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"Cheap Tattoos Aren't Good, and Good Tattoos Aren't Cheap: The Importance of Investing in Quality Ink" Tattoos are more than just ink on skin; they're lifelong investments in self-expression, identity, and artistry. However, in a world where bargain deals and budget options abound, it's essential to remember the timeless adage: "Cheap tattoos aren't good, and good tattoos aren't cheap." Let's delve into why investing in quality tattoos is paramount for both your skin and your satisfaction. 1. Expertise Matters: A skilled tattoo artist is akin to a master painter, wielding needles as brushes and skin as canvas. They possess years of training, experience, and artistic vision, honed through countless hours of practice and dedication. Cheap tattoo parlors may offer discounted rates, but they often employ inexperienced or untrained artists who lack the expertise to execute intricate designs or ensure proper technique. By investing in a reputable tattoo artist with a proven track record of excellence, you're not just paying for ink; you're investing in the assurance of skill, precision, and professionalism. 2. Hygiene and Safety Standards: Tattooing is an intimate process that involves breaking the skin barrier, making hygiene and safety paramount. Reputable tattoo parlors adhere to strict health and safety standards, including sterilization of equipment, single-use needles, and proper sanitation protocols. Cheap tattoo shops may cut corners on hygiene to lower costs, putting clients at risk of infections, allergic reactions, or even serious health complications. Prioritizing quality over price ensures that your tattoo experience is not only aesthetically pleasing but also safe and hygienic. 3. Longevity and Quality of Ink: A well-executed tattoo using high-quality ink can stand the test of time, retaining its vibrancy and clarity for years to come. Conversely, cheap tattoos made with inferior ink may fade, blur, or distort over time, requiring costly touch-ups or cover-up work. Investing in quality ink and craftsmanship ensures that your tattoo remains a source of pride and beauty, rather than a regrettable reminder of hasty decisions or bargain hunting. While the upfront cost of a quality tattoo may be higher, the long-term value and satisfaction it provides far outweigh the initial investment. 4. Personal Expression and Individuality: Your body is a blank canvas waiting to be adorned with symbols of your identity, passions, and experiences. A quality tattoo artist can collaborate with you to bring your vision to life, crafting a unique masterpiece that reflects your personality and style. Cheap tattoos may offer generic designs or cookie-cutter templates that lack personal significance or artistic merit. By investing in a quality tattoo, you're not just purchasing a design; you're investing in a piece of wearable art that speaks to who you are and what you stand for. In conclusion, the old adage rings true: "Cheap tattoos aren't good, and good tattoos aren't cheap." When it comes to something as permanent and personal as a tattoo, it's worth prioritizing quality over cost. By investing in skilled artists, strict hygiene standards, quality ink, and personalized designs, you're not just getting a tattoo—you're investing in a lifelong work of art that will bring joy, pride, and meaning for years to come.

"Ink Etiquette: How to Not Piss Off Your Tattoo Artist Before Getting Inked" So, you've finally mustered up the courage to get that epic tattoo you've been dreaming about for ages. Congratulations ! But before you dive headfirst into the tattoo chair, there's one crucial thing you need to know: how to keep your tattoo artist happy and avoid becoming the nightmare client from hell. Here are some tongue-in-cheek tips on how not to piss off your tattoo artist before getting inked: 1. Don't Be a Flaky Flake: Your tattoo artist is a busy bee with a buzzing schedule, so don't be that flaky flake who ghosts on their appointment at the last minute. Nothing grinds a tattoo artist's gears more than a client who cancels or reschedules without a valid reason. Be punctual, be reliable, and for the love of ink, don't be a flaky flake! 2. Be Clear About What You Want (But Not Too Clear): Sure, it's essential to have a clear vision of your tattoo design, but there's a fine line between being decisive and being a control freak. Trust your tattoo artist's expertise and creativity—they're the professionals, after all. So, instead of micromanaging every tiny detail, give them some artistic license to work their magic. Who knows, you might end up with a tattoo that's even better than you imagined! 3. No Pain, No Gain—Or Whining: Let's get one thing straight: tattoos hurt. It's part of the deal. But whining, moaning, or wincing like a wounded puppy isn't going to make the pain magically disappear. Instead, channel your inner badass, grit your teeth, and embrace the sting like a warrior. Your tattoo artist will appreciate your stoicism and might even throw in a high-five for good measure. 4. Don't Be a Backseat Tattoo Artist: You know that friend who watches over your shoulder while you're driving, offering unsolicited advice and critiquing your every move? Yeah, don't be that person in the tattoo chair. Trust your tattoo artist's judgment and expertise—they didn't spend years honing their craft just to be second-guessed by someone with a Pinterest board full of tattoo ideas. 5. Show Some Love (But Not Too Much Love): Tattoo artists are human beings too, believe it or not. So, a little appreciation goes a long way. Whether it's a heartfelt thank you, a tip, or a shoutout on social media, show your tattoo artist some love for their hard work and badassery. Just don't go overboard with the lovey-dovey stuff—you don't want to come off as a creepy stalker. Ink-Conclusion: Getting a tattoo should be a fun and memorable experience for both you and your tattoo artist. By following these witty, tongue-in-cheek tips, you'll ensure a harmonious and hassle-free tattoo session that leaves both parties happy and fulfilled. So, go forth, brave soul, and get inked like the badass you were born to be!

"Cash is King: The Importance of Paying for Tattoos in Cash" So, you've finally decided to take the plunge and get that epic tattoo you've been dreaming about. You've done your research, found the perfect tattoo artist, and now it's time to seal the deal. But before you whip out your credit card or Venmo account, hold up—there's something you need to know: cash is king when it comes to paying for tattoos. Here's why: 1. Avoiding Additional Fees: Let's face it: nobody likes hidden fees or surprise charges sneaking up on them. When you pay for your tattoo in cash, you eliminate the risk of extra fees tacked onto your bill. Unlike credit card transactions, which may incur processing fees or merchant charges, cash payments are straightforward and transparent. What you see is what you get—no hidden fees, no funny business. 2. Keeping It Simple: In today's digital age, it's tempting to rely on electronic payment methods for convenience and ease. But when it comes to tattoo transactions, simplicity is key. Cash payments streamline the process, eliminating the need for complicated payment apps, online transfers, or credit card terminals. Plus, there's something satisfyingly tactile about counting out cold, hard cash—a tangible reminder of the value of your tattoo investment. 3. Supporting Small Businesses: Tattoo artists are artists, entrepreneurs, and small business owners rolled into one badass package. When you pay for your tattoo in cash, you're directly supporting your tattoo artist's livelihood and artistic endeavours. Cash payments allow artists to bypass third-party payment processors and keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets. It's a win-win for both you and your tattoo artist. 4. Building Trust and Respect: Paying for your tattoo in cash demonstrates trust, respect, and appreciation for your tattoo artist's craft. It shows that you value their time, expertise, and creative talent enough to compensate them directly and fairly. Plus, it fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect between you and your tattoo artist, laying the foundation for a positive and collaborative tattoo experience. 5. Keeping It Off the Books: Let's be real: tattoos are personal, intimate expressions of identity and self-expression. Paying for your tattoo in cash keeps your transaction discreet and off the books, minimizing paper trails and preserving your privacy. Whether you're getting a tattoo of your favourite band's lyrics or a secret symbol with deep personal significance, cash payments ensure that your tattoo remains between you and your artist—no questions asked. Ink-Conclusion: When it comes to paying for tattoos, cash is king. By opting for cash payments, you avoid hidden fees, support small businesses, build trust and respect, and keep your tattoo experience simple, transparent, and hassle-free. So, next time you're ready to get inked, remember: cash talks, and it speaks volumes about your appreciation for the art of tattooing.

"The Critical Importance of Proper Tattoo Healing: Avoiding Risks and Protecting Your Investment" Congratulations on your new tattoo! Now that you've taken the plunge and gotten inked, it's crucial to prioritize proper tattoo healing to ensure the longevity and quality of your new artwork. Neglecting the healing process can lead to serious consequences, both for your tattoo and your health. Here's why keeping on top of tattoo healing is absolutely essential: 1. Preventing Infection: A freshly tattooed area is essentially an open wound, making it highly susceptible to infection. Failing to keep your tattoo clean, dry, and properly moisturized can create an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to painful infections and potential complications. Infections can cause redness, swelling, pus discharge, and even more severe issues if left untreated. Proper aftercare is essential for minimizing the risk of infection and ensuring a smooth healing process. 2. Protecting Your Investment: Getting a tattoo is an investment—of time, money, and trust in your tattoo artist. Neglecting proper aftercare can jeopardize that investment by compromising the quality and longevity of your tattoo. Failing to follow your tattoo artist's aftercare instructions could result in faded colours, patchy areas, or uneven healing. In extreme cases, neglecting aftercare could lead to irreversible damage, requiring costly touch-ups or even tattoo removal procedures. 3. Ensuring Long-Term Vibrancy: A well-healed tattoo is a thing of beauty—a vibrant, colourful testament to your individuality and style. Proper aftercare not only promotes healthy healing but also preserves the long-term vibrancy and integrity of your tattoo. By following aftercare instructions diligently, you can minimize the risk of fading, blurring, or distortion over time, ensuring that your tattoo remains a source of pride and satisfaction for years to come. 4. Avoiding Complications and Regrets: Poor decisions made during the healing process can have lasting consequences, both for your tattoo and your overall well-being. From picking at scabs to exposing your tattoo to excessive sunlight or harsh chemicals, there are numerous ways to sabotage your healing tattoo. By taking the aftercare process seriously and avoiding common pitfalls, you can minimize the risk of complications and ensure that your tattoo heals beautifully. 5. Taking Responsibility for Your Health and Well-Being: Ultimately, proper tattoo healing is about taking responsibility for your health and well-being. Your tattoo artist provides you with detailed aftercare instructions for a reason—to ensure the best possible outcome for your tattoo and your skin. By following these instructions diligently and respecting the healing process, you're not only protecting your investment but also demonstrating respect for the artistry and craftsmanship of your tattoo artist. Ink-Conclusion: Your tattoo is a reflection of your identity, personality, and experiences—a permanent part of who you are. Proper aftercare is essential for protecting and preserving that identity. By prioritizing proper tattoo healing, you're not only safeguarding your investment but also honouring the artistry and integrity of your tattoo. So, take care of your ink, and it will take care of you for years to come.

"Staying Grounded: A Reminder for Tattoo Artists to Keep Egos in Check" Hey there, tattoo artists! We need to talk. It's time to address the elephant in the room—or should I say, the inflated egos that seem to be running rampant in the tattoo industry. Now, don't get me wrong, being a tattoo artist is a badass job. But let's face it: we're not curing cancer here. It's time to check our egos at the door and remember that humility goes a long way in this industry. 1. The Rise of the Tattoo Superstars: In recent years, it seems like every other tattoo artist is vying for the title of "rockstar" or "celebrity ink slinger." Social media has fuelled this phenomenon, with tattoo artists amassing legions of followers and basking in the glow of adulation. But let's not forget that behind the glitz and glamour, we're still just artists with needles and ink. 2. Humility, Not Hubris: Sure, it's cool to have fans and admirers, but let's not let it go to our heads. Being a great tattoo artist isn't just about talent—it's also about humility, integrity, and respect for our craft. No matter how many likes or followers we have on Instagram, we need to remember that we're here to create art, not stroke our own egos. 3. Staying Grounded in Reality: At the end of the day, tattoos are a form of self-expression and adornment—not a matter of life and death. Let's keep things in perspective and remember that we're not performing brain surgery or saving lives. Tattooing is an art form, yes, but it's also a service industry. Our job is to create beautiful tattoos that make our clients happy—not to act like divas or demand special treatment. 4. Embracing Humility in Practice: So, how do we stay humble in a world that seems obsessed with fame and notoriety? It starts with remembering why we got into tattooing in the first place: because we love art, we love tattoos, and we love making people happy. Let's focus on honing our craft, treating our clients with kindness and respect, and staying true to ourselves as artists. 5. A Call to Action: So, fellow tattoo artists, let's make a pact to check our egos at the door and embrace humility in our work. Let's remember that we're all in this together, united by our passion for tattoos and our love of art. And most importantly, let's never forget that at the end of the day, we're just humble artists with a passion for ink—and that's pretty damn cool in itself. Ink-Conclusion: Tattooing is a beautiful art form that has the power to transform lives and inspire awe. But let's not lose sight of what's truly important: staying humble, respecting our craft, and remembering that we're all in this together and without our clients we would be nothing!

"Beyond the Ink: The Importance of Tattoo Artists Exploring Different Mediums" Tattooing is an incredible art form—one that allows artists to create beautiful, permanent works of art on living canvases. But for tattoo artists, the journey doesn't end with the needle and ink. In fact, exploring different artistic mediums outside of tattooing can be both rewarding and beneficial in countless ways. 1. Broadening Artistic Horizons: Tattooing is just one facet of the vast and diverse world of art. By exploring different mediums such as painting, drawing, sculpture, or digital art, tattoo artists can broaden their artistic horizons and expand their creative repertoire. Each medium offers its own unique challenges and opportunities for self-expression, allowing artists to push the boundaries of their creativity and explore new artistic techniques. 2. Fuelling Inspiration and Innovation: Creativity thrives on diversity and experimentation. By immersing themselves in different artistic mediums, tattoo artists can draw inspiration from a wide range of sources, sparking new ideas and fuelling innovation in their tattoo work. Whether it's experimenting with different colour palettes, textures, or styles, exploring diverse mediums can breathe fresh life into an artist's creative process and push their work to new heights. 3. Enhancing Technical Skills: Mastering different artistic mediums requires a diverse set of technical skills—from brushwork and composition to sculpting and digital rendering. By honing their skills across various mediums, tattoo artists can sharpen their technical abilities and develop a more versatile skill set. These skills can then be applied to their tattoo work, leading to greater precision, finesse, and artistry in their designs. 4. Fostering Personal Growth: Artistic exploration is not just about improving technical skills; it's also about personal growth and self-discovery. Engaging with different mediums allows tattoo artists to push beyond their comfort zones, confront new challenges, and embrace the creative process with curiosity and openness. This journey of self-exploration fosters personal growth, resilience, and a deeper understanding of one's own artistic voice. 5. Connecting with a Wider Audience: Art knows no boundaries, and neither should artists. By diversifying their artistic practice beyond tattooing, artists can connect with a wider audience and engage with different communities of art enthusiasts. Whether it's exhibiting paintings in a gallery, showcasing digital artwork online, or collaborating with other artists on multidisciplinary projects, exploring different mediums allows tattoo artists to share their creativity with the world in new and exciting ways. Ink-Conclusion: Tattoo artists are artists first and foremost—creatives with a passion for self-expression and a love of art in all its forms. By embracing different mediums and exploring diverse artistic avenues, tattoo artists can enrich their creative practice, fuel inspiration, and push the boundaries of their artistry. So, here's to embracing artistic diversity and creating art that transcends the confines of the tattoo studio.

Tattooing in the 1950s: A Bold Era of Ink The 1950s marked a dynamic period for tattooing, characterized by a fusion of tradition, innovation, and cultural evolution. As post-war America found its footing, tattooing emerged from the shadows, stepping into the limelight as a symbol of rebellion and individuality. Traditional Tattoos Reign Supreme: In the 1950s, traditional tattooing reigned supreme, with iconic designs like anchors, pin-up girls, and swallows dominating the scene. Artists like Sailor Jerry and Bert Grimm perfected these bold, timeless motifs, infusing them with the spirit of adventure and patriotism that defined the era. The Post-War Tattoo Renaissance: Returning servicemen brought tattoo culture back to America, where it flourished in the post-war landscape. Military tattoos became badges of honour, with ink serving as a tangible reminder of shared experiences and camaraderie among veterans. Tattoo parlours, once relegated to the fringes, began to gain mainstream acceptance, with artists like Lyle Tuttle leading the charge in cities like San Francisco. Technological Advances: The 1950s saw significant advancements in tattooing technology, most notably the leap forward with electric tattoo machine design. These machines revolutionized the industry, allowing artists to work with greater precision and efficiency. As a result, intricate designs and vibrant colours became increasingly popular, pushing the boundaries of traditional tattooing. Cultural Influences and Iconic Figures: Tattoo culture became intertwined with various subcultures of the era, from rebellious bikers to rock 'n' roll icons. Meanwhile, artists like Norman “Sailor Jerry” Collins pushed the envelope with their avant-garde designs, paving the way for the tattoo renaissance of the 1960s and beyond. Challenges and Controversies: Despite its growing popularity, tattooing still faced challenges and controversies in the 1950s. Social stigma persisted, and legal restrictions on tattooing remained in place in certain areas. However, the resilience of the tattoo community and the passion of its artists ensured that the art form continued to thrive, even in the face of adversity. Legacy and Influence: The 1950s laid the groundwork for the vibrant tattoo culture we know today, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, innovation, and artistic expression. The iconic designs and influential figures of this era continue to inspire tattoo artists and enthusiasts worldwide, reminding us of the enduring power of ink to tell stories and transcend boundaries. As we reflect on tattooing in the 1950s, we're reminded of a time when ink was more than just body art – it was a symbol of rebellion, camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of the human soul. And though the world may have changed since then, the legacy of the 1950s tattoo renaissance lives on, a testament to the enduring allure and cultural significance of this ancient art form.

Looking for the best ‘tattoo shop near me’? In and around Newcastle, there are many tattoo experts, each with their own specialty, but those who are on the hunt will find experts that specialise specifically in new school anime, traditional style, realism and Japanese style tattoos. If these styles are what you are looking for, you have come to the right place. New School Tattoos - Anime New school tattoos are the most recognisable tattoos today. They centre around the use of vivid colour schemes, bold lines and eccentric subject matter. Many designs form part of the new school genre, but the most popular one recently is the anime style. Anime is an art form on its own, and it pairs perfectly with the new school style. The bright colours and rigid lines of cartoon or anime characters make exceptional tattoo designs that immediately catch the observer's eye. Neo-traditional Style Tattoos Neo-traditional tattoos are known for their mixture of traditional attention to detail with modern art techniques. They often depict flowers, portraits of women, animals and more. They veer away from black and white and focus on dramatic colours that blend well together to create a detailed picture with fine lines. Although it is entirely different from the traditional hard-line, black and white tattoos, it still uses the conventional aspect to complete the tattoo. Japanese/ Irezumi Style Tattoos Japanese tattoos are the oldest style of tattoo, dating back to almost 5000 years ago. There are two categories of Japanese types: traditional and modern. Each of these is virtually identical to each other. The only difference is how the tattoo itself is applied to the skin: traditional tattoos are applied using non-electrical tools, and modern tattoos are applied with a machine by hand. Japanese tattoos often come in a mix of black and grey and colours, but some are still wholly black and grey. One thing they all have in common is their subject matter roots in Japanese culture. They portray traditional Japanese symbols and patterns mixed with vibrant colours to create a complete story on canvas. Realism Inspired Style Tattoos Realism style tattoos are rooted in the art movements of photorealism and pop art. Many different designs are included in this genre, including celebrity portraits, film stills, photographs, animals, and even paintings. One of the main methods of creating a realistic tattoo is mapping shadows, made noticeable by the contour lines that outline shade areas. This method and simply using a photographic source are artists' main ways to create a piece in this style. Artists who create this style of tattoos require a lot of training and preparation to create a perfect masterpiece. Contact 2012 Tattoo Company For Expert Advice Those searching for a ‘tattoo artist near me’, specialising in a new school, neo-traditional, realism and Japanese style tattoos, will find what they need at the 2012 Tattoo Company. Contact them at 02 4943 4333 to make a booking or for expert advice on tattoo designs and styles.

Whether you’re looking to add to an already existing collection of tattoos or you’re riling yourself up to get your very first one, our eclectic Newcastle team would love to help! Explore the top 9 things to consider before getting inked by reading more about tattoos in Newcastle below. 9 Things To Consider Before Getting Inked 1) Meaning For some, meaning is more important than others. Whatever the symbol or design, it can be said that finding meaning within it can be sentimental, motivating or even a good reminder of something important. 2) Cost Tattoo costs may vary according to your chosen artist, the technique used, the size and complexity of your tattoo, and so much more! 3) Placement Having a tattoo in a visible location is, metaphorically speaking, a matter of wearing your heart on your sleeve. Family and friends, potential employers and even strangers may have constant questions or want to get a better look. Be sure that you are confident in your decision and be prepared to deal with potential judgement from others. The location of your tattoo also dictates certain limitations in terms of size. 4) Permanence Remember that tattoos are permanent, and you’ll most likely need to have them touched up in the future. This is because tattoos are essentially clusters of ink etched into your skin, so they will wither somewhat and change as the rest of your body does. 5) Your Artist Seek out a tattoo artist who is experienced and clearly understands your vision. It’s important to also look at some of their past work to see if you enjoy their artistry. 6) Design And cost Placing your trust in well-experienced hands often comes with a higher price tag. Being prepared to pay for quality work truly does pay off in the long run. Finding someone to deliver the best version of the design you’re after isn’t always easy, but it sure is worth it! A professional artist should be able to advise on how to enhance your design or even help you come up with one from scratch! 7) Are You Prepared For Aftercare? Giving your body enough time to heal is important. Avoid picking at your tat and try your best to keep it both dry and clean for at least the first two weeks. Some tattoo artists even recommend using a balm to help your new piece heal in the best way possible. Above all else, be sure to listen to the aftercare advice given to you by your artist. 8) Consider The Feeling Involved Pain thresholds vary from person to person, but a beautiful tattoo is totally worth it! If you’re concerned about how painful getting inked may be, do your research and locate the areas of the body that are generally more sensitive to pain to get a better gauge. 9) Social And Or Career Impact Last but certainly not least, consider the potential impact a tattoo may have on your life. Don’t Overthink It Although a lot of things factor into getting tatted, remember to try not to overthink the process! The process of acquiring tattoos in Newcastle is a guaranteed happy experience with our 2012 Tattoo Company. So be sure to pop through all your questions and concerns over on our website. We can’t wait to hear from you!