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Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Tattoo this!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Throughout history tattoos have been the ultimate expression of personal spirituality and individuality.
And, if done correctly, one of the most beautiful forms of art there is.
I have a slight obsession for tattoos and they’re I am very passionate about. It goes back to my elementary school years as I admired my best friend’s dad whose arms were covered with ink. Ever since then, much to my mother’s horror, I have wanted tattoos. I got my first at age 25, and I don’t plan on stopping with just one.
Of course, there are those, including Daddy Boortz, that have a negative outlook on tattoos. Granted, as with most things in life, there are a few rotten apples that ruin it for everyone. Many associate tattoos solely with prisoners, gangs, prostitutes and, well, trash.
The fact is that many extremely reputable people, including corporate executives, lawyers, salesmen, firemen, policemen and members of the military have tattoos.
Unfortuantely, regret is also a big part of getting a tattoo as well.
Last week, AJC writer Phil Kloer wrote about people who may or may not regret getting tattoos. For all those that answered “yes” could have easily avoided buyers remorse if they had just followed a few simple rules…
And you know how I love to share my rules.
Woody’s Rules for Tattoos
Don’t ask the artist if it is going to hurt. Nothing annoys tattoo artists more.
Truth is, depending upon your tolerance for pain, its really not that bad. This coming from someone who isn’t a very big fan for needles in the first place.
No names!
Nothing in tattooing has a higher probability ratio for a regret than does getting someone’s name tattooed on you. No boyfriends, girlfriends, husband, or wife’s name. Not even “Mom” or “Dad”. However, I “may” be breaking this rule someday. Not sure yet.
Be original and be absolute!
Make sure it’s a design you are absolutely sure about and don’t something that everyone else has. A perfect example would be the ever popular Celtic arm bands, or the “stock designs” for example. Tattoos are all about deep personal and spiritual expression and should be original and timeless.
Find a good artist!
The thing to remember here is, you get what you pay for. Take it from me that finding the right artist (the first go around) makes all the difference. Ask friends and acquaintances for references. Check out the artist’s portfolio to see if their quality and style fit you. More importantly make sure safety is their highest priority.
How do you feel about tattoos? What other advice or rules would you give to someone looking to get a tattoo?
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