The Art of Tattooing and Becoming a Tattoo Artist

It may seem a little grandiose to talk about "the art of tattooing," but when you are truly familiar with what goes into being a professional tattooist, you recognize that there is good reason these men and women are called tattoo artists. It takes both natural talent and the drive to perfect skills in order to develop into a true tattoo artist.

While the art of tattooing is certainly unique in the overall art world, many of the fundamentals are the same. Studying the basics of drawing, painting, illustration, and other forms of visual art are a great way to build the skills needed to become a successful tattoo artist.

Most people actually start out by simply recognizing that they have both a knack for and an interest in creating art on paper. Maybe an aspiring tattoo artist has always been a doodler and eventually decided to take that hobby to the next level.

Personal Drive
Formal training is certainly not the only way to become skilled. Simply being diligent about practicing can be more important than any college class for someone who is dedicated and is able to develop his or her natural talents. There are also thousands of art books available that can teach all manner of techniques that can be applied to the art of tattooing.

Formal Training
Formal training for art can take many forms. Some tattoo artists have attended art schools specifically to learn art history, methodology, and various specialized skills. Not everyone chooses this route, however, and there are options available. For example, many aspiring tattoo artists recognize that they can hone their skills with a few community college classes; and at a cost that is a whole lot less than going to art school for two or four years. While having an art degree may be helpful, it is most definitely not a requirement for being successful at the art of tattooing.

On-the-Job Training
There are some positive things to be said for building art skills right in the tattoo shop, and there are lots of opportunities. Even if you are not yet ready to pick up a tattoo machine and put needles to skin, there are lots of opportunities to practice fundamental art skills in the shop. One of the easiest methods is to start by creating stencils from flash designs that customers might choose. Tracing and working with these designs gives the aspiring tattoo artist a better understanding of what is required for the job, as well as a first-hand feel for some of the most common motifs.

Once the aspiring artist has gotten experience with flash in the shop, he or she may start designing original flash. Again, this helps to hone skills and also allows for the creation of a portfolio. The portfolio itself is very important when applying for apprenticeships.

The Unique Art of Tattooing
As we said, the art of tattooing shares many fundamentals with other forms of visual art. Color theory, depth and perspective, composition, and many other elements go into creating a great tattoo, just as they do with any drawing or painting. Of course, there are a number of differences between the art of tattooing and other visual art forms, too.

Probably the most obvious difference is the canvas upon which the tattoo artist works. Rather than actual canvas or some sort of specialized paper, the tattoo artist imprints his or her creations onto the skin of a living, breathing human being. This creates both challenges and benefits that other types of artists will never experience. For one thing, a tattoo artist's work constantly moves from one location to another, rather than being displayed on a wall in a home or a museum or in the pages of a book.

Unlike other canvases, however, skin is very unforgiving. There is no erasing of mistakes or throwing out a first attempt and starting fresh on a new sheet of paper. In addition, receiving a tattoo can be rather uncomfortable, so the tattoo artist must constantly be aware of the need to make his or her "canvas" more comfortable or to reassure it. Dedicating oneself to the art of tattooing requires the ability to work with other people and to inspire and earn their trust.

What It Takes to Become a Tattoo Artist
Becoming a tattoo artist requires a certain type of person. There are some very specific skills and qualities that are required. If you're interested in becoming a tattoo artist, you may want to check out this list and see if it sounds like you.

A tattoo artist...

    Has an ongoing interest in art
    Can produce art in a variety of styles
    Is willing to constantly learn new concepts and techniques
    Is willing to put health and safety above convenience
    Can put up with all different personality types
    Probably has several tattoos of his or her own
    Goes through proper channels to learn the art of tattooing
    Practices tattooing from every angle
    Keeps equipment clean and sanitized
    Enjoys getting to know people quickly
    Is not squeamish about blood or needles
    Uses personal integrity when making decisions
    Can be trusted when clients expose bare skin
    Offers good customer service while being true to his or her own vision
    Can be assertive when necessary
    Understands basic anatomy
    Understands basic kinetics
    Is patient with the process and the client

Becoming a tattoo artist is not always easy. It requires years of training and a commitment to becoming the best. Whether you're depending on personal drive, formal training, or an on-the-job opportunity to broaden your horizons, there is more to be learned about this art form than one master can learn in an entire lifetime.

If you are willing to work hard and practice, practice, practice, though, the art of tattooing can be an amazing creative outlet that adds joy to other people's lives while allowing you to make a good living at the same time.

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Post Care For A New Tattoo

You just got tattooed and want to take all the right precautions to make sure it does not get infected, keeps its vibrant colors and last a long time! From this point on, you are responsible for any infection or problem you may have with your new tattoo so if you don't take the proper steps to care for it, it's on you! It is very highly recommended that you follow all the proper steps of your after care so that your beautiful tattoo does not turn into a disaster.
Do Not Mess With The Bandage - The tattoo artist takes the time to cover up your new tattoo for a good reason. This is so no air-born bacteria will invade your wound. Remember as awesome as your new tattoo is, it is still a wound on your skin. This open area of flesh is in deed a breeding ground for bacteria and infection to invade. Leave your bandage on for at least two hours. As exciting as it is getting your new tattoo, you do not want to remove the bandage just to show your friends and family, they can wait a few hours until it is safe. The only reason to remove the bandage is if your artist covered your tattoo with a plastic or Saran wrap. These types of plastic wrap are very harmful to your tattoo, so you should remove it immediately. You're better off not having a bandage covering your tattoo than to suffocate your new tattoo with a plastic wrap.
Wash and Treat - Once you remove your bandage, it's time to wash your tattoo. Run lukewarm water over your tattoo with a mild, liquid antibacterial or antimicrobial soap (generic brand antibacterial soaps are good choices, Provon and Satin are popular choices) to lightly wash off any ointment, blood or plasma and to completely your tattoo and the surrounding area. Do not use a wash cloth or material that is abrasive. Your hands are ultimately the best option for you to use in this case. (Now if your tattoo feels a bit slimy and slippery, do not worry this is probably from oozing plasma. Just try to lightly remove as much of it as possible - when the plasma dries on the surface of the tattoo, it will begin to create scabs.) Once you have cleaned your tattoo thoroughly you want to pat your tattoo and the surrounding the area firmly with a CLEAN paper towel or soft towel until it is completely dry. Next you need to apply a very light application of your choice of ointment covering the entire tattoo and surrounding area. You can use an A&D vitamin enriched ointment, a Bacitracin or a similar antibacterial ointment. You do not want to use Neosporin, it is not a good product for new tattoos and could cause you to lose color in your tattoo as well as possibly cause an allergic reaction such as little red bumps. Do not take this chance!
Specialty Products and Lotions to Use - If you like, you can apply a specialty product like Aqua Phor, H2Ocean or Tattoo Goo. These brands are not necessary, there are other over the counter products that will work equally well, you choose with you would like to you and your tattoo artist can tell you their preference. Use this ointment as directed for the next 3-5 days. Once this time has passed, continue to clean your tattoo and follow the same steps, you can now start applying a lotion when needed instead of using the ointment, this will help keep your new tattoo soft. Make sure whatever lotion you decide to use is a dye and fragrance free lotion. Lubriderm is a highly recommended choice, but has been found to sting a bit when I applied. Eucerin is also a popular choice you can use without the stinging effect, again you can ask you tattoo artist what their recommendation would be.
Showering, Bathing, Hot Tubs, and Swimming areas - It is OK and a good idea to shower with your new tattoo. It's OK getting your tattoo wet too. Just be careful and do not let your new tattoo get soaked. Submerging your tattoo in water for an extended periods can cause serious damage, you will want to avoid this for 2-3 weeks, just remember not to saturate your new tattoo when taking a shower. If you get soap or shampoo on your tattoo when you are showering just rinse it off with water as quickly as possible. Avoid swimming in any body of water for at least 2 weeks.
Peeling and Scabbing - After a few days, you may start noticing your new tattoo to start peel and maybe even a scab a little and that is normal. An excessive amount of scabbing could be from your tattoo artist doing a poor job on your tattoo, but a little scabbing is normal and fine and you have no reason to start panicking. You should apply a warm moist compresses to the scabs and surrounding area for about 5 minutes at a time and continue this 2-3 times a day to soften the scabs and they will eventually fall off by themselves. You do not want to use ointment or lotion on a softened scab - wait, make sure to wait until it has completely dried. Also when your tattoo starts to itch, don't worry this just part of the healing process. It is very important to resist the urge to pick or scratch you tattoo! If your tattoo itches you can lightly slap it. while it is peeling, just apply some lotion. And just leave the scabbing alone and let it take care of its self. scabbing. Your tattoo is almost completed the healing process, and you are almost complete with the healing of your new tattoo!
Protection from the sun - Once your tattoo is completely healed, you will want to protect it from the sun's ultraviolet rays at all times for the rest of your life. tattoos can fade and become damaged very fast if you don't protect them from these ultra violet rays. Before spending an extended amount of time in the sun or excessive heat, protect your tattoo by applying a sunblock with a minimum of 30 SPF. This will help keep your tattoo vibrant for many years to come. Take pride in your tattoos, follow the post care instruction and show off your tattoo to the world!

A Natural Non-Invasive Method to Remove Unwanted Tattoos

The removal of a tattoo has been tried using clay, calcium bentonite clay to be precise. Calcium bentonite clay is natural occurring 'earth' found in a limited number of locations around the world. The use of calcium bentonite clay has been known for its 'detox' abilities by many indigenous populations around the world. It is only recently been gaining popularity in the modern world.
Calcium bentonite clay has natural negative charged ionic molecules whereas most substances, including tattoo ink, have positive charged ionic molecules. The clay literally attracts positive charged ink and holds it (adsorption) as well as drawing the ink molecules inside the clay molecules (absorption). This amazing double bout process works with astonishing efficacy.
To apply the clay couldn't be simpler...

1. Create some hydrated clay either by mixing 1 part clay powder with 3 parts water (preferably filtered) or using clay mask straight from its tub.


2. Spread a layer of hydrated clay over the tattoo to be removed. Leave the clay to harden and do its job of absorbing (and adsorbing) the tattoo ink. One hour should be long enough, unless the clay hasn't hardened.


3. Then wash off the dry clay but do not rub or brush the area, just wash by lightly sweeping you hand over the area and dry softly with a towel.


4. Repeat this for at least four times a day, with the last time left overnight. Don't add anything else to the mixture or anything else to the treatment, like a bandage wrap for instance. The hardened clay will fall off but it should be easily cleaned up with a vacuum cleaner.


5. Depending upon the tattoo this daily routine should be repeated for three months. Over that time after the clay absorbs (and adsorbs) the ink out of your skin, the tattoo should fade then disappear. If the tattoo hasn't disappeared, then stop the treatment for a month and then undertake another three month cycle of treatments.


6. The colors, size and age of the tattoo in addition to your skin type will all have a bearing on the rate at which the tattoo disappears. A multicolored tattoo will take longer to disappear than a black-ink only tattoo. Also the color green is the most difficult to remove.

This method is never as immediate as laser removal procedures but this is a simple and in-expensive approach that can be done in the comfort and privacy of your own home without visiting the laser treatment clinic.
Remember this treatment is not the same as applying abrasive exfoliation creams. Tattoo removal creams break down the pigments in the skin (both inked and natural). Clay is supporting the skin by attracting the tattoo ink to the surface and on to (and into) the clay. Effectively your own skin is doing the work in a natural less oppressive manner.
Try it, what have you got to lose - apart from the tattoo?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7380264

Tattoo Addiction

As a general rule, human beings tend to avoid pain and seek pleasure. Tattooing is known for being a bit painful. Conquering this fear can be exhilarating and can instantly result in one wanting more and more tattoos once they understand that they can handle the sensation. This can, however, get a bit out of hand. Tattoos are a form of art and, like any form of art, too much of a good thing can ruin the effect. One should always be sensible and thoughtful about their decisions regarding body modification.Tattoos say something about the bearer. Too many bad tattoos tend to say the bearer either has some personal issues or that they don't put enough time into their choices, neither of which carries a particularly desirable implication. Those individuals who are heavily-tattooed but who have excellent work didn't accomplish their look by impulsive decisions or as a result of being addicted to getting more and more ink: They thought about every tattoo and only got the work done after making a decision that the tattoo was exactly what they wanted. Make certain that one's intellect is always in the driver's seat where choosing a tattoo is concerned.
There is an endorphin rush associated with tattooing. This, in and of itself, can be very addictive and is similar to "runner's high." Make certain that any tattoo actually means something and that it is an honest expression of one's self. Getting a tattoo just to get a tattoo defeats the entire point. For thousands of years, human beings have modified their bodies for various reasons. Shallow reasons which stem from an addiction to the process really do nothing to advance the art and will not serve one well in the long-term future. One should never have to regret a tattoo.But the subject of tattoo "addiction," indeed, the very use of that word itself is a cause for a very different discussion. What really is addiction and is the desire for more tattoos or tattooing something that would fit into that mold? Well, there are basically two situations we might consider: the experience of being tattooed which is a manageable pain, and the feeling of having them which would cater more to self adornment, although of a more permanent nature than most other forms.
The argument for addiction to the process of being tattooed is that the recipient actually learns to get an endorphin high, a rush, while under the needle (sound familiar?) and that that feeling is what is craved. I don't know. I haven't spoken with anyone who has said they actually "crave" the process, but of course that doesn't mean that such people don't exist. But from my experience I would tend to say that this idea is untrue and is probably put forth by people who may have issues with tattoos or people who have them.I think the big argument for "addiction" is that the people who have them tend to want more after their first. Well, this much is true. Again, from my own experience it would seem that people who get tattoos like tattoos, and therefore are more likely to be tattooed . . . .more than once. Do I see a smile there? I hope so, because common sense will tell you that enjoying something does not, in and of itself, make it an addiction. Have you gone to more than one concert? Hmmm. You must be a concert addict. Do you have more than one car, one motorcycle?? Hmmm. More addictions. You see what I'm getting at. The use of the word "addiction" can be very inaccurate and like many words in our language is subject to abuse and misuse
Although it is certainly likely that for some people, the process of being tattooed is an addiction, and for others the obtaining of more and more body art is also an addiction, Pure numbers will certainly verify that this is true although I have no data to back it up. It would not be difficult to accept this.But for most of us, I would say that we are doing what we love because that is what gives us pleasure and enjoyment. It does not cause any harm to others in any way, nor to us ourselves if we are careful and do what we do responsibly and with care. Tattoo addiction, in the literal sense then, I see as a myth. But tattoo enjoyment . . . .well, that's an other story.

What Are Tribal Tattoos

It is impossible to determine the origin of tribal tattoos because throughout history, tattoos have been done on both men and women to enhance, decorate and modify their skin. Many tattoos are expressions of personal freedom and showing your creativity.
Most tattoos, however, have to do with traditions that mark a person as a member or non-member of their community or tribe. They're also used to express religious, magical, or spiritual and personal beliefs. We all have a feeling of a need to belong, which is the most basic reason for the renewed powers of tribal tattoos. This form of body art has quite a simple appeal, we like the way they look and it reinforces a positive feeling about ourselves and connects us to an element of an ancient activity.
In African tattoo history, it shows that their designs came in the shape of animals, plants, spirits and their ancestry. Other cultures designs include Aztec sun clocks, Eskimo totems, and many different Native American tribes. Many tribal designs use heavy lines to create the designs. The patterns are typically all black, but colored body art are becoming popular today.
The tribal tattoos that we see today are modernized versions of the originals. The styles are similar, but are lacking the original belief. They're popular today among many celebrities, quite a few have tribal designs tattooed somewhere.
Another reason why tribal tattoos are gaining more popularity is because of the fact that they are easy to draw. Amateur tattoo artists typically practice on tribal tattoo designs in the beginning. Tribal tattoos are one of the simplest designs to ink. They usually just involve loops, swirls, crescents and sharp edges that are interlaced with each other. The designs are typically symmetrical, one of the reasons why they're fairly easy to draw.
The most common places you will see tribal designs are typically wrapped around the arm or ankle. Other common areas are the back or neck. In some of the original cultures, they were far more intricate and some that could take up most of their body. In some cultures, tribes in New Zealand, Brazil, and others, tribal tattoos would be done on the face.
Tribal tattoos are just as common in temporary tattoos today, as well. They can be found mostly in temporary transfer and airbrush tattoos. The designs can be a bit more intricate because they can have finer lines compared to real tattoos.
The temporary airbrush tattoos can last for a few days if taken care of properly. The temporary transfer tattoos can last up to a week or more. With the latest trend of glitter tattoos, tribal designs are quite popular. That way kids and teens can enjoy having temporary body art.
Whether temporary or permanent, tribal tattoos will continue to be a widely used and chosen design. Tribal tattoos have grown and taken on new meaning today. The cultural reasons for the existence are still there, but now are also worn as a form of self expression and art.

Laser Tattoo Removal - Tattoo Removal Options

When people think of how to erase tattoos or removal they will imagine a long and painful procedure which involves plenty of blood. This would have been correct if you take a look back however as the years have progressed the technology has in fact become a lot smarter which means that the current technology has made it easier to get rid of ink without all the blood and pain that you are picturing, the two most popular methods for removal with the current technology are laser and light based removal.
These two procedures are very similar; laser removal involves a laser breaking down the ink in the tattoo into smaller micro sized pieces which the body's immune system can actually get rid of.
With light based removal the light energy breaks up the ink just as the laser does and makes the particles smaller which allows the body's immune system to once again remove the unwanted ink with no complications.
· The Process
Your surgeon will hold a wand like object to your skin and aim it at your tattoo, this wand emits pulses of light which when impacting the tattoo break the particles down into smaller pieces which the body can remove. If you are familiar with hair removal surgery then this should sound pretty familiar to that process too.
· What Does It Feel Like?
As mentioned before people imagine that these procedures feel painful and will causes a lot of bleeding but it is pretty much far from it. The feeling that is said to expect is the feeling of a rubber band flicking repeatedly against your skin.
Obviously the pain level will depend on factors such as how big the piece is and more on where the tattoo is on your body as some places will be more sensitive than others (such factors apply for the application of tattoos too).
You can still get the area you are getting done numbed with ointment and most surgeons will do this for you anyway before the procedure begins to put you in as less pain as possible.
Another thing that your surgeon might do is apply cooling gel to the area as well, this helps make sure that the area conducts the energy so that the pulse breaks the ink apart and also makes sure that the other area of the skin is protected whilst they are trying to erase tattoo ink.

Light and Laser Tattoo Removal are great ways on how to erase tattoo ink. Keep in mind that they are both expensive, and both impose risks depending on how big your tattoo is and where it is located. However if you really want an effective way to remove your unwanted ink then you will want to check out the methods on our blog which gives you more information on tattoos and alternative removal options plus a guide which will naturally help you fade and remove tattoos.

About Airbrush Temporary Tattoos

Temporary airbrush tattoos have been around since about 1998 and are largely used in the marketing, advertising and entertainment industry. Airbrush tattoos today so closely resemble real tattoos that many people cannot tell the difference because of the constant research and development of airbrush equipment and inks.
Like other temporary tattoos, they are applied to the surface of the skin and don't cause any damage to the skin. Airbrush temporary tattoos are created by placing a tattoo stencil on the skin and then the colors are selected and loaded to a specialized air gun. It will blow pressurized air out in short bursts when the trigger is compressed. The airbrush tattoo artist places the colors the customer selected in the design. The airbrush tattoo artist will then remove the stencil and fix any mistakes or smudges. Then they will apply a finishing layer or powder to help ensure longevity with the tattoo design.
Unlike temporary transfer tattoos where the tattoo design and colors are already determined, the artist can control delicate elements of the temporary tattoo while it is being put on, which is similar to the true permanent tattoo experience.
For long lasting results of your airbrush art tattoo, try to keep your temporary tattoo as dry as you can and gently pat it dry rather than rub it when you wash and dry it. Leaning on your tattoo as well as tight clothing can also cause it to smudge, so be careful if you want it to keep its effects for a while. Sweat and your body's natural oils can also effect how long the tattoo lasts. To help it last longer, apply baby powder after every time it gets wet as well as throughout the day to keep it dry.
A lot of people get them done as a testing method before getting permanently inked because the best part about airbrush tattoos are that they can be easily removed. Most types of airbrush tattoo inks and paints are alcohol-based. They can be removed by applying an oil or alcohol based product. Baby oil, mineral oil and suntan lotion have shown to work the best.
One fun part about airbrush temporary tattoos is you can create your own stencils. It's a very simple process of just getting stencil paper, poster board works well, a pencil, and an arts and crafts knife. Draw the design on the tattoo stencil paper and then carefully cut the design out. The airbrush tattoo artist can then use the tattoo stencil that you created and you can have your own unique art tattoo.
Most people get airbrush temporary tattoos at fairs or events where they have a professional airbrush tattoo artists available. Airbrush temporary tattoo kits are sold and include the air compressor where the paint is used, the paint, stencils and other supplies that are needed. To purchase a airbrush tattoo kit it can cost up to $700, but with proper instruction and practice, you could be doing airbrush temporary tattoos at events as well!
So if you're always wracking your brain for new ideas to add color to your child's or teen's birthday party, you should consider hiring an airbrush tattoo artist to come in and give the kids great temporary tattoos. The kids will have a blast showing their new 'ink' and you will have the satisfaction of knowing that it is not permanent.