should help reduce the pain. However, the pain does not stop there, as you will experience redness and swelling in the area after the procedure.

If you wish to experience the least amount of pain, pick a fleshier spot on your body. Your forearms and wrists are excellent spots for first-timers.

Last but not least, make sure to check the reputation of your tattoo artist. Go for someone with a trusted name in the local tattoo scene to ensure your safety.

Let’s Get You the Tattoo Styles You Want, Today!

Sporting retro tattoo styles is a good way of expressing yourself. But when choosing the designs, make sure to pick something that you feel good and comfortable about. And if you’re looking for an artist you can trust, then you came to the right place. To see what other style that are popular this year, check out our friends at Feedspot and their Top 50 Tattoo Blogs & Websites For Tattoo Artists & Enthusiasts in 2020

Connect with us today and share with us your design ideas. Let us discuss your options and let’s get you the tattoos that you want.

To learn more, contact us here.

Back Tattoo Ideas

7 Great Back Tattoo Ideas

Tattooing is an ancient art that dates back thousands of years. The earliest existing evidence of tattoos in human history was found on Otzi the Iceman dating back around 5,200 years ago.

In 20th century American culture, tattoos were once mostly reserved for bikers, sailors, and ex-cons.

Fast forward to today, tattoos in America are more popular than ever.

Is it time for you to get another tattoo, or even your very first? Here’s a look at 7 great back tattoo ideas.

1. Quote Tattoo

Tattoos are a form of personal expression, and quote tattoos are an excellent way to ink yourself with something meaningful.

The quote you use on your back tattoo could come from anywhere: a book, a movie, a song, or a philosophical quote. Take time to find a quote that really resonates with who you are and who you want to be.

Quote tattoos offer a lot of options in terms of placement. Have the quote run vertically down your spine, run horizontally across your back, or place it off-centered on one of your shoulders.

Your font choice for your quote tattoo is also going to be an important decision. Consider what type of aesthetic you want your quote to be displayed in to help make this choice.

2. Angel Tattoo

Angels have been a powerful symbol for thousands of years. If you find imagery of angels to be meaningful to you, you might consider incorporating an angel into your tattoo plan.

You could go all out and get a full angel back tattoo, or you could go with a small angel strategically placed on your upper back.

Maybe someone close to you has recently passed and you are looking for a way to commemorate their life, or maybe angels are personally significant to you for other reasons.

3. Cross Tattoo

If you are a Christian, I don’t need to tell you that the cross is the most important symbol of your religion. Whether you choose to display a crucifixion scene or a simple cross, this is a great way to carry your religion with you everywhere you go.

Cross back tattoo ideas allow a lot of room for your own creative additions. Maybe you want to add your favorite Bible verse, symbols of your heritage, or names of your loved ones.

4. Tribal Tattoo

Tribal back tattoo work is quite common, containing unique designs that draw inspiration from ancient tribal art. In many cultures around the globe, getting tattooed was, and still is, a rite of passage.

There are nearly as many different types of tribal tattoos as there are cultures, but some of the most popular tribal tattoo work comes from Hawaii, Maori, and Borneo.

5. Mandala Tattoo

Mandala is a Sanskrit word that means “circle.” A mandala back tattoo is comprised of many different shapes and overlapping circles.

These designs represent eternity, perfection, and balance. While mandala tattoos are fairly common, you can rest assured that no two are ever exactly identical.

Mandalas can be seen as a representation of wholeness and a model depicting the organizational structure of life itself. Viewed by some as a cosmic diagram that illustrates the relation to the infinite, mandala tattoos are a great way to display your interest in life beyond material concerns.

6. Animal Tattoo

Many of us have animals that we are drawn to or that we feel we relate to. Some people even people that they have spirit or totem animals. Animals carry strong symbolic meaning and are therefore an excellent subject matter for a back tattoo.

Think about who you are, who you want to be, and what you want your tattoo to mean to you.

Maybe you want your tattoo to represent strength and power, and you therefore might consider getting a tattoo of a lion, a bear, a wolf, a tiger, or an eagle. Perhaps instead you want to highlight more sensitive aspects of yourself. In this case, you might get a tattoo of something more gentle, like a deer, a rabbit, or a kitten.

Take the time to do some research about the meaning and symbolism of different animals in different cultures. If you have a proud heritage in a certain culture, perhaps stick with the interpretations your ancestors likely would have made.

7. Tree of Life Tattoo

You back is a great canvas for a tree of life tattoo, with plenty of room to go into elaborate illustrative detail. The trunk of the tree can run along your spine, and the branches can fan out onto the back of your shoulders.

The tree of life is a fundamental and widespread archetype or myth in many of the world’s religious, philosophical, and mythological traditions. The tree of life is understood to connect all forms of creation.

If folklore and legends involving the tree of life resonate with you, this could be a great tattoo idea for you.

Which of These Back Tattoo Ideas Is Most Interesting to You?

back tattoo ideas

Whether you’re getting your first tattoo or just another of many, choosing a tattoo is always a big decision. If you already have other tattoos, though, it’s always a good idea to try and envision how any new additions will look alongside your old staples.

The only limit to the back tattoo ideas you can come up with is your own imagination. Getting a tattoo is a big decision, so you want to make sure that you’re putting a lot of thought into what, where, and in what style you’re going to get.

Is it time for you to start getting some back tattoo work done? Check out our tattoo shop gallery for more inspiration.

Have a question? Be sure to contact us today!

To learn more, contact us here.