The Third Eye and Other Cool Symbolism

Want to know more about the creative ink that we put on our guests’ bodies?

You can see a lot of the stuff in the visual gallery, but there's also a sort of philosophy behind what many people choose for their tattoo designs that can be interesting to talk about, especially if you are one of those many people casting around for new ink ideas. 

Today we'll talk about one of the popular ones we have seen lately, which is composed of the human eye…

The Third Eye

Some people associate a single human eye with the motto “e pluribus unum” on the one dollar bill. But others see it as the representation of a chakra or energy in the body that can be unlocked with the right transcendental focus!

So when you see this Cyclopean design amid other lines and symbols, you know that that's what you're dealing with.

There's also the Egyptian eye of Horus, which is typically used in creative projects including old record album covers and more. Here’s how the Eye of Horus is described over at Egypt Connection:

“The Eye of Horus, which is also known as the “Wadjet” … is also linked with the gods and their rule over the world. Wadjet was also the deity and protector of lower Egypt. It is for this reason, the ancient Egyptians made amulets out of the magical Horus Eye symbol and used the piece of jewelry for both the living and the dead.”

So what else do people get with this kind of ink? 

Sun, Moon and Stars

Some people combine the third eye or individual eye design with a crescent moon or stars, or some other celestial imagery.

This goes back to the combination of astrology and astronomy and how they contribute to human development.

Numbers

There is no denying that numbers have particular significance for us.

When someone etches one or more digits on their skin, they’re usually pointing to some kind of esoteric meaning that is important to their lives.

For exactly what that is, you’d have to ask them.

Character Work

Characters can be introduced by name or by face. Or if you have a hankering for more detailed design, you can put a name with a face

The old tattoo trope was to have the word “mom” with a heart around it.

But in modern-day tattoo design, people are choosing different kinds of mythology and made-up characters to wear “on their sleeves” if you will.

Come down to Grape Ape Tattoo for tattoo work that's informed by creative cinematic discipline and more!

Good Reasons to Get a New Tattoo

Over the past few decades, the overall attitude about tattoos has definitely changed. In the past, tattoos were seen by many as a sign that a person was immoral. In modern times, tattoos have become the main avenue people use to express their creativity. If you’ve had a great first tattoo experience, then chances are you want to continue the process of adorning your body with art. 

Every year, adults in the United States spend over $1.65 billion on tattoos. Are you looking for a reason to book an appointment with your favorite tattoo artist? If so, here are some good reasons to get a tattoo. 

Commemorate Major Life Changes

Some people fail to realize that tattoos can be used for a variety of different purposes. While there are a number of people who get a tattoo just because it looks cool, many people choose to get new body art that has a deeper meaning. One of the main signs that it is time to schedule a tattoo appointment is that you have recently experienced major life changes. 

These changes usually include things like:

• The birth of a child

• Marriage

• The death of a loved one

• Overcoming serious health problems

• Divorce

Instead of letting the memories from these life-changing events fade as time goes by, you need to create a permanent record of them. This is why working with an experienced tattoo artist to commemorate your major life changes with the help of new body art is a must. A trusted tattoo artist can help you devise a design that is both tasteful and appealing. 

You Want To Add To Your Tattoo Sleeve

If you are serious about adorning your body with great tattoos, then chances are you have a sleeve in progress. For tattoo enthusiasts, a sleeve is the ultimate expression of their love of body art and that tattoo culture. A sleeve will remain a work in progress for most people. Ideally, you want to add to your sleeve when you get some extra money or you come up with an idea for the piece. 

Ensuring that your sleeve has a cohesive and eye-catching design should be a top priority. This is why you need to insist on using experienced tattoo artists. At Grape Ape Tattoo, we can help you bring your sleeve ideas to life. 

The Desire to Cover Up an Old Tattoo

Allowing price alone to dictate which tattoo shop you use can be disastrous. In most cases, cheaper tattoos will be both unappealing and lackluster. If you have recently gotten a tattoo that you are embarrassed of, you need to do something about it. 

The best way to remove tattoo mistakes of the past is by getting it covered up. The talented artists that work at Grape Ape Tattoo will be able to cover up your tattoo with ease. 

Instead of depriving yourself of new body art, it is time to schedule an appointment with Grape Ape Tattoo. 

Is It Safe to Get Tattooed While Pregnant?

Pregnancy is a special time. Many women want to memorialize the special time by doing something special, like getting a tattoo. However, before booking your appointment, there are a few things you need to consider. 

First, you must talk to your doctor. This should be your first step. Remember, a tattoo is an open wound while it heals. Because of this, it is susceptible to infection, which can impact you and your baby. If your doctor gives you the green light, there are a few more steps to take. 

Find a Reputable Tattoo Artist 

There could be some studios that may not care too much about the safety of their clients. Because of this, it’s a good idea to find a reputable studio that ensures a hygienic environment. Finding a shop that uses medical-grade hygiene protocol is best. 

Choose the Placement of the Tattoo Carefully

When you are pregnant, your body will undergo a lot of changes. Because of this, you need to ensure that if you are getting a tattoo, you find the best possible and safest placement for it. For example, having a tattoo on your ribs isn’t the best option. This part of your body will change a lot during your pregnancy, so you need to research what part of your body is less likely to stretch. This is probably the best location for your tattoo. Some good options include the wrists and forearms. 

Don’t Get a Tattoo if It’s Your First One

If you are new to tattoos, when you are pregnant isn’t a good time to experiment with your body. If you have gotten tattoos in the past, then you probably have a good idea about how the tattoo will affect you. 

In most cases, if this is going to be your first tattoo, it’s best to wait until after you have your baby. This will ensure that you don’t have to deal with infections, medications that are needed if you get an infection, and other things that can potentially harm your unborn child. 

Ask About the Ingredients in the Ink 

Make sure you do plenty of research about the ingredients in the ink being used. There are some inks that may be harmful to your body. You can ask the tattoo artist about this to ensure that you know exactly what is being used. Remember, any quality tattoo studio and artist will be completely transparent. If they aren’t, this is a red flag and a sign you should go elsewhere. 

Getting a Tattoo While You Are Pregnant

While you may be able to get a tattoo while you are pregnant, you need to make sure you take the right safety steps first. Talking to your doctor and finding a hygienic tattoo studio are two tips that you can’t overlook. Being informed is the best way to keep yourself and your baby safe while you get a new tattoo.

Something You've Never Seen Before

In this age of modern tattoo designs, we’re seeing a lot more diversity in what people want on their sleeves, or elsewhere on their bodies.

There's kind of an old-school approximation of what people used to get inked decades ago – sailor anchors, and ‘mother’ with a heart, and Semper Fi and all that…

A lot of younger visitors representing a new generation of tattoo types often like to get things that you would never think that someone would have etched on their bodies!

Cool Critters

For example, some of the biggest tattoo designs from the 1950s involved the Eagle as an enduring icon of American life.

But just last week, we inked a fellow with something that looked like a cross between a hedgehog and some kind of imaginary slime creature from a role-playing game.

That's just part of the job.

Also, when you have a tattoo shop that can help you with these innovative and esoteric designs, you get a better result in general.

Script and Scrolling

Then there are all those types of new calligraphy and band-type tattoo work that people enjoy. 

Some tattoo designers have really innovated here, to beyond the barbed wire and Celtic weave that so symbolize the 1990s.

Now, you're likely to see a lot of Asian-looking script, and Hebrew or Sanskrit, as well as some types of tattoos that aren't really a real language at all. Enterprising artists and imaginative people sit down at the drawing board and take aspects of these age-old language scripts, and make them into something new that's more decorative than message-based.

Ironic Tattoos

We've also moved from a generation of sincerely expressive tattoos into the age of irony.

It used to be that the pain and the money of tattoo work often ensured that somebody was getting something stamped on their body that they really believed in deeply, and there wasn't a whole lot of subterfuge to it. Hence the Eagle, and the heart that says ‘mother,’ and everything else like that.

Today, you're just as likely to draw a Homer Simpson head on somebody's shoulder, or lay some kind of meme stock across an expanse of flesh ready for the tattoo needle.

All of this takes some pivoting and accommodation by the best tattoo shops around. If you've already read some of the blog and looked around the website, you know that we are a top location for getting ink done in Tucson, Arizona. But it's worth thinking about these new trends, too, when you're trying to design what's absolutely right for your skin!

Great Tips For Designing a Unique and Appealing Tattoo Sleeve

Creative people love expressing themselves in a variety of different ways. New tattoos are the chosen form of creative expression for millions of Americans. On average, consumers in the United States spend over $1.6 billion on tattoos every year. If you really want to showcase your love of tattoos, then getting a sleeve is a great idea. 

A sleeve is defined as a series of smaller tattoos that wrap around a person’s arm or leg. If you are ready to start designing your tattoo sleeve, consider the great tips mentioned below. 

Choosing the Place of Your Sleeve Tattoos

The first thing you need to figure out when trying to design a sleeve is where you want this series of tattoos placed. Most people opt for the arm when trying to bring their vision for the perfect sleeve tattoo to life. If you want to use your arm as the palette for this design, you need to choose the right spots on this part of your body. Generally, the inside/outside of your forearm, the outer arm and the inside of the bicep are ideal spots for a sleeve tattoo. 

While you don’t necessarily have to use the common areas, they are the most visible. The last thing you want is for bad tattoo placement to obscure the view of an awesome tattoo. If you aren’t sure about where to put your new sleeve tattoos, you need to consult with an experienced tattoo artist. With their assistance, you can choose the right placement for your new body art. 

Do You Want Your Sleeve Design To Have a Theme?

A tattoo sleeve can either be one fluid composition or a collection of different tattoos. Before you book an appointment with your favorite tattoo artist, you need to figure out whether you want your sleeve to be themed. Many tattoo enthusiasts suggest choosing a theme to ensure your sleeve tattoo hits it mark. 

However, if you want to have more freedom over your body art, a collection of mismatched tattoos might be a good idea. Even if you choose to go with a sleeve design that isn’t themed, you need to either stick to color or black and white designs. Trying to mix and match color and black and white tattoos can create a muddled sleeve composition. 

Avoid Putting Too Many Elements Into Your Sleeve Tattoo Design

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make when developing a sleeve tattoo design is incorporating too many elements. If your sleeve design is too busy, you will have a hard time making it appealing. This is why you need to abide by the “less is better” philosophy as it relates to your sleeve design. Visiting your favorite tattoo artist with a few sleeve design ideas is a good idea. With their assistance, you can figure out a way to incorporate your ideas into a cohesive and appealing sleeve tattoo design. 

Are you ready to bring your sleeve tattoo design vision to life? If so, Grape Ape Tattoo is here to help.

Black Or Colorful Tattoo, How To Choose

Tattoos are personal forms of body art that are personal reflections of an individual's life and style. When it comes to getting a tattoo, there are typically two types of people, those who know exactly what they want and others who have ideas but haven't settled on a definitive outcome. If you are the latter, your hesitation in deciding on artwork for your tattoo may be holding you back from getting your tattoo altogether. 

A successful tattoo experience does require some initial thought, and it is crucial to get it right the first time. Determining what you want your tattoo to be, where it should be placed on your body, and its size are all critical decisions to make with your professional tattoo artist. This article will focus on one of the primary considerations for your tattoo, whether it should be in black or full color. 

Consider The Tone Of Your Skin

Your skin tone is a significant component in deciding whether to get a color or black tattoo. Black ink shows up on all skin tones, as do darker colors like navy and dark greens. However, lighter colors like yellows and pinks can be challenging to see on darker skin tones. A basic rule is that the darker the skin, the darker the ink should be visible. Your tattoo artist should be able to assist you in making the best color choices for your skin tone. 

Remember, Your Tattoo Should Reflect Your Style

Something to remember when choosing the color of your tattoo is to stay true to yourself. Tattoos are an ultimate form of self-expression, and the color creativity involved in your artwork should complement your personality and not overpower it. If you are comfortable with lots of bright colors and patterns in your clothing, then a colorful tattoo may suit you, whereas some personalities may be less inclined to wear color on their skin forever. 

A Tattoo Is Artwork

When you've chosen the design for your tattoo, you most likely will know whether it should be in color or black ink. Some designs lend themselves to specific colors, while others look best in black and shades of grey. Think of your tattoo as if it were a painting; do you see it in full color or black and white? Even though all tattoos can ultimately be either way, how you envision your tattoo's look will help you determine its color.

The Take-Away

When you are ready to get your first or next tattoo, talk over your ideas with your professional tattoo artist, who will help you make the best decisions for your design, size, placement, and color. 

How To Make An Old Tattoo Look New Again

Finding new and exciting ways to express creativity is something most people are passionate about. If you want to put your creative personality on display for all to see, then investing in a quality tattoo is a good idea. Getting your first tattoo is an experience you will remember for the rest of your life. 

Nearly 35% of the adults in the United States have at least one tattoo. The older a tattoo gets, the higher the risk becomes of it looking faded. If you are tired of your once pristine tattoo looking old and faded, it is time to do something about it. Here are some things you can do to make your old tattoo look new again. 

Invest in a Professional Touch-Up

One of the most effective ways to make your older tattoo look new is by investing in a professional touch-u. This process involves an experienced tattoo artist going back over your existing body art with fresh ink. They can also add more intricacies to the existing tattoo, which can make it more appealing. Going in and meeting with a tattoo artist is the best way to figure out what touch-up capabilities they have. 

During this meeting, be sure to ask about color rejuvenations. Tattoos that feature lots of colors tend to fade faster than traditional black tattoos. Restoring the vibrancy to these types of tattoos will require a professional color rejuvenation. Before you choose a particular artist to perform this touch-up or rejuvenation, be sure to ask for pictures of similar work they have done in the past. With these pictures, you can figure out whether the artist in question is the best fit. 

Tattoo Exfoliation is Effective

Did you realize that dead skin cells can make your tattoos look less vibrant? If you want to remove these skin cells, then you need to invest in a good exfoliator. By scrubbing your tattoo with this exfoliator, you can remove dead skin cells. Ideally, you want to perform this exfoliation a few times a week. Once you are out of the shower, you need to apply some lotion to rehydrate and moisturize your skin. Consulting with a tattoo artist is a great way to figure out which exfoliators and lotions are the best options. 

Is a Cover-Up Tattoo a Good Option? 

There are some tattoos that are just so faded that they can’t be rejuvenated. In situations like this, a cover-up tattoo is the best way to address your body art problems. With the help of a reputable tattoo artist, you can get a cover-up design that you love. By covering up your old and faded tattoo, you don’t have to worry about it continuing to be an eyesore. Paying for a quality cover-up tattoo also allows you to show your body art off with confidence. 

If you are unsure about what to do with your faded tattoo, it is time to schedule a meeting with the team at Grape Ape Tattoo. We can offer you information on what we can do to help you rejuvenate your existing tattoo.

Things To Keep In Mind Before Getting a Cover-Up Tattoo

Getting your first tattoo can be a very stressful and exciting experience. As time goes by, the tattoos you have gotten in the past might start to lose their luster. A recent study found that nearly 12% of the people with tattoos in the United States regretted at least one of their pieces of body art. In the past, a person had to just live with a bad or outdated tattoo. 

However, as time and technology have developed, the options for covering up an unwanted tattoo have advanced. One of the best ways to remove unwanted body art is by investing in a cover-up tattoo. Are you thinking about getting a cover-up tattoo? If so, consider the factors mentioned in this article. 

What is Motivating You To Get a Cover-Up Tattoo?

Before you go out in search of a cover-up tattoo, you need to iron out the factors motivating this decision. There are a number of reasons why people seek out cover-up tattoos. A few of the most common reasons for cover-up tattoos are:

• The tattoo is too offensive

• The original tattoo is poorly done

• A constant reminder of past trauma

• The tattoo is faded or damaged

You need to realize that getting a cover-up tattoo is a very important decision. This is why you need to make sure that you want to eliminate the original tattoo design from your body before proceeding with the cover-up process. 

Bigger Cover-Up Tattoos Are Better

Once you make the decision to get a cover-up tattoo, you need to think about the design you want to use. The average cover-up tattoo design acts as an optical illusion. Ideally, you want to make your cover-up tattoo up to three times bigger than the original piece. By giving the tattoo artist plenty of room to work, you can get the best possible results. 

Going in and allowing a few different tattoo artists to draw potential cover-up designs is a good idea. By getting a few different designs, you can easily choose which one is the best fit for your needs. Finding a tattoo artist that has performed many cover up designs in the past is a great way to ensure the right results are achieved. 

Incorporate Color Into Your Cover-Up Tattoo Design

One of the biggest mistakes people make when getting a cover-up tattoo is only using black and gray. In reality, using more color in the cover-up tattoo can make it look better. By adding more color, you can create a cover-up tattoo design with depth. If you are working with an experienced tattoo artist, you will probably receive some guidance regarding which colors to use in the cover-up. 

Instead of living with a tattoo design you aren’t happy with, you need to make some changes. With the advice in this article, you can choose a cover-up tattoo design.

Placement Tips For Your First Tattoo

Getting your first tattoo is an exciting endeavor and one that has lifelong implications. Choosing a highly skilled tattoo artist is only one part of getting your first tattoo; the other is determining the correct placement for the artwork. Nothing is worse than having a unique tattoo in the wrong place on your body, and the last thing you want is to have an adverse reaction to something that will be on your skin forever.

Experienced tattoo artists can help you with placement decisions in your initial consultation, but let’s look at some placement tips to consider when you are finalizing your plans for your first tattoo.

Visibility Of The Tattoo

Before you get your ink, take some time to think about how visible you want the artwork to be on your body. This means considering whether you want a tattoo that is easily visible to others or one that remains primarily hidden. Think about your culture, career, and lifestyle when making your first tattoo placement decision, as this is something that will be with you forever.

The Size Of Your First Tattoo

When it comes to tattoos, size matters, the size of your tattoo design should be proportional to where you want it to be placed on your body. For instance, a highly detailed large tattoo should be placed on more prominent parts of your body, such as the back, ribs, chest, thighs, etc. And, in contrast, smaller, more simple tattoo designs work better on the neck, arms, ankles, and more delicate areas of your body.

Your tattoo artist can help you adjust the design to fit an appropriate space on your body if needed, but you must keep proportion in mind to achieve optimum results.

Your Tattoo’s Meaning

Most of the time, people’s first tattoo has significant meaning to them, which has prompted them to take the plunge. The intention behind your first tattoo will also help you to choose its placement.

For example, memorial tattoos should be placed on your upper body or near your heart to reflect their significance in meaning. Alternatively, meaningful tattoos are also something you want to see and remember, which means placing them on your wrists, ankles, and other prominent body parts are recommended.

Professional Consultation With Your Tattoo Artist

While you may have put a lot of thought into the design and placement of your first tattoo, a consultation with your tattoo artist is a must. Trust your tattoo artist to help guide you to creating a work of art that you will be proud of for years to come.

It’s Your Body, Pick The Right Tattoo Artist For It

Whether it’s your first tattoo or you’re filling in that last ink-less spot on your body, choosing the right tattoo artist is vital to your satisfaction with the finished product. Choosing the best tattoo artist that checks all your boxes can be easier said than done; however, there are some things you can look for that will help you make the right choice. 

Tattoos are personal and permanent reminders of who we once were, who we are, and who we hope to become. Unless you consider the costs and pain associated with tattoo removal, you should consider your decision to get a tattoo a permanent one. We all hear of wild nights in exotic lands where folks woke up with a crazy tattoo as a memento of their questionable choices, but unless that’s your deal, it’s best to make some conscious choices about who inks what on your body. 

While we can’t be responsible for the tattoo design you aspire to get, here are the main things to consider when choosing the best tattoo artist for you.

Tattoo Artist’s Specialty

Tattoo artists are like many other types of artists in that they tend to specialize in a specific style of tattooing. While most tattoo artists are well versed in various tattoo styles and genres, they will typically consider one their specialty. Narrow down your search by looking for artists who specialize in the type of tattoo you aim to get and look carefully at their historical records of work. 

An artist’s tattoo specialty will quickly pair down your choices. Picking someone who is not confident in the tattoo style you seek could end in disaster. 

Tattoo Artist’s Hygiene

Tattoo shops are regulated by the Department of Health and must abide by specific health and safety standards to maintain licensing. These safeguards are in place to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved in the tattooing process. Check the tattoo studio for cleanliness and adherence to health and medical codes. Look specifically for sterilization of equipment, biohazard disposal, and personal protection devices worn by the tattoo artist. 

Tattoo Artist’s Reputation

Like any other specialized profession, a good reputation goes a long way. Talk to people in your local community and circle of friends about the tattoo artists and ask for recommendations. The right tattoo artist will listen to you, consult with you on their thoughts and ideas, provide the cost of your design up front, and work with you to achieve successful results. 

Most tattoo artists will have social media accounts or other online platforms where you can connect with them before setting up in-person meetings. Remember, due diligence on your part before scheduling your tattoo appointment will ensure you have an incredible experience getting your next tattoo. 

Things To Consider Before Getting a Memorial Tattoo

Over 30% of American adults have at least one tattoo. Finding the right design should be a top concern if you are ready to get your first tattoo or want to add to your existing body art. For most people, finding a tattoo design that has deep meaning is a priority. If you have recently lost a loved one and want to do something special to preserve their memory, then getting a memorial tattoo is a good idea. 

These tattoos will serve as a constant reminder of a person who you have lost. Are you trying to figure out how to approach the memorial tattoo design process? If so, here are some tips to help you out. 

Make Your Memorial Tattoo Design Personal

As you start to research memorial tattoo designs, you will notice several common motifs. Memorial tattoos commonly feature things like:

• A dead loved one’s nickname

• Religious iconography

• Hearts/Hands

• Banners with birth/death dates

While incorporating some of these common features is acceptable, you need to focus on making your tattoo design personal. The first step in making your memorial tattoo personal is choosing a specific point in a person’s life that sticks out in your memory. Choosing a specific time in a person’s life helps you control the narrative of how you want to remember them. Drawing on your own memories of a recently departed loved one or friend is a great way to make this tattoo design more special. 

Choose the Right Tattoo Artist To Bring Your Design To Life

If you have decided to memorialize someone special by getting a portrait tattoo on your body, you need the right artist to help you bring this design to life. You need to realize that portrait tattoos are very complex and intricate pieces. This is why you need to take your time when choosing a tattoo artist to work with. 

Before hiring a tattoo artist, you need to look at their portfolio. Looking at the portrait pieces, a tattoo artist has done in the past will give you an idea of what they are capable of. With some time and effort, you can find the right artist to help you memorialize your friend or family member. 

Bring the Right Information to the Table

When including information like a person’s name, birthday or favorite quote in your tattoo design, you have to make sure it is accurate. The last thing you want is to bring the wrong information to the table due to the long-term problems this can cause. It is crucial to check and recheck the spelling of a person’s name or the wording used in their favorite quote. By doing this, you can make sure your memorial tattoo accurately depicts the person you have lost. 

Properly designing your memorial tattoo is not easy. With the help of the team at Grape Ape Tattoo, you design a tattoo you will cherish for years to come. Regardless of your ideas for this tattoo design, our artists can help you bring them to life.

How To Choose a Tattoo Design You Won’t Regret

So, you’ve decided to get a tattoo? First off, congratulations on making the decision to express yourself with body art. The first step in this process is choosing the right tattoo shop. There are roughly 21,000 tattoo shops in the United States. Taking the time to look at the work a shop has done in the past is crucial when trying to narrow down the selection of establishments at your disposal.

For years, Grape Ape Tattoo has provided quality body art and great prices to the residents of Tucson, AZ and the surrounding areas. As any of our tattoo artists will tell you, choosing a great design is not as easy as it sounds. Most people want a tattoo that they will treasure forever. However, you’ be surprised to learn just how many people regret getting a certain design for a variety of different reasons.

If you want to choose a great tattoo design that you won’t regret in the future, consider the helpful tips below.

Choosing a Location That Isn’t Prone to Blurring and Fading

The main thing you need to figure out when getting a new tattoo is the location. The human body is a blank canvas and filling it with unique tattoos is a great idea. However, you need to be aware that certain parts of the body allow tattoos to blur and fade over time.

Perhaps the most problematic part of the body as it relates to tattoos are the fingers. In most cases, tattoos on fingers will fade and blur over time. This can damage the appeal that your body art has, which is why you need to think twice before choosing this location.

Small and Intricate Tattoo Designs Might Not Hold Up Over Time

In the past few years, there has been a trend in the tattoo industry of people getting very small and ornate tattoos. Having a very small tattoo with lots of intricate details can lose their definition over time. This is especially true of smaller tattoos that feature all colored ink and no black ink.

These smaller designs blend into the skin over time, which will make them lose their definition. By making your tattoo a bit bigger and including plenty of black ink, you can avoid this problem.

Take In References for The Design You Want

Most people have very specific ideas for what they want their tattoo to look like. If you have no visual aides to show your tattoo artist, ironing out these details of this design can be difficult. This is why you need to look online to find a few designs you like. By taking in pictures of these designs, you can give your tattoo artist a firsthand look at what you like. With this information, they can help you craft a tattoo design that you will love forever.

By taking the advice in this article, you can avoid getting a tattoo that you regret in the future.

Tattoos For Self-expression

In recent years, tattoos have become increasingly popular. Artists have found a niche in creating intricate tattoos taking meticulous care of safe practices. There was a time when tattoos were considered a rebellious action desired by teenagers and young adults. But, it is no longer restricted to a particular age group. Now, it is more of a personal statement. 

It is an urge to express a heartfelt thought or feeling to define the personality. It is a reminder of past glory or events in their lives. It is an announcement to the world that they love, they have feelings and emotions, and they are proud to decorate their skin with trivial or meaningful messages.

The Design Element

Tattoos don’t need to stick to a specific design. They can be abstract shapes, geometric shapes, 3D, words in any language, portraits, and more. What is important is the skill of the tattoo artist. An ideal tattoo parlor would be able to understand what the client wants and serve them accordingly. 

They may also be able to redirect your request if they feel that you are amenable to suggestions or recommendations. As long as the design is flawlessly executed and expresses what the client wishes, you are in the hands of the right artist. 

The Tattoo Equipment

Before going in for a tattoo, you will want to ensure that the tattoo parlor is safety and quality conscious. It is best to realize that needles are going to be used and learn how to avoid infections. You may also want to make sure that you have no skin allergies that may worsen because of the ink. 

Needles, tubes, ink, stencils, and cartridges are all essential tools for tattoos. The equipment also includes grips for a steady hand. Without a good tattoo machine, a tattoo artist cannot perform their artistry. Therefore, a sound machine is an essential requirement. 

The Tattoo Experience

Getting a tattoo for the first time can feel adventurous and yet, be a little scary. The permanency of a tattoo can also be daunting. After all, you may have to live with it forever or get it removed at extra cost later. Therefore, finding the right tattoo parlor is essential. For the first-timer, having a consultation before getting the tools ready would be reassuring. 

An experienced tattoo artist would know how to alleviate your concerns and give you all the information you need before bringing out the needles and ink. It is quite common that after the first one is done, one tends to go for a few more tattoos if the first experience is good.

Above all, be sure that you want to get a tattoo and be clear on what you want it to represent. Then, find the parlor that offers skill and experience, as well as an ear to listen to what you need. 

Spines, Spears and Spokes

What do a hedgehog and a morningstar have in common?

If you are stumped, we’ll go ahead and tell you – each of these items has specific kinds of shapes that take some skill and technique to render in two dimensions, not to mention on the glorious canvas of the human frame.

Let's step back a bit. On this blog, we have talked about a lot of design elements, because at Grape Ape Tattoo, there's an art to what we do. Ink is a very artistic business – it's not just the same humdrum thing over and over again and accepting money for services rendered. It's a very unique contract between an artist and a customer, very much like some of these non-fungible tokens we've been hearing about attached to digital artworks.

So back to today's design topic – what about when you have these geometric shapes, these quills or spikes or revolving spokes around a wheel hub of a car or bike, or what have you? What’s important in this kind of job, to really deliver a higher standard?

Spacing

One of the artistic choices that the tattoo artist has to make is around spacing. Optimal spacing means that these items will look natural when drawn – that they'll either be more universally spaced, or spaced in a natural way, as you would have seen them in nature…depending on the item in question. We like to say that a “study” in actual real-world models is useful for the kinds of 3d work that many of our customers are looking for.

Irregular spacing can make some of these designs look pretty silly. This is an aspect of this type of design where professional experience matters!

Contour and Shading

You also have the relief of the spikes or spears or protrusions in question. There has to be some type of line or contour shading to make the thing look three-dimensional, or you basically just have your mediocre ink drawing. Our customers come to Grape Ape Tattoo to get beautiful and intricate artwork on their skin, not just stick figures.

There's a lot more to say about this, but you can look back at other various blogs that talk about theme and concept and design and much more. We take time to talk to our customers about all of these things because again, we are a top artistic and creative ink shop in the Tucson area. Stroll on in and see us, and let’s talk about the best designs for your body!

How To Ensure Your First Tattoo Experience is a Good One

Finding new and unique ways to express yourself is important. Failing to adequately express yourself can make you feel like you are living a life devoid of joy and happiness. One of the most noticeable and popular forms of self-expression in the world is tattooing. For decades, people have used the power of body art to literally wear their hearts on their sleeves.

The average person will wish for a tattoo for years before they actually work up the nerve to take action. If you are ready to bring your dream of having a tattoo to a reality, then you have to start planning this process now. The following are some things you can do to ensure that you have a great experience getting your first tattoo.

Schedule a Few Consultations With Local Tattoo Artists

While most people dream of getting a tattoo, few of them actually think about the details involved in getting permanent body art. If you feel like you need help ironing out the details of the design you want, consulting with local tattoo artists is a wise move. Most tattoo artists will have no problem letting you come in for a consultation to talk about your body art and their ability to get you the results you want.

The more tattoo artists you meet with, the easier it will be to choose the right one to complete your first piece. Before you head in for these consultations, you need to jot down a few questions to ask.

Getting guidance on things like the placement of your tattoo is easy with the right artist. You also need to discuss prices during this initial consultation. At Grape Ape Tattoo, we provide high-quality tattoos, friendly service and competitive prices. If you are ready to get a new tattoo, we can definitely help you out.

Make Sure You Have a Tattoo Design You Love

Some people are so eager to get a new tattoo that they avoid doing research before choosing a design. While getting a new tattoo is a fun experience, you don’t want to put a design on your body that you will regret later. This is why you need to spend a few weeks looking online and at local tattoo shops for design ideas.

If you can’t find a design that you like, you can always ask a local artist to draw up something original. Paying for this professional help is worth it, considering the results an experienced tattoo artist can provide.

Wear Comfortable Clothes The Day Of Your Appointment

After you have chosen a tattoo design and the right artist to create your body art, you will need to schedule an appointment. You need to realize that you might have to spend a few hours in the tattoo shop. This means that wearing comfortable clothing and shoes is important. By dressing in a comfortable outfit, you can make your time at the tattoo shop far more enjoyable.

By following the tips in this article, you can have an enjoyable time getting your first tattoo.

Reasons Your Tattoo May Fade or Get Blurry Over Time

Getting a tattoo is a big deal. Most people put a lot of thought into the art they choose for their bodies. Because of this, a huge concern for many is that their tattoo will become faded or blur over time. 

The fact is, there are several reasons fading may occur. It is also inevitable that you will lose some of the sharpness and sheen of your tattoo. Keep reading to learn more about tattoo fading and what you can do to prevent it. 

Skin Tanning

In many areas, Indian summers are a thing throughout the year. This makes skin tanning inevitable without the proper protection. If you don’t cover your tattoos with quality sunscreen and are exposed to the harsh and continual UV rays, they will fade much faster. 

Placement of the Tattoo on Your Body

If your tattoo is on a visible part of your body that is exposed to the sun daily, there is a much higher chance it will blur or fade. While the toes, fingers, feet, palms, and shoulder blades are popular locations for tattoos, these are also areas where the art will fade much faster. 

Equipment and Ink Quality 

Any ink that has high-quality pigments and fewer chemicals will help prolong your tattoo’s life. The lines will also stay sharper when the metal and needle used for penetrating the ink into the dermis are high quality. 

Design of the Tattoo

Are you having an intricate tattoo design created? If so, you may be excited about the final product, but these intricate designs with lines that are close together have a much higher chance of fading or blurring. As your skin ages, your tattoos may begin to look quite messy as the sharpness of the original design fades. 

Tattoo Healing 

After getting a tattoo, your tattoo artist is going to provide specific healing instructions. Failure to follow these instructions can result in long-term consequences. It can also reduce the overall quality of the tattoo you just received. 

Improper Skincare 

If you use rough skincare products or scrubs, it can negatively impact the look of your tattoo. Some of the harsh chemicals in these products can rip the skin off the pigments, leading to fading and blurring. 

The Effect of Aging 

As your skin ages, it will lose some of its elasticity. This is inevitable and something that cannot be avoided. As collagen is lost, tattoos tend to blur and shrink. 

Preventing Tattoo Fading

While some degree of fading and blurring is inevitable, there are some steps you can take to protect the look of your tattoo. These include:

• Go to a reputable tattoo artist

• Use the right sunscreen

• Invest in touch-ups

• Avoid rough scrubs or cleansers

• Allow for proper healing

• Choose a less intricate design

If you want to ensure your tattoo looks amazing for as long as possible, be sure to keep the tips and information here in mind. You will find that your tattoo can look amazing for years to come if you follow the right steps and procedures. 

In It For the Long Haul: The Importance of Permanence

What's important in tattoo work? We have a pretty good idea – for years we've been providing high-quality ink for customers in the Tucson, AZ area.

In one sense, it's all about permanence – the idea that something you like now should be something that you like later.

One way to think about this is that having an artistic vision helps you to create the tattoos that you want. That's important to us with our experience and credentials in film and the fine arts.

But let's turn the coin over for a second, and talk about the opposite experience here.

In these strange days, people are being tempted to get certain kinds of short-term messages out any way they can.

Once in a while, someone will come in and want to get some kind of political campaign jargon written on their skin.

This is where the seasoned tattoo artists look sideways at each other, thinking that this person's choice is likely to be a real bummer down the road.

When you're getting a tattoo, you want an idea with permanence, not just something that you're thinking about right now.

People know intuitively that tattoo removal is expensive and painful, but sometimes they don't think about it until they're trying to get those services, and again, that can be a really negative experience.

It's like when somebody comes in and says they want their boyfriend’s name tattooed on their neck – we always go “okay, are you sure?”

Quality in Tattoo Work

By the same token, another way to get permanence in tattoos is to get ink that will look good over the years. Part of that is positioning, but a bigger part is lines and contours and shading, and all the rest of it. That's what makes an excellent tattoo artist a type of sophisticated graphic designer. We're looking at the skin as a canvas, and trying to figure out the very best ways to create a visual impression, whether that's your favorite movie monster or your favorite animal, or something to remind you of a departed loved one. In any case, quality matters.

For more of an idea of the high-quality art that you’ll love to sport on your skin over the years, take a look at our gallery for some of the interesting designs that we've been able to apply to our tattoo project. You can see how we remain one of the most popular high-end tattoo shops in the area. We want to see you darken our door!

It's Not Just Lines! – The Extra Dimensions of Tattoo Art

Too many people who are getting their first tattoo make the mistake of thinking that it's just a collection of lines.

Yes, obviously, ink is lines on your skin in two dimensions.

But so many of the best tattoo designs really do look three-dimensional, and have extra dimensions to them in a variety of different ways. That’s why a lot of customers try to find a specific shop that shares their vision.

Superior Tattoo Work

It all has to do with the same fundamental artistic ideas behind traditional fields like drawing and painting, or newer fields like graphic design.

Extensive color palates and differentiating techniques and other methods lead to the development of tattoos that seem to ‘come to life’ on the body. Imagine, for example, a dragon inked on a bicep or across someone’s back. Maybe when you sketch it, it’s “just lines” – but then you add color and shading, and detail, and you add…dimension!

To be fair, you don't get this with the average tattoo shop – there's a whole spectrum of ink, from the humblest prison tattoo to the thousand-dollar work of art spread from one rib or elbow blade to another.

In other words, you get out of a tattoo what you put into it. People who read tattoo magazines or have substantial in-shop experience know this. 

Art and Tattoos

At Grape Ape Tattoo, we feel that our experience in fields like film an illustration have prepared us for offering superior tattoo designs. That’s because another extra dimension of tattoos is their relevance to intellectual concepts and their design relative to ideas in pop culture or elsewhere. 

More of today's customers want tattoos that don't just look “okay.” They want ink that is not only elegant in its application, but based on sophisticated design concepts, whether that has to do with applying color, creating intricate patterns, or talking in references to various pop culture icons or aspects of a particular civilization or society.

It's not just anchors and hearts that say “mom” – that's the caricature version of what people think of when they think about “tattoos,” but today's ink world is really pretty different. Just look at our gallery and what we do for people who want really excellent ink done, designs that they can treasure for the rest of their lives, not look at in the mirror and wish they’d erased. 

If you want a mediocre tattoo that just looks okay, you can go anywhere. If you want sophisticated ink done – if you want your ink to speak to the world – you should come here.

Helpful Tips to Maintain Your Tattoo Throughout the Year

Getting a new tattoo is exciting. For many, getting a tattoo does not have to do with the season. In face, some (maybe you included) believe any season is fine for getting your tattoo and then flaunting it with pride. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. 

If you need to select a season for your tattoo, go in winter. It is often more difficult to maintain your new tattoo in the summer because of the harsh summer sun, constant sweating, and extreme heat.  

However, in the winter, you are typically covered from head to toe. This means your new tattoo can heal faster and that it is better maintained. 

If you get a new tattoo this winter, there are a few care tips to keep in mind. The same is true for summertime tattoos. Find out what these tips are here.  

Winter Tattoo Care

If you get your tattoo while it is cold outside, be sure to follow these tips to keep your tattoo looking great. 

Moisturize Your Skin Often

To help maintain the ink color in the winter, you must keep your skin properly moisturized. Cold weather and dry, harsh winds can impact your skin. Over time these conditions will dry your skin out significantly. If this happens, your tattoo can be affected. 

Avoid Bubble Baths

While your tattoo is still healing, it can become irritated easily. Even if you want to dive into a bubble bath, it is best to resist the urge. 

Wear Sunscreen

Even in the winter, sun exposure can impact your tattoo. If you participate in any winter sports or just like spending time outdoors, make sure you apply a layer of sunscreen before going outside.

Summer Tattoo Care

While summertime may not be ideal for getting tattoos, there are steps you can take to ensure it remains looking great. 

Prevent Exposure to Sun, Sweat, and Dust 

If you want to maintain your tattoo in the summer and ensure it heals without becoming infected, this is a must. When possible, wear light and full-sleeved clothing or cover over the part of your body tattooed. If this is not possible, be sure to apply sunscreen. 

Avoid the Beach

As mentioned above, the sun is bad for tattoos. When the sun is reflected from the white sand, it can be even more damaging. If you want to maintain your tattoo, both indirect and direct sun should be avoided. 

Talk to a Professional 

When it comes to tattoo care, there are more than a few things you can do to ensure the ink remains bright and vibrant. If you are going to invest in this type of body art, you should also take steps to make sure it lasts. If you have more questions or want more tips, talk to your tattoo artist. They may be able to hep you with more tips that ensure your tattoo lasts. Being informed and knowing what to do will help ensure your tattoo looks amazing for many years to come.

Reasons That Tattoos Are Great for Self Expression

Tattoos can be a marvelous way to express yourself, whether you're getting your first or your tenth. Ink has a long, rich history and has been used by various cultures for commemoration, ritual, and remembrance. In many modern cultures, however, it's simply used for self-expression. There are numerous ways to express yourself with a tattoo, including the following: 

Mark a Milestone

Tattoos are a great way to mark a personal milestone such as the birth of a child, special achievement, wedding, or graduation. The nice thing about a tattoo is that you can make it clear about the event if you'd like, or you can select wording or images that have special meaning to you but won't be recognized by others. Tattoos are a great way to commemorate special occasions in as public or as privately as you'd like, as the art involved in the design can be extremely flexible. 

Add Visual Personality 

Whether you have a favorite movie quote, a book that you've always loved, or just want to show off something special about you, a tattoo can be a wonderful way to do it. When someone sees your tattoos, they'll automatically know a little bit about you, your personality, and the things that you enjoy. Express yourself visually by choosing tattoos that represent the things that you love and giving them a place of honor. 

Show Off Your Fandoms

There are fans, and then there are fans. When it's time to show off your love for your favorites from the big screen, the small screen, cartoons, or video games, tattoos can be a great way to do it. A talented artist can render the best concepts from Supernatural, the Marvel Universe, Dr. Who, World of Warcraft, and more, taking them from the screen to your skin in the blink of an eye. Mark your favorite moments for posterity and bond with your fandom across space and time. 

Honor a Loved One

Losing someone you love is a pain that can be difficult to match. In some cases, commemorating their life with a tattoo is a wonderful way to hold their memory close to you, so that you don't feel quite as alone. Share the beauty that they brought to you with the others in your life, memorialized forever by a skilled tattoo artist. 

If you've been considering a tattoo, turn to the skilled artists at Grape Ape Tattoo. We'll listen to your design ideas, collaborate with you, and help you work on your idea until it's just right. You'll wind up with a tattoo that you'll be proud to show off, and we'll enjoy making the art that we love.