Tribal Tattoos: Tattoos which are inspired by the traditional tattoo art of indigenous Pacific Islander cultures such as native Hawaiian and Polynesian. Tribal work is generally black and bold with abstract designs and no shading.
Tattoo: A process by which pigment/ink is implanted 1/16th of an inch (on average) below the skin to mark it permanently. The word comes from "tutu," a Tahitian word which means "to mark."
Tattoo Blow-out: This occurs when an artist goes too deep with the tattooing and the ink spreads via capillary action, leaving a blurry halo around the main lines.
Tattoo Machine (Tattoo Gun): This is the tool that artists use to make the tattoo. The modern western tattoo machine works through two electromagnets driving a spring-loaded reciprocating needle assembly. This assembly penetrates the skin about 6000 times per minute, implanting the ink 1/16th of an inch below the surface. In some cultures (e.g., Traditional Japanese Tattooing) a tattoo machine is not used--instead, the ink is implanted underneath the skin with a series of other tools. This method is much slower and much more painful, but in some cases, it is a matter of pride and history.
Tattoo Needle: A single tattoo needle is a small, solid needle with an extremely sharp point. Single needles are usually only used for very fine work and instead when people say "tattoo needle," what they mean is a group of needles that have been welded to a small block of steel and placed inside the tattoo machine. These needles should always be sterilized with an autoclave and don't be afraid to ask whether or not this is the case!
Tattoo Removal: If, later in life, you decide you don't want a tattoo anymore, it is--kind of--possible to get it removed. The most common method of removal is through laser surgery which breaks down the ink. Unfortunately, this process is very painful and very expensive and often leaves a light scar in the same shape of the tattoo (especially if it is a big tattoo).
Tattoo Scarring: It is possible for tattoo scars to develop if you do not take care of the tattoo while it is healing, or if the tattoo artist goes too deep with the needle. Make sure to read the "after-care" sheet given to you by your artist and follow all directions to ensure that you have a nice and healthy tattoo. And afterwards, always wear sunscreen so that your tattoos don't blur or fade!
Tribal Tattoos: Tattoos which are inspired by the traditional tattoo art of indigenous Pacific Islander cultures such as native Hawaiian and Polynesian. Tribal work is generally black and bold with abstract designs and no shading.
Tattoo Needle: A single tattoo needle is a small, solid needle with an extremely sharp point. Single needles are usually only used for very fine work and instead when people say "tattoo needle," what they mean is a group of needles that have been welded to a small block of steel and placed inside the tattoo machine. These needles should always be sterilized with an autoclave and don't be afraid to ask whether or not this is the case!
