The pinup girl design originally described a glamorous movie actress or beautiful model whose image was used in the production of posters and calendars back in the 1940s. The very first “pin up” images could be pictures cut out of magazines or newspapers, or be from postcard or chromo-lithographs. Eventually they were mass produced.  They originated in Europe but quickly became popular in the states. During World War II, soldiers fighting overseas helped to accelerate their popularity even more. They kept pictures of pinup girls in their wallets and hung posters of them in their barracks. You can also think of the pinup models as the old-school version of today’s sexy movie stars and heartthrobs.

Back during the war, Betty Grable, an American actress with over 50 films to her name, became the most popular pinup girl with American soldiers. Other movie actresses that posed for sexy pinup pictures included Veronica Lake, Lana Turner, and Rita Hayworth. Images of these actresses were also sometimes painted on fighting aircraft during war times. Even though the pinup girls were considered sexy in those times, in truth most of the images were fairly conservative and tasteful by today’s standards.

During the 1950s pinup girls were beginning to pose in more risqué outfits poses. Bettie Page was probably the most famous pinup girl of that era. She even dared to go topless in some of her photo shoots. She also posed with lingerie and whips and continues to be popular with tattoo collectors even to this day. Another interesting fact about pinup girls from the 40s and 50s is that they tended to look more like real women. They were curvy and busty and not as skinny as today’s models.

In the past few years the trend of pinup girls has developed. The pinup girls of the 21^st century tend to be a more unrealistic female image with very sexy poses and attire.

In the tattoo arena, pin-up girl tattoos have been popular since body art first became popular.  Old School flash will usually include a pinup girl or two.

Today’s pinup designs usually begin with the original Old School feel and style developing it from there into a more modern spin on a sexy pinup woman. Original pin-ups wearing navy uniforms or hula girl costumes were a favorite in the early days of tattoo shops.

Today’s pinup flash sometimes takes pinups in a strange direction. Zombie pinups and similar variations have expanded on the pinup theme. There is really no limit on what you can design with a pinup style tattoo in mind.

Best Tattoo Sites Home >>> Tattoo Information >>> Tattoo Inks

This is one of the rare areas where the FDA does not control product ingredients. Manufacturers of tattoo ink are not required by the FDA or any other enforcement agency to list their ingredients. Some tattoo artists and all commercial manufacturers of tattoo ink mix their own concoction. The ink pigment is suspended in a variety of carrier solutions. Some of these solutions are made from plastic and some are made from vegetable dyes but most of them are made of metal salts. Neither the pigment itself nor the carrier concerns health officials. They are concerned with additional additives.

It is very important that any tattoo shop follows very strict safety precautions to prevent exposing their clients to infections and possibly disease. Fortunately, these days most shops follow very strict hygiene practices and take precaution as set out by their local and state health departments.

Some people experience an allergic reaction to some brands of ink from getting a tattoo. In most cases you should be able to check all pigment MSDS sheets to find out what possible reactions you may experience. The inks that are made with an ABS plastic pigment are very difficult to get removed if that person decides to get tattoo removal in the future. In most cases commercial tattoo ink is safe but people should be aware that ink pigment lacks any type of regulation. If you are suspicious that you may be allergic to tattoo ink it would be in your best interest to go to a reputable artist who can describe the components of the ink brand that he will use in your tattoo.

What are Pigment Carriers?

A pigment carrier keeps the pigment liquefied. It helps to ease the injection into the skin. The most common carriers include Listerine, witch hazel, purified water, glycerin, and ethyl alcohol. In the old days, toxic liquids and contaminated water were sometimes used with tattoo ink.

Tattoo Formation

Tattoo machines create puncture wound in the surface of the skin to inject ink and form a tattoo. The ink is transported into the connective tissue of the skin.

During the process of getting a tattoo the skin experiences damage to the epidermis and the dermis. During the first week or two the ink is dispersed into only the upper region of the skin but after that time it becomes more concentrated as new tissue begins to form around the ink and traps it. As years pass it will begin to subside deeper into the dermis making any attempt at tattoo removal more difficult.

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Best Tattoo Sites Home >>> Tattoo Information >>> Native American Designs

Tattoo artwork got its beginnings from ancient civilizations. In general, tattoos had more symbolism and meaning to these ancient civilizations as well as being appreciated for their beauty. Sometimes tattoos were a symbol of the person’s stature in their community or tribe. Tattoos were used to for identification purposes but also were believed to have powers. Wearing such a tattoo enabled the wearer with wisdom and power.

Native Americans are one of the cultures that believed that tattoos possessed power. Tattooing a person was a ritual and was usually conducted out in the great outdoors. Slivers of rock or animals bones were often used for a needle. Fish bones were a popular choice. Ink color was derived from plants and other natural resources. Getting a tattoo in this fashion also proved the person were brave since this method of tattooing was exceptionally painful. The longer the sessions and the larger the tattoo the more respect the person was given.

Only some tribal men were usually trained how to apply tattoos. Many people continue to admire the history and culture of Native Americans. It’s no wonder that images of Native American related topics continue to be very popular these days. Native Americans represent a brave and strong people. They lived off the land and survived a hard existence. Even to this day people are attracted to the art work and crafts based on their history.

The topics chosen for tattoos to represent Native American culture range from realistic portraiture, feathers, musical instruments, tools, religions, tents, and jewelry will be seen in many Native American tattoo designs.  Typical tattoos for Native Americans also included mythical creatures, eagles, feathers, rattlesnakes, and bears. Some people refer to Native American as part of tribal art style.

With the popularity of these tattoo designs also comes a nice variety of tattoo flash and artwork to use for resources for a tattoo idea. For people that are related to the Native American culture they often like to proudly display this with a tattoo which symbolizes their Native American heritage and possibly the specific tribe they are descended from.

The sun and moon have been popular in other art forms so it was natural it would also be a favorite with ink enthusiasts. In most cases the best tattoo designs are based on paintings and other artwork in other mediums.

Tattoos of sun or moons do not fall into a primary masculine or feminine category. They appeal equally to both sexes.

Sun Tattoos

The sun is a universal symbol that everybody is exposed to and is appreciated for the life it gives us. It is an essential element of life. The rising sun is something we can count on.  With no sun we cannot have life.

In many cultures, the sun is the symbol for energy, light, and warmth. The moon on the other hand is a symbol for power and mystery. They are opposites that form a perfect balance. They bring us dark and light, warmth and cold, growth and rest. The two images combined create a feeling of harmony and balance.

Some of the early civilizations even worshiped a sun god. Ancient cultures credited the sun for their  existence.  The Romans, Egyptians, and Aztecs revered the sun and it played a part in their religions. In Christianity, the sun is often a symbol related to Jesus Christ.

Getting a tattoo to symbolize starting a new phase in a life or a chance to start a better part of a life is a popular occurrence.  A sun is one of the popular tattoo designs for this type of celebration. The sun is a reminder that things are looking bright and a bright future lays ahead.

Moon Tattoos

Celestial tattoos have been very popular in various civilizations and cultures. The moon usually holds a  more magical and mystical meaning.

Some people prefer one or the other and some individuals like the idea of getting both images incorporated into one tattoo design. Another option is to have a symbol of each on opposite parts of the body. I have a Celtic moon on one shoulder and a matching Celtic sun on the other. I didn’t plan it that way but after getting the moon it felt unbalanced so a couple of years later I got a matching opposite – the sun.

These two images the sun and the moon, can be represented in a variety of ways although a realistic rendering would actually be a bit on the boring side. Although a sunrise can be a beautiful thing to behold in person, it is hard to translate that beauty into a tattoo when the only thing is a whitish yellow ball. Same thing if you try to depict the moon in a realistic fashion. Think about it and you’ll realize that a white shape on a black background alone can tend to be a little boring visually.  That’s why the majority of tattoo design will have faces attributed to the moon and sun.

Lots of times these two images are combined with other elements. They go well with zodiac symbols, stars, and flowers. It’s also attractive to see these two elements done in a tribal or Celtic style.

When trying to choose the perfect location to place the tattoo you must consider the shape of the image. It’s always best to fit the shape of the image with the area of the body you want a place it. For instance you may have a colorful rendering of the sun which is basically circular shape. In most cases the leg is not a suitable choice for placement. The legs are better off with a longer image or one that wraps around the legs. Roundish shaped images, like the sun,  do well anywhere on the back, the upper arms, or chest area. If you’re unsure of the location that would be most suitable for the tattoo you want, don’t hesitate to discuss it with your tattoo artist. They are the experts and can give you some sound advice since they deal with this every day.

The moon and sun make a perfect choice for a tattoo. And the combinations and styles enable you to create a unique composition.

Best Tattoo Sites Home >>> Tattoo Information >>> Zodiac Tattoos

Zodiac tattoo designs are very popular. These designs combine modern designs with ancient beliefs. Many cultures have zodiacs that have been around for thousands of years. These cultures include China, Persia, and India.

Most people are familiar with the Western zodiac. It has its roots in the Greek culture and was adopted by the Romans. The Romans renamed the gods within the zodiac and those are the names we still use today.

Each zodiac sign relates to a time frame as well as a planet. The time frame is based on the movement of the sun through the stars of the zodiac. Zodiac signs also relate to a physical element such as fire, air, earth, or water. There are a total of 12 zodiac signs that have a unique meaning assigned to it.

People like to get their zodiac sign tattoo or the zodiac signs of people that are important to them. Sometimes people take the basic element and incorporate that into a tattoo design. For instance somebody under the sign of Scorpio may get a tattoo of the scorpion rather than the traditional symbol of the Scorpio zodiac sign. Sometimes people choose to go with the less obvious symbol for their zodiac sign. They may use the element symbol in the tattoo. For instance if someone was born under the fire sign they may choose to accent a tattoo with flames or someone born under the earth sign they choose to show plant life and other elements of nature and their tattoos.

Here is a list of the signs, the time they relate to, their element, their symbol and the related planet.

Capricorn – Planet Saturn/Element Earth/Symbol Goat

December 22 – January 20

People born under this sign are determined, serious, and disciplined. You are goal driven and you seek security and stability.

Aquarius – Planets Saturn and Uranus/Element Air/Symbol The Water Bearer

January 21 – February 18

People born under this sign have strong opinions. They are determined, clever, hard working, and put energy into forming opinions. Influenced by two planets tends to bring out your freer and wilder side.

Pisces – Planets Jupiter and Neptune/Element Water/The Fishes

February 19 – March 20

People born under this sign are usually emotional and find their motivation with their emotions. They are usually most comfortable when they are helping others.

Aries – Planets Mars/Element Fire/Symbol The Ram

March 21 – April 20

People born under this sign are usually passionate, eager, and playful. They are spontaneous and enthusiastic.

Taurus  - Planet Venus/Element Earth/Symbol The Bull

April 21 – May 20

People born under this sign are patient and like to make things grow. They have a tendency to hold their feelings in and block out values that don’t agree with their own.

Gemini – Planets Mercury/Element Air/Symbol The Twins

May 21 – June 21

People born under this sign are usually mentally driven and very cerebral. The twins signify your tendency to be a combination of opposites. Gemini people tend to need their solitary creative time as well as living a busy and active life.

Cancer  - Planet Moon/Element Water/Symbol The Crab

June 22 – July 22

People born under this sign are sensitive by nature with emotional heightened insight. Cancer people have an energy fed by emotions.

Leo – Planets Sun/Element Fire/Symbol The Lion

July 23 – August 22

People born under this sign are usually creative, artistic, and dramatic.

Virgo  - Planet Mercury/Element Earth/Symbol The Virgin

August 23 – September 22

People born under this sign are mentally oriented and motivated by practical goals. They are able to shift and change without a problem.  Some Virgos are neat freaks while others are chaotic and messy.

Libra  - Planet Venus/Element Air/Symbol The Scales

September 23 – October 22

People born under this sign are happiest when they maintain a balance between their creative efforts and being with people they love. Libras usually possess exceptional communication skills and are thinkers by nature.

Scorpio – Planets Mars and Pluto /Element Water/Symbol The Scorpion

October 23 – November 22

People born under this sign are usually emotionally driven.  They are capable of intense emotions.  Their emotions run extremely high or extremely low. Every emotion is intense.

Sagittarius  - Planet Jupiter/Element Fire/Symbol The Archer

November 23 – December 21

People born under this sign are enthusiastic, intuitive, and are always on a search for knowledge.

Best Tattoo Sites Home >>> Tattoo Information >>> Aztec Designs

People are always looking for unique ideas for tattoo designs and, in many cases, they like to choose an image that represents a piece of their lives – whether in the present or in the past. Some people are intrigued by their roots and with the help of the Internet are able to dig into their family’s history. Images and symbols of our ancestry are a very good source for tattoo ideas.

The Aztec style of tattooing represents the tribes of central Mexico, the Aztecs. They existed in the 12^th century but were wiped out by the Spanish. Even if your own background has nothing to do with the Aztec culture you may choose an Aztec tattoo because you admire the artistry and creativity of the people. The Aztec designs are easy to identify and are a beautiful way to pay respect to their culture.

Aztec designs are increasingly in popularity amongst Mexicans as well as non-Mexicans. People are drawn to the intricate designs. Generally the Aztec style consists of colorful and bold geometric shapes. The sun is one of the most popular symbols in Aztec artistry and it symbolizes rebirth. This is a popular design for people who believe in an afterlife. The Aztecs believed that the sun guarded the heavens and therefore represents renewal. Other popular images representing Aztec culture include the eagle, the warrior, and the calendar. The warrior is a symbol for determination and strength.

Aztec tattoos can also be referred to or lumped in with tribal tattoos. If you decide that an Aztec tattoo was for you, then I highly recommend that you research the meaning of the design before getting the tattoo. One popular tattoo design that you may be familiar with is the Aztec Thunderbird. All of the Aztec symbols mean something in their culture. Do your research and know the meaning of the symbol you plan on getting beforehand. This is showing respect to the Aztec culture.

History

The Aztec people lived in Mexico and adorned their bodies with many tattoos. In the Aztec culture tattoo designs were primarily designed to honor the gods of their culture. They also helped to define a person and served a function. Aztec designs could tell you about the person without them speaking a word.

The Culture

The most popular of Aztec symbols is the sun and the eagle. Many of the Aztec people had tattoos representing the gods in the heavens and also their natural surroundings.

Even though the people of this culture survived only a short time, it is impressive to know that the culture lives on even now through artwork and tattoos.

Best Tattoo Sites Home >>> Tattoo Information >>> Skulls

Decades ago, the skull was primarily a tattoo requested by men but now females are quickly coming around and warming to the skull design. Women tend to prefer the more lighthearted and colorful skull images. That is not to say that some females aren’t attracted to the scarier black and gray version.  It’s an individual preference.

For some people a skull image reminds them of death and dying. Not an attractive image for some. But for other individuals, the skull is an attractive and interesting subject that may lend itself to dark imagery but also can be a beautiful subject with an uplifting feel. Skull designs are one of the most popular tattoo designs in the current tattoo climate as well as historically. Any tattoo shop will confirm that skulls are in the top ten requests from people walking in the door.

Some people identify with skulls since it is actually part of us. Some of us find a human skull  attractive in the same way people find a cattle skull, buffalo skull, or horse skull a striking piece of art.

For some people, a skull reminds them of death or represents death. That is the reason that skulls are sometimes used in memorial tattoos.

Some people opt to get a skull tattoo just for the simple matter that they are attracted and find the image striking.

A Variety of Meanings

The Mexican culture celebrates Day of the Dead which is a day to mourn the death of young children and adults. They decorate skull forms with colorful flowers  and butterflies to show the immortality of the soul amidst nature.  The day of the dead is a celebration of people that are now departed from this world. Skulls are often painted with smiles making the form more friendly looking.  Day of the dead designs are a popular tattoo choice.

Some couples like to get matching skull tattoos to profess their eternal love for each other. The skull symbolizes this love and says that their love will live forever – even beyond the grave.

If the intention of getting a skull tattoo is to look ominous and tough, you will likely choose a picture inked in black and gray and with a skull that screams attitude and death.

A skull can also represent human vanity, eternity, or repentance.

A skull with a serpent slithering through a skull is a symbol of knowledge and immortality.

During ancient battle times decapitation of the enemy was common so as to provide proof that the Army was victorious. Bringing back the head of the enemy displayed power and superiority. For some this also is the case with a skull tattoo. “I’m a tough SOB and I have this tattoo to prove it”.

Skulls do not have to be depicted with just a dreary black and gray style, it can be made whimsical and colorful and given a whole makeover that may come as a surprise to some individuals. Taking it one step further,  some people even like a skull that looks cute or cartoonish. These designs are not only popular with tattoos but tattoo inspired clothing is now stamped with these whimsical images. The images are so damn cute that many children’s clothing stores now carry T-shirts and clothing for babies and toddlers adorned with skull emblems.

Because the skull design is so popular with ink collectors, it is much easier to find a skull tattoo design that appeals to you. Any tattoo shop will have a variety of skull flash to choose from.  The popularity of skull designs has led to a variety of interpretations by various tattoo flash artists.

So depending on your view, the skull can represent danger or death or can also represent power protection and strength. Some people feel it is a good representation of the strength that they found to overcome a large obstacle in their life or a tragic circumstance that they survived.

A tattoo is an individual undertaking with a meaning that is unique to that person.

Best Tattoo Sites Home >>> Tattoo Information >>> Eagle Tattoos

Eagle tattoo designs are a popular choice for individuals who served in the armed forces and as police officers and firefighters.

Eagle imagery has been a prominent icon throughout our history as well as the history of other countries. Is is often seen in flags and patriotic emblems. In ancient Greece, the eagle was associated with the Sun God. In Norse mythology the eagle represented wisdom and was associated with the god Odin. Due to its popularity with the military, the eagle tattoo was also one of the most popular designs decades ago. You will see eagles on any of the old school flash.

In our own country, the eagle is the symbol of our nation. We associate the eagle with freedom. This is why it is a symbol of patriotism and is integrated in many military tattoos. Some of the more modern tattoo pieces depict an eagle in a red, white and blue coloring which makes for a striking non-traditional tattoo and leaves no doubt how important your country is to the individual.

The eagle is also associated with Harley Davidson and bikers in general. So, eagle tattoos are popular with people that like to ride.  The freedom of the road is characterized with the eagle.

The eagle is deeply revered by the Native American culture and religion. Their feathers were worn for adornment and as a sign of pride or friendship. Eagle designs are prominent in tribal logos and symbols. The eagle is considered sacred within their culture and religion. To Native Americans the eagle represents wisdom, freedom, strength, and honesty.

As a Tattoo Design

The eagle design is very adaptable to a tattoo design. It can fit on most parts of the body due to its various postures. For instance, the eagle in flight with a straight-on angle makes a beautiful design for a tattoo on the upper chest or back area. The wings can span the width of the back or chest making for a striking placement. For smaller tattoos some people just prefer to keep the head or head and chest area of the eagle which also works well with its striking pose and piercing eyes. The eagle’s feathers and talons make for an interesting tattoo.

Eagles do well as a stand-alone tattoo but also work well when accompanied by banners. People like to use patriotic phrases along with the eagle tattoo. Some of the examples you are likely to see on these banners include “freedom”, “honor”, “liberty”, and “strength”.

Eagle tattoos work well whether they are done in full-blown color or black and gray shading. Some preferred the image of the eagle as part of an overall scene to be included more of a background item rather than the prominent subject of the tattoo.

No matter how an eagle is incorporated into the tattoo, it’s image will be noticed.

Best Tattoo Sites Home >>> Tattoo Information >>> Dolphin Tattoo

The dolphin tattoo image is one of the most popular tattoo designs. In most cases its women that are getting these tattoos although now men are warming up to the dolphin design. In some cases they are popular with guys that love the ocean and enjoy the sport of surfing. They feel that the dolphin is a good symbol for their love of the ocean. Dolphins remind us of freedom, fun, and intelligence. Dolphins are gentle, intelligent creatures of the ocean that always seem to be wearing a natural smile on their face. They possess a strong sense of community with the world around them.

About the Dolphin

Dolphins are a warm-blooded sociable mammal that also has a playful side. People who can see themselves in the characteristics of dolphin such as intelligence free-spirited and playfulness they may chose the dolphin to represent their personality.

The dolphin has always been friendly towards humans and has never been considered a danger to humans.

In current times they are most well known for their high intelligence. Even the language that they speak to each other is being studied by scientists. They possess a sophisticated auditory signal that warns of impending danger.  Their language is thought to bring calm to a person and audio dolphin recordings are often used meditation and healing sessions.

Dolphins in Ancient Cultures

In the Celtic culture the Dauphin had the ability to wash away crimes and sins of the guilty parties. This is where the reasoning came when people think of dolphins as representing a rebirth.

In the Chinese culture to dolphins together represent harmony. Amongst Native Americans the dolphins  represent kindness, wisdom, and energy. In some cultures, the dolphin was believed to be a magical creature of the ocean. The dolphin is also mentioned in Greek mythology. There were revered for their magical power and beauty.

The Dolphin – Totem Animal

Dolphins are also a totem animal. Animal totems are a person’s spiritual symbiosis. It will help a person throughout their life by opening up a path of awareness.  Some people acquire dolphin tattoos because they hold a strong belief in the power of their totem animal and its influence on their life.  We are usually drawn in some way to our totem animal.  Some people feel drawn to the free spirit of the dolphin.

Dolphin Design

The dolphin design isn’t limited to the realistic “Flipper” image. The dolphin is so popular that you can find it portrayed in various styles. Two of the more popular styles include tribal or Celtic style. The dolphin was part of the Maori culture so they are often found tattooed in a Maori interpretation.

Another bonus of the dolphin image is its shape. The dolphin can be seen in different shapes depending on if it is swimming or jumping which makes it easier to fit on various body parts. The shape of your final design should be complimentary to the part of the body it is placed. Some of the more favored locations chosen for dolphin designs include the lower back, upper back, and upper arms.

And then some people may not feel any kind of special connection to the ocean or the ocean creatures but they’ve find themselves attracted to the cute look of the dolphin. And we’ll get this tattoo for no other reason but it’s just an image that appeals to them.