How to Prepare for Your First Tattoo
Getting your first tattoo is both exciting and potentially nerve racking. Here’s what you need to know before getting a tattoo and how to care for it after.
Are you ready to join the 45 million Americans who have at least one tattoo?
Getting a tattoo can be a fun, memorable experience, but it can also go wrong very quickly if you’re not prepared.
If you want your first tattoo experience to be a good one, read on for some tips to help you prepare for the big day.
Choosing Your First Tattoo
The first step to having a great tattoo experience is choosing a tattoo design that you absolutely love. Don’t rush yourself. Take your time researching designs and figure out exactly what you want.
Remember, this design is going to be on your body for life, so you need to make sure you won’t get sick of it.
Talk to a Tattoo Artist
If you have an idea for a tattoo but aren’t sure how to articulate it, you might want to consider sitting down with a tattoo artist for some help putting it together.
Even if you do know exactly what you want, it’s still helpful to sit down with a professional. They can provide guidance and give you their professional opinion on the design.
Find the Right Shop
Not all tattoo shops are created equal. Take your time looking for one that employs qualified artists with a good reputation.
Be sure to read online testimonials to see what people are saying about a particular shop and its artists before you go there for your first tattoo.
Think about Placement
Tattoos are big commitments, especially when you choose somewhere highly visible for your first one. Face/hand/neck tattoos definitely aren’t for everyone.
Depending on your lifestyle and the field in which you work, it might be in your best interest to get your first tattoo in a more discrete location.
Remember You Get What You Pay For
When you meet with an artist and have your tattoo drawn up, they should give you an estimate of what it will cost.
Tattoos are expensive, and, when you hear a high number, it can be tempting to try and find someone who will do the same tattoo for less.
As with most things in life, you get what you pay for with tattoos. A good tattoo from a talented artist will cost more than a subpar finished product. But, it will be worth it when you have a tattoo that you want to show off.
A Few Days Before Your Appointment
There are some things you can do in the days leading up to your appointment that will help you have a better experience, including the following:
- Avoid the sun: Sunburned skin isn’t just painful, it also can affect the outcome of your tattoo
- Moisturize: Dry or uneven skin is difficult for artists to work with and can cause your tattoo to come out less clear
- Get a doctor’s note: If you have any conditions that could affect you during the tattoo process, you’ll legally need your doctor to give you the go-ahead
Remember, there’s no need to rush to get a tattoo. The wait for your sunburn to go away or for your skin to clear up will be worth it if you get a better end result.
The Day Before Your Appointment
Keep these tips in mind to set yourself up for a successful appointment:
- Avoid alcohol: High blood alcohol levels will thin the blood and lead to excessive bleeding during your appointment
- Stay hydrated: This will keep your skin moisturized and help you stay alert
- Get plenty of sleep: Being unrested might make you more fidgety, which can affect the outcome of your tattoo
Don’t forget to make sure you have enough money on hand, too. In addition to the cost of the tattoo, you may also need to pay for food, aftercare products, parking, and a tip for the artist.
The Day of Your Appointment
On the day of your appointment, make sure you’re prepared with these items:
- ID: If you look like you might be younger than 18, the shop will need to confirm your age when you arrive for your appointment
- Bag of essentials: Bring a small bag with a snack, a charged cell phone, water, and maybe a pair of headphones if you want to listen to music or a podcast during the appointment
You’ll also want to do the following to make sure you’re in a good physical state:
- Eat before your appointment: Getting a tattoo is stressful on your body, and you’ll need to keep your blood sugar up to avoid getting dizzy or nauseous, especially if you’re getting a large tattoo
- Take a shower: Clean skin is better for tattoos, and your artist will appreciate you cleaning up before the appointment
- Wear old clothing: It’s likely that some ink will get on your clothes, so you don’t want to ruin anything that’s new or expensive
- Don’t shave: You don’t want to show up with razor burn or cuts — if your skin needs to be shaved, the artist will do it
- Avoid caffeine: This will probably make you shaky or jittery, which will make things harder for the artist
Finally, take some time to check your attitude before you go to your appointment. Accept that there will be some pain. It’s unavoidable when you’re getting a tattoo.
But, if you go in with a positive attitude and believe in your ability to handle the pain, you’ll be more likely to make it through the session.
Taking Care of Your First Tattoo
In addition to preparing for your appointment, you should also be prepared to care for your first tattoo once it’s finished.
Proper aftercare is essential if you want your tattoo to last. Some things you’ll need to do after getting your tattoo include:
- Remove the bandage in a clean bathroom after two or three hours
- Once the bandage is removed, wash the tattoo immediately with warm soap and water
- Only wash your tattoo with clean hands
- Apply a healing ointment like Aquaphor to keep your tattoo moist
- Don’t panic when your tattoo starts to “weep” in the days after your appointment
If you have any healing-related issues, be sure to call the artist who gave you your tattoo. They’ll give you proper instructions for caring for the issue.
Are You Ready for Your First Tattoo?
Now that you know how to prepare for your first tattoo, it’s time to pick your design and start planning!
If you live in or around Las Vegas, Henderson, or Maui and are looking for a qualified artist contact us at Skin Factory Tattoo and Body Piercing to schedule an appointment or meet with one of our artists.
Stop by our Maui Tattoo Shop or Henderson Tattoo Shop
Tribal Tattoos: Why Are They So Popular?
Tribal Tattoos: Why Are They So Popular?
From ancient times to the modern era, tribal tattoos have remained popular throughout the years. Learn more about why this popular style has stuck around.
Did you know that over 45 million Americans have at least one tattoo?
Some get tattoos as a means of self-expression. For others, tattoos make them feel sexy, rebellious, or daring.
While we can’t say for certain which tattoos are the most common, tribal tattoos definitely rank high on the popularity list.
What makes the tribal tattoo design so popular? How did they get started? What meaning did they have in the past–and what meaning do they hold today?
In this post, we’ll delve into the fascinating history of tribal tattoos. Read on to learn more!
The History of Tribal Tattoos
Long before Samuel O’Reilly invented the tattoo gun in 1891, cultures around the world had embraced the art of the tribal tattoo.
Consider a few examples.
Egypt
Historians have found tattoos on mummies in northern Africa that date back to around 2000 BC. In ancient Egypt, it was common practice for the High Priestesses to decorate their bodies with tattoos, especially on their arms.
Other mummies have been found with tattoos that are thought to relate to fertility, rejuvenation, and sun worship. It was also believed that tattoos could ward off evil spirits and cure certain diseases.
Polynesia
Almost everyone in ancient Polynesian cultures–male and female–was tattooed. Tattoos were used to identify tribe, rank, genealogy, and sexual maturity. Tattoos were also closely linked with warfare and religious rituals.
Tribal tattoos were part of life in many different Polynesian cultures, including Samoa, Tonga, Hawaii, and New Zealand. In fact, the word “tattoo” first entered Europe after explorer James Cook returned from his voyage through Tahiti and New Zealand in 1771.
Britain
Britain may not immediately come to mind when you imagine a tribal tattoo. But the elaborate Celtic knots and crosses date way back to before Christianity ever reached its shores.
The “Picts” were an ancient people whose name literally meant “painted people.” Aside from crosses and knots, common Celtic designs include birds, trees, and other aspects of nature.
Central America
In ancient Aztec society, tattoos were used as symbols of social status and war achievements. Warriors often had tattoos of deities, which were believed to give them divine protection during battle.
Ghosts, demons, and wild animals are other popular tribal tattoo designs throughout central America. The Mayan calendar, which predicted the end of the world would come in 2012, is another popular design.
Southeast Asia
In Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia, you’ll see monks and tourists alike sporting sacred “Sak Yant” tattoos. These eye-catching designs incorporate geometric patterns, animal images, ancient Buddhist prayers, and magical Khmer scripts.
The practice goes back thousands of years to when it was believed these tattoos would protect warriors in battle. The tattoos were created using bamboo–a practice still common in that part of the world today.
Modern Tribal Tattoo Designs & Meanings
As you can see, the art of the tribal tattoo transcends time, culture, and continents. They were used for centuries to identify, protect, and empower those who wore them.
Of course, most of us today don’t believe that tattoos offer magical powers or protection from evil. Most people select tribal tattoos for their aesthetic beauty or to celebrate their cultural heritage.
Still, if you’re considering a tribal tattoo for yourself, it’s interesting to know the origin of the design.
For example, some of the most popular tribal tattoo designs are Samoan in origin. These abstract or geometric designs are generally black and may include animals, sun rays, or ocean swirls.
Tribal tattoo designs on the face are typically Maori. Originating in New Zealand, these striking tattoos are synonymous with rank, prestige, and social status.
Other popular tribal tattoo designs and patterns include:
- Abstract patterns
- Geometric designs
- Swirls
- Crosses
- Vertical masks
- Shields
- Dragons
- Butterflies
- Tigers
- Centipedes
- Spiders
- Phoenix bird
There’s virtually no limit to the design you can create for a tribal tattoo. That’s why it’s essential to find a talented tattoo artist who can create the perfect tattoo for your vision.
Considerations for Your Tribal Tattoo
Before you make any final decisions about your tribal tattoo, here are a few important factors to consider:
Style
Tribal tattoos can be soft, swirling, and looping. They can also be bold and jagged with hard edges.
Which style feels right for you? You might also consider a blend of the two for a more unique look to your tattoo.
Color
Many people associate tribal tattoos with solid black, which they certainly can be.
But have you considered any shading or shadows? What about one or more colors to accent the main parts of your design?
You can also go with full, bold colors to really make your tribal tattoo stand out. There’s no right or wrong answer–it’s whatever what you want it to be.
Location
A final consideration is where you’re going to place your new tattoo on your body. The upper arm or lower leg are popular choices for tribal tattoos, but they’re not the only ones.
Men might consider a tattoo that stretches across their upper back or creates a sleeve on their forearm. Women can get creative with placement on their lower back, foot, or hand.
Ready for Your Next Tattoo?
Now that you know more about tribal tattoos, how are you feeling? Are you ready to create a tribal design that’s perfect for you?
We invite you to contact us to discuss your ideas with one of our professional tattoo artists. Whether you’re in Las Vegas, Henderson, or Maui, we’ve got you covered.
Wondering what we’re all about? Check out our testimonials page to see what our satisfied customers have to say about our work.
Stop by our Maui Tattoo Shopor Henderson Tattoo Shop
How to Guide: New Tattoo Care
How to Guide to New Tattoo Care
Your brand new tattoo requires a certain amount of tattoo care to promote healing, prevent infection, and keep it fresh for longer. Here’s how to do it.
You’ve got a new tattoo. Congratulations! Feeding the ink addiction is always exciting, and you probably can’t wait to show off your new art.
But before your tattoo is going to be ready to be on public display, you’ll have to get through the healing process. Whether this is your first tattoo or one of many, you’ll want to make sure you’re practicing proper tattoo care ever time.
Proper after-care ensures your tattoo doesn’t get infected, that it heals well, and that it stays vibrant and fresh for as long as possible.
Keep reading for the complete guide to tattoo aftercare.
Day 1
First-day care determines the trajectory of your entire healing process. It’s also split into to two separate, but equally important steps.
At the Shop
The first thing your tattoo artist is going to do is apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly over your tattoo and apply a bandage or clear covering over your tattoo.
You want to leave this on. No matter how much you want to look at your tattoo, leave the bandage on until you’re ready to wash the tattoo.
Once You Get Home
There’s some wiggle room here, as you can wash your tattoo after a few hours or leave the bandage on for 24 hours before washing.
Do what works best for you.
When it comes time to wash your tattoo, remove the bandage slowly and carefully, being careful not to pull if it’s stuck. If your bandage does stick to your tattoo, run some water over it (gently). It should come free.
Your tattoo may be a little tender, so be gentle here. Use a mild antibacterial soap or special tattoo soap to carefully wash your tattoo. If you don’t use a specially formulated tattoo soap, make sure to use a soap free of hydrogen peroxide, dyes or fragrances. The simpler, the better.
Don’t scrub and don’t use a loofah or cleansing cloth.
Rinse the tattoo and pat it dry with a clean towel.
You’ll want to leave it uncovered at bedtime and sleep on sheets you don’t mind getting dirty. The tattoo may ooze ink and plasma for a day or two.
Day 3 – 4
Now the scabbing starts.
Some folks get full on hard scabbing, while others only see flaking like you would with a sunburn. Regardless, the tattoo care steps are the same.
Once the scabbing or flaking sets in, use a tattoo lotion to keep the tattoo moisturized. As with the soap, you can use special tattoo lotions or just a simple, dye-free, fragrance-free lotion from the drugstore.
It’s important NOT TO PICK at the scabs. Doing so will fade your tattoo and can put you at risk for infection. They will flake off on their own, so just keep moisturizing.
You’ll need to keep the tattoo clean during this time, but you also don’t want to scrub it directly with the soap, as this can scrape away the flaking and scabbing.
Instead, wash above and around the tattoo, and allow the soapy water to run over the tattoo. Continue to pat dry.
When you’re out and about, make sure you’re wearing loose clothing so the tattoo can breathe, but don’t expose it to direct sunlight.
Day 7 – 10
You’ll start noticing the itching about now. As the tattoo heals, it’s going to itch like crazy.
First things first: DON’T SCRATCH.
Scratching not only tears away any remaining scabs, it also creates tiny cuts in the skin that invite skin infection. The whole point of tattoo care is to avoid infection, so don’t scratch.
Instead, you can apply gentle pressure with a cloth. Some artists will even recommend lightly patting the area to relieve the itch.
Other than that, just keep moisturizing, and keep it clean. Once the scabbing is completely gone, you can start washing the tattoo directly, but again, don’t scrub.
Day 12 – 14
At this point, your tattoo should be pretty close to completely healed. Scabbing should be done, and you shouldn’t be noticing any leaking ink or plasma.
Continue wearing loose clothing and keep the tattoo out of the sun for at least two weeks. You should also avoid swimming or submerging your tattoo for the first two weeks.
Stay away from hot water, too, even in the shower. It can fade the ink.
And Beyond
Once the tattoo is fully healed, after 2 – 4 weeks, your initial tattoo care is done! You made it!
Since tattoos are an investment, though, your tattoo care doesn’t stop there.
You can ditch the loose clothes and you can start taking long baths and swimming again. But there are a few things you should always do, to keep your tattoo looking bright and fresh.
First, moisturize it. You should be moisturizing your skin anyway, so just make sure the tattoo is getting some love when you moisturize the rest of your skin, especially if you live in a very cold or very dry climate.
Second, make sure that if your tattoo is going to be exposed to the sun, you use sunscreen. This is very important when the tattoo is newly healed but is also a good rule of thumb going forward.
Tattoo Care is a Lifestyle
If you continue getting tattoos (and many do. They can be addictive), tattoo care will eventually feel routine.
Just keep in mind that tattoos are a big investment. Baby them and the skin they’re on.
For more on the best tattoos in Las Vegas, contact us here so we can get started on your next work of art.
Tattoo Innovations – From Medical Alerts to Bioelectric
Medical Alert Tattoo
Tattoo Innovations – Medical Alert Tattoos and More
What’s the future of tattoos? There are innovative ways tattoos are being used, including medical alert tattoo and smart tattoos that monitor health.
Tattoos have come a long way since Sailor Jerry was inking pinup girls, hearts, dice, and anchors on servicemen who were enjoying shore leave. Today, over half of American women (58%) have a tattoo. Tattoo enthusiasts spend over $3 billion each year in the U.S. on new, colorful designs to decorate their skin.
The popularity of tattoos shows no sign of lessening. In fact, developments in the industry mean that we could be seeing some incredible innovations. Read on to find out about the future of ink!
Smart Tattoos
Even if you don’t use one yourself, you’re probably aware of the popularity of “wearables.” Wearables are clothing, watches, jewelry, and other accessories that track data about the wearer’s health. Wearables can monitor and record one’s heart rate, blood pressure, calories expended, and more.
As with any technology, however, smart watches and wristbands have their drawbacks. They’re battery-powered, so they need to be recharged often. They must also get fitted with a new battery when the old one wears out.
They can also be temperamental and inconsistent. As “smart” as they are, they do not seamlessly integrate with the wearer’s body.
Researchers from Harvard University and MIT are working on a solution in the form of tattoo ink. Biosensitive inks react to the body’s interstitial fluid, which surrounds cells within the bloodstream. Depending on the conditions of this fluid, the tattoo will actually change color.
A green ink becomes darker as the body’s level of sodium rises, indicating dehydration. Another ink changes from green to brown as glucose concentration increases. This could someday be a boon to diabetics.
These inks aren’t yet ready to be shipped to tattoo artists near you, however. They have gone through testing on pig skin, but require more research before they can be tried on human patients.
Medical Alert Tattoos
Most people who opt to get tattoos choose their designs based on aesthetic appeal. Medical alert tattoos perform another role: they can be useful in the event of an accident or other dangerous situation.
Patients with Type 1 Diabetes, asthma, or life-threatening food allergies are increasingly turning to tattoos to communicate their medical issues. Medical alert tattoos eliminate the patient’s need to wear a clunky, unattractive bracelet or necklace. They are easier to spot than a wallet card and guaranteed to be with the patient at all times.
Unfortunately, medical alert tattoos aren’t regulated or standardized. Emergency responders aren’t trained to look for these tattoos. There is no agreed-upon standard for size, design, or location on the body.
If you are considering a medical alert tattoo, choose one that incorporates the recognizable medical alert symbol. It should also use clear lettering to indicate your disease or condition. It’s also smart to wear your bracelet or continue to carry your wallet card, just in case.
As far as placement, the best site is on your left wrist or forearm. This is where medical alert bracelets are generally worn — and where emergency responders will look first.
Haptic Feedback Tattoos
Do you feel naked when you don’t have your smartphone on you? Guess what — cellphone maker Nokia is developing technology that will take the notion of connectivity one step further.
Haptic feedback technology tattoos have the ability to link to your smartphone. When the phone rings, the tattoo responds and creates a physical sensation. Imagine if every time you get a phone call, a spot on your arm tingles.
Just like your phone, a haptic tattoo would also indicate an incoming text, social media notification, or email. To dismiss the notification, you simply scratch your skin as though scratching an itch.
Haptic feedback tattoos are still in the development phase. In other words, it’s too soon to get excited about (or terrified by) this technology.
Glow in the Dark Tattoos
Do you work for a conservative company, but spend a lot of nights in clubs or at raves? A glow in the dark tattoo might be a good choice for you. These use UV (ultraviolet) ink that can only be seen under black light.
Glow in the dark tattoos aren’t entirely invisible in the daytime. A sharp-eyed observer will see the scar. The color, however, isn’t visible in daylight or traditional lighting. It only becomes apparent in black light.
Vegetable-Based Temporary Tattoos
Have you ever had a lover’s name tattooed on your bicep, only to regret it when the inevitable breakup occurs? Tattoo removal is incredibly expensive, painful, and time-consuming. Thanks to researchers, truly temporary tattoos (that don’t come out of a gumball machine!) could well be an option very soon.
So-called combustible tattoos utilize a vegetable-based ink. The ink is stored in microcapsules and can be easily and painlessly removed by a laser. This ink, if commercially available, would make it easier for the commitment-phobic to get a tattoo.
Ready to Get Your Own Medical Alert Tattoo?
Technology is taking the ancient art form of tattooing in some remarkable new directions. It’s pretty incredible to think that our descendants might be storing their medical information, communicating with others, or even viewing films right there on their skin.
Even though most of the tattoo tech discussed in this article isn’t yet available, there are still many different options for getting a tattoo today. Whether you want an old-school skull, a realistic portrait, a Japanese design, or something cutting edge like a trash polka tattoo, we can turn your inky dreams into reality. Contact Skin Factory Tattoo today!
Or, if you’re looking for further information and tattoo inspiration please feel free to browse our blog.
Stop by our Maui Tattoo Shop or Henderson Tattoo Shop
15 Beautiful Ideas for Realism Tattoos
15 Beautiful Ideas for Realism Tattoos. If you enjoy the look of realism tattoos, you’ve come to the right place. Here are 10 beautiful ideas that really bring the style to life!
Whether or not you have gotten a tattoo before, chances are that you have at least thought about it. Though the practice has been around for millenniums, the art form has really taken off in the modern day.
Recently, tattoos have even begun to be more accepted in the workplace.
Perhaps you have considered getting one, but you want the tattoo to look pretty much exactly like the image after which it is fashioned. This is called the style of realism tattoos, and there are many truly elegant options for you to consider.
Listed below are fifteen beautiful ideas for you.
Family Members or Loved Ones
One of the many reasons someone like yourself might consider getting a realistic-looking tattoo is because of its meaning. You are not alone – 43% of tattooed people think that having a personal significance is important.
So, what (or who) means a lot to you? A photo-realistic tattoo is great for people that you care about in your life. Have them permanently remembered in this style of tattoo to truly capture their essence forever.
Favorite Pets or Animals
Another common meaningful idea for realism tattoos involves your cherished pets. Realism is a great way to capture any kind of animal, so why wouldn’t you consider getting a tattoo of your fur-baby?
Significant Historical Figures
A realistic image of a human’s face or physique is particularly difficult to draw, and it’s even more difficult to tattoo. Nevertheless, it’s common to prefer tattoos of people in the style of realism to other popular tattoo styles.
If you find a tattoo artist that you can trust with such details, a realistic portrait of your favorite historical figure could end up being a very beautiful piece.
Navigational Instruments
Though realism isn’t the oldest style of tattoo, there are still certain images and items that are considered to be traditional. If you want to blend the modern style with a classic object, think about navigational tools.
It’s easy to think of old-fashioned sailors with tattoos, so imagine how vintage you would feel with a tattoo of their traditional tools. These items would include compasses, maps, or even telescopes. Many people associate these navigational tools with the “journey of life,” so the meaning for one can be as layered as you want it to be.
Timepieces
Another traditional tattoo to consider is a watch or a clock. Timepieces are also part of navigation, but there is more of an element of family ties with this one.
Think about how watches are passed down through the generations. Maybe you have one within your family – this would be perfect as a meaningful, realistic tattoo.
Favorite Celebrities
Many people capture their favorite modern celebrities in the style of realism tattoos. These could be artists, actors, or even sports athletes.
Flowers or Plants
A more natural approach to realism tattoos is to consider your favorite plant or flower. This is more of a feminine approach to a tattoo, but it would truly make a beautiful image.
A Close-Up Photo of an Eye
There is a trend that is becoming more popular within every style of tattoo. People seem to like the idea of having an enlarged eye tattooed on them.
You can get as creative as you want with this idea. There could be color, tears, or even light glinting off of the eye, and a proper realism tattoo artist would do a great job of perfectly capturing the details.
Jewels and Jewelry
Realism tattoos do well for images that play with and capture light. Think about the glint of light off of a shining jewel, and you have yet another great idea for your realism tattoo.
Pieces of Art
Tattooing is an art form which has the power to capture other art forms. If you have a favorite sculpture or painting, odds are that it would be both a meaningful, relevant, and detailed tattoo.
Talk to your tattoo artist to see if he or she is familiar with the piece before getting started on it.
Scenic Landscapes
For a larger piece, consider one of your favorite natural landscapes. Snowy mountains, calm beaches, or flowered meadows are all great ideas for realism tattoos.
Though they would be ornate and detailed, the simplicity of the concept would be very pleasing to the eye.
Movie or Television Scenes
Another larger idea for realism tattoos has to do with the modern art form of film. It’s okay if you’re really into a certain television series or movie because there is a way to make that a permanent part of your physique!
Musical Instruments
If you are a musician of some sort, you probably have a very strong connection to your preferred instrument. To eternalize the importance it has had within your personal (and maybe professional) life, think about getting a photo-realistic tattoo of it.
Realism Tattoos of Your Internal Organs
This might sound a little too much gore for you, but realism tattoos of internal organs are actually starting to be fairly popular. These images sometimes appear as though the skin has been peeled back to reveal an internal organ such as the heart or a section of lung.
Sometimes, it’s the bones, tendons, and tissues underneath that appear to be “revealed.”
Historical Buildings
The last idea for realism tattoos is also another art form. Architecture has a historical and cultural importance throughout time.
If there is a certain building that you think is worth to tattoo on your body, by all means, go for it! You deserve to have whatever image you want tattooed, so don’t hold back with your creativity in this department.
We know how important it is to get your tattoo just how you want it. If you want a realism tattoo or any other style of tattoo, we can assure you that the professional artists we employ will be able to exactly meet your expectations.
We encourage you to reach out to us today if you are interested in getting a tattoo. You can contact us here.
The History of Japanese Tattoo Designs
Japanese tattoo designs
The history of Japanese tattoo designs is long and rich. Learn more about this stunning style, some classic designs, and the origins of both!
Three in ten American adults have tattoos, and out of that number, seven out of those ten have more than one. Tattoos are no longer considered taboo, a fad, or even a trend.
To the person who wears them with pride, they’re a symbol of their personal story. A testament to all of the love and hardship life has thrown at them.
In a way, they’re battle wounds. They are an autobiography. A way to show art appreciation without uttering a word on the topic.
If you want to tell your own story with ink, why not look into Japanese tattoo designs?
Japan has a rich history filled with symbolism, honor, and mythology. Keep reading to learn more about Japanese tattoo designs, what they mean, and how they can help tell your story.
1. Dragons
Japanese style dragons are a popular choice. While European dragons were always cruel and angry and more concerned with accumulating wealth and destroying villages, Asian dragons were much different.
It doesn’t matter what part of the world the story originates from, dragons represent power, authority, and respect.
For Japanese tattoo designs, dragons symbolize wisdom and strength. In Japanese history, dragons were benevolent guardians who used their strength to help make humans better people.
If this sounds familiar with your story, talk to your local artist to see if they can help you map out the right dragon tattoo idea for you.
Japanese style dragon tattoos are often the main part of arm and leg sleeves as well as large chest and back pieces. If you’re looking to take up a lot of canvas with your ink, a dragon tattoo could be right for you.
2. Koi
Are you determined to be successful in life? Do you have the strength to make things happen?
Something with koi fish might be one of the best Japanese tattoo designs for you.
Some legends claim that Koi swim up rivers and climb waterfalls. They are heralded as the brave fish, the aquatic versions of samurai. They built strength by going against the current and as legend has it, the fish would become dragons if they were strong enough to make it to the top of a waterfall.
We all have our own battles that life throws at us. Some of us refuse to go with the flow. We believe we can create our own destiny by forging our own path in the world.
If your life sounds something like this, incorporate these Japanese tattoo designs.
Koi are often depicted as brightly colored with tattoos. So if you want something with lots of color, this is a great option.
3. Cherry Blossoms
The cherry blossom tree, when in full bloom, is one of the most beautiful natural things on earth. It’s so beautiful that Sakura, which means “cherry blossom” in Japanese, is one of the most popular names for girls in the country.
But why do they show up so often in Japanese tattoo designs?
The blossoms, in Japanese culture, represent the beauty of life and just how fragile it can be. Why? Because the trees are only in full bloom for a few weeks.
If you have a birthday, anniversary, or some other life-changing event that’s in April, cherry blossoms are a relevant tattoo idea.
Maybe you need a daily reminder that life is short and you should live in the present and be mindful of the world around you as it is. For you, this idea is perfect.
We, as Americans, typically don’t spend enough time thinking about and appreciating what we have for however long we have it. Life is filled with plenty of good and bad.
This tattoo idea may be able to help you with self-reflection and appreciating the good in your life.
Cherry blossom tattoos are frequently seen with Japanese style wind swirls to further push the idea of brevity in life and beauty. You will also see them against dreary and black backgrounds, symbolizing the small bright spots of good in an otherwise depressing world.
4. Demon Masks
This is often referred to as an oni mask. Oni are demons, though the literal translation is “troll” or “ogre”. All supernatural creatures in Japanese folklore are referred to as demons, even the ones associated with good.
Some oni carry out punishment of the wicked. Some believe they are the guardians of the underworld, which is why they are typically found around the dead and the dying or in places where catastrophe is about to happen.
If you’re a spiritual person without a religion to call your own, the oni mask is a great idea for your ink.
These classically have a lot of color like the koi tattoos and are also incorporated into large pieces like the dragon tattoos.
5. Wind and Waves
Wind and waves are often used in Japanese tattoo designs as filler. Filler is anything that is basically considered a backdrop to your main piece, such as the koi or dragon.
Wind and wave tattoos are known for their beauty and the swirling art styles used to create them. They are usually black or blue (to represent the sky or water), and the color isn’t what really matters.
The key to quality wind and waves are the shading. If you’re a shading fanatic, no matter what Japanese tattoo designs you’re after, ask about including these as part of your filler work.
They also have some symbolism all their own. Nature is certainly a force to be reckoned with and these tattoos help to symbolize and accentuate strength, fluidity, and movement.
Japanese Tattoo Designs – The Takeaway
What matters way more than symbolism is choosing a design you love. It’s going to be on your body for a long time.
You also want to vet your artist. Check out their portfolio and chat with them for a bit. You want someone who is skilled and makes you feel comfortable in their chair.
If you’re in Las Vegas or Henderson, Nevada, or on Maui, come in and chat with us. We’d love to hear from you. You can also contact us today on this site to book an appointment or schedule a meeting.
