Thursday, August 30, 2007

Are Free Design Tattoo Ideas Any Good?

Any design free idea tattoo that you choose to have applied by tattooing professionals will be a very personal choice that you make. While some people can make that choice in a very quick manner others may have some trouble deciding which type of art to have applied as a tattoo. That’s why it’s important to have a lot of designs to choose from in any tattoo shop. While some tattoo shops have only a small catalog of designs that customers can choose from they also may have a staff of artists that can make up any design that the customer comes in with.

This is a very good way to bring in extra business as the customer is fairly assured that the tattoo shop and its artists can create the design that they want created. For many tattoo shops this ability to create designs according to a customer’s wishes and imagination are what keeps their tattoo shop in business. Many tattoo shops seek out artists based on this ability to draw whatever a client wants. Some people even go so far as to have a certain artist at a certain shop that they return to over and over for their tattoo work. This kind of loyalty is based on how comfortable the artist makes the customer feel and also how competent the artist is at creating just what the customer wants.

The design free idea tattoo that the customer ends up choosing can be made into a temporary tattoo that can be applied to the skin anywhere to see if that’s the spot the customer ultimately wants the tattoo to be. If the design needs to be moved or altered, this is the perfect way and time to do it. Many changes can be made to the design while it’s still in the temporary tattoo stage. Colors can be altered, lines can be adjusted and the size can be made larger or smaller depending on the customer’s tastes.

This can be done several times with the same design until the customer chooses the ultimate design and has it applied as a permanent tattoo. There are many tattoo shops that will create any sort of design you want so long as you commit to having some work done. They’re not going to spend all day drawing out tattoo designs for you and then have you change your mind and walk out of the shop.

Kip D Goldhammer owns and operates http://www.tattoosdesignsreviews.com and Free Design Tattoo Ideas


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kip_Goldhammer

Custom Designed Shooting Star Tattoos Online

For some people having a design shooting star tattoo on their body may be the best thing that they’ve ever done for themselves. Some people look at tattoos as a rite of passage that they get when they reach a milestone in their life such as a twenty-first birthday or when they turn thirty. Once associated with young rebels, tattoos have become more of a cultural symbol that people of all ages get at one time or another.

Some people are young and others are old when they get their first tattoos but they all have one thing in common. They all enjoy the symbolism behind whatever tattoo design they get. Some designs may signify that the person is a lover of nature and others may involve symbols of chaos or anarchy. Some designs will represent love while others will definitely symbolize hatred. This is one of the reasons that tattoos have become such a mainstream and culturally popular means of representing individuality. Tattoo shops that can cater to the special wishes of customers will always be more successful than those shops that only offer a limited listing of tattoo designs.

For many years the tattoo shops depended on a small catalog of designs, which were chosen over and over again by customers wanting unique tattoos. Some would request a change in color or that a name be added but all in all the designs were the same batch of tired old drawings. Today however, with the use of the Internet and computers so widespread, any design that can be imagined can be created very quickly and probably has been by someone in the world already. The Internet can be used to search for any design you want for tattoos that you can then print out and bring to your local tattoo shop.

The artists there can take that photo and create an image that you want to have made into a tattoo of your own. This sort of tattoo work is very popular and usually ends up with the customer getting exactly the design of tattoo that he or she wants. It’s also much easier for the artist to know what the customer wants as well. In this way, everyone is happy in the end. For anyone who’s ever thought of having a tattoo done from a design they’ve chosen, remember that not all tattoo artists are capable of taking one of your designs and creating a tattoo design from it. The best artists will be very good about it while the poorer artists may get upset that you want them to create something from a copied picture.

Kip D Goldhammer owns and operates http://www.tattoosdesignsreviews.com and Tattoo Designs Online


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kip_Goldhammer

Do You Really Want A Custom Design Star Tattoo?

Many people who want a design of a star tattoo on their body may not have any idea what the resulting design will look like. Tattoo shops have a wide range of pictures and designs to choose from and can create practically any sort of tattoo design the customer wants. This design may be only one of a thousand tattoo designs that the tattoo shop has in its catalog for clients to choose from.

There are many times when a customer won’t be able to decide what design might be right for them even when they see it in the tattoo shop catalog. The artist may have to alter the designs a bit to make it more of what the client has in mind. After a few tries the customer will decide that the design is perfect and will allow the artist to begin work on the tattooing of his or her body.

Many people are surprised at the level of pain that is involved with tattooing. Some people aren’t bothered by it at all while others are bothered by it right from the start. A lot of the difference in pain will also be because of the location of the tattoo design on the customer’s body. Any tattoo on a fleshy part of the body will not hurt nearly as much as any design that is tattooed on thinner skin such as that which is over bones such as at the wrist, ankle or knee.

There are many more tattoo shops in the world today because of the popularity of having tattoos done. There are popular television shows that dramatize tattoo shops and the artists that work in them day after day. The customers that come into the tattoo shop can be every bit as colorful as the tattoos that are applied to them. It makes for good television when there’s an element of drama, romance or emotion behind the reason for the customers having the tattoos done.

Some may want images of their favorite pet tattooed onto their bodies while others will simply settle for a set of matching designs for a couple to have. Whatever design the customers choose to have done the process will always be the same no matter what tattoo shop they get the work done in. Some tattoo shops will have a better ambience or ‘feel’ than other shops and that may put the customer more at ease as to the hygiene and health level of that particular tattoo shop.

Kip D Goldhammer owns and operates http://www.tattoosdesignsreviews.com and Foot Tattoo Pictures



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kip_Goldhammer

How To Design Your Own Tattoo

For many people one of the most important aspects of getting a tattoo done is the ability to design your own tattoo. Almost every tattoo shop in the world has this sort of service with some of them doing more of this type of personalized business than others. The ability of any tattoo shop to offer this service will ensure that the tattoo shop and its artists will always have a lot of business.

More and more people are designing their own tattoo images and bringing them to tattoo artists to have their dream tattoo realized. The artist at the tattoo shop may add a few elements or rearrange certain parts of the design but ultimately the design will be unique to that customer. There are many tattoo designs all over the Internet that people can download and change to fit their own personal styles and tastes. Even the people who have little artistic ability can choose what they’d like to have changed or kept the same about the design.

Many people have at least one friend who can help them decide what design elements to save or change and if that person is at all artistic then the design will become much more personalized. For anyone who’s ever wanted to have a certain image of tattoo on his or her body but who wasn’t sure how to go about getting that image from their head onto the artist’s sketchpad, this is the best solution.

By searching for a design on the Internet anyone can find the image they want to have for their own unique tattoo design. It will require a little tweaking to make it their own but that’s where the uniqueness comes into the plan. There are many sites on the web that specialize in tattoo designs and they have many images that you can download to your computer. These images can then be sent to the tattoo shop with special instructions for what you’d like to have changed in the design.

This service will have a charge of course depending on the amount of design work that is required to bring the design closer to what the customer wants. Not all tattoo shops have this service but many of them are starting to offer a personalized service such as this to tap into the popularity of creating your own tattoo designs. If all a customer wanted was a plain old tattoo design then many of the tattoo shops around the world would probably close because they’d all have the same old designs for tattoos. Creativity and imagination are required to keep any business afloat and a tattoo shop is no exception to that rule.

Kip D Goldhammer owns and operates http://www.tattoosdesignsreviews.com and Tribal Tattoo Designs


There Is History In Dragon Tattoo Designs

Some people have it in their mind to have a dragon tattoo picture on their body as a symbol of fierce power. Many cultures have dragons in their folklore and images of dragons have been popular with artists for centuries. It’s no surprise that dragon picture tattoo designs are showing up in every tattoo shop catalog of styles and artistic designs. The image has always been popular and many artists have created an endless variation on that theme in their work.

The dragon is a mythical creature that is visible in many ancient manuscripts and paintings in a great many countries. It is almost always viewed as a fierce and magical creature that seems to be always attacking villages and protecting great hoards of treasure. Dragon images are very popular with people wanting to have a unique sort of design because many artists have their own special design when it comes to dragon tattoos. This means that every tattoo artist will have a different take on what a dragon tattoo should look like which also means that everyone can have their own unique design.

There are many styles of dragon tattoos though including some that are made more for younger people or females. These can include cartoon depictions of dragons or cute little images of smiling or kissing dragons. These would probably not be so good for any man who might like to have a dragon image tattooed on his body. Men who want a dragon tattoo would probably more likely prefer a fierce and terrifying depiction of a dragon – most likely a fire-breathing variety.

Some groups have adopted the dragon as a symbol of their unity and power. These groups can include street gangs or groups of grandmothers who value the image of the dragon as a sign of wisdom and power. The exact same image of a dragon may mean different things to many different people. This is why the image has endured for so many centuries.

Because everyone has a different idea of what a dragon is supposed to look like, there are a great many different styles and types of dragons. If the dragon tattoo you have created in a tattoo shop doesn’t look like what someone else thinks a dragon should look like that doesn’t mean that it isn’t a dragon design to you. Whatever you think is a dragon design is a dragon design – to you.

Kip D Goldhammer owns and operates http://www.tattoosdesignsreviews.com and Fairy Tattoo Designs and Other Mythical Creators


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kip_Goldhammer

Find Great Unique Ideas In Gallery Picture Tattoos

For many people who think about getting a tattoo looking at a shop’s gallery picture tattoo catalog can give them a lot of ideas of the design they may want to have tattooed on their body. The only problem is that there may be too many designs to choose from and that will make the decision a very hard one to narrow down.

Most tattoo shops have a very extensive collection of tattoo images that can be applied to customers’ bodies and they’re only too willing to show them to clients when they have the chance. By showing these designs many tattoo artists can help their customers narrow down the range of designs that might be best for each client. Maybe the design is a flower or a cute bunny.

Well, this may not be the best choice for a man to have on his body unless he’s of the persuasion to get away with that sort of design. Many women have been getting tattoos of cute images and flowers for many years and have only recently stared to have more edgy designs tattooed onto their bodies. Many more women have begun to have darker and more menacing designs applied to their bodies to show that they’re a little racier than they used to be. The tattoo shops are glad to help with any sort of decision-making that is required before the artwork can begin.

If a customer wants to have a design that isn’t really appropriate for business dealings or jobs that involve showing a lot of skin, the artist should bring this matter up with the client. Once a tattoo has been applied it’s a completely different matter to have it taken off. That’s why the customer needs to be absolutely certain that the tattoo image they choose is the best one for them.

Many tattoo shops use temporary tattoos to show customers what a tattoo will look like on different parts of the body before the actual tattoo is inked in. This saves a lot of time and frustration later if the tattoo is put on in the wrong place. Tattoo shop artists can make any alterations to the designs that the shop carries to help make the image unique to the customer.

Maybe it’s just using a different color or adding a few extra lines or even a name to the design. The main thing to remember is that the design can be modified right up to the time it’s inked onto the skin, and even then, it can be altered to a certain extent. Some tattoo artists specialize in altering tattoos to save people the need to have them removed when a love affair ends for example.

Kip D Goldhammer owns and operates http://www.tattoosdesignsreviews.com and Tattoo Designs and Tattoo Ideas


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kip_Goldhammer

Cross Tattoo Designs And Meanings

The Cross Tattoo is one of the most popular tattoo designs these days and has been through out the ages. It has a strong religious connection and meaning, and comes in many forms. The Cross Tattoo represents eternal life and immortality, faith and the union of heaven and earth.

To help you in your search for a Cross tattoo design I will look at the most common cross symbols and their meanings, giving a brief explanation of each. When you have an idea of what you want, the most successful way to find a good cross tattoo gallery, is to look for one of the larger tattoo galleries. The larger tattoo galleries divide the tattoo designs into different genres, so you can easily find the cross tattoos.

1. I will look at the design and meaning of the following Cross Tattoos: Christian or Latin Cross
2. Tau Cross
3. Anchor Cross
4. Greek Cross
5. Cross of St Andrew
6. Celtic Cross

One of the most recognizable crosses today is the Christian cross on which Jesus Christ died. For that reason it is very symbolic and holds a lot of meaning, allowing people to show their faith. It is also know as the Latin cross, with a shorter horizontal arm than the vertical arm.

Another famous cross is the Tau cross. It is in the shape of a T and is named after the Greek letter which it resembles. The Tau is an ancient symbol of eternal life, and is also steeped in religious meaning. Christians also refer to this cross as the cross of St Anthony, as he died on such a cross.

The anchor cross is the combination of a cross and an anchor. This cross represents faith and hope. The anchor cross is believed to be a Pagan symbol and predates Christianity.

The Greek cross, also known as the Cross of St George has equal length arms, and was used by the Greek Christians, as they preferred symmetry in their designs. In 1100AD the Cross became the symbol of England.

The Cross of St Andrew, now the flag of Scotland is in the form of an X. St Andrew was crucified on the X cross rather than a Latin cross, because he believed he was not worthy to die on the same cross as his lord.

The Celtic Cross is a Latin cross with a circle within the upper cross. The circle represents eternal life as a result of Christ’s death. The Celtic Cross was used by missionaries in Ireland around 800AD to mark places of worship.

I hope this review of cross symbols has helped you in your search for your new Cross Tattoo.

I have reviewed the Best Cross Tattoo Galleries on the net today. If you are after the best cross tattoo galleries for a unique design go to http://www.hottest-secrets.com/best-tattoo-galleries Good luck in your search.
Graeme Wheeler



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Graeme_Wheeler

Japanese Dragon Tattoo Designs and Meaning

The Japanese Dragon Tattoo is a very beautiful and colorful tattoo design and very symbolic, with its origins in myths and folklore. It is also very mystical, adding to the appeal of the Japanese dragon tattoo. Over the ages, from Egyptian times the dragon has represented good and also represented evil. However, the attraction of the Japanese dragon, apart from its stunning beauty is that it represents good luck and the source of wealth. The Japanese dragon also represents the meaning of freedom and being fearless, both very attractive qualities.

In the Greek language, dragon is sourced from draca, which means serpent.

Like the angel, the Japanese Dragon also has the meaning of guardianship, providing a protective force over those it was associated with. Other meanings associated with the Japanese dragon is strength and power. In Japanese culture the dragon is associated with supernatural powers, and amazing wisdom.

There are six forms of the Japanese Dragon. They are:

Sui-Riu is the king Dragon and is in control of the rain. Therefore in this day and age of drought he is all powerful!

Han-Riu has many stripes on his body and is up to forty feet in length. One of the biggest dragons.

Ri-Riu dragon is a rare breed that is not well understood. However, it is known that they have amazing eye sight.

Ka-Riu is a brilliant red color, and a petite dragon in comparison with the others.

Fuku-Riu is a favorite dragon of many people as it is the dragon of luck.

Hai-Riyo is known as the dragon bird, and the most advanced form of dragon. It evolved out of Chinese mythology.

The colors of the dragons have special significance, which are based on their parents. For example a dragon with a black color means their parents are very old and wise. Green dragons are smaller than average, but are representative of life and of the earth. Gold colored dragons are special because they have many special attributes such as wisdom, kindness and the ability to face challenges head on.

Yellow dragons represent the east. They are great companions when you need a hand, but can be self absorbed at times. Blue dragons are from the west. They are forgiving and compassionate, but on the negative side can be lazy and uncaring when it suits them.

Finding the right Japanese Tattoo Design for you can be quite daunting. Check out all the free sites on the net to get as many ideas as you can. Just remember that many other people have done the same thing to get ideas. For example, last month, over 41,000 people searched for dragon tattoo designs on Yahoo. Apparently, roughly 8 times that amount check out Google for the same search term. Then there is MSN and the other search engines. So a huge amount of people see the same free designs as you. If you want original Japanese Dragon tattoo designs, it is recommended that you check out books or other sources of tattoo designs that are not freely available. I have checked out three Japanese dragon tattoo galleries on the internet that have from 3,500 to 6000 different designs, so you will have no trouble finding what you want.

I have reviewed the best Japanese dragon tattoo galleries on the net today at http://www.hottest-secrets.com/best-tattoo-galleries If you are after the best Japanese dragon tattoo galleries around check out the review to help find the tattoo you want.
Good luck in your search for your ultimate tattoo.
Graeme Wheeler


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Graeme_Wheeler

The Benefits of Long Term Tattoo After Care

You've got past those first days of serious Tattoo After Care when all you want to do is scratch and pick at it or take the bandages off too soon to show your friends. What next? If you want that tattoo to stay bright and vibrant you have to care for it. It's a piece of art and should be treated as such. Most Tattoo Artists are highly regarded and their devotees will travel across Countries and Continents to have work done by their idols, gone are the days when they were regarded as sleazy back alley practitioners of a suspect trade. You only have to look at the Artists present at the recent Seattle Tattoo Convention - and the queues of people wanting to take advantage of their services.

Good Tattoo after care practice needs to become a part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth - something you do without thinking about it. They key thing you must do to stop your tattoo from sinking into dull wrinkles is maintain the 'canvas' the Artist worked on, your skin. Keep it clean, nourished and healthy and you'll have no problems. Your best friend is a good moisturizer - apply it gently and it will keep the skin soft and supple - especially important if you have your tattoo in places where there isn't so much 'padding' - head, hands and feet. The lack of body fat under the skin in these areas can leave the skin very vulnerable to dryness and cracking - fatal to the maintenance of your tattoo.

The most important thing to protect the color is to keep it well protected from ultra violet so a good quality high SPF sun block is your tattoo's best friend - at least factor 30. One thing it's easy to forget is that you must reapply that sunblock several times a day if your tattoo is exposed for any length of time. We all remember to do it after we've been surfing or for a swim, but what about if you are just 'out' - it still needs to be reapplied regularly or you'll find those lovely blues and greens fading to monochrome blue-grey which is not attractive!

When you have tattoos, especially by the great Tattoo Artists who are working today, you are a walking work of Art and you want to show off your body art at it's best so it's worth taking time to set up a quick and simple regime of care so that heads turn when you walk by for all the right reasons.

Tricia Myob writes widely on a number of issues and has a growing reputation in her field. You can find more information on this subject at http://tattooaftercare.blogspot.com


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tricia_Myob

Tattoo Me Now - A Gallery Of Tattoo Ideas

Lets assume that you have already carefully researched your tattoo idea and artist. You know that he or she is talented and that they can do a great job for you. You have also scouted out the place and feel comfortable knowing the shop is clean, safe, and follows all the guidelines.

The biggest decision you now have to make is with your tattoo design. Even if it is your first tattoo and you feel that you are just experimenting, extra precaution should be taken. A tattoo design will be on your body forever.

There are literally hundreds of thousands of tattoo designs to choose from. The overwhelming feeling to just pick something can easily take hold of you if you let it. Do not get caught up in the excitement of getting a tattoo. Think of your tattoo as a major addition to your body, because that is exactly what it is. It is a very expensive purchase.

When you spend thousands of dollars on an item, you generally take more time to think about the decision. Although tattoos are fairly inexpensive depending upon the design and how much time it takes to complete, think of it as purchasing something much larger. Make your tattoo design something of extreme value and not just a pretty or cool design on your body to show off like a piece of jewelry. Make sure it is something that you love, something that you want with you for your whole life.

Use the internet to get some ideas for your tattoo design, but realize that you do not have to choose those designs. The designs online are not completely original because everyone else is on the internet downloading them as well. The images online can give you an initial idea AND give you an idea for an addition or a change to a current idea you have.

Stay true to yourself when choosing your design. One of the reasons for getting a tattoo is for originality, and to express your personality. You do not want a tattoo that a million other people have - trust me. Do not get a tattoo just because it is a trend. Your personality is unique and your tattoo should be likewise.

After you have given a tremendous amount of thought about your tattoo design and feel that you are ready, head for the tattoo shop. Remember that you do not have to choose a design on the internet or your tattoo artist wall. These are great places to start, but they do not have to be your final tattoo design.

When you have gone through the process of evaluating a design tailor made for you, ask your artist to design it for you, this is very important. This can give you more ideas when you see the design, because the tatoo artist often can pain a very good picture of the idea you tell them - you would be surprised how close they can come to what you want.

After you see what they draw up for you, you can make your final adjustments and then go through with it. When it is all said and done you will be very happy that you were patient and did everything necessary to choose the right tattoo.

Looking at images online has helped me perfect a lot of my tattoos, helping me come up with totally new designs and additions to current tattoos. The gallery I use has thousands and thousands of designs, and it is very important that you use one of these galleries to perfect your tattoo design.

My name is Breanna and I started getting tattoos about 5 years ago. Every since I got my first tattoo I have absolutely fell in love with them. I have got many of my tattoo ideas and detail add-ons from the Tattoo Me Now Gallery. It is a great place for new tattoo ideas and extra details.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Breanna_Smathers

Tattoo Me Now - A Gallery Of Tattoo Ideas

Lets assume that you have already carefully researched your tattoo idea and artist. You know that he or she is talented and that they can do a great job for you. You have also scouted out the place and feel comfortable knowing the shop is clean, safe, and follows all the guidelines.

The biggest decision you now have to make is with your tattoo design. Even if it is your first tattoo and you feel that you are just experimenting, extra precaution should be taken. A tattoo design will be on your body forever.

There are literally hundreds of thousands of tattoo designs to choose from. The overwhelming feeling to just pick something can easily take hold of you if you let it. Do not get caught up in the excitement of getting a tattoo. Think of your tattoo as a major addition to your body, because that is exactly what it is. It is a very expensive purchase.

When you spend thousands of dollars on an item, you generally take more time to think about the decision. Although tattoos are fairly inexpensive depending upon the design and how much time it takes to complete, think of it as purchasing something much larger. Make your tattoo design something of extreme value and not just a pretty or cool design on your body to show off like a piece of jewelry. Make sure it is something that you love, something that you want with you for your whole life.

Use the internet to get some ideas for your tattoo design, but realize that you do not have to choose those designs. The designs online are not completely original because everyone else is on the internet downloading them as well. The images online can give you an initial idea AND give you an idea for an addition or a change to a current idea you have.

Stay true to yourself when choosing your design. One of the reasons for getting a tattoo is for originality, and to express your personality. You do not want a tattoo that a million other people have - trust me. Do not get a tattoo just because it is a trend. Your personality is unique and your tattoo should be likewise.

After you have given a tremendous amount of thought about your tattoo design and feel that you are ready, head for the tattoo shop. Remember that you do not have to choose a design on the internet or your tattoo artist wall. These are great places to start, but they do not have to be your final tattoo design.

When you have gone through the process of evaluating a design tailor made for you, ask your artist to design it for you, this is very important. This can give you more ideas when you see the design, because the tatoo artist often can pain a very good picture of the idea you tell them - you would be surprised how close they can come to what you want.

After you see what they draw up for you, you can make your final adjustments and then go through with it. When it is all said and done you will be very happy that you were patient and did everything necessary to choose the right tattoo.

Looking at images online has helped me perfect a lot of my tattoos, helping me come up with totally new designs and additions to current tattoos. The gallery I use has thousands and thousands of designs, and it is very important that you use one of these galleries to perfect your tattoo design.

My name is Breanna and I started getting tattoos about 5 years ago. Every since I got my first tattoo I have absolutely fell in love with them. I have got many of my tattoo ideas and detail add-ons from the Tattoo Me Now Gallery. It is a great place for new tattoo ideas and extra details.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Breanna_Smathers

Cross Tattoos

There are many different tattoo designs around, and for every design you can think of there are probably many different forms of that particular design. We see this with dragon tattoos, people don’t just have a dragon tattoo, they want the dragon tattooed in a particular way and each way has a different symbolic meaning – it is no different with the cross. The cross is probably one of the most recognized religious symbols in the world because of its association with Christianity. However, there are many different designs in cross tattoos and it helps to be able to tell one from another and to recognize just what the particular significance of each particular cross might be. The cross is actually a very ancient symbol that predates Christianity and was used by the Aztecs and by various pagan traditions.

The cross is one of the most frequently requested tattoo designs it is even more popular than the seemingly ubiquitous swallows and anchors. It can be quite confusing when there are so many different designs to choose from, and if, as we have already said, tattoos have particular personal significance, we want to be sure that the design is saying what we want it to. Nowadays many young Christians choose to have a Christian cross tattoo – these might be with or without the body of Jesus. Some Christian cross tattoos will depict the Sacred Heart along with the Cross, or with a crown of thorns. If the body of Christ is nailed to the cross this is often referred to as the Latin cross.

Gothic cross designs may not be specifically Christian as they often include some form of dark imagery. They may have some barbed wire around the middle of the cross or the cross may also be intertwined with a dagger. The Gothic cross is usually heavily ornamental with beveled edges and it symbolizes pain and anger rather than a message of hope.

The Egyptian cross or ankh is often known as the key of life it is a cross with a circular shape at the top. Tribal crosses often have flowing lines and very distinctive outlines. Then there is the Celtic cross which is gaining in popularity today and has a long history attached to it. Again the Celtic cross is usually intricately designed with loops and knot work wrapped around the area where the two parts meet. The loops are meant to symbolize the never ending circle of life and the knots symbolize the link between the physical and the spiritual world. One of the reasons this particular design may have become so popular is because there is a renewed interest in Celtic Christianity. The ancient Celts saw little difference between the natural world and the supernatural and there were prayers for everyday acts such as lighting the fire or making the bed.

For lots of great cross tattoo designs visit the Chopper Tattoo Gallery


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Cruz

Tribal Tattoo Designs and Meanings

Tribal tattoos are the most popular tattoo designs around today. Just look at the amount of searches in Yahoo for this type of design. Last month there were over 64,000 searches. Some say you need to increase that by 7 to 8 times to get the number of searches in Google, giving around 500,000 searches. That’s a lot of interest.

Why are tribal tattoo designs so popular?
Tribal tattoos mean different things to different people but their appeal cuts across all boundaries - the boundaries of time, race, creed, sex and age. They have been around for centuries. It is reported that tribal tattoos were found on the mummified remains of a Bronze Age man who died over 5,000 years ago. The tattoos were of mythical creatures.

Cultures from every corner of the globe have practiced the art of tattooing, including the North American Indians, Maori, Polynesians, Samoans, Africans, Egyptians, Hawaiians and the Tahitians to name a few.

The general practice of getting a tattoo is popular these days, as it allows people to express a personal freedom and also a uniqueness, that defines them as a person and helps them express who they are. The tribal tattoo in particular is popular because of the mystery behind this form of tattoo and because the tattoo links you with other wearers, giving you a sense of belonging.

This style of tattoo is becoming a popular favorite of women as well as men. It looks great on the lower back, and some women have the tribal tattoo design wrap around their hips. The shoulder is also popular, as the tattoo can be shown, if desired by wearing a tank top.

What are the meanings of Tribal Tattoos?
In ancient times, the tribal tattoo was used to mark the person being tattooed as a member of a tribe, and in some cases the position of that person in the tribe, such as the North American Indian. In some cultures, the actual process of getting a tattoo was performed at a ritual, for example when the person was coming of age.

Other cultures in Europe would get a tattoo of their family crest, to identify their origins. In some cultures, the location of the tattoo on the body is as important as the tattoo itself, as different locations had different meanings. These days, the location of the tattoo comes down to self expression more than anything else.

The designs were, and are still, commonly linear geometric motifs. The tribal tattoo is traditionally black in color, although this has changed in modern times. The pure black tattoos give a more striking appearance, due to the sharp lines and edging. When color is added the edges become less defined in appearance.

What ever sort of tattoo you want, the most important thing is to get something that has meaning to You. If you have decided to get a certain design, but can’t find out the exact meaning of the one you have picked, make sure that it has meaning to you. You can also combine a tribal tattoo with another tattoo design such as an angel, cross, star, butterfly or something else that gives it more meaning to you. That will make it more unique, and make you stand out from the crowd.

Good luck in your serach for your dream tat.

I have reviewed the best tribal tattoo galleries on the net today at http://www.hottest-secrets.com/best-tattoo-galleries If you are after the best tribal tattoo galleries around check out the website review to help find your dream tattoo.
Good luck in your search for your ultimate tattoo.
Graeme Wheeler


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Graeme_Wheeler

Tattoos - Rich History of Tattoos from Egyptians to Today

Tattoos have a rich history dating back thousands of years. The first tattoos were seen on ancient Egyptians and have been seen on numerous female mummies. Studies have shown that the first tattoos were actually created by women, for women!

Historically, residents of the South Pacific used tattoos as a way to mark their skills. Tattoos were also used as a way to ward away evil spirits and disease. Tattoos were seen on fingers and on the wrist, as well as featured prominently on the face and neck. Tattoos have also been used to designate membership in a society as well.

Along the way, Japan also incorporated the use of tattoos as well. The Japanese people used tattoos for religious and ceremonial rites. Tattoos were very popular during these days, although infections received from the tattoos were quite common. Tattoos were seen in the western regions as well, although they certainly weren’t well accepted at first.

Beginning in the late 1960s, tattoos really began to become popular again. What we are seeing today is a tattoo renaissance which has taken its inspiration from places such as the South Pacific, French Polynesia, Thailand and Japan and raised the practice in the Western hemisphere to much greater artistic heights.

No longer are people content with walking into a studio and choosing some stock 'flash' design off the wall, with little regard to its placement of their bodies. Gone are the days of reckless abandon in choosing a tattoo. People want their body art - and it really is art - to symbolize something personal to them.

Modern tattoo artists no longer see the human body as a blank sheet of paper that they can draw on and never see again. Tattoo artists are not willing today 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 existing tattoos.

There are millions of stock flash designs out there for tattoos – including different color combinations that have helped to make tattoos the phenomenon they are today. Tattoo artists today commonly use the stock flash as a base from which to add their own artist's spin.

Today tattoos are more common than ever, particularly small tattoos. Men and women alike have tattoos, some small tattoos, some large tattoos encompassing their entire body. There are many positive things about tattoos, but there can also be some negative things as well. You must be realistic about your expectations, and take into consideration that this piece of art will be with you forever.

Most people who decide to get tattoos today choose them for their symbolic meaning, as well as the beauty. Although there are still a few people who get tattoos strictly based on their appearance, some of those people tend to regret their choice of tattoo later on in their life.

Other tattoos can be quite beautiful, and capture a lot of positive attention.

Small Tattoos have become completely socially acceptable, and nearly everyone has one. For help in choosing exactly the right tattoo for you, read more information at Small Tattoos


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=TJ_Tutten

It's Not Trash Until You've Checked Everything

All too often, people throw away items that if they only know what was wrong with them, they could possibly get fixed without having to buy a replacement. Several thousand dollars worth of merchandise don't have to end up in the dumps and landfills around the country.

Take for instance electric scooters. There are several common indications that with a new battery, everything would be like new. Take these common occurrences as examples.

1. You charge your scooter and as soon as you get on it and begin to ride it, the power goes away, or it gradually fades. This can be immediate or it can be gradual. But a lot quicker power loss than normal.

2. You charge your scooter and after it is done, you turn it on and there is no power, but you can lift the rear wheel off the ground and the back wheel spins when you turn the throttle. When you put it back on the ground, you get no push from the motor.

These are a couple of common indicators that you need to replace the batteries. But “WAIT”. If you have a multi-battery scooter, more than one battery, you don’t have to replace all the batteries. When this normally occurs, more than ninety-five percent of the time, you will only have to replace one of the batteries. If anyone tell you that you need to replace all the batteries, without checking the batteries themselves, they just want your money.

Batteries for these scooters are not cheap, and dealers can make a killing off selling you a battery. The average cost for these batteries from a dealer will range from thirty-five dollars up to fify-five dollars a piece. So if you have an electric powered scooter that takes three batteries, then by replacing all three batteries, you will be forking out over one-hundred dollars. “SAVE YOUR MONEY”

The first thing you need to do is test each battery separately. Separate each battery and have each one tested individually. A good battery will give you a reading of 13.3 to 14.8 volts. A battery that gives a reading of 10 volts or below is a bad battery and will need to be replaced.

Save your money and find a local “Batteries Plus” or a “1-800-batteries” in your area. These types of batteries are standard stock at these places. Take your bad battery with you and you will save an average of ten to fifteen dollars by purchasing your battery from one of these two places.

All too often do we have s consumer call us up and after we diagnose the problem for them, do they inform us that someone told them that they needed to replace all the batteries. What no one will tell them is that these batteries are on a trickle charge system, which would prevent, in a normal case, all the batteries from going bad. Usually, the culprit is the lead battery in the chain.

Let the truth be told.

M.S. hates hearing about people getting ripped off and from providing sales and service for electric scooters has educated hundreds of consumers about their electric powered scooters and the problems that can arise. Don't get ripped off, before your trash it or if you decide on a new scooter, contact 813-333-1176 for more information


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Smith

3 Ways To Find Free Tattoo Pictures

Once you have decided to get a tattoo, the biggest decision you will be faced is the design that you want your tattoo to be. There are many ways to get a great design and the best part is that most of the time, you can get free tattoo pictures that you might want.

Actual pictures are also great places to get ideas for your tattoo. People don’t often think about looking at photos for tattoo designs but these really are one of the greatest ways to get ideas for tattoos. Some may think that photos will be undesirable or too plain but even if you find that’s the case, they can sometimes spark imagination to come up with something great!

The library is a wonderful place to get free tattoo pictures. Not only might they have books featuring tattoo designs but, they may have books on tattoo artists that will feature some of these artists best works. If you don’t want a design exactly like something that may have already been done, these books are still a great place to get your creativity flowing to come up with a great design. Libraries also have magazines and these can be an abundant resource for finding ideas.

Tattoo enthusiasts are great sources to get ideas for your design. If you are okay with talking to strangers, you can ask people you see about their tattoos and ask for ideas on yours. You can also talk to people you know, or people you meet in the tattoo parlour. Tell them ideas for your design and see what they think. They may be able to build on your idea.

It’s not hard to find free tattoo pictures and designs. You just have to do a little bit of searching and keep your mind open to absorb ideas that may come in the strangest of places!

Discover the best online tattoo pictures recommended by Ricky where you can choose, download and print over 6000 different tattoo designs. Click here for more information.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ricky_Lim

How NOT to Go About Tattoo Lettering

Getting a tattoo, be it a pattern, design or tattoo lettering, is a life-changing decision that will forever change the way you see the world around you, and the way that others perceive you. It is for this reason that I have put together this short article, about the RIGHT and WRONG ways to go about getting a tattoo. I am also going to include a bit of information about what to be careful of when getting tattoo lettering.

So first up, why get a tattoo? There are many reasons that people get tattoos: to show their belief in a cause, in a special someone, or to show membership of a club or a group. For me, it was to forge a bond with friends who have helped me through times tough and true.

But this is only the beginning, because once you have some ink on you, it’s there to stay virtually forever – there’s no turning back.

Are you still here? Great. You’re a true believer, so let me tell you some things to keep in mind when getting tattoo lettering done.

The first thing to do is to think about what you want tattooed onto yourself. The text of tattoo lettering is usually symbolic in nature – the name of a loved one, a pet, a group, a belief, a cause. It can also be in multiple languages – Chinese, Japanese, Hebrew, Hindi, Sanskrit, English... the list goes on.

DON’T DO NUMBER ONE: Get a tattoo in a language you don’t understand without checking it with a friend first. Seriously, I see so many people walking around with Chinese characters tattooed on them with no idea what they mean – many people thought that their tattoos which actually said ‘spirit’ meant ‘peace’. Be sure, and check with a friend who speaks the language first.

The next thing is to consider the size and placement of the tattoo. This is where having a friend who is a tattoo artist really helps. They can tell you how large the letters have to be in order to last over time.

DON’T DO NUMBER TWO: Get really small words tattooed onto you – anywhere. If you’re not aware, tattoos fade over time as the ink is absorbed into the skin. It is for this reason that all tattoos should be of a minimal size. Any good tattoo artist will tell you that tattoo lettering in particular, has a minimal size. Don’t go for small and unreadable letters.

So now you’re ready to go out and get your tattoo lettering done.

DON’T DO NUMBER THERE: Don’t ever let anyone pressure you into getting a tattoo. Trust me, it’s a personal choice, and one that you have to carry for the rest of your life. It’s a life-changing decision, so do not take it lightly, and think carefully before you have any inking done.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Romeo_Rodriguez

Tattoo The Body Art

Tattoo is an ancient practice of prettifying the body. In the older times this act of beautifying one self was only done by tribes of Africa, South America, and the Asian countries of Japan and china. But now its been done by the countries of contemporary world. It’s more popular and common in the western countries including America.

It is an art done in a way that color pigments. Either permanent or temporary, depends upon the choice of the respective person. Permanent tattoos are inserted in to the skin with the help of a particular electric tattoo machine which holds different kinds of needles. People love to craft tattoos on their shoulders, head, feet, around navel and especially the lower back tattooing is popular among western girls.

Apart from its decorating purpose many people of certain regions made tattoos to show their association toward any specific group, as all its member hold the design in the form of tattoo at any of their body part. The size of the tattoo may vary. It can be on all over the body or at any small area of the body. Hearts, flowers and other geometrical designs are very much famous among the young people. A simplest design of a tattoo is the name piercing or any abbreviation of the respective person.

By their tattoo designs people love to express their opinions, mind sets and the kind of nature they posses. This art is much promoted by many show business celebrities of the Hollywood and youth blindly go after them in order to be in fashion and stay cool.


Tattoo And Sanitation Issues

Tattoo making has become very famous in this current age. Regardless of age and gender people love to design their body parts in the form of tattooing. Practicing this art incites a problem of hygiene, as this practice is very popular in many countries many people now perform this art for their bread and butter, and this unhygienic practice is usually done in jails and rural areas.

Professionals or the tattoo specials do take care of the sanitation issues but a person having incomplete know how of this work rarely bothers about the before and after cleanliness. This negligence can lead to fatal diseases like Hepatitis and HIV. It all can be occurred because of using no sterilized needles or the tattooing machine. Before starting all the tattoo making, use gloves and sterilize equipments as it might be possible that the other person emit body fluids, which if infectious likely to harm the person coming next to him/her. Several kinds of allergies or infection can happen which includes swelling, itching or burning of the skin.

It has been instructed for a person newly having its tattoo that he/she should not expose that area directly in the sun soon after this art has been done. Keep that part of skin clean and use any cream or lotion if needed.

Decorating with you with a tattoo can sometimes get risky due to the unspecialized or inexperienced practitioners. Young generation usually does not bother about the side effects of this art, but in future it can badly harm to their skin.

About Author:Nasrullah A. Mardani - Owner of Penis Enlargement Site.

Christian Tattoos

You know being a Christian, I can not help but notice the number of Christian Tattoos I am noticing on some of the folks at my church. I can not say that I dislike them, on the contrary I find them very striking. Different crosses, words in Latin, bibles, and many other images. I spoke to a young man about why he would want to place Christian Tattoos on his body, and he told me "He wanted to let everyone know that he has devoted his life to God"!

I made a big mistake and let my Mom know that I was considering getting a Christian Cross tattoo, and she was very quick to remind me that the book of Leviticus clearly states that "Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the Lord." Some say that the passage is referring to practices of pagans of the time, in which they would carve idols on their bodies at funerals. The new Testament does not mention these restrictions.

So a lot of young Christians have decided to celebrate their union with God, and let everyone know that they have given there life to him and they want to display it through Christian Tattoos such as Praying Hands, Chalices, The Sacred Heart, Angels, Mary, The Apostles and even Jesus himself! These symbols could include doves, angels fighting demons in battle scenes, Biblical references, crucifixion scenes, and many more.

In a day where you look around and Religion is being taken away at alarming rates, I think it very noble that an individual would take a stance and tell the world, Look at me! I have given myself to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! There are way to many things that are worst then getting Christian Tattoos!


Choosing the Right Custom Tattoo Design

In today's world, it seems that almost any topic is open for debate. While I was gathering facts for this article, I was quite surprised to find some of the issues I thought were settled are actually still being openly discussed.

It seems like new information is discovered about something every day. And the topic of custom tattoo design is no exception. Keep reading to get more fresh news about custom tattoo design.

Tattoos have had a colorful history on western culture for the better part of two centuries. An increased popularity to custom tattoo designs has illustrated by celebrities, athletes, and historical figures have influenced body art world to rather extraordinary numbers. Custom tattoos have regained popularity in many parts of the world and particularly in the United States, Japan, and Europe. Many tattoo designs include Tribal, butterfly, Chinese characters, flowers, dragons, planets, stars, lower back and armband tattoos. The wide variety of custom tattoos available today has increased the popularity and truly created a whole new type of art work. The influx of tattoo designs has influenced a new industry of artist, many have technical and fine art training.

The original root word tattoo is commonly believed to come from the Tongan or the Tahitian word tatau, meaning to mark or strike twice. Strike twice refers to the traditional method of applying the design. Some tribal cultures created tattoos by cutting a design into the skin and rubbing the would with ink, ashes or other means. There is some fascinating history behind the evolution of tattoos design and art, early nautical tattoos and modern tribal styles and in between.

Tattoo designs have brought on some negative association for women tagged as "tramp stamp" and other derogatory remarks and slang phrases, sometimes referring to describe tattoo designs on a womans lower back. The popularity of women in the tattoo industry itself and the larger number of women wearing tattoos has somewhat changed this perception. Also tattoos have become a mainstream culture over the past couple of decades has made huge strides to dispel this stereotype and negative comments.

Their are a wide variety of online galleries, both free and paid sites that offer a wide selection of tattoos to choose from. Whether you want a trendy henna tattoo or temporary decals the various assortments will give you a good idea exactly what you want before you go to a tattoo parlor. Most of the online shops or sites you are able to download the image. All that is left to do know is deciding the placement of the design and how big.

Deciding to get your first tattoo can be a major decision, you should research this and make sure that this is the right fit for you. Also tattoos can be very expensive according to the detail and special design. After all, this is something that is going to be part of you for the rest of your life, unless you get it remove later on which is also very expensive. With the thousands of designs, Tribal, characters, animals, and other images I am sure you will be able to pick something that you will like.

Hopefully the sections above have contributed to your understanding of custom tattoo design. Share your new understanding about custom tattoo design with others. They'll thank you for it.

I have a blog that I have started and will be posting many articles. This is the first article that I will be putting on my blog site. If you would like to visit to see other articles please stop by and check them out. On this site also I am promoting a product that has a very large selection of Tattoo design. They have 43 different categories to chose from and also have a geographical listing of Tattoo parlors to have that new tattoo you are wanting inked on. Go to the site and check it out!


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Amlong

What Makes Star Tattoos So Popular? Everything from Shooting Star Tattoos, to Nautical Star Tattoos

Star tattoos seem to be a pretty old and yet a very popular design. It is one of the most requested custom designs. Why are they so popular and are they over rated? You know there is this on going controversy between the "tattoo traditionalists" and the new generation of "tattooers". I put those in quotes because they are terms that I made up for this article.

A "tattoo traditionalists" like the old school tattoos. Things that are done in black ink and nothing that would be considered popular. They feel that each tattoo should be unique and say something about the individual. They are strongly against anyone that gets a tattoo because it is a popular design. For example they are against star tattoos because of their popularity. They would most likely be against the good old tribal arm band tattoo or a barbed wire arm band etc. You know the tattoo designs that are so popular and done over and over again. The "tattoo traditionalists just hate these.

The new generation of "tattooers" are pretty much the opposite. They like what is cool and hip and want to get tattoos done that are popular and in style. They will often look at celebrity tattoos or the tattoos of friends to get their ideas from which they might do some customizing and etc. Their designs typically feature a lot of color and are bright! I have written more about these groups in other articles so for now I will stick to the topic at hand of star tattoos. You see there is a phenomenal growth in star tattoo designs. Tons of people want to get everything from simple star tattoos, groupings of moon and star tattoos, nautical stars, and even shooting stars. Star tattoo designs are pretty much everywhere.

So why are they so popular?

1. Star tattoo designs and celestial tattoos are especially popular themes among women and this is a rapidly growing market.

2. Star tattoos can be very gender neutral. Men and women can get star tattoos done.

3. Star tattoos are often inexpensive to get designs of and cost very little to get done.

4. Star tattoos often make a great first tattoo design for someone who is a little worried about getting started in tattoos. They are small and easily covered up and also less painful to get because of their size and therefore popular among first timers.

5. Star tattoos because of their size can fit into or among other existing designs or can make great cover up of a bad tattoo.

6. Stars are pretty universal symbols of good things. Most all religions have some type of star symbolism and star and stars don't make a strong statement about the world but just kind of thought of as fun and light hearted.

So who is right? Are star tattoos a great design to get done like the new generation of tattooers is doing or should you avoid them at all costs because they are not unique and they are overdone like the traditionalists would say?

Well, like all great questions in life and in the world of tattoo design the decision really is your to make. It will be your tattoo and one that you will live with for a long time. I think the best middle ground between the two groups is to just get something you like. If you like star tattoos for their own sake if they are popular or not then go ahead and get one and who cares. However if you are just getting a star tattoo because your friend just did or because the latest pop diva got one then it might be better to wait. Either way the choice is your to be made.

Chris is an avid tattoo enthusiast, as well as an observer and writer of the tattoo scene. He has run numerous tattoo related website business in the past. However, now he provides great tattoo information in the form of articles and web pages for everyone to enjoy free. Check out this page for more on tattoo sleeve designs, or here for awesome Free Star Tattoo Designs.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Ryerson

Free Tattoo Galleries and Free Tattoo Flash What Is the Difference

People can spend a great deal of time online looking for the perfect tattoo design. There are many different options available for research tattoo designs online. This article will look at some of the different types of sites and explain what the difference is between them. This will help clear up the confusion about the difference between free tattoo galleries and free tattoo flash.

Free Tattoo Galleries

The world of the internet has really creeped into almost every part of our life. It has become so easy to find a ton of great information in just seconds by using the internet and today’s search engines. This has even changed the method of selecting a tattoo design. Year ago if you wanted a tattoo then you had to go to your local tattoo shop. However, today there are a ton of options to finding tattoo ideas online. The first place that people often look is free tattoo galleries. There are tons of internet users looking for there tattoo galleries for a wide variety of reasons. Typically a tattoo gallery will consist of user submitted photos of tattoos. That means somebody goes out and get a tattoo, takes a picture of the finished work and then posts it online. These free galleries are a great resource to find a lot of tattoo photos and ideas quickly. However once you find a tattoo you like you will have to print out the picture and take it to your local shop or find someone to make a design fo the tattoo for you based on the picture.

Free Tattoo Flash

The other type of sites is one that specializes in tattoo ready designs called flash. These are tattoo designs that have already been put on a special paper so any tattoo artists can easily replicate the design and make the exact tattoo quickly and easily. There are a ton of sites now online that sells tattoo flash designs. However, as a user if you are trying to find some of this high quality flash for a tattoo design that you are honestly considering getting done then stop using the word free in the search. If you use the search term “free tattoo flash” then you might end up having to plow through a bunch of pretty useless sites that offer low quality flash. However if you just search for the term tattoo flash online you can quickly and easily find great quality tattoo flash designs.

This really goes along with the old saying you get what you pay for. Well, if you are looking for free tattoo flash and galleries then you are probably not going to end up with a super high quality design. In fact the actual tattoo design might not even be done by professional flash artists. Instead many people just pay to have an artist to a bunch of tattoo designs. These artists might not even be tattoo artists but just artists in general.

So if you are looking for a high quality tattoo design or tattoo flash then don’t use the word free and also don’t waste time looking for flash on tattoo galleries. This will save you a lot of time and knowing the difference between the two will help you in finding the design you are after.

Chris has owned several tattoo related websites and has published numerous articles on tattoos. Check out Free Tattoo Design Ideas for a ton of great ideas to help you get the perfect tattoo. If you are just getting started in tattoos you might want to consider Foot Tattoo Designs!


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Ryerson

The Best Tattoo Design for Females

When a female customer comes into a tattoo shop and looks for a specific design to have for an image she may be looking for a tattoo design for female customers. This sort of tattoo design can include such images as flowers, fantasy animals and celestial images such as stars, moons and moon designs. Although there are many more designs that could be called female images the tattoo shop artists have many designs that could be called tattoo design for female images. Some customers may want a star design that they can have tattooed onto the small of their back or a moon design that might be located upon their shoulder. Some female customers will want to have a lot of control over the resulting design for their tattoo while others will simply allow the tattoo shop artist to create their own design. The tattoo shop artists are very adept at creating images to customer requests and usually develop quite a loyal following for their work.

One of the most popular tattoo designs chosen by female customers to a tattoo shop is the image of a unicorn. Because of its fantasy background and its association with purity and princesses, the unicorn image has always been a very popular choice for a tattoo design among female clients. This is one of the reasons that most tattoo shops have many different designs for unicorn images in their catalog of images for customers to choose from. Some designs have the unicorn by itself as an image while others have the unicorn as an added element to a much larger design. There are many customers who want to have a say in the way that their tattoo turns out. Other customers may just let the tattoo shop artist have his way with the design of the image. Many designs will only require a small amount of change while others may have a complete makeover of their design elements.

Some female customers will search online and find an image of a unicorn or other fantasy creature that might make for a great tattoo and bring the design in to the tattoo shop. The artists there can then take that design and ad or remove details to the image and create a more unique design for a tattoo. This personal touch is what keeps many people returning to the same tattoo shop so that the artists can help them create the design they see in their minds for the supplied image. Some customers will even visit tattoo web sites looking for the best image that they can find to have their local tattoo shop artist copy for them. While many of these tattoo designs are offered free, some require a small fee or deposit.

Kip Goldhammer owns and operates http://www.tattoosdesignsreviews.com Tattoo Design For female A review of resources for tattoos online.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kip_Goldhammer

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Cross Tattoos

There are many different tattoo designs around, and for every design you can think of there are probably many different forms of that particular design. We see this with dragon tattoos, people don’t just have a dragon tattoo, they want the dragon tattooed in a particular way and each way has a different symbolic meaning – it is no different with the cross. The cross is probably one of the most recognized religious symbols in the world because of its association with Christianity. However, there are many different designs in cross tattoos and it helps to be able to tell one from another and to recognize just what the particular significance of each particular cross might be. The cross is actually a very ancient symbol that predates Christianity and was used by the Aztecs and by various pagan traditions.

The cross is one of the most frequently requested tattoo designs it is even more popular than the seemingly ubiquitous swallows and anchors. It can be quite confusing when there are so many different designs to choose from, and if, as we have already said, tattoos have particular personal significance, we want to be sure that the design is saying what we want it to. Nowadays many young Christians choose to have a Christian cross tattoo – these might be with or without the body of Jesus. Some Christian cross tattoos will depict the Sacred Heart along with the Cross, or with a crown of thorns. If the body of Christ is nailed to the cross this is often referred to as the Latin cross.

Gothic cross designs may not be specifically Christian as they often include some form of dark imagery. They may have some barbed wire around the middle of the cross or the cross may also be intertwined with a dagger. The Gothic cross is usually heavily ornamental with beveled edges and it symbolizes pain and anger rather than a message of hope.

The Egyptian cross or ankh is often known as the key of life it is a cross with a circular shape at the top. Tribal crosses often have flowing lines and very distinctive outlines. Then there is the Celtic cross which is gaining in popularity today and has a long history attached to it. Again the Celtic cross is usually intricately designed with loops and knot work wrapped around the area where the two parts meet. The loops are meant to symbolize the never ending circle of life and the knots symbolize the link between the physical and the spiritual world. One of the reasons this particular design may have become so popular is because there is a renewed interest in Celtic Christianity. The ancient Celts saw little difference between the natural world and the supernatural and there were prayers for everyday acts such as lighting the fire or making the bed.

For lots of great cross tattoo designs visit the Chopper Tattoo Gallery


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Cruz

Tribal Tattoo Designs and Meanings

Tribal tattoos are the most popular tattoo designs around today. Just look at the amount of searches in Yahoo for this type of design. Last month there were over 64,000 searches. Some say you need to increase that by 7 to 8 times to get the number of searches in Google, giving around 500,000 searches. That’s a lot of interest.

Why are tribal tattoo designs so popular?

Tribal tattoos mean different things to different people but their appeal cuts across all boundaries - the boundaries of time, race, creed, sex and age. They have been around for centuries. It is reported that tribal tattoos were found on the mummified remains of a Bronze Age man who died over 5,000 years ago. The tattoos were of mythical creatures.

Cultures from every corner of the globe have practiced the art of tattooing, including the North American Indians, Maori, Polynesians, Samoans, Africans, Egyptians, Hawaiians and the Tahitians to name a few.

The general practice of getting a tattoo is popular these days, as it allows people to express a personal freedom and also a uniqueness, that defines them as a person and helps them express who they are. The tribal tattoo in particular is popular because of the mystery behind this form of tattoo and because the tattoo links you with other wearers, giving you a sense of belonging.

This style of tattoo is becoming a popular favorite of women as well as men. It looks great on the lower back, and some women have the tribal tattoo design wrap around their hips. The shoulder is also popular, as the tattoo can be shown, if desired by wearing a tank top.

What are the meanings of Tribal Tattoos?
In ancient times, the tribal tattoo was used to mark the person being tattooed as a member of a tribe, and in some cases the position of that person in the tribe, such as the North American Indian. In some cultures, the actual process of getting a tattoo was performed at a ritual, for example when the person was coming of age.

Other cultures in Europe would get a tattoo of their family crest, to identify their origins. In some cultures, the location of the tattoo on the body is as important as the tattoo itself, as different locations had different meanings. These days, the location of the tattoo comes down to self expression more than anything else.

The designs were, and are still, commonly linear geometric motifs. The tribal tattoo is traditionally black in color, although this has changed in modern times. The pure black tattoos give a more striking appearance, due to the sharp lines and edging. When color is added the edges become less defined in appearance.

What ever sort of tattoo you want, the most important thing is to get something that has meaning to You. If you have decided to get a certain design, but can’t find out the exact meaning of the one you have picked, make sure that it has meaning to you. You can also combine a tribal tattoo with another tattoo design such as an angel, cross, star, butterfly or something else that gives it more meaning to you. That will make it more unique, and make you stand out from the crowd.

Good luck in your serach for your dream tat.

I have reviewed the best tribal tattoo galleries on the net today at http://www.hottest-secrets.com/best-tattoo-galleries If you are after the best tribal tattoo galleries around check out the website review to help find your dream tattoo.
Good luck in your search for your ultimate tattoo.
Graeme Wheeler


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Graeme_Wheeler

Tattoos - Rich History of Tattoos from Egyptians to Today

Tattoos have a rich history dating back thousands of years. The first tattoos were seen on ancient Egyptians and have been seen on numerous female mummies. Studies have shown that the first tattoos were actually created by women, for women!

Historically, residents of the South Pacific used tattoos as a way to mark their skills. Tattoos were also used as a way to ward away evil spirits and disease. Tattoos were seen on fingers and on the wrist, as well as featured prominently on the face and neck. Tattoos have also been used to designate membership in a society as well.

Along the way, Japan also incorporated the use of tattoos as well. The Japanese people used tattoos for religious and ceremonial rites. Tattoos were very popular during these days, although infections received from the tattoos were quite common. Tattoos were seen in the western regions as well, although they certainly weren’t well accepted at first.

Beginning in the late 1960s, tattoos really began to become popular again. What we are seeing today is a tattoo renaissance which has taken its inspiration from places such as the South Pacific, French Polynesia, Thailand and Japan and raised the practice in the Western hemisphere to much greater artistic heights.

No longer are people content with walking into a studio and choosing some stock 'flash' design off the wall, with little regard to its placement of their bodies. Gone are the days of reckless abandon in choosing a tattoo. People want their body art - and it really is art - to symbolize something personal to them.

Modern tattoo artists no longer see the human body as a blank sheet of paper that they can draw on and never see again. Tattoo artists are not willing today 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 existing tattoos.

There are millions of stock flash designs out there for tattoos – including different color combinations that have helped to make tattoos the phenomenon they are today. Tattoo artists today commonly use the stock flash as a base from which to add their own artist's spin.

Today tattoos are more common than ever, particularly small tattoos. Men and women alike have tattoos, some small tattoos, some large tattoos encompassing their entire body. There are many positive things about tattoos, but there can also be some negative things as well. You must be realistic about your expectations, and take into consideration that this piece of art will be with you forever.

Most people who decide to get tattoos today choose them for their symbolic meaning, as well as the beauty. Although there are still a few people who get tattoos strictly based on their appearance, some of those people tend to regret their choice of tattoo later on in their life.

Other tattoos can be quite beautiful, and capture a lot of positive attention.

Small Tattoos have become completely socially acceptable, and nearly everyone has one. For help in choosing exactly the right tattoo for you, read more information at Small Tattoos


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=TJ_Tutten

3 Ways To Find Free Tattoo Pictures

Once you have decided to get a tattoo, the biggest decision you will be faced is the design that you want your tattoo to be. There are many ways to get a great design and the best part is that most of the time, you can get free tattoo pictures that you might want.

Actual pictures are also great places to get ideas for your tattoo. People don’t often think about looking at photos for tattoo designs but these really are one of the greatest ways to get ideas for tattoos. Some may think that photos will be undesirable or too plain but even if you find that’s the case, they can sometimes spark imagination to come up with something great!

The library is a wonderful place to get free tattoo pictures. Not only might they have books featuring tattoo designs but, they may have books on tattoo artists that will feature some of these artists best works. If you don’t want a design exactly like something that may have already been done, these books are still a great place to get your creativity flowing to come up with a great design. Libraries also have magazines and these can be an abundant resource for finding ideas.

Tattoo enthusiasts are great sources to get ideas for your design. If you are okay with talking to strangers, you can ask people you see about their tattoos and ask for ideas on yours. You can also talk to people you know, or people you meet in the tattoo parlour. Tell them ideas for your design and see what they think. They may be able to build on your idea.

It’s not hard to find free tattoo pictures and designs. You just have to do a little bit of searching and keep your mind open to absorb ideas that may come in the strangest of places!

Discover the best online tattoo pictures recommended by Ricky where you can choose, download and print over 6000 different tattoo designs. Click here for more information.


Tuesday, August 28, 2007

The Tattoo Encyclopedia :

A Guide to Choosing Your Tattoo

A unique illustrated reference on the origins and meanings of tattoo symbols that serves as a guide for choosing a personal image and provides a fascinating look at the tattoo as a work of art.

This catalog examines why people get tattoos and what images they choose.

After a history of skin art, Green, an archaeologist and UCLA research associate, launches into an alphabetical encyclopedia with a collection of common tattoo symbols under each letter. She offers an illustration of the symbols and describes the meaning and symbolism behind each. The book covers some 800 images, from acorn ("an ancient representation of life and birth") to Zuni fetish (a popular Native American symbol).

Tattoos continue to move into the mainstream and grow in popularity with each passing day. For people contemplating getting a tattoo, the choice of images can be overwhelming. This book sheds light on their historic, religious, and cultural significance.

Organized in a convenient A-to-Z format, cross-referenced, indexed by category, and illustrated with samples of authentic tattoo line art, this book features a stunning array of images. The definition of each symbol includes the widely accepted interpretation based on historical fact and cultural source, as well as various interpretations that have developed across different cultures and time periods.

Whether choosing a personally significant tattoo, wanting to learn more about a symbol, or simply being interested in tattoos as a form of art and body decoration, readers will discover the richness of tattoo culture in The Tattoo Encyclopedia.


http://www.tattoos-4u.info/Tattoo_Encyclopedia.html

How To Get Tattooed

So: You want to get tattooed. Great! This can be a rewarding and life-enriching experience... IF done right. Knowing HOW to get tattooed is key to being happy with this decision. I hope in the following paragraphs to help you, as a potential client, learn the skills necessary to get a good tattoo, one you can live with.

People get tattooed for a number of reasons -- some good, some not so good. Tattoos can be a scrapbook of a person's life. They tell us about the wearer's loves, hates, hopes, fears, accomplishments, and regrets. They can be purely decorative. They can tell where a person is from or where they want to be. . It may be done as a way of being different or rebellious, or fitting into a larger group identity.

Ideally, they are applied in an attractive way, by a knowledgeable artist, fitting the body and personality of the wearer, with an enduring personal significance and a timeless style that will not go out with the current trend. Tattoos of this type are seldom regretted and can be empowering points of pride for their owners. I don't know one person with a good quality, appropriately sized, and personally significant tattoo they wish they hadn't gotten.

For many, however, this is an impulsive act, one eventually regretted for that very reason. Often, not much thought is put into the design's significance or its overall effect on one's self-image. Too many times, tattoos are gotten because they are fashionable. The problem is, fashions change, and unlike other fashion accessories, you have to keep your tattoo.

This is why it's important to know HOW to get tattooed. For many, this is a daunting and confusing endeavor, especially the first time. After all, it's permanent. This idea alone can be nerve-racking enough. Most people never do anything permanent. Half of marriages nowadays are far less than that, and the idea of committing to an aesthetic seems far tougher than committing to a soul mate.

The first step is to know your self. What are you into? What do you hold dear? What do you desire? What do you believe? What types of imagery do you find pleasing, and what part of your body would you like to accentuate with a tattoo? These are good places to start.

Placement, scale, and flow, are paramount in importance. Good tattoos, in my opinion, should look like clothing or jewelry from a respectable viewing distance. A prime example is traditional Japanese tattooing. Another would be Pacific islander. Optimally, they should read well from across the street. If so, they will age well. Badgy, small, isolated tattoos look like melanomas and only get worse with time. These should be avoided.

Then you need to decide on the imagery. Good design reference can be found anywhere; the internet, library, magazines, comic books, greeting cards, even wallpaper. This part is subjective. Look for TYPES of imagery you like, not necessarily specific tattoo designs. A good tattooist can then help you develop a basic idea in a beautiful finished piece, but he or she needs direction from you.

Next you need to find that artist: the one who can do the mental math for you, adding up your expectations and ideas to give you exactly what you never knew you wanted. Word of mouth is invaluable. If you see a tattoo you like on someone, ask who did it. Look a tattoo magazines and on the internet to find out about local tattooists. Once you've found a few prospects and located their studios, take some time to visit them and view their studios and portfolios.

The portfolio is key. How artists present their work speaks volumes about them professionally. Look for HEALED pictures of quality work a style that speaks to you. Look for consistent line work, smooth shading, and solid color. A tattooist will most often put their favorite work in their book, so you can see what they prefer to do or specialize in. Do not bypass this step. If you neglect to look at a portfolio, you deserve what you get. If you ask and they say "Portfolio?" run like hell!

So there you are. You've brainstormed for weeks, gone into all the local tattoo shops, perused portfolios, chosen the "perfect" artist, AND decided on a design (WHEW!). Now you're ready to sign the waiver form and have your skin art dreams come true...right? Not just yet, there, Turbo! One very necessary part of the overall picture should be looked at before you should have ANY kind of invasive procedure done. It's always a good idea to look at the practices of your chosen artist to make sure that this isn't a decision you'll regret. If you'd be so kind as to read on, I'll tell you what you should know and look for to insure you're getting a safe tattoo.

First of all, let's discuss the risks inherent to this kind of procedure. Like any other activity that involves needles and blood, there is always the possibility of transmitting disease if proper standards are not met. Blood borne pathogens such as HIV and hepatitis are of greatest popular concern, with most people believing their biggest risk is "getting AIDS". In fact, HIV is hardly a concern in tattooing, mostly because of the sheer volume of blood that has to be transmitted to infect someone with the virus. HIV is also relatively weak and survives for only short time when exposed to the environment. Hepatitis, a desease that attacks the liver, is of a lot more concern, being a much heartier pathogen that requires a much smaller amount of body fluid transfer, though it should be mentioned that, according to the Centers for Disease Control, there has NEVER been a documented case of Hepatitis OR AIDS caused by a tattoo. However, there's always a first time for everything, and nobody wants to be it, so it's always a good idea to take universal precautions. Remember, too, that there are many other diseases out there that you can receive through contact with infected blood, such as tuberculosis. That's not all, though. We also have to take into account the plethora of different bacterial and fungal infections that that are just waiting for the opportunity to fester inside your brand new tattoo. So be careful...the hide you save could be your own.

The first step in this process is to ask about the studio's universal precautions...a set of practices used with each and every client to prevent infection and disease transmission (hence the term "universal"). Do they use new needles? Do they wear latex or comparable exam gloves while working? Do they use an acceptable hard surface disinfectant on all their tools and work surface in between tattoos after doing away with all disposable items (razor blades, ink, ink cups, Vaseline, plastic barriers, rubber bands, etc)? How do they sterilize their non-disposable equipment? These are the questions that you should have answered BEFORE getting tattooed or pierced...as well as any others that come to mind. Remember, it's YOUR health, and it's your responsibility. Do it for yourself as well as for your friends and loved ones. You don't want to end up an amputee Typhoid Mary, do you?

As far as sterilization goes, their are three commonly used methods... cold chemical, dry heat, and autoclave sterilization. An autoclave is a device that uses steam, heat, and pressure to kill all known microorganisms and the spores with which they reproduce and is the preferred method of sterilization, especially for equipment that has come into contact with possibly infectious body fluids. Chemical and dry heat sterilization are considered adequate for non-contaminated items (those that have not come into contact with body fluids) or items that cannot be sterilized in an autoclave, but aren't the most effective practices because the steam pressure of an autoclave (what these two methods lack) is what kills reproductive spores and gets into all the little nooks and crannies of the equipment. Autoclave sterilization takes place when clean, dry, individually packaged items are processed at 15 pounds per square inch and 250 degrees Fahrenheit for twenty minutes at temp and pressure (though this is the most common standard, these figures vary: more heat or pressure can decrease necessary exposure time).

The next thing you should try to do is watch the tattooist work. Usually this isn't a problem and most good tattooists will actually appreciate the fact that you care enough to ask. Things that you should look for include, "Is the work area clean, organized, and well lit", "Does he wash his hands between clients", "Does he refrain from touching things like doorknobs, lights, the telephone, or radio with dirty gloves?

Increased confidence can be had with an artist who also uses plastic barriers on their power supply, tattoo machines, spray bottles, and work surface, because they cut down on gross contamination with blood and ink, therefore making clean-up between clients easier and more thorough. Great care should be taken to prevent cross contamination, which occurs when possibly infectious material from one client comes in contact with a surface and the tattooist touches that surface while working on the next, thus "cross-contaminating" from one client to another. Keep in mind that the care the artist takes with his cleanliness is a good indication of the level of care he'll take in the execution of your tattoo. There's no such thing as a good, dirty, tattooist.

If you bear these things in mind and keep you eyes peeled, asking any and all questions that come to mind, you should be fully capable of deciding whether or not your decision to get tattooed will be a good one. There are few things in this world more satisfying than having a brand-new, beautiful tattoo... except not having to worry about getting sick from it. If you need any other reason to go through all this hassle, just close your eyes (I'm waiting...) and imagine an oozing, festering, two week old fungal infection in that same tattoo and the resulting scar that will be there once it FINALLY heals. All it takes is a little time and common sense to avoid making a decision you'll regret. Isn't it worth it to insure your health and that of your loved ones?



http://www.tattoos-4u.info/article1.html

Permanent Makeup

Tattoo-Like Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedure

Using a tattoo type procedure, consumers can alter their eyebrows and lips to have the appearance of common makeup products, such as eyeliner and lipstick.

Over the past 15 years, non-surgical cosmetic procedures have become a mainstay in America. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), over 5.3 million procedures of this type were performed in 2002.

Permanent makeup is still in the early stages of adoption, but is a growing segment within this industry. Permanent makeup has only been legal in Massachusetts since 2001 after the Supreme Court prohibited the abolition of tattooing. Today, people use this practice to revamp thinning eyebrows, brighten red lips or camouflage birthmarks.

One major company puts it like this:

"Inaara will offer eyebrow reshaping, eyeliner color enhancement and lip reshaping and coloring services performed by a trained and licensed medical and esthetic staff using state-of-the-art technology for cosmetic procedures. The medical attention follows the standards of the American Board of Plastic Surgery to protect against complications. As is the case with all of the company�s medical spa services, Inaara will deliver this permanent makeup practice within the tranquil setting of a day spa replete with aromatherapy, waterfalls and a fireplace as well as the requisite creature comforts such as massages and facials."

Now that's some major pampering!


http://www.tattoos-4u.info/article5.html

Saturday, August 25, 2007

Ankle Tattoos

Tattoos were once thought to only be for big and burly men. They’d have an image tattooed onto their forearm and often it would symbolize a major event or a special person within their lives.

Tattoos have changed a great deal since then but the general idea of placing a mark on your body in a permanent way is still very appealing to many people today.

A discreet place for a tattoo is on the ankle. Ankle tattoos are one of the most popular types of tattoos. Most ankle tattoos are small and the design can reflect a part of the personality of the person who has it.

Some common designs in ankle tattoos are a tribal symbol, a floral arrangement or an initial. An ankle tattoo can be small enough that it isn’t noticeable unless the person is very close. Many professional women choose this type of tattoo because it isn’t overbearing and at the same time it allows them to carry something personal on their bodies always.

Once you have decided on a design and coloring for your ankle tattoos you’ll want to visit a reputable establishment that does tattoos. Looking through the yellow pages is one route but if you know anyone who has a tattoo you should ask them about their experience. Quite often they’ll be happy to share with you and they may recommend a place for you to visit.

After deciding on a tattoo parlor you’ll want to discuss with the artist your concept. If you come there without a design in mind they will be able to show you a range of images that you can choose from. Most people prefer a smaller design for ankle tattoos and if the artist feels that yours is too large, they will work with you to bring it down to a scale that is more appropriate.

At this time they will also explain the procedure involved with receiving ankle tattoos. It does involve the use of needles and therefore most people find eating a light meal about an hour before their appointment preferable. This helps to keep the blood sugar levels up and if you are even a bit uncomfortable around needles this can be very important.

It’s very important to care for your ankle tattoos. Tattoos can become infected without proper care and this can occur on any part of your body.

When you first receive your ankle tattoos you’ll be given a list of instructions to follow. This includes the proper way to clean and care for the tattoo.

Avoiding sunlight is important within the first few days after your tattoo. This means you’ll want to keep your ankle covered if you spend a significant amount of time outside. This also helps to keep the colors of the tattoo vibrant for years to come.

Salt water or chlorinated water is also not advisable for an ankle tattoo. Therefore you’re wise to stay out of any pools or hot tub in the days immediately following your tattooing. The chemicals can alter the look of ankle tattoos and lead to bleeding of the colors. This means that the color will be altered and for anyone who has recently received a tattoo that can be disappointing.

Ankle tattoos are a fun way to try a tattoo. They are also a great way to express your individuality and unique sense of style.


http://www.a-zz.com/Article/Ankle-Tattoos/995