The Tattoo Process

After the stencil is applied on to your skin, the tattoo artist uses a machine to do your the tattoo. Tattoo machines use fine groups of needles to deposit small amounts of ink into the upper layers of the skin (the epidermis). Using the machine, your tattoo artist will carefully outline your stencil usally with black ink, until it has been permanently transferred to your skin. Your stencil provides the foundation of your tattoo, giving the tattoo much of its detail.

Next, your tattoo artist will use different needles and machines to apply shading and color. Your tattoo artist should keep the color version of your design close at hand in order to accurately match the colors and shading. Once your tattoo is finished, your tattoo artist will clean the area making sure to remove any excess ink. After you have looked at your new tattoo in the mirror, the tattoo artist will bandage it up to make sure it stays clean.

Question your artist on techniques and procedures. A professional artist won’t hesitate to comply. If the artist or studio doesn’t live up to these standards or doesn’t wish to answer your questions, find a professional artist who will.

How tattooing works?

Tattoo involves puncturing the skin with sharp needles and inserting pigment through the outer layer, the epidermis, into the second layer, the dermis.

Tattoo patterns and techniques have varied with different cultures. Traditional Polynesian tattooists tap a needle with a small hammer, while the Japanese work with bundles of needles set in wooden handles. In the West, the electric tattoo machine has revolutionized tattooing, expanding the ease of application and the range of colors and designs.

Besides being decorative, tattoos send important cultural messages: a commitment to some group, an emblem of a rite of passage, even a fashion statement. Tattooing has been used to indicate high rank in some societies, rebellion and low status in others.

Despite numerous religious and social injunctions, tattooing has been a popular form of body art throughout the world.

It is advisable that pregnant women and persons with possible allergies to ink or dyes consult with their physician prior to getting a tattoo.