9 Tips for How to Find the Right Tattoo Artist That Fits Your Desired Style
9 Tips for How to Find the Right Tattoo Artist That Fits Your Needs
Once you have the idea for your dream tattoo, you need to know how to find the right tattoo artist to fit your style. Check out these tips to avoid any regret.
Nothing says “regret” quite like a bad tattoo. Whether we’re talking blurred colors, messy lines, or misspelled words, you have to live with these mistakes for the rest of your life. But when you know how to find the right tattoo artist you avoid these problems altogether.
Choosing a reputable tattoo parlor with talented and professional artists marks the first step in ensuring you’ll be proud of the ink you get. But finding that special artist proves easier said than done. Read on for nine tips to find a tattoo artist.
1) Shop Around
Don’t settle with the first tattoo parlor and artist that you come across. Instead, shop around and do your research. After all, there’s so much diversity when it comes to styles, techniques, and talents.
Make a list of potential studios and local tattooists. Check out as many of them as possible.
While visiting each location, talk to potential artists. In fact, come prepared with a list of questions. Soon you’ll recognize good tattoo shops when you see them.
2) Clean
Why do we recommend visiting each place in person? Because you’ll see which studios feel clean and professional and which ones don’t. A tattoo parlor should appear as clean as a medical facility. If not, then it’s time to leave.
What should you look for in terms of specifics?
Artists should use all sterilized equipment and as many disposable items as possible. For example, they should use small disposable ink containers where they pour just enough ink for each individual client.
Make sure tattoo artists wear gloves when they’re doing their jobs. This goes for applying ointments and Vaseline after getting a tattoo, too.
3) Professional
You also want to look for a studio that takes client’s needs seriously. So, if you show up at a spot, and they leave you waiting for twenty minutes without so much as a greeting, it’s time to move on.
Customer service represents a crucial aspect of the tattoo artist-client relationship. That means maintaining an organized shop with clearly scheduled appointments. Look for shops where customer needs get put first.
4) Ask Around
References represent an excellent way to find a good artist using word-of-mouth. If you have friends and family members whose ink you admire, start by asking them for recommendations.
If you don’t know anybody personally who’s had work done, then ask for recommendations from people with body art that you like. It’s as simple as paying attention while out in public.
Once you’ve found work you like and broken the ice for a recommendation, don’t stop there! Make sure you ask the recommender a few basic questions about the cost, the personality of the artist, and the cleanliness of the facility.
5) Watch Live Artists
Whenever possible, watch artists at work in their parlors. You’ll come away with an immediate impression about their work, their lines, their use of colors, and more. You’ll also know whether or not an artist has a steady hand.
While watching an artist live, pay attention to their skills when it comes to shading, blending colors, and creating a sense of perspective and/or depth.
While checking out their portfolios also proves important, watching an artist work in real time will tell you volumes about their abilities. After all, it’s one thing to produce a flawless sketch on a sheet of paper and another to put it permanently on the skin.
6) Scope Out Portfolios
Checking out tattoo artist’s portfolios will tell you much about their skills, talents, and passion. After all, most artists draw in a style that they admire, whether that’s Sailor Jerry, New Skool, or Neo-Traditional tattoos.
When checking out portfolios, look for ones with a watermark or that have been signed. They should contain photos from recent tattoos completed by the artist.
Again, spend some time checking out their work live to make sure they can deliver beyond the page. This also proves that the portfolio pieces you’re eyeing are, indeed, theirs.
7) Understand What You’re Getting
As you check out an artist’s live work and portfolio, you need to keep in mind their abilities and limitations. For example, don’t assume that an artist who specializes in Sailor Jerry-style ink is going to be great at black and gray portraits of celebrities.
Since some artists gain recognition by specializing in certain designs, don’t expect them to have the flexibility to create anything your heart desires. Instead, your best bet is finding an artist that specializes in the kind of work you’d like to have done.
8) Licensing
Most states require tattoo parlors and individual artists to have some type of licensing. Find out what the laws in your state say so that you can make sure you opt for a facility and artist that both abide by state regulations.
Ability to properly follow the law represents one of the most basic requirements of running a business. It exudes professionalism, and it lets you know they’re not cutting corners in other areas like basic hygiene and public safety.
9) Don’t Skimp
Good tattoos cost money. Make no doubt about it. So, stop looking for half-off specials and cheap studios.
Instead, pursue and pay for quality. While selecting a parlor, you’ve got to consider a variety of factors including the artist’s expertise and talent. You also need to come prepared to pay extra for big pieces and complicated ones.
The best artists charge more. Period. They also offer the results you want.
The old adage you get what you pay for matters when it comes to tattoos. You’ll be stuck with this artwork for the rest of your life. So, think about a tattoo as an investment in your future happiness.
How to Find the Right Tattoo Artist
How to Find the Right Tattoo Artist
Interested in learning more about tattoo artists in your area? The tips above will show you how to find the right tattoo artist for your unique needs.
Check out our blog to stay on top of the latest news coming out of the tattoo world. Or contact us with your questions and comments. We have tattoo shops in Las Vegas, Henderson and Maui Good luck!
15 of the Worst Cliche Tattoos That You Should Avoid Getting
15 of the Worst Cliche Tattoos That You Should Avoid Getting
Tattoos are a way of showing your creative self-expression, except when you decide to get a lame cliche tattoo. Here are 15 of the worst cliche tattoos to avoid.
Tattoos can be a beautiful and creative way to express yourself or commemorate something special. Tattoos can also be a permanent bad decision.
Don’t fall victim to an embarrassing tattoo. Here are 15 cliche tattoos you should avoid when you’re planning to get a tattoo.
How to Know if You’re Getting One of the Many Cliche Tattoos
Cliche Tattoos
Below are the most cliche tattoos right now. Like fashion trends, every day more tattoos become a cliche. The best way to predict if that tattoo you’re planning to get will become a cliche one day is, to be honest with yourself.
Ask yourself if the design you’re getting means something significant to you that you will like for years to come, or if you’re just following a trend. Tattoo trends are harder to get rid of than fashion trends.
Here are some of the most common cliche tattoos.
1. The Infinity Sign
The infinity sign tattoo symbolizes rebirth, reincarnation and forever. Similarly, your infinity tattoo will also last forever. This tattoo is everywhere, so go for a sign that’s more unique.
2. The Chest Wings
Chest wings is a very detailed design that covers your entire chest. Sometimes people even get this on their back.
You might be tempted to get this piece because of it’s symbolic and inspiring symbolism. Or how you hope that like in nature, you tattooed wings will help you fly. In myths, wings are earned, but you only have to pay for your tattooed chest wings.
If you’re in great shape, you might feel you need this design. Sure, your chest wings look nice now. But will you still like this design when your pecks sag to man boobs or when your back is hunched over?
Probably not.
If you must get wings, perhaps go for a more subtle design in an area that less likely to hunch or sag with age.
3. The Lower Back Butterfly
Lower back tattoos or “tramp stamps” are never a good idea. Luckily you can hide them with clothes, but they will make an appearance during swimsuit season.
If a lower back tattoo still sounds appealing to you, at least go for a design that isn’t as cliche as a basic butterfly.
4. A Heart on the Wrist
This tattoo is usually gotten after a break-up. Quick, relatively painless, and seemingly subtle, an outline of a heart seems like the perfect ink.
Turns out this tattoo is incredibly cliche. We’re pretty positive it’s a prerequisite to being a contestant on The Bachelor.
5. Tribal Tat
Tribal tattoos are also incredibly common, and we’re guessing most people who have these tattoos have never been in a tribe. Often this design will take up the entire arm, making it difficult to ever look classy in a short-sleeved shirt.
6. The Dandelion Birds
This tattoo of a dandelion blowing in the wind and transforming into flying birds seems to be everywhere these days. It’s meant to symbolize your fate and the fulfillment of your wishes.
The dandelion stalk symbolizes to let go of the past, so this design can also represent rebirth and resilience. Or also “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” a motto as cliche as this design.
7. “Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost”
Speaking of cliche lines, having the phrase “not all those who wander are lost” tattooed on your arm is incredibly cliche. So don’t get lost with this tattoo after wandering into your local tattoo parlor.
Try to think of a phrase that actually means something to you, and perhaps get that tattooed somewhere.
8. “Carpe Diem”
“Carpe Diem” or “seize the day,” is another cliche tattoo text to get. Instead, try seizing the day with a more original phrase.
9. Om Sign
We get it, you do yoga. You talk about it all the time, you don’t need to get the om sign on the back of your neck too. Also, don’t you want to be able to admire your tattoo without using a hand mirror?
10. Anchor
Either you have a boat, have been on a boat, or need a reminder to stay grounded. Maybe look into another way to stay grounded or show of your love for boats because an anchor tattoo is incredibly cliche.
11. “This Too Shall Pass”
Getting the phrase “this too shall pass” tattooed on your body is a great way to remind yourself that things get better. Unfortunately, your tattoo will not pass and it’s also cliche.
12. Dreamcatcher
You might be tempted to get a dreamcatcher piece on your back or neck to symbolize that nice dreams will travel through and bad dreams will be caught, and the feather at the bottom is the breath of air which is key for life.
You also can just get a dreamcatcher and hang it up in your room. Dreamcatcher tattoos tend to be big pieces, that unlike an actual dream catcher are cliche and will last forever.
13. Barred Wire
Barred wire tattoos symbolize that you are not an open book, you’re unapproachable and difficult to understand. They also likely show you got this tattoo sometime around the 90s.
These tattoos are also really cliche, so perhaps find another way to symbolize that people should leave you alone. Like not a tattoo that will for sure spark conversation.
14. Geometric animals
We’ve been seeing a lot of geometric animals lately, mainly foxes. While these designs look cool and unique now, they’re becoming a cliche and soon they will feel incredibly dated.
15. Area Code
If you might want to get your area code tattooed on you in either large block numbers on your forearm, or in subtle small numbers somewhere else on your body. You might think that this tattoo is key, to remind you where you came from.
You know you grew up, it’s in your cell number. Unless you keep forgetting your area code when you call your parents, avoid this cliche tattoo.
Get a Unique Tattoo
Don’t blend in when you were born to stand out. Your tattoo should express yourself in a unique way. Don’t be one of the many people with cliche tattoos.
Talk to a tattoo artist at the Skin Factory Tattoo shop before making your final decision. We have tattoo shops in Las Vegas, Henderson and Maui Good luck!
For more resources and insight on tattoos, check out our blog.
Everything You Need to Know About Glow in the Dark Tattoos
Glow in the Dark Tattoos – Everything You Need to Know
Have you been considering whether or not to buy into the trend of glow in the dark tattoos? We break down everything you need to know, including the good, the bad, and the questionable.
Every year, there are new fads and trends which become popular for a few months throughout the year. These inevitably die off before the strike of midnight. The trends of 2018 got a little weird. Anyone remember the male rompers?
While some trends such as the one named above are more for entertainment, other fads take off among Pinterest users and health-obsessors alike, such as the keto diet.
The popularity and acceptance of tattoos have raised drastically over the years. In fact, four out of ten U.S. adults aged 18 to 69 have at least one tattoo. This leads to the 2018 trend of glow in the dark tattoos.
If you’re considering getting a glow in the dark tattoo, continue reading. We have the facts and answer popular questions we know we’re wondering about. Read on!
What are Glow in the Dark Tattoos?
There are two types of glow in the dark tats – which make new or old pieces almost-invisible to the naked eye. The ink jobs typically contain bright, fluorescent colors which are invisible in daylight.
The tattoo ink used is an ultraviolet (UV) ink. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t contain the chemical compound phosphorus – the stuff used in glow sticks. This new UV ink doesn’t glow in the dark but instead becomes visible under black lights.
Two Types
There are two different types of UV ink used to create these neon tats. As mentioned earlier, they don’t have the capabilities to glow on their own unless put under a UV light or a blacklight.
Invisible UV Ink
Invisible UV ink isn’t visible to the naked eye. By itself, the skin may appear red or slightly raised until you put a black light over it. For a different look, you can get invisible UV ink under or over regular tattoos to give it a glowing effect.
This ink is made from fluorescent ink, but if made properly it doesn’t contain any phosphors or other toxic chemicals.
Colored UV Ink
The other type of UV ink is colored. These look like regular tattoos until you get under a UV light. The tattoo will start to glow, the colors turning to a more fluorescent palette.
To make these tattoos more striking and noticeable, people will often use them in combination with invisible UV ink.
Pros
We know some trends aren’t for everyone, but tattoo trends seem to have caught many people’s attention. Know the good and the bad about glow in the dark tattoos to make an informed decision about your newest ink addition.
Invisible UV inks are a good choice for those who have strict workplace guidelines on visible body art and piercings. Not only will these make you more professional in the workplace, but it makes a tattoo more impressive once it becomes visible with the pop of fluorescents and colors.
There are more than 45 million people who have tattoos in the United States. Due to this high statistic, it makes having a one-of-a-kind tattoo almost impossible. UV ink tattoos are rare and unique, helping you stand out or blend in.
Cons
Despite how beautiful and mesmerizing these inks are, they do have some drawbacks to consider before making your next appointment.
Another problem some tattoo enthusiasts have come across is a reputable tattoo shop which will do this kind of ink, or carries the right kind. The UV ink is harder to work with, and some artists are inexperienced with using this kind that they’ll overwork the area.
Though fading can happen in regular tattoos, especially after extreme sun exposure, fading is more likely to happen in UV tattoos. They have a short lifespan with regular touch-ups required at least every few years.
FAQ’s
Due to how young glow in the dark tattoos are there are still many questions about them. While we’ll have to wait and see about the long-term effects, we do have some answers to the most asked questions below.
Are Glow in the Dark Tattoos safe?
We mentioned earlier the above tattoo inks don’t use phosphorus, but there are many side effects to consider. While some tattoos are rejected by the wearer’s skin, these glow in the dark tats are rejected more frequently than typical ink.
In some cases, the skin becomes so irritated and uncomfortable the tattoo has to be removed altogether.
As of now, UV ink seems to be safe minus the side effects and allergic reactions recorded in some cases.
How Long Do They Last?
Glow in the dark tattoos should have the same lifespan as a regular tattoo, but, they do fade over time. As mentioned earlier, because this is a new trend the full effects of the UV ink are still unknown.
Are They FDA Approved?
The FDA continually researches the effects of regular tattoos and it is important to note that they have not officially approved UV ink or any tattoo ink.
Glow in the Dark Tattoos
It’s hard to tell whether the glow in the dark tattoo trend will continue to grow in popularity or if it will fade as others have in the past.
Until then, it’s important to learn as much information as possible about them before deciding on a permanent addition, whether you use UV ink or not.
Make sure to consider all the pros and cons before making your decision, and if you notice a skin reaction like the ones stated above, contact your tattoo artist immediately. For more information on tattoos or to make a consultation at one of our locations, contact us!
15 Timeless Wrist Tattoos You’ll Want to Show Off
15 Timeless Wrist Tattoos You’ll Want to Show Off
If you’re browsing ideas for wrist tattoos but you want something you’ll love decades down the road, our list of timeless ideas will help spur your imagination and find the perfect match. Take a look!
Are you looking for a classic but unique tattoo idea for your wrist? The wrist is an awesome spot for tattoos.
It’s important to choose a tattoo that has meaning for you. Luckily, there are some classic tattoo ideas that have many different meanings.
Choosing an idea for your wrist is a big decision. While it’s not as exposed as your shoulder, wrist tattoos are conversation-starters. Keep reading for 15 awesome wrist tattoo ideas.
1. Minimalist Astronomy
Astronomy is very trendy in the tattoo world. Stars, planets, and moons all create a mythical and dreamy vibe. Some people choose to get the moon in a specific lunar phase that is important to them.
They’re also usually quite small tattoos with little elaboration. This makes them great options for first-time inkers. Since the wrist is a smaller area, minimalist tattoos are ideal.
2. A Portrait
Everyone experiences loss at some point in their life. For many of us, we want to commemorate that lost loved one with a tattoo.
Portraits make awesome tributes to a lost friend or family member. The wrist makes for a smaller portrait with less detail, but still characteristic. Make sure you hire an artist with experience in realism and portraits.
3. Handwritten Script
There’s something so special about having your grandparent’s handwriting tattooed. It’s like they wrote it permanently on you.
It’s also popular to have children write something for a tattoo. Wrists are the perfect spot for handwritten script because they’re compact. The writing won’t overwhelm the space, but you can still look down and see it every day.
4. Botany and Flowers
Men and women love getting botanical and floral tattoos. For some, the type of plant has meaning to them. For others, they like the adornment created by floral patterns.
The most common flowers tattooed are roses, dandelions, and lotuses.
5. Mandala
The mandala is an ancient design in Hinduism and Buddhism. It represents cycles and the universe.
Even if you don’t follow a religion, mandalas make beautiful wrist tattoos. They adorn the wrist with a unique and exquisite pattern.
6. Jewelry
It’s quite common to get jewelry tattoos, especially for friendship bracelets. The artist can even make the bracelet look like its hanging on the wrist.
Many people choose to get jewelry tattooed on if they have strong metal allergies. Or, to remember a family heirloom.
7. Travel-themed
Millennials love their travel-themed tattoos. They represent freedom, exploration, and discovery. Plus, they can be specific to where you’ve traveled or important places to you.
Some common travel themed tattoos are compasses, world maps, and anchors. Anchors are especially popular with people who find meaning in the sea.
8. Words to Live By
Quotes are super popular all over the world. Phrases and certain words capture us and provide meaning. Tattooing them on our body helps us to remember that meaning every day.
Many quotes are from classic novels and songs. Others are common words that hold immense meaning, like “love” or “hope”.
9. Blackout Bands
Blackout tattoos are all the rage. While some may think they lack creativity, blacking out a section of your body can be very creative. Its lack of detail provides meaning to the wearer.
The wrist is a great spot for blackout band tattoos. Although it may be a bit more painful than others, it looks super cool.
10. Arrows
We all follow a direction in our lives, some forward and some to our roots. Arrows are excellent symbols to represent where we’re going.
Some get tattoos of arrows on their wrist to remember to keep moving forward. Or, to remember where they came from.
11. Family Coat of Arms
The family coat of arms is a common icon in many cultures. It’s usually passed down through generations and has a strong meaning. Tattooing the family shield on your body shows allegiance and loyalty.
The shield is a perfect shape for the wrist. Although the space is small, it’s a notable spot for a coat of arms.
12. Birds and Feathers
Birds can have varying meaning for tattoo enthusiasts. The species of bird also changes the meaning. And, for some people, bird tattoos look pretty and have no meaning.
Doves are the most popular bird to get tattooed. It represents love and faith. Cardinals and crows are also very popular. Feather tattoos are on the rise; they can represent the fragility of life.
13. Crosses and Religious Iconography
Religion is a huge part of human identity (if you subscribe to it). For many believers, getting a tattoo is a show of faith. It demonstrates your beliefs and reminds you of them each day.
Some people get crosses, saints, and other iconography. The meanings are as broad as the number of religions in the world.
14. Non-English Text
While English text is special, using the language of your background is even more. People who grow up speaking English can get a tattoo with their ancestors’ language.
Not only is the text itself symbolic, but the language chosen is symbolic. It represents your roots and heritage.
15. Coordinates
Is there a special place in the world where you experienced something magical? It could be where you got married, found enlightenment, or found freedom. Or, it could be your family home or the town you grew up in.
Coordinate tattoos are a way to remember that life-changing location and moment. The numbers of the coordinates won’t mean much to outsiders. But, people who know you and know the place will see the meaning in it.
Want More Ideas of Wrist Tattoos?
The wrist is a perfect spot to get a tattoo. While it’s not the biggest surface area, it isn’t the most painful spot either.
There are so many awesome and beautiful tattoos that fit perfectly on the wrist. From text to flowers to symbols, the options are endless.
You can learn more about tattoos on our blog and contact us if you have any questions. We have tattoo shops in Las Vegas, Henderson and Maui Good luck!
Preparing For a Tattoo: What You Need to Know
Preparing For a Tattoo: What You Need to Know
Tattoos are fun and an expressive form of art on the body but you should always be prepared for your tattoo appointment. Here is what you need to know about preparing for a tattoo.
So you’re preparing for a tattoo, and aren’t sure what to expect? If that’s the case, we’ve got you covered.
We’ve all heard stories about horror tattoo incidents. While these may be more likely to happen in movies, it’s still a good idea to know what to expect.
But if you’re serious about getting some ink, learning how to prep for a tattoo is important. It will keep you healthy, and ensure that your new artwork looks the best it can!
Let’s take a look at what you need to do before getting a tattoo. We’ll look at tips for care both before and after your session.
To learn about trends and other things tattoo-related, check out our blog.
Preparing For A Tattoo- Before You Go
Wondering what to do before getting a tattoo? Here are 5 tips:
#1. Get hydrated
It’s easier for your tattoo artist to work if you’re hydrated. When preparing for a tattoo your skin can withstand longer sessions and will heal faster.
#2. Work with your tattoo artist
It sounds obvious, but make sure you and the artist are on the same page about the artwork going on your body during pre-tattoo preparation. Don’t leave anything up to assumption or chance.
Ask questions like:
- Have you done a tattoo like the one I’m asking for before? Can you show pictures?
- Can I see your portfolio?
- What do you recommend for aftercare?
- How do you sanitize your equipment?
A good, professional tattoo artist will have no problem answering general questions and coaching you through more specific questions about the artwork itself. If they do, perhaps you should look for a different shop.
#3. Exercise before you go
Remember that you’re going to be sitting for a while. If you’re the type to fidget around a lot, consider hitting the gym or going for a walk before you go in.
Especially if your tattoo is going to take a few hours, it’s best to have gotten some energy out before you sit on the table. Anything to decrease how much you’ll want to move, such as not drinking much caffeine, is also a good idea.
#4. Yes, it will hurt
This likely isn’t news to you, but getting the tattoo can be painful. Depending on the area you’re getting work done on, the magnitude of pain may be higher or lower.
Here’s a ranked list of the most painful places to get a tattoo, from 15-1. Good news for anyone wanting a chest or back piece, but bad news if you’re thinking your ribs is where you’ll get one.
#5. Print off reference material for the artwork
It’s a good idea to have specific examples of smaller elements of your tattoo on hand, just in case parts of his or her version don’t line up with what you want.
Besides your safety, the most important thing about how to prepare for getting a tattoo is making sure you are comfortable with the art going on your body.
Things To Avoid
Alternatively, here’s what you shouldn’t do before going in:
#1. Drinking heavily
Did you know that it’s actually illegal for tattoo shops to give tattoos to anyone under the influence of alcohol?
Besides the obvious implications of regretting ink selection when you’re tipsy, it’s actually dangerous to get tattooed when you’re drunk.
Alcohol thins your blood, which can lead to excessive bleeding of the tattooed skin. Not only is this a problem after the tattoo is complete, but it can be a nightmare for the tattoo artist, too!
The last thing you want is to make it difficult for someone giving you a permanent tattoo. So lay off the booze before you go.
#2. Using drugs
When preparing for a tattoo, it’s illegal for tattoos to be given while you are under the influence. If other drugs besides alcohol are a part of your routine, you should nix them before scheduling an appointment.
Let’s be honest- you want to get a tattoo from someone with a good reputation for their work. Any good tattoo artist isn’t going to risk getting in trouble for tattooing someone obviously impaired by drugs.
What To Do After Your Tattoo
There’s still some work to be done. Consider these tips after the ink is complete:
#1. Consider a tip for your artist
It is a service-based industry, and tips are encouraged. Even if you’re paying $100/hour, the artist is likely seeing only about half of that go into his or her bank account.
If you feel they did a good job, consider giving them a tip as appropriate. This isn’t required but is always encouraged. And if you want to get more artwork done in the future, they may be more keen to book you take care of them.
#2. Clean your tattoo
After about 3 hours, you should be able to take the bandages off. From there, it is absolutely vital that you clean your new artwork often for the next few days.
The last thing you want is to get an infection, so rinse it with cold water and let it air dry for about 10 minutes.
#3. Apply ointment
Ointment will prevent infection and ensure that your tattoo heals quickly. Tattoos that don’t heal quickly are more susceptible to infection.
#4. Let it heal
Yes, your tattoo will flake, and yes, it will scab, too. That’s part of the healing process. Don’t pick at it, touch it, or do anything other than clean it and apply ointment to it.
If you’re diligent about good hygiene, it should heal up pretty quickly- usually between 3-7 days.
Wrap Up
Getting a new tattoo is an investment in many ways. Make sure you are diligent about preparation before and care after the conclusion of your tattoo to ensure you have a good experience.
Hydrate, don’t drink or take drugs, and print off parts of your tattoo before you go in. Make sure you and the artist are on the same page before you begin.
And never feel weird asking your tattoo artists questions, either.
Once it’s done, be sure to clean your tattoo and apply ointment so that it heals quickly. This way it doesn’t get infected and the artwork isn’t damaged or modified in any way.
You can learn more about tattoos on our blog and contact us if you have any questions. We have tattoo shops in Las Vegas, Henderson and Maui Good luck!
A Brief History of Tattoos to Get You Excited About Your Ink
A Brief History of Tattoos to Get You Excited About Your Ink
Tattoos are so widely ingrained into our culture we do not stop to think of their origins. Read on to learn about a brief history of tattoos.
The history of tattoos is one that is as long as the story of human civilization itself. Many of us in the modern world might see getting inked as a deeply personal marker of identity. Maybe as an act of defiance in a conformist society or something else entirely. However, tattoos have meant many other things.
The Beginnings
Since the first tattoos started appearing in the Ancient Egyptian era, the act of marking yourself has taken on a wide variety of meanings.
The origin of tattoos was almost certainly noble, if not aristocratic. Markings and portraits from ancient civilizations suggest that once upon a time, only the richest and most respected members of society were permitted to get inked.
Things have changed a lot since then, and the methods and meaning of a tattoo have evolved a lot since the pyramids were first built. From ancient inks all the way up to modern day tattoo trends here’s your brief rundown of the history of tattooing, to get you excited about your ink.
The History of Tattoos: Origins
So where did the tattoo originate?
The vast majority of the earliest tattoos in existence were discovered on the bodies and portraits of ancient Egyptians. However, the practice does go back further than that.
Although disputed, scientists accept that the earliest tattoo belongs to Otzi the Iceman. Otzi is a perfectly preserved body from the 31st century BC.
Otzi was discovered back in 1991 by tourists, in the Alps straddling the Italian and Austrian border. The reason this guy’s ink was still identifiable is that the sub-zero conditions of that part of the Alps kept his body in a remarkable condition.
Upon examination, scientists discovered a number of intricate pattern markings across his body. Although the reason for these markings continues to be disputed, one thing that is agreed on is that they are decidedly aesthetic in nature.
This means that these pre-modern tattoos were almost definitely a statement of some kind, just like modern-day tattoos are. The most widely-accepted conclusion is that Otzi’s tattoos were a tribal marker of some kind.
Beyond this point, a number of ancient civilizations have since been discovered to have had a strong penchant for inking. Like the ancient Egyptians, the ancient Nubian civilizations of modern-day Sudan seemed to have adorned themselves in tattoos are part of a status symbol.
Why this was the case is unknown. It’s plausible that tattoo markings were a reserve of the wealthy simply because the materials required for doing so (ink) were well beyond the budget of your average Nubian farmer.
Early Modern Inking
The meanings of tattoos developed after the collapse of ancient civilizations. One thing we know for certain is that the entire practice of tattooing moved to Europe, particularly in the Northern regions. Tattooing in Northern Africa and the Middle East seems to have completely ceased as a practice by the time the Middle Ages rolled about.
The history of tattooing seems to have taken a more spiritual turn at this point. In Northern Europe and Italy, tattoos seemed largely to have been a marker of religious fervor. Christian sects, in particular, had an affinity for ink. Some smaller sects near the alps have been recorded as having head-to-toe markings as a sign of their religious devotion.
The Pope eventually banned the practice of tattooing altogether in the 9th century. After that point, the practice seemed to have moved eastwards. It also took on different meanings as it did so.
In medieval Japan and China, tattoos were used as a form of punishment. Criminals received tattoos on their face and arms to mark them out as a danger to society. This discovery has led to more questions than answers. It has since been posited that Japanese societies in ancient times actually wore tattoos as a symbol of power and privilege.
Tattoos of the Modern Age
The modern age, from the 18th Century onwards, has seen a return to tattooing as a deeply personal, aesthetic choice. In the world of fashion, it is widely rumored that the taste-makers of 18th C. London brought tattooing back into the Western mainstream.
Throughout the 1700s, the famous British explorer Captain Cook took a series of expeditions to the South Pacific. There he encountered the islanders of Polynesia, who wore distinctive markings of their tribes, hobbies and even their love interests. Once Cook brought his findings back to London, high society was fascinated. Before long, small tattoos in the most discrete of body parts became all the rage with the hip and happening.
After that point, tattooing became more normalized in the Western world again. By the time the Victorian era had rolled about, all spectra of society were getting inked on the regular. In the less reputable neighborhoods of London, Boston, Paris, and Naples, a tattoo signified your gang loyalty. It could also represent the slum you belonged to.
On the more gentle side of the class divide, young Victorian couples were beginning to get couples tattoos as a declaration of love. This is a practice which still persists to this day.
Tattooing didn’t cross into the mainstream until after World War Two. Even as late as the 1930s, tattoos were associated with “criminals, circus freaks and sailors”. However, some of the biggest cultural icons of the wartime period soon began sporting ink. At the same time, the widespread tattooing practices of pinup girls even normalized it for women. After that, the rest is history.
Tattoos Today
Today tattoos are worn by a full 21% of the entire global population. Tattoos are used to declare a love, commemorate an occasion, swear allegiance or just to look cool. Tattoos are a mainstream part of human fashion, with endless possibilities.
Follow in Their Footsteps
Hopefully, this history of tattoos inspired you to take the leap and get your own ink.
If you want to follow in the steps of your forebearers and get your first tattoo, get in touch with us today to arrange a high-quality, affordable piece of body art.
