Showing posts with label Tattoos. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tattoos. Show all posts
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Tattoo...Wednesday!
{I forgot to take a final picture so this photo was taken before we touched up the black again and
added a tiny more blue- I'll post a better photo later, of course!}
Mondo at Immaculate Tattoo in Mesa, AZ tattooed me (he previously did the "Sweet Darlin'" above my knees), and as always I loved it. I have been going to Immaculate for years and years, back when Jason tattooed me, then Cory, and now Mondo. It's a great shop with great artists, and I highly recommend you check them out if you're in the area.
I am so, so in love with it with it and of course, it's my new favorite (like every new tattoo I get)! I'm just so happy with how it turned out, and I can really see Henry in it- his tiny little button nose, chin, and the bits of hair. I hadn't thought about a frame before Mondo brought it up, but I'm so happy I ended up getting one. I have never seen a silhouette tattoo before and I have a hard time picturing things in my head, but as usual with good artists they manage to produce something that is better than you could have even attempted to imagine. I love that.
So, today was an excellent day. I'm just so excited for big-kid Henry to one day realize that this tattoo is of him, and for him to look at my arm and know his mama loves him oh-so much.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
How tattoos (may) change your life.
I get a lot of questions via this blog in regards to my tattoos and a couple of the questions are asked the most: "do you run into negativity having so many visible tattoos?" and "I'm thinking of getting my arm/chest/other visible spot tattooed, any advice?" So let me tell you. But before I begin, you should know that this is coming from my experience and my experience alone. Things may be different for you, but for me, I've found that my life has absolutely changed since becoming what some would call "heavily" tattooed. Maybe this is because I come from a more conservative family, maybe it's because I don't fit into the "sorority girl" label that would otherwise be applied, maybe it's because I live in a small town. Who knows. What I do know though is that I love everything I've added to my body, but coming from someone who can be sensitive about people being openly mean or negative, in the beginning it was hard for me to adapt and become indifferent to the way people made me feel. I should also add that for every negative remark or glance I get from the tattoos on my body, I get equally as many smiles and conversations with people I may not have otherwise spoken to. And those seemingly rude stares are often just coming from a place of admiration or curiosity. But now, I don't give it a second thought. Stare if you'd like, whisper to your friend, "she's so pretty, why would she DO that?!" It rolls right off my back. But in the first years of having tattoos on my ribs, my back, then my chest, arm, wrist, neck, legs...it would often make me sad. I was so happy with the way I looked, and I didn't understand why me having tattoos would bother anyone else. But sometimes, it does. So let me start by saying this: if you decide to get a tattoo in a visible place, people will look, and people will judge. Yes, times have changed, but as far as I'm concerned, being heavily tattooed is still not 100% acceptable in mainstream society. One day maybe, but today, no.
Because I have a few separate circles of friends, as I got more and more tattoos I became the "tattooed friend" in one of those groups. The first time I heard that it was definitely disheartening; a coworker of one of my college girlfriends met me for the first time and said, "oh! You must be the tattooed friend we've heard so much about." Oh really? It was a bummer to be generalized like that, and I still think about it when I hang out with that group of girls. No one wants to be placed into a simplified category based on the way they look, but when you have tattoos it can definitely happen, and it did for me, numerous times. Another specific thing I've dealt with as of recently: you will have to think about how you look standing in a friend's wedding as a bridesmaid. I've been in the wedding party of many of my friends, and unless the bride or groom is also visibly tattooed, it's can often be a little touchy. My friends couldn't care less, but their mothers, grandmas, aunt or family friend may have a different opinion. To be honest, I normally couldn't care less what someone's mother, grandma, aunt or family friend thought...but it's a hard situation when you know that someone's conservative parents don't approve of tattoos, yet there you are up there on the biggest day of their daughter's life, tattooed and smiling away. On someone's wedding day the last thing you want is to be an issue for anyone's family...or even "ruin the pictures," like I've actually had said to me. It can be a bit hard when you just want to blend in and be in the background...but if you're heavily tattooed, blending in isn't always easy to do in certain settings. And although this isn't a reason not to get tattooed, I do think that all of these stories blend into a bigger picture that is important to see when making the decision.
Another, and a bit broader thing to think about when you're considering taking the plunge and tattooing your arm, chest, back of your neck, or even your wrist...how will this affect my career? Some people are lucky enough to work in an open-minded environment where tattoos don't matter, but the majority of people need to look somewhat "professional," and in this day and age, visible tattoos aren't always seen that way. I taught high school for six years, and for six years I wore higher necked shirts, cardigans, and after tattooing right above my knees I stuck to skirts that were always long enough to cover those pieces up. Although my school surprisingly gave me the okay to show them if I wanted to, I chose to have them be a non-issue and keep them mainly covered. It was just easier this way, especially dealing with highly-distractable teenage students. After six years of doing this though I started to get sick of my limited wardrobe choices, and as spring and summer hit it was hot wearing layers and long sleeves each day. So really think hard about it- if you work in an area where tattoos just aren't acceptable, are you willing to cover them every single day for the rest of your working life? I asked myself these same questions and decided that I didn't care, and went for it. For me, the benefits outweighed the annoyances. But you may be different, so be sure to ask yourself the same.
Also, know that your day to day life will be forever changed. Imagine wearing a really brightly colored dress out and about- it's loud, it's bright, and quite the conversation piece. Now imagine not being able to take off that dress. You loved that dress at the store, you bought and paid for it, and now you will wear that dress for the rest of your life. Everyday. Forever. Wherever you go, people will either look at it, try and touch it, show you theirs, and/or start some sort of conversation. This is the truth. Sometimes fun, mainly annoying, and for me it's often easier to just cover up if I'm not in the mood to deal with it.
But really, what it comes down to is this: if you are going to permanently change your body in a big way, think long and hard before you make the leap. I didn't get tattooed until I was in my twenties for that very reason. Some 18-year olds have enough sense to make the choice then, but I knew I didn't, so I waited. And in the end, I decided to take the plunge after all and I am so glad I did. Up above I mentioned a few specific examples of ways life has changed for me, and I'm sure there are many more instances depending on your circumstances. At the same time, there are positive things that of course go along with doing what YOU want to do, and doing it for you. I, for one, adore having such beautiful art as a permanent reminder of different parts of my life. I'll always love them, because they represent my history, my story, my choices. I'll continue to get tattoos that I love, and I'll continue to fill my body with little pieces of beauty that make me happy. Everyday is an exercise in being true to myself, and I like that. And admittedly, it did take a while to accept that not everyone will approve of my choices. From that though, I have become someone who strives to be my 100% authentic self in all situations. You don't like the way I look? Oh well. My tattoos have taught me more about myself, and more about others, than I would have ever imagined. And like anything, there are two sides of the coin. Just be sure you examine both sides before you really make the commitment! Good luck!
Friday, August 7, 2009
Tattoo Equipment
All basic equipment Tattoo Artist Studio and needs
By Sarah Freeland
Most people have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to make a tattoo, but some are not sure of the basic necessity that are necessary to preform sterile, and a tattoo. The following are names and descriptions of items you'll need to get started.
Ultrasound: Ultrasound is a device that emits high-frequency vibrations to remove deposits of ink throughout the tattoo. It should also be used before changing ink pigments. It is also used before sterilization handles, pipes and break the ink dried. Tattoo machine: Of course, this is one of the most important in a tattoo artist's arsenal. The machine uses alternating electromagnetic coils to move the needle bar, and which drives the pigment into the skin. You will also need a power supply, clip cord and foot pedal.
Tubes and handles the back of the tube is inserted into the machine, and is used to align the needles in the machine. The handles are a vital part of ensuring that your hands are not cramped quarters during the tattooing procedure. Most male artists than 1 ½ inch handles are more comfortable as a woman artist, I prefer the 1 inch, or ½ inch handles depending on what I do.
Needles: tattoo needles are available in a variety of sizes from your standard needles for coating 3 round liners, liners or 5 rounds. Shade needles are common apartments, or mags. Flat battery needles needles on two or three rows depending on the size. Mags are staggered stack of needles that allows better movement of pigment.
Green soap: This is a liquid soap made from vegetable oils, is used in cleaning the skin in preparation for the tattoo. This is an ideal way to clean the excess ink work, and also upon completion of the tattoo before it is covered. Oil, or Bacitracin: These are used in the same way, but the oil is used for lubrication throughout the tattoo. Bacitracin can be used to aid in lubrication, and after the tattoo is finished.
Plastic cup: It seems pretty mediocre, but it will be a way for you to use your ultrasonic without risk of cross contamination. Spray bottle: You need a spray bottle filled with green soap and one with water. Water will help you wash of color. Plastic: You should always cover all of your non-disposable items. Spray bottles, Machine, Clip Cord, ink and bottles.
Plastic wrap: The plastic wrap should be placed on all surfaces that the tattoo will be on. These weapons as President, and tattoo beds. This also prevents cross-contamination from one client to another.
Ink caps and holder: The ink caps are small plastic cups that are used to hold the ink. You should always fill the cup before the tattoo. If you need to meet the caps, remove the gloves and get it done. Keep the tip of the bottle of ink from the ink caps! As they will be contaminated in the process of tattooing.
Gloves: Gloves are explicit, you should always try to use non-latex gloves in May that some customers have allergies. Gloves powder that can irritate the skin. Sharps or hazard bin: This is a tray that you will drop needles, mugs and ink that are used only once and to be contaminated through the tattooing process. The dangers bin must be properly disposed of after it is full. You will search your local laws on hazardous waste disposal.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Tattoo Paper
Tattoo Transfer Paper
By Sarah Freeland
Tattoo Transfer Paper is a very useful tool for all styles of tattoos. It can be used to create temporary tattoos or provide a guide for a permanent tattoo. The wide range of possibilities of tattooing is based often on tattoo transfer paper. Read on to learn more about the paper, and where it can be purchased.
Tattoo transfer paper is often used in temporary tattoos. He had to evolve into the tattoo machine good as we know it today, though. The original temporary tattoo is a simple transfer of the ink that came with water, but now temporary tattoos use vegetable dyes and a layer of glue similar to that found in a group of aid. These tattoos can look very realistic and can last up to 3 weeks, but can also be removed with oil or cream based oil quite easily.
In addition, many artists use tattoo permanent tattoo transfer paper. Sometimes they use it as a guide for a tattoo. Other times, they offer the opportunity for customers to try out a tattoo before you take the plunge and make it permanent. Tattoo transfer paper is widely available. You have many choices to buy the paper with designs already on it, or white for your own designs.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Celtic Tattoos
Most people looking for Celtic design tattoos are passionate about this kind of art. There is so much generic stuff floating around in cyber space. Celtic design tattoos originated in Ireland, Wales and Scotland. When Christians took over control, the tattoo cultures blended. A popular Celtic design tattoo is the Celtic cross. Many times you will see a Celtic knot around the middle of the cross where the two pieces cross.
Because Celtic design tattoos are very popular, you want to make sure you get a unique tattoo. Don't go into a tattoo parlor ready to get inked without a design in hand. Look through the books to get an idea of the type of work the artist has done not to pick out a tattoo design. Keep in mind that the tattoos in their books have already been inked on someone. Some of the best galleries have areas where you can upload pictures of your tattoo and people can comment on them. You can also join forums to talk about finding and creating designs.
An online tattoo gallery, specifically a membership tattoo gallery will allow you access to thousands of designs and you can pick and choose the designs that you want to include in your tattoos. It is best to pick parts of different tattoo designs that you like and put them together like a jigsaw puzzle to design your own tattoo. From a tattoo gallery you can have unlimited downloads of designs so you can print as many different designs as you want and look at them on paper instead of on the computer screen.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Origins of Tattoos
Believe it or not but most scientist believe the origins of tattoos date back to about 3300 B.C. They believe that certain marks found on the skin of the origins of tattoos, a mummified body of an iceman found in the italian alps, were considered tattoos back in his days. If their acceptance is true, these marks on his body represent the earliest known evidence for tattoos in history. All we know for sure up until now is, there are tattoos found on Egyptian and Nubian mummies dating from about 2000 B.C. Classical authors also mention the use of tattoos in ancient societies like the old Greeks, Germans, Britons, Romans and Gauls.
The tattoos we know nowadays were discovered by Europeans while exploring north america and the south seas of the pacific ocean. Their first contact with cultures like the American Indians and Polynesians also were the first contact of so called "civilized" people with tattoos. The word tattoo was first mentioned in James Cook's records from his 1769 journey to the south seas. The natives of Tahiti, this is were Cook's expedition went to, called the marks on their bodies TATTAU which was translated into TATTOO by Cook. Due to their exotic appearance, tattooed Indians and Polynesians where showcased at circuses and fairs during the 18th and 19th century all over Europe and the US.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Hollywood Celebrities Tattoos
Over the years tattoos have caught rage with Hollywood celebrities to such an extent that more than these stars their tattoos are getting more attention. One of the biggest stars who carry tattoos with élan is Angelina Jolie and has been know to wear a number of tattoos all around her body.
The trend of tattoos started catching up with Hollywood celebrities in the sixties and as far as I can remember Janis Joplin was one of the first celebrities who got tattooed by Lyle Tuttle who is considered to be the forefather of American tattooing. Even one of the sexiest celebrities on Earth Johnny Depp has been known to sport tattoo on his arms which a number of fans have emulated.
Even rock bands have been found to sport tattoos giving a further push to the popularity of this art. Other stars such as Pharrel, 50 cents and Justin Timberlake too have been sporting tattoos as a tool for expression. You can probably consider celebrities as unofficial brand ambassador for tattoos.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Robbie Williams Tattoo
Tattoos originated as ancient, symbolic art forms, and many of them retain their symbolic meanings today. Although there are still some people who get tattoos strictly based on the design, some of those people tend to regret their choice of tattoo later on in their life. Tattoos can be quite beautiful, and capture a lot of positive attention. Most people who decide to get tattoos today choose them for their symbolic meaning, as well as the beauty. Men and women alike have tattoos, some small tattoos, some large tattoos encompassing their entire body and today tattoos are more common than ever, particularly small tattoos.
Tattoo artists are no longer willing to place dull lifeless designs in a seemingly haphazard way, but they tend to treat the body as a three-dimensional canvas onto which each tattoo is placed, to live in balance with the body and any existing tattoos. Permanent tattoo designs differ depending on culture, religious affiliations, gender, or personal liking and selections. For certain tattoo designs, some people prefer to look at real life photos or browse through artwork for ideas pertaining to their tattoo designs.
Many individuals select tattoo designs from those presented at a tattoo parlor, while others prefer to do some research and help ensure that their design is unlike any other. While there are tattoo designs that are gender specific, it is important to keep in mind that getting a tattoo is a very personal thing and the image that is ultimately chosen should be one that reflects something that is important to the wearer.
Although there are some exceptions, most men and women will naturally be drawn to different tattoo designs. Of all tattoo designs, women commonly select small feminine tattoos with hearts, butterflies, flowers, lettering, etc. Men, on the other hand, often prefer that their tattoo designs be placed on the upper arm, like a Robbie Williams tattoo on the chest or back.
Some of the more popular themes center around the following:
*Butterlies *Dragons *Flowers *Crosses *Fairy *Irish *Celtic *Animals *Dolphins *Tribal
Some popular sub themes are:
*cat tattoo designs *zodiac tattoo designs *dolphin tattoo designs *heart tattoo designs *small feminine tattoos
With the exception of those that have already chosen their preferred image, it can be very difficult to select from the many tattoo designs on the spot. Most of the time, people do not take the time to really think about why they choose a particular tattoo and look at other tattoo designs that are available. It takes a lot of decision-making as well as researching for meanings of different tattoo designs and ideas. There are millions of designs out there for tattoos - including different color combinations that have helped to make tattoos the phenomenon they are today. If you are ready to make a significant investment in your body art then custom design tattoos are for you.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Tattoo Precautions
Although, there still are negative issues about having tattoos, they are becoming more and more mainstream and it is showing no signs of backing off. In getting a tattoo, safety should always be vigilantly observed to avoid medical issues. You can do this by only going to tattoo shops and tattoo artists that are fully licensed. Slower healing means greater risk for infection. And infection is one thing you don't want to have with your new tattoo.
Some people who are either into the art of tattooing or into elaborate tattoos like dragon tattoos, which is a perfect example, prefer to have a full length dragon inked on their body with the tail of the dragon starting from their foot or ankle, coiling its way up ending with its head in an elaborate back piece. Dragon tattoos such as these are done in segments in different sessions to allow gradual healing. Lower foot tattoos are also prone to infections, which is why most tattoo artists are more careful when it comes to foot tattoos.
Getting a tattoo means a needle will be stuck in your skin multiple times, deep enough to make you bleed a little. Before getting a tattoo, it is better if you had your tetanus shots completed, just to be on the safe side. If you have diabetes, known allergies, skin infections, and low immune system, you might want to think twice about getting a tattoo. Also, if you are a colloid-former, it's better not to have the tattoo at all, be it
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)