Is It Just a Fad? 5 Current Tattoo Trends That Are Here to Stay
Tattoo Trends – 5 Current Tattoo Trends That Are Here to Stay
There have been some defining tattoo trends of 2018, but which ones are here to stay for the long haul? Find out here!
45 million people in the United States have tattoos.
Though most people have tattoos that are hidden by clothing, almost everyone gets a tattoo that is important to them.
But while many people go for tattoos that hold meaning to them, other people tend to follow tattoo trends. And like everything else, some fads seem to come and go.
In this blog post, we’ll talk about some of the trends of yore, and which trends have passed the test of time.
1. Watercolor Tattoos
These unique and bold tattoos burst onto the scene in 2016. They combine traditional artwork with the appearance of a watercolor painting.
At first, not every tattoo artist was necessarily comfortable with this type of design. It was new and some found it a little bit difficult to master. Therefore, they weren’t always willing to permanently put it on customer’s bodies.
But, now that the trend isn’t going anywhere, more and more artists have become comfortable with it. As such, more salons are offering it, and more people are getting it.
If you want something that’s a bit trendy, but still edgy enough to not be completely mainstream, this tattoo is perfect for you.
2. Minimalist Tattoos
The idea of minimalism has gained traction in the western world. And not surprisingly, it has spread to tattoos.
Minimalist tattoos are very small and are often hidden by clothing or shoes. They often represent something very important to the individual. Instead of, for example, a portrait of their child or an ornate drawing of the child’s name, they may get the child’s initials in tiny writing. Or, they may even just get one letter of the child’s name.
These designs are often not to serve as ornate decorations but to remind the wearer of a time, place or person.
3. Finger Tattoos
Alongside minimalist tattoos, finger tattoos have become a trend that hasn’t left. Many people will even get finger tattoos on the inside of their fingers so that they can’t be seen in their normal day-to-day life.
Like the minimalist tattoos, these tattoos are often very small and represent something important in the individual’s life. They may have a tiny design or a small set of letters or initials to remember a person or an event by.
Some people even have tattoos of a wedding band to represent their eternal commitment to someone. Some people see these as more permanent than a ring because it has literally been etched into their skin.
There may be people who wear their ring over their tattoo to hide it. Others will have the tattoo in lieu of the ring.
4. Full Sleeve Tattoos
So, we know minimalist tattoos are having their day, but the full sleeve still hasn’t gone anywhere. And there doesn’t seem to be any sign of it stopping.
A full sleeve tattoo is typically one that covers part of or all of the arm. It can cover just the forearm or just the upper part of the arm. Sometimes, it is a series of tattoos that represent something to the wearer. Other times, it evolves over time. It may start out as one tiny tattoo and become an entire sleeve.
Some tattoo wearers will plan their full sleeve like a mural. They may even work with a tattoo artist to do so.
If you’re planning to get a full sleeve, you should be aware that most people don’t get a full sleeve all at once. Instead, it is often done in stages.
Sometimes part of the arm is done first. Other times, they’ll do some of the outlining and add color and detail later. This is due to the amount of time it takes, as well as the amount of pain that you might be in getting a full sleeve.
5. Pocket Watches or Compasses
Antique looking pocket watches or compasses have become huge in the tattoo community lately. The pocket watches typically evoke a bygone era, and they’re especially popular with individuals who are obsessed with steampunk.
Compasses often have a similar look to them, with people choosing to have more antiquated looking ones than the more modern types you might find now.
These designs are typically customized in a way that is special to the wearer. The compass might point toward where they grew up, especially if they live far away from that area. Or, it could point to where their family lives. Other people may opt for religious significance, with it pointing to a specific country or region that is special or sacred to their people.
With pocket watches, individuals may choose a special time for them. This could be the time their child was born, the time of their own birth, or a set of numbers that means something to them.
Often times, compasses and pocket watches are paired with other designs to make them completely unique.
What Tattoo Trends Are Out?
Tattoos have been popular for long enough that there are already tattoo trends people have eschewed. While people will likely still get these designs, there are a few that are most definitely on the “out.”
These include zodiac signs, roses, portraits of children or celebrities and tribal designs or designs in other languages that have zero significance to the wearer.
If you’re thinking about getting a tattoo, make an appointment with us. We can talk about the design you’re thinking about and help you create a memorable piece of permanent art.
To learn more, contact us here.
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Everything You Need to Know About Glow in the Dark Tattoos
Glow in the Dark Tattoos – Everything You Need to Know
Have you been considering whether or not to buy into the trend of glow in the dark tattoos? We break down everything you need to know, including the good, the bad, and the questionable.
Every year, there are new fads and trends which become popular for a few months throughout the year. These inevitably die off before the strike of midnight. The trends of 2018 got a little weird. Anyone remember the male rompers?
While some trends such as the one named above are more for entertainment, other fads take off among Pinterest users and health-obsessors alike, such as the keto diet.
The popularity and acceptance of tattoos have raised drastically over the years. In fact, four out of ten U.S. adults aged 18 to 69 have at least one tattoo. This leads to the 2018 trend of glow in the dark tattoos.
If you’re considering getting a glow in the dark tattoo, continue reading. We have the facts and answer popular questions we know we’re wondering about. Read on!
What are Glow in the Dark Tattoos?
There are two types of glow in the dark tats – which make new or old pieces almost-invisible to the naked eye. The ink jobs typically contain bright, fluorescent colors which are invisible in daylight.
The tattoo ink used is an ultraviolet (UV) ink. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t contain the chemical compound phosphorus – the stuff used in glow sticks. This new UV ink doesn’t glow in the dark but instead becomes visible under black lights.
Two Types
There are two different types of UV ink used to create these neon tats. As mentioned earlier, they don’t have the capabilities to glow on their own unless put under a UV light or a blacklight.
Invisible UV Ink
Invisible UV ink isn’t visible to the naked eye. By itself, the skin may appear red or slightly raised until you put a black light over it. For a different look, you can get invisible UV ink under or over regular tattoos to give it a glowing effect.
This ink is made from fluorescent ink, but if made properly it doesn’t contain any phosphors or other toxic chemicals.
Colored UV Ink
The other type of UV ink is colored. These look like regular tattoos until you get under a UV light. The tattoo will start to glow, the colors turning to a more fluorescent palette.
To make these tattoos more striking and noticeable, people will often use them in combination with invisible UV ink.
Pros
We know some trends aren’t for everyone, but tattoo trends seem to have caught many people’s attention. Know the good and the bad about glow in the dark tattoos to make an informed decision about your newest ink addition.
Invisible UV inks are a good choice for those who have strict workplace guidelines on visible body art and piercings. Not only will these make you more professional in the workplace, but it makes a tattoo more impressive once it becomes visible with the pop of fluorescents and colors.
There are more than 45 million people who have tattoos in the United States. Due to this high statistic, it makes having a one-of-a-kind tattoo almost impossible. UV ink tattoos are rare and unique, helping you stand out or blend in.
Cons
Despite how beautiful and mesmerizing these inks are, they do have some drawbacks to consider before making your next appointment.
Another problem some tattoo enthusiasts have come across is a reputable tattoo shop which will do this kind of ink, or carries the right kind. The UV ink is harder to work with, and some artists are inexperienced with using this kind that they’ll overwork the area.
Though fading can happen in regular tattoos, especially after extreme sun exposure, fading is more likely to happen in UV tattoos. They have a short lifespan with regular touch-ups required at least every few years.
FAQ’s
Due to how young glow in the dark tattoos are there are still many questions about them. While we’ll have to wait and see about the long-term effects, we do have some answers to the most asked questions below.
Are Glow in the Dark Tattoos safe?
We mentioned earlier the above tattoo inks don’t use phosphorus, but there are many side effects to consider. While some tattoos are rejected by the wearer’s skin, these glow in the dark tats are rejected more frequently than typical ink.
In some cases, the skin becomes so irritated and uncomfortable the tattoo has to be removed altogether.
As of now, UV ink seems to be safe minus the side effects and allergic reactions recorded in some cases.
How Long Do They Last?
Glow in the dark tattoos should have the same lifespan as a regular tattoo, but, they do fade over time. As mentioned earlier, because this is a new trend the full effects of the UV ink are still unknown.
Are They FDA Approved?
The FDA continually researches the effects of regular tattoos and it is important to note that they have not officially approved UV ink or any tattoo ink.
Glow in the Dark Tattoos
It’s hard to tell whether the glow in the dark tattoo trend will continue to grow in popularity or if it will fade as others have in the past.
Until then, it’s important to learn as much information as possible about them before deciding on a permanent addition, whether you use UV ink or not.
Make sure to consider all the pros and cons before making your decision, and if you notice a skin reaction like the ones stated above, contact your tattoo artist immediately. For more information on tattoos or to make a consultation at one of our locations, contact us or visit our Henderson Tattoo Shop, Maui Tattoo shop or our Big Island Tattoo Shop
15 Timeless Wrist Tattoos You’ll Want to Show Off
15 Timeless Wrist Tattoos You’ll Want to Show Off
If you’re browsing ideas for wrist tattoos but you want something you’ll love decades down the road, our list of timeless ideas will help spur your imagination and find the perfect match. Take a look!
Are you looking for a classic but unique tattoo idea for your wrist? The wrist is an awesome spot for tattoos.
It’s important to choose a tattoo that has meaning for you. Luckily, there are some classic tattoo ideas that have many different meanings.
Choosing an idea for your wrist is a big decision. While it’s not as exposed as your shoulder, wrist tattoos are conversation-starters. Keep reading for 15 awesome wrist tattoo ideas.
1. Minimalist Astronomy
Astronomy is very trendy in the tattoo world. Stars, planets, and moons all create a mythical and dreamy vibe. Some people choose to get the moon in a specific lunar phase that is important to them.
They’re also usually quite small tattoos with little elaboration. This makes them great options for first-time inkers. Since the wrist is a smaller area, minimalist tattoos are ideal.
2. A Portrait
Everyone experiences loss at some point in their life. For many of us, we want to commemorate that lost loved one with a tattoo.
Portraits make awesome tributes to a lost friend or family member. The wrist makes for a smaller portrait with less detail, but still characteristic. Make sure you hire an artist with experience in realism and portraits.
3. Handwritten Script
There’s something so special about having your grandparent’s handwriting tattooed. It’s like they wrote it permanently on you.
It’s also popular to have children write something for a tattoo. Wrists are the perfect spot for handwritten script because they’re compact. The writing won’t overwhelm the space, but you can still look down and see it every day.
4. Botany and Flowers
Men and women love getting botanical and floral tattoos. For some, the type of plant has meaning to them. For others, they like the adornment created by floral patterns.
The most common flowers tattooed are roses, dandelions, and lotuses.
5. Mandala
The mandala is an ancient design in Hinduism and Buddhism. It represents cycles and the universe.
Even if you don’t follow a religion, mandalas make beautiful wrist tattoos. They adorn the wrist with a unique and exquisite pattern.
6. Jewelry
It’s quite common to get jewelry tattoos, especially for friendship bracelets. The artist can even make the bracelet look like its hanging on the wrist.
Many people choose to get jewelry tattooed on if they have strong metal allergies. Or, to remember a family heirloom.
7. Travel-themed
Millennials love their travel-themed tattoos. They represent freedom, exploration, and discovery. Plus, they can be specific to where you’ve traveled or important places to you.
Some common travel themed tattoos are compasses, world maps, and anchors. Anchors are especially popular with people who find meaning in the sea.
8. Words to Live By
Quotes are super popular all over the world. Phrases and certain words capture us and provide meaning. Tattooing them on our body helps us to remember that meaning every day.
Many quotes are from classic novels and songs. Others are common words that hold immense meaning, like “love” or “hope”.
9. Blackout Bands
Blackout tattoos are all the rage. While some may think they lack creativity, blacking out a section of your body can be very creative. Its lack of detail provides meaning to the wearer.
The wrist is a great spot for blackout band tattoos. Although it may be a bit more painful than others, it looks super cool.
10. Arrows
We all follow a direction in our lives, some forward and some to our roots. Arrows are excellent symbols to represent where we’re going.
Some get tattoos of arrows on their wrist to remember to keep moving forward. Or, to remember where they came from.
11. Family Coat of Arms
The family coat of arms is a common icon in many cultures. It’s usually passed down through generations and has a strong meaning. Tattooing the family shield on your body shows allegiance and loyalty.
The shield is a perfect shape for the wrist. Although the space is small, it’s a notable spot for a coat of arms.
12. Birds and Feathers
Birds can have varying meaning for tattoo enthusiasts. The species of bird also changes the meaning. And, for some people, bird tattoos look pretty and have no meaning.
Doves are the most popular bird to get tattooed. It represents love and faith. Cardinals and crows are also very popular. Feather tattoos are on the rise; they can represent the fragility of life.
13. Crosses and Religious Iconography
Religion is a huge part of human identity (if you subscribe to it). For many believers, getting a tattoo is a show of faith. It demonstrates your beliefs and reminds you of them each day.
Some people get crosses, saints, and other iconography. The meanings are as broad as the number of religions in the world.
14. Non-English Text
While English text is special, using the language of your background is even more. People who grow up speaking English can get a tattoo with their ancestors’ language.
Not only is the text itself symbolic, but the language chosen is symbolic. It represents your roots and heritage.
15. Coordinates
Is there a special place in the world where you experienced something magical? It could be where you got married, found enlightenment, or found freedom. Or, it could be your family home or the town you grew up in.
Coordinate tattoos are a way to remember that life-changing location and moment. The numbers of the coordinates won’t mean much to outsiders. But, people who know you and know the place will see the meaning in it.
Want More Ideas of Wrist Tattoos?
The wrist is a perfect spot to get a tattoo. While it’s not the biggest surface area, it isn’t the most painful spot either.
There are so many awesome and beautiful tattoos that fit perfectly on the wrist. From text to flowers to symbols, the options are endless.
You can learn more about tattoos on our blog and contact us if you have any questions.
To learn more, contact us here.
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Biomechanical Tattoo Designs and Their History
Biomechanical Tattoo Designs and Their History
Popularized in the late 1970s, the biomechanical tattoo style may be a relatively new one. But it still has quite the interesting history to offer. Learn more here!
Have you seen an intricately detailed tattoo which resembles something along the lines of half forearm, half machine?
This is known as a biomechanical tattoo. It’s one of the most identifiable, statement-making tattoo styles on the market today. It’s also one of the newest tattoo styles with a very unique history and background influence.
If you’re keen to learn more about this influential tattoo style, read on! We’ll outline everything you need to know in this post.
A Brief History of the Biomechanical Tattoo
Also known as a biomech tattoo, this style of tattoo artistry was actually born in an era where tattoo traditionalism was at its peak.
As you can imagine, this controversial style which combines the human form and mechanics truly made itself known. The style itself was both pioneered and popularized by two well-known tattoo artists of their time: Guy Aitchison and Aaron Cain.
However, the true history of biomechanical tattoo designs is credited to H.R. Giger, the architect of this organic meets mechanic style.
Both Aitchison and Cain’s tattoo style brought with it bold color and an element of luminescence. Conversely, Giger’s original style was described as devoid of color and highly concentrated on his signature airbrushing technique.
Over the past few decades, since the biomechanical trend took off in 1979, both Aitchison and Cain’s original biomech style has fluctuated in popularity.
The Birth of the Biomechanical Aesthetic
The year was 1979. The sci-fi/horror film genre was about to be forever changed with the birth of the cult classic film, Alien.
The artistic genius behind the forms in this graphic film was H.R Giger, the artist credited with developing the biomechanical aesthetic.
Essentially, biomech combines a greasy, visceral form with hard, metal-like structures. Put simply, it’s a combination of both organic matter and mechanics. This artistic style still carries some serious weight throughout the film, music, and art industries today.
As a painter and artist, Giger worked to create a medium that combined human forms with alien shapes and viscera. His work became massively popularized in the 1980s, thanks to his association with outsider art groups in the horror film and punk music scenes.
His signature biomech style was then cultivated into what it is today. We now know it as biomechanical tattoo designs, along with many other artistic variations.
What’s the Meaning Behind Biomech Tattoos?
Most people prefer to view their love for biomechanical design as a love for all things sci-fi and horror related.
Art is always open to interpretation. Therefore there could be any number of reasons a person chooses a biomech tattoo sleeve. It’s been said that many people choose biomechanical design as a representation of something ”dark” or ”alien” living inside them.
This could refer to dealing with inner demons or a dark past. The wearer may even be harboring some sort of ”alien” alter-ego that not many people know about.
This tattoo style has also become popular simply because of its intricate aesthetic that many people want to replicate.
Key Characteristics of Biomechanical Tattoos
Most commonly, biomechanical tattoos will be represented by the following characteristics:
- Torn flesh or an open, gaping wound on the tattoo wearer.
- This open wound usually reveals mechanical joints, tubes, and wires which replace muscle and bone.
- The tattoo may represent something mechanical, technical, or alien in nature.
- Most tattoos are designed to depict a sinewy appearance using bold color.
This being said, there are two subsets of this tattoo style present today. One subset tends to focus on the mechanical, technical side of biomech design. The other focuses on the alien, organic, visceral aspect.
4 Quickfire Tattoo Facts
How good is your tattoo knowledge? If you’re looking to brush up on a few interesting facts, keep on reading.
1. Tattoo Identification
Tattoos were once used as a simple form of identification by Native Americans and sailors. Due to the fact that many Native Americans were illiterate, they used pictures and tattoos as a way of signing their names.
Likewise, sailors who failed to keep track of identity documents would rely on tattoos to confirm their identity.
In 1936, the social security number was invented. This saw hoards of people having these numbers tattooed on their skin as a form of identification.
2. Thomas Edison Invented the Electric Pen
The electric pen was an incredible invention in the world of tattoo artistry. It was invented by none other Thomas Edison.
The electric pen went on to streamline the tattoo industry, making it quicker, cheaper and more accessible to everyone. Originally, the electric pen was invented to reproduce handwritten manuscripts.
Soon it evolved into the artistic tool it is today.
3. Tattoos Used to Be a Symbol of High-Class America
In 1862, the Prince of Wales visited Jerusalem and got a tattoo. This spurred on a similar trend amongst other European royals.
By the 1890s, the trend had made its way across the ocean to the shores of America. Much of high society was keen to join the trend.
In 1900, up to 75% of New York’s high-class socialites sported a tattoo design. It was a true sign of upper-class indulgences at the time!
4. The Macy’s Logo Is a Tattoo Design
The highly successful department store logo is none other than a simple tattoo design. It’s taken from the hand of Mr. R.H Macy himself.
As a teenager, he had the five-pointed red star tattooed on his hand when aboard a whaling ship in 1837. The star was meant to represent the American flag.
Later, it went on to be used as the popularized logo we know today.
Looking to Get Inked?
Are you going to be in the Las Vegas area and looking to get inked? Make your way to Skin Factory Tattoo & Body Piercing for expert artists.
At Skin Factory, we take pride in offering a truly personalized service. Whether you’re looking for a biomechanical tattoo or something simpler, our artists can do it all.
For a high-quality tattoo experience at affordable rates, we are your Las Vegas go-to! Take a look out our Vegas artistry work here.
15 Meaningful Tattoo Quotes
Tattoo Quotes – If you’re dreaming of a tattoo that is both beautiful and meaningful, you can’t go wrong with a quote. Use these 15 tattoo quotes for inspiration.
Whether you’re considering your first tattoo or your tenth, a tattoo is an important statement. Depending on its location, it’s a way for you to either publicly (or intimately!) share your values, beliefs, or personality quirks.
And not that we need to remind you, but a tattoo is also permanent. So whatever tattoo quotes you’re considering today also need to be considered when you’re sixty, eighty, or even a hundred years old.
Below, read about 15 meaningful tattoo quotes that will not only make a statement in your life now, but will still hold meaning in the years to come.
Tattoo Quotes for Motivation & Strength
Many tattoos are meant to inspire and encourage ourselves. Here are a few ideas.
Just Breathe
Paired with an image of a feather, leaf, or some other natural element, this is a powerful reminder to remain calm in stressful scenarios. The perfect ink for a high-stress or high-anxiety person. Place this tattoo in a highly-visible location, like the inner wrist.
Let It Go
For someone struggling with past demons – breakups, family crises, or just the day-to-day drama of life – this tattoo reminds us of what’s important now. This tattoo also works well in a visible location, or on the foot to remind oneself to always look forward, not backward.
One Day At A Time
Let’s face it: life’s hard. Every day feels hard for many of us. If you can’t look too far into the future for fear of giving up, this may be the perfect quote for you. If you can make it through today, you can make it through anything.
Affirmations: “You are strong enough to do hard things”
Affirmations are powerful statements (often spoken aloud) that remind us that we are good enough, strong enough, able enough, and loved enough. Why not make it a permanent reminder? Choose an affirmation that applies to your own struggles or insecurities.
In Memoriam
Looking for a tattoo to remind you of someone? Consider these unique ideas.
Date of birth and/or death of a loved one
In traditional date format or masculine roman numerals, this is a popular way to permanently trace the importance of someone into your own skin, and a constant reminder of the impact they had on your life.
Signature of the individual, or a phrase they wrote
If you can get a copy of someone’s signature (think old birthday cards or legal documents) consider having a tattoo artist trace the image. You may also consider a phrase they wrote, like “I love you” or “See you soon, my love.”
A “sound wave” of a recorded phrase or song
This has gained popularity in recent years as a creative replacement for an actual quote. Instead, the pitch and volume of a recorded phrase is visualized.
Spiritual & Religious Quotes
Some people desire tattoos that remind them of a larger force at work in their lives. A few ideas include:
Bible verses
Many tattoo quotes reference Bible verses that are meaningful to a person. For inspiration, glance through the Psalms or Proverbs. Some people also use meaningful Bible verses from an important event, like readings at a wedding.
Quotes by spiritual leaders or writers
Spiritual quotes don’t need to come from a religious text. Your favorite authors or leaders may also be considered. A hopeful quote from C.S. Lewis is, “Has this world been so kind to you that you should leave with regret? There are better things ahead than any we leave behind.”
Connection with Others (Spouse or Friends)
Friends and significant others hold a special place in our hearts. Keep them close with these tattoo ideas.
Two hearts, one soul
Consider placing this quote alongside a pair of hearts with ivy wrapping them together, or another object meaningful to your relationship. You can even place them on the same location of your bodies. Consider a secret or intimate location, like the pelvic bone, for something that remains just between you.
Wedding date
A wedding or anniversary date is one of the more popular tattoo quotes. It makes sense, as this is often remembered as one of the best days of our lives! This is one of the shorter tattoo quotes, so it would work well on an ankle, wrist, or collarbone.
Love poems
There’s no shortage of sweet love poems from which to draw inspiration, like E. E. Cummings’ i carry your heart with me(i carry it in my heart). Since poems may be a bit longer, these tattoo quotes will need more space, like on the back or ribcage.
Creative & Unique Quote Ideas
Want to think outside the box? Look no further.
Longitude & latitude of a meaningful place
For a creative spin on the location of an important event – like where you grew up or met your spouse – consider looking up the longitude and latitude of the location. This can make an attractive tattoo with a combination of numbers and letters, perfect for the shoulder, ribcage, or wrist.
Tattoo quotes in another language
Why not consider getting inked in another language? Latin has an air of mystery about it, or consider a language of your heritage. One popular option is “la vie est belle,” translated in English to “life is beautiful.”
A favorite movie or book quote
Movie and book quotes are all the rage in the land of tattoo quotes. These can be inspirational and encouraging, like the famous line from Dumbledore in Harry Potter: “It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.”
A Great Tattoo Quote Can Add Meaning to Your Life
There’s no doubt about it: choosing from one of the meaningful tattoo quotes listed above can add a creative, inspiration spin to your collection of ink. It’s key to choose a quote that will be relevant for the entirety of your life, so give this decision plenty of thought.
For more tattoo ideas and other inspiration, check out our blog. We can help you choose the perfect ink to fit your personality and values, and create a permanent reminder of the people and things that are most important to you.
