Friday, November 30, 2012

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: 5 Steampunk Tattoo Designs

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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5 Steampunk Tattoo Designs
Nov 30th 2012, 11:03

Steampunk tattoo designs are gaining in popularity as the alternative lifestyle culture continues full steam ahead. Capture the aesthetic of this growing genre in a historical, fantastical or sci-fi inspired design.

Gaining inspiration from famous literature greats such as Mary Shelley and Jules Verne, steampunk is an alternative fashion and lifestyle style that combines Victorian, British, Wild West and futuristic influences.

From Victorian inspired jewelry tattoos with mechanical faces to birds with not feathers, but steam-powered wings instead, these ideas are sure to put you on the right punk path. So gather up all your treasures and find a way to place them on your body in a unique and ecletic design that's part future, part history and all you.

1. Watches

Image CC esper.art @ Flickr
From Salvador Dali inspired melting pocket watches to vintage timepieces, watches are a fundamental aspect in the steampunk style. Consider pairing your clockwork tattoo with an animal for unique symbolism. For example, a regular owl could be turned into its own timepiece by opting for a body made of grinding gears or utilitarian accessories like a pair of goggles.

2. Cameo Jewelry

Image CC Dita Art @ Flickr
Add some Victorian elegance to your body ink with a jewelry inspired tattoo. From cameo designs to Victorian inspired filigree lockets, steampunk style for women can rightfully include a few sentimental pieces. Consider a heart-shaped locket that pumps some steam to keep its motor running.

3. Airships

So long as it is steam-powered, it's steampunk. Airship tattoos are yet another whimsical way you can celebrate your personal tattoo voyage. Add some sails to your design or hot air balloons to create even more imagery. If you know your destination, have your artist design it and create a fantastical world in which your ship can fly.

4. Birds

Whether it be a blackbird or a crow, birds are the animal of choice for steampunk influenced tattoos. The dark alternative world of steampunk can be captured in a bird design when you pair the bird with other steampunk aspects. Clock faces can compose the belly of the bird while adding grinding gears to a tree branch for your bird to perch. Add a smidge of color by way of lilac blossoms and your design can be both beautiful, simplistic and delicate.

5. Gears

Image CC Ryan Frost @ Flickr

When it all comes down to it, nuts and bolts are the bread and butter of true steampunk style. From grinding gears to the inner parts of all machinery, adding mechanical elements to your tattoo will ensure you capture the steampunk aesthetic. There's no need to add color, keep your tattoo black and grey for the most style statement.

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: 5 Woodland Tattoos to Celebrate Fall

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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5 Woodland Tattoos to Celebrate Fall
Nov 30th 2012, 11:03

As summer turns into fall, your body art can send the message of change. From nature tattoos that depict animals such as the scurrying squirrel, or the nuts that he drops on his way up the tree and into his drey, the following 5 tattoos to celebrate fall prove you don't have to leave the magic of the season behind, or turn back the hands on the clock to return to the beauty that is autumn.

1. Squirrels

Courtesy Foxntongue@ Flickr
Squirrels are a popular fall theme animal tattoo. Spending their days collecting nuts and acorns for the long and cold winter that lies ahead, a squirrel tattoo can signify preparation and bounty, as well as playfulness for their mere mischief on the branch. A little known fact is that the squirrel only finds roughly 10% of its stored bounty. If you're the forgetful type, a squirrel tattoo may make an appropriate fit for a tattoo design. Write it down.

2. Trees

Outcast 104 @Flickr
Tree tattoos have plenty of rooted inspiration. From encouraging you to stand tall during the winds of change or to signify the limbs of family or your beloved, a tree tattoo that works into a fall theme can also include varied changing colors and leaves. Or you can always go for the barren and speak of the hope that springs eternally when winter slowly wanes into spring and the blossoms return aplenty. Whatever you do, give your tree some roots and keep yourself planted.

3. Leaves

Courtesy Jo Fleet @ FlickrCourtesy Jo Fleet @ Flickr
Leaf tattoos are not only a beautiful design for their many shapes and changing colors, leaves can also represent the time of letting go. If you're at a crossroads and seek a tattoo design that represents the bravery to take flight from the branch, get inked in your favorite leaf shape and color and check out the children's book The Little Yellow Leaf by Carin Berger for heartfelt inspiration. Let go and let it be.

4. Clocks

Courtesy _April@ Flickr
Melting pocket watches are a beloved Salvador Dali tattoo idea, but they don't have to be melting to prove that time is always running and waits for no one. Victorian and steampunk style tattoos illuminate the beauty of mechanical parts and ticking timepieces. Whether it be an old pocket watch or an Aztec sundial, time is ticking, and you shouldn't be late.

5. Acorns and nuts

Courtesy Gemsling @ Flickr
Representing nature, acorns and nuts are yet another option for incorporating a tattoo that celebrates fall into your body art message. Whether you want to honor the idea that acorns provide nourishment for nature, or adapt your body art into Norse mythology and honor the tale of Thor , who stood under an old oak tree for protection during a thunderstorm, mighty oaks from little acorns grow.

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: Tattoo Gallery - Hot Babes, Sexy She-Devils & Pinup Girls

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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Tattoo Gallery - Hot Babes, Sexy She-Devils & Pinup Girls
Nov 30th 2012, 11:03

Beautiful Women > Page 1, 2, 3, 4 > Next Page

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: Sugar Skulls

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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Sugar Skulls
Nov 30th 2012, 11:03

Dia de los Muertos or the “Day of the Dead” is a Mexican religious holiday that has grown in popularity over the years amongst those who are not Mexican, Catholic, or even religious. One of its popular icons, the sugar skull, has become a favorite design used in everything from wall art to dinnerware. The tattoo community, in particular, has welcomed the sugar skull into its culture as an integral part of its own iconography. But in order to embrace something, you have to understand it and support its significance. So, what is the Day of the Dead and how does the sugar skull fit into the festivities?

Dia de los Muertos is celebrated around the same time as Halloween, so the two holidays are often meshed together. But the Day of the Dead is actually very different from Halloween and not at all morbid like the name may suggest.

The traditional celebration of Dia de los Muertos started over 3,500 ago by the Aztecs who practiced a month-long celebration that honored those who had died and welcomed their spirits back to earth for a visit. During this ritual, they would often display skulls that they had collected as symbols of life, death, and rebirth.

When the Spanish Conquistadors infiltrated what is now known as Mexico, they brought with them their Catholic faith and began an effort to convert the natives and put an end to the “sacrilegious and pagan” observance. Their attempts to squash the ritual were unsuccessful, but somehow over time the celebration was altered to coincide with the more “acceptable” Catholic holidays, All Saint’s Day and All Soul’s Day.

Today, Dia de los Muertos begins on the evening of October 31st. Legend says that the gates of heaven open at midnight, and that the souls of dead children â€" angelitos â€" are the first to visit their loved ones still on earth. They roam the earth for just one day, and then the following midnight, the gates are opened once again to allow the adult souls to descend.

The dead are welcomed by their families here on earth through the construction of elaborate altars known as ofrendas, or offerings. The altars consist of many items that are well-considered with the dead loved ones in mind. Flowers, particularly marigolds, are laid out for their bright color and strong scent, which is supposed to lead the dead to their altar. Other potent smells such as spices, incense, and scented candles are often also part of the ofrenda construction for the same reason. Pictures of the deceased, portions of their favorite foods and drink, toys for the angelitos, and other personal items are displayed on the altar table in honor of those who have passed. Even grooming items such as soap and shaving supplies are sometimes left, in the belief that the souls will be weary from their long journey and in need of freshening up.

One of the items almost always displayed somewhere among the items of the ofrenda is the sugar skull. What is the history and significance of this popular icon? (Cont'd on next page)

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Thursday, November 29, 2012

Tattoos / Body Piercings: Reader Poll: Do You Watch Tattoo Reality TV Shows?

Tattoos / Body Piercings
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Reader Poll: Do You Watch Tattoo Reality TV Shows?
Nov 30th 2012, 00:27

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: Discover Hidden Talent

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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Discover Hidden Talent
Nov 29th 2012, 11:03

You can find a reputable tattoo artist several ways. Word of mouth (in other words, ask). Or you can take it upon yourself to do the dirty work. As in, the inspection of the shop and the portfolios.

Don't buy into the idea that the busiest or most well-known artist in your area is the best. Would you apply that same rule to your hairdresser, mechanic or nail technician? Of course not. So shop around and find the artist that's creative, trustworthy and most of all, clean.

Difficulty: Easy

Time Required: N/A

Here's How:

  1. Take a tour: Before you start calling around tattoo studios let your feet do the walking instead. There's no better way to get a feel for an artist than to pop right in. See what the artists are doing, who's available to chat, and most importantly decide if you like the atmosphere. You'll be spending quite some time there.

    Next, is the place clean? See a license? Chairs look wiped off? Good. Now introduce yourself and get ready to plan the tattoo process.

  2. Start talking ideas: Here's your chance to interview an artist. Spill your thoughts. Lots of people have fears about tattoo artists as stereotypes have created a certain culture club associated with the craft. Tattooists are human. Don't be afraid to talk to them. Show them your body and let them listen to your ideas. See where it goes. Are they spilling back design suggestions? If yes, keep talking. Explore colors and go over flash or custom sketch options. If not, head out the door. This isn't the artist for you.
  3. Do a trial: Any reputable artist should be willing to create a few sample sketches and even let you test drive a temporary design. This is your body. Don't be in such a hurry. If it's not right, try again. There is no room for permanent errors. This is especially important to note if you're planning a name, cultural symbol or language tattoo.
  4. Get inked: Once you found the guy who has envisioned your tattoo just as you have, it's time to pick a date. Get to your appointment on time and sober. Make sure you have some cash for a tip. Your tattooist deserves it. He's worked hard. An extra twenty percent added to your bill will do.
  5. Spread the word: Celebrity tattooists rely on the same thing. Publicity. If you discovered hidden talent in your local area, spread the word. Fan page your artist on Facebook and social media sites, provide credit and post photographs.

    You don't have to be part of a culture club to find a talented artist. You just have to be someone who appreciates a creative, trustworthy and most of all, clean tattooist. You know, just like your hairdresser. (And the chairs are more comfortable!)

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: What Makes a Good Tattoo Ar...

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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What Makes a Good Tattoo Ar...
Nov 29th 2012, 11:03

If you want to be a tattoo artist, there are some things you need to know. All tattoo artists are not created equal and you will never make it amongst them if you don’t have the right skills to compete. This article is intended to be very straightforward and will not coddle you in any way. So, if you want someone to tell you that you that anyone can make it in this business as long as they have the desire, you are in the wrong place. If you really want to know what it takes to make it in the tattoo world, keep reading.

Money & Fame
First of all, let’s talk about money. Tattooing is big business and a lot of the more popular artists are making a killing at it. Some of them have so many people knocking at their door that they have had to resort to creating a waiting list weeks, months, or even years in advance. Customers are lined up and willing to pay hundreds of dollars for a few hours work. Sure sounds like tattooing is a get-rich-quick dream, doesn’t it? Well, snap back to reality because you are only seeing one tiny part of the big picture. First of all, the ones making a killing versus the ones working just as hard and barely making ends meet is a very high ratio. Secondly, there is a lot of money that has to be invested into running a successful, safe, clean, sterile and professional tattooing business.

Artists are in high demand because their patrons know they can be trusted for cleanliness as well as quality artwork. One autoclave sterilizer can cost thousands of dollars. High quality tattoo machines, power supplies, medical equipment and sanitation supplies also add up significantly. And then there’s insurance, licenses and other legal red tape that can break the bank before you even get started. So, if you’re in this for the money, you’re going to be very disappointed. Not to mention the fact that anyone that starts any new career or business purely money-motivated has already set themselves up for disaster. If you do not love, and I do mean love, the art of tattooing and would not be willing to do it for free, then don’t waste your time even trying to get in.

The desire for fame is just as ridiculous a motivation for becoming a tattoo artist as money is. Yes, there are a few people in the tattoo community that are considered famous and we find ourselves gushing at the thought of meeting them or being tattooed by them simply because of who they are. Well, trust me â€" they didn’t get into this business for the purpose of fame, either, and the reason it happened upon them is because they EARNED it. They worked their asses off, dedicating every drop of sweat to the art and they eventually got recognized for it because of that dedication. Someone looking purely for an ego boost isn’t going to be willing to put forth that much effort, so it would be best for them to go try to find their 15 minutes on a reality TV show.

You Think You Got Skillz?
You like to draw and your mom says you do wonderful work. Your friends all tell you that you should be an artist. Even your teachers tell you that you have real potential. Does that make you a candidate for becoming a tattoo artist? Maybe, but don’t get your hopes up too high. You think you got skillz? Let’s talk about skill. Currently, there are so many people out there tattooing that in some cities there are literally tattoo shops on every corner and a lot of these artists are turning out some bona fide masterpieces on skin. If you don’t have what it takes to either match or exceed the quality of your competition, then you have no business being in this business. Tattooing isn’t about tracing stencils anymore â€" it’s about creating art. And not just any art â€" there is a big difference between the ability to draw and the ability to crank out a work of art under pressure. And if you’re looking for an apprenticeship â€" we’ll talk about that in a bit â€" you had better be able to “wow” them with your portfolio or you’re going to get nowhere fast.

Page 2: A Look at the Competition

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: Breaking the Stereotype

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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Breaking the Stereotype
Nov 29th 2012, 11:03

Many "minority" groups have long complained about being judged solely on their appearance. People of these groups are automatically stereotyped into a class of certain expectations. The body art community is no exception. From schools to the work force to every day life, people with body art are generally perceived as rebellious, irresponsible, unintelligent and sometimes even criminal.

This kind of prejudice is no more acceptable than judging a person based on the color of their skin, their religion, or their gender. However, it does happen and those with body art are inspected under a close microscope of scrutiny. How we, as members of this community, react to the scrutiny is what will make the difference.

Gaining Trust
We learn from childhood that trust is something that must be earned. We were also taught that losing someone's trust is much easier than gaining it. Tattooed and pierced gang members and criminals have caused the general population to lose much of its trust for the illustrated people. It is also no surprise that humans tend to be wary of anything that is different from what they are accustomed to.

We are quick to admonish that these people need to change their attitudes, but we need to realize that we are responsible for bringing about this change. A child does not overcome their fear of dogs by being thrust into a cage of angry canines.

Cut the Attitude
I hear myself saying this to my kids a lot. "Cut the attitude." What does it mean? It means get the scowl off your face and stop acting like you're the most important person in the world. No wonder "mundanes" ("blanks" - people without bodyart) are afraid of us - if you walk around looking, acting and talking like a punk, you're going to be perceived as a punk.

We all know you're pierced and tattooed as a form of your self-expression. That doesn't mean you have to be angry at the world. There is obviously a side of you that appreciates creativity and art; nurture that side and stop always being on the defensive. Don't assume every person you meet is going to judge you, and don't assume you're better than them if they do.

Above & Beyond
Maybe you're not the angry type that walks around with a chip on your shoulder, but do you go out of your way to break the stereotype? This is something I personally am conscious of every day, especially when my body art is clearly visible. One time I moved a shopping cart out of the way of a lady that was trying to park her car. Another time I held a door open for an elderly man with a walker. Recently I returned a wallet that was left behind by the owner. These are not extraordinary things, but the look of pleasant surprise on the faces of these individuals proves to me that it made an impression. I did exactly the opposite of what was expected of me, and I earned a point of respect for the body art community.

The Power of a Smile
The simplest thing you can do everywhere you go and to everyone you meet is share a smile. It's really contagious - if you give someone a genuine smile, they are going to smile back. Dogs that walk around with their tails wagging and their tongues hanging out aren't scary. And a person walking around with a big smile on their face isn't going to pose any threat to strangers.

Random Acts of Kindness
There used to be a television show where the hosts would go out to commit "random acts of senseless kindness". They would go out of their way to help someone or just make them smile. For someone who is not outgoing in nature, this isn't easy, but the benefits to yourself and the people you reach will be immeasurable.

I would like for everyone that reads this article to try to go out of their way for just one individual this week, and remember to do it with a smile! Then, email me about it at tattoo.guide@about.com. What did you do? What was their reaction? How did it make you feel? Do you think this could help change the world's perspective on body art, and would you do it again? Your experiences and reactions will be published in a future article for all to read. Good luck!

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Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: Body Art At Work

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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Body Art At Work
Nov 28th 2012, 11:03

A couple of weeks ago, while checking out at the supermarket, I noticed that the guy who was bagging my groceries was wearing a band-aid on his ear. My first thought was that he had some kind of hideous scab he was trying to cover up until I noticed the captive bead ring underneath it. The band-aid was being used as a "cover-up" of sorts, because apparently employees of the store are not allowed to wear body jewelry while working.

I really felt bad for the guy - I'm sure he doesn't need me to tell him that the band-aid looks just awful, but he does what he has to in order to keep both his piercing and his job. What I don't understand is the thinking (or lack thereof) that went into creating this store policy in the first place. Do these employers really think that a big tacky brown bandage looks better than a piece of jewelry?

Sexual Discrimination?
Not to mention the fact that this is sexual discrimination if I've ever seen it. If a woman came into employment of this store and had her ears pierced, would she be required to cover her earrings with band-aids? Of course not. In fact, there were several ladies in the same store working there with their jewelry in full view. Of course, it was standard post-and-back jewelry. What if one of these women was wearing captive bead rings? Why is it that a choice of jewelry turns a simple piercing into a violation of employment policy? Why is there a line of difference between "regular" jewelry and "body" jewelry - and when did body jewelry become evil?

Many employers will defend these ludicrous policies by stating that body jewelry and piercings detract from the professional appearance the company wants to portray. Dudes - it's a supermarket. Or a fast food chain. These workers are not in a professional environment, nor are they paid enough to be professional. Personally, I don't give a rat's ass if the girl that serves me a burger or bags my groceries has a third eye - as long as she's clean, friendly, and does her job right.

Your Anti-Distraction is Distracting Me
But it's not just fast food joints and grocery stores. A friend of mine, a Senior in high school, is pursuing a career in teaching elementary grade kids. Whenever she goes to her teacher's assistant "job" (which is non-paying), she has to cover her nostril and eyebrow rings with band-aids, because supposedly the piercings can be distracting to the children. Some of the kids asked her one day why she had the band-aid, because they were concerned that she was hurt. So she peeled the bandage away to show them the piercing underneath, and the kids were perfectly happy to know she was fine and haven't mentioned it again. So, which object was actually the source of distraction to the children? The stupid band-aid!

Waiter, There's an Earring in My Soup
I talked with a few managers of some well-known chains to see if I could gain a little insight into corporate thinking. Jacki, who is a former manager of a McDonald's and currently assisting the manager of an Arby's in Pennsylvania, said that although she personally has nothing against body art or piercings, policy states that employees must remove their jewelry or wear a band-aid over their piercings. The reason? "That's not company policy, that's food safety policy. In Pennsylvania where I am from, the Health Department is also combined with the Department of Agriculture. .[The jewelry] would have to removed or secured with a band-aid ... for "appearance" and food safety reasons. In theory the piercing (dealing here mostly with ears) could fall out into the food." In theory? No kidding! Has anyone bothered to test that theory? Oddly enough, the back of stud-post jewelry can fall off a lot easier than the ball of a captive bead ring. To this day, I have yet to hear of someone losing their captive bead or the ring as a result of normal daily activities.

Does body art detract from the customer's experience? McDonald's thinks so. Jacki said that she would be reluctant to hire someone with heavy jewelry or tattoos simply out of fear of getting in trouble with the company. She mentioned one particular case when they "hired this awesome guy who happened to have a few small visible tattoos on his hand/ wrist area. Even though he was in the kitchen not in the direct sight of customers, we got in tons of trouble by our supervisors." Yes, and I am sure this was "food safety" policy, too - I'd hate to see the guy's tattoo fall off into someone's salad.

Body Art Endangers a Good Customer Experience?
Adam is a manager of one of the Radio Shack electronic stores and he said that he will hire someone with body art, but it has to remain covered up when the employee is working. "It's not that I mind it at all, but there are a lot of my customers who have somewhat biased opinions about people who have body art." Again, it is the stereotype that body art somehow endangers a good customer experience - no matter how capable the person may be.

How do the pierced and tattooed find employment with this kind of prejudice running rampant among employers? It isn't easy, and it has caused some to decide they have to sacrifice their love for body art just to be "accepted" in the Corporate World. On the message boards, Nzen writes, "I know I cannot risk getting facial piercings if I want to expand my job potential. Most offices are NOT going for non-religious nose piercings or eyebrow piercings. I'd love to get an Industrial in my right ear, but that's risky in a lot of work places. Let's face it, unless you're gonna be a tattoo artist or a piercer or a computer whiz who can write their own ticket, you're not gonna get very good jobs with a face full of metal and tats that show." My question is why the hell not? Why should tattoos and piercings have any effect on determining if we are capable of handling a job? Why does a person wearing jewelry and art scare people? Simply put: Ignorance.

I don't know if the day will ever come that the body art community will be embraced by the corporate world with open arms, but the good news is that some are starting to come around and see body art for what it really is. Some of them recognize the intelligence and the skills these people have and accept their appearance as something beautiful or at least acceptable. It might not be easy finding these employers, but they are out there. Check out the article, Body Art Friendly Companies and Employers to find some of them.

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: Snake Tattoos

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
These articles that had the largest increase in popularity over the last week // via fulltextrssfeed.com
Snake Tattoos
Nov 28th 2012, 11:03

Are snake tattoos only for the sinful? From Biblical associations to reincarnation and life after death, snakes have many historical myths and legends about them that lure many people to their mysterious beauty.

Snakes and Myths

While there are plenty of sinful and negative meanings conjured up with the image of a snake, there are many positive ones too.

When a snake sheds its skin it goes through a state of transformation that depicts both change and rebirth.

Sacred to many cultures including the Native American Indians, snakes in certain Indian tribes are associated with lightning and are a masculine symbol. Consider a snake combined with a lightning bolt to depict this sort of cultural representation.

The Celts also bestowed some glory upon the snake as the bearer of secret knowledge. Celtic or tribal inspired reptile tattoos can represent wisdom, rebirth and renewal.

Today, Erik "The Lizardman" Sprague tattooed his entire body green and added horn implants above his eyebrows to add a reptilian vibe to his body transformation. He's also very wise. You can read about Erik here.

If you practice yoga, you may find a deep association you never knew you had with the snake. Kundalini means "coiled" in both Thai and Sanskirt languages. As you awaken the Kundalini force at the base of your spine the goddess or sleeping serpent can help lean you towards enlightenment and a state of meditative bliss.

Snake tattoos are a sexy girls tattoo, especially if you practice any form of belly dancing where you can really show off the slithering movement of the snake and your feminine whiles.

You can also opt for a snake to combine with Sanskrit tattoo designs to create a very meaningful body canvas that represents inner transformation and enlightenment.

The Dark Side of Snakes

Come hither. Snakes are tempting.

It was a snake that tempted Eve to take a bite of the apple in the Garden of Eden and this sinful association will always bring to mind the dark side of their being.

Yet it is not just this Biblical story that warrants a snake's darker presence. They move to the rhythm of nature and that's part of their seductive and suggestive mysterious force. Snakes also partake in their share of dark imagery as well. Living amongst the shadows during the coldest months they slowly make way to the sun in a sleuth coming.

From magic spells to death representations and their fanged merciless fights, a snake can be found slithering in the gardens of both good and evil.

Placement Tips for a Snake Tattoo

Artist selection is important with every tattoo but especially with snake designs due to their fine details. Play an active role in your snake designing process and give the style and placement plenty of thought before seeking the right talented artist.

You'll likely be tempted to wrap your snake somewhere. The bicep and the wrist make likely snake tattoo locations. You can also place your snake on your lower hip for a sexy tattoo that moves with you.

For a masculine and poisonous tattoo inspired design opt for a cobra back piece. For an upper thigh design that's nothing short of tempting why not consider a coiled snake?

For ancient symbolism check out the symbol of the Ouroboros which is the depiction of a snake eating its own tail and forming a complete circle. Circle tattoos are unique on the upper shoulder blades and forearm so consider these unique spots for a different take on a snake tattoo.

To add a verse of wit and well deserved wisdom to your snake piece, consider the following quote:

"Adapt to the pace of nature. Her secret is patience."-Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: My Visit to L.A. Ink

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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My Visit to L.A. Ink
Nov 28th 2012, 11:03

This was the tattoo Yede and her niece both got. It's very well done, but I shudder to think that the shop minimum is $200 so you know this small tattoo cost at least that much.

Needless to say, this was a disappointing visit. TV show or not, celebrity or not, when you run a business it should be handled professionally and potential clients should be treated with respect. If you are ever treated this way in any tattoo studio, walk away. There are other shops out there with better people. Never settle and never assume all tattoo artists have rock star egos. Don't give people more credit than they deserve just because they are on TV or have celebrity status. We're all just people.

Just a few miles away from L.A. Ink, we visited a fantastic shop with the warmest and most welcoming crew. Next week, you'll be able to read about them!

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Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: Vertical Hood Piercing Experience

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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Vertical Hood Piercing Experience
Nov 27th 2012, 11:03

Vertical Hood Piercing

Hi, I thought I'd e-mail and tell you about my piercing experience because I didn't see where anyone had told you about their vertical hood piercing experiences.

Well, mine was really simple. I went to Big Daddy Dixie Land Tattooz & Body Piercing here in Columbus, Ga. They were so wonderful! We discussed exactly what it was that I was going to be doing and how'd I'd like it done and the benefits of vertical versus horizontal (I was going to go for horizontal at first). After that, we spent another half hour making sure my jewelry would go with my body type so that it wouldn't be gaudy or gawky looking.

After we finished that (I had two piercers there, one was more experienced, and the other was new to the genital piercings and I gave her permission to do mine so that she could gain more knowledge in that area. And I had a bystander there who wanted to get hers done, but wanted to see it done first) Anyways, after we found jewelry that matched my body type, they cleaned me up and lined me up to make sure everything was perfect. Then they pierced it, and right before they pierced me they were like you might feel some tightness and just to breath through it. I definitely felt tightness! But it felt sort of like getting my ears pierced...you know not when you get that first ear pierced but when you get the second ear pierced and you know what kind of pain to expect.

Everything went so smoothly and I'd do it again. I actually would have preferred getting this one done before I had my navel done. I thought my navel was more painful than this. And the outcome is just so gorgeous...My boo absolutely loves the sight of it! Unfortunately we can't do anything right now because I'm still in the healing process but when that time is over he better watch out! ;)

-Suzie

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: 3D Tattoo App Review

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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3D Tattoo App Review
Nov 27th 2012, 11:03

The Bottom Line

Not entirely user friendly, especially for those who aren't web-savvy, but this is a great application with a lot of potential once you figure it out. It's always a good idea to try a temporary version of a tattoo before you take the plunge, and this is one way to see yourself as others would see you and that different perspective is really useful.

Pros

  • Offers several options, most of which are free
  • Even the paid options are very reasonable
  • Avatar creator's ability was highly impressive
  • You can log in directly through your Facebook account

Cons

  • Not the most user friendly for those who aren't web/app savvy
  • Not many pre-loaded tattoo options available
  • Preloaded images sometimes just show blank pages

Description

  • This is a newly developed program so minor glitches are bound to happen from time to time, but it seems pretty reliable.
  • Uses the Evolver Platform and is a web-based application so there's no software to load on your computer.
  • Images can be printed or shared once the avatar has been created.

Guide Review - Web Application Review - 3D Tattoo Preview by Obsessive Ink

When I first heard about the Obsessive Ink 3D tattoo preview application, I knew I had to try it out. It just so happens that I've been working on a facial tattoo design and had actually been wishing that I had access to something just like this. So, I headed over to www.obsessiveink.com to give it a try.

Once you've signed up, you can create an avatar in your likeness. There's two different ways in which you can do this - either use their program to create a face and body similar to your own, or upload a photo of yourself and allow it to create an avatar for you based on your picture. I decided to go the picture route, wanting to test the program for accuracy. I used my camera phone and purposely uploaded a somewhat blurry, not-so-hot image that still fit their guidelines, since I know most people aren't going to have fancy cameras to take sharp images with; I wanted to see just how well the program would adapt. I have to say, I was pretty impressed with the results - I think I have a pretty good idea of what I would look like if I were bald now, and I plan to never shave my head.

Once you have your likeness created, then you can use it to add tattoos and see how they look. Again you have two options - use one of the images they already have available in the application (a very limited selection) or upload an image of your own. There is a fee involved for this option, but it's only $1.99 to upload your own image and it gives you a lot more flexibility when it comes to designing something personal. Again, wanting to test the program's abilities and since I was creating something based on a tattoo I actually want, I chose to upload a drawing that I had done.

This is where I have to say that the program became a little less user friendly. It took me several trips around in circles before I finally figured out how to upload and then add my design to my avatar, which is why I took this short video of how to use the program once I figured it out. In my case, my scan wasn't the greatest so some of the paper surrounding the drawing was included in the final image, but all in all I was pretty impressed with the results and I can see a lot of potential in this application. I'd love it if they'd add the ability to "pierce" your avatar as well - I've been thinking of a septum ring and would love to see beforehand what my (bald) self would look like with one.

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: First Tattoo

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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First Tattoo
Nov 27th 2012, 11:03

For many years, I'd been telling myself that on my 21st birthday, I'd do something outrageous like... get a tattoo (coming from a conservative chinese family, a tattoo is pretty much considered outrageous). Seems like I couldn't wait until my 21st birthday and now I am a proud owner of a scorpion zodiac on my lower back at the ripe old age of 20.

On the fateful day, I went to a shop called Inkz in Singapore and met the tattoo artist, Jerry. Since it was my first time, I was quite apprehensive and kept on questioning him about the pain. He was very patient with me and told me the pain was "bearable". He also warned me that this would not be the last tattoo i would be getting.

The thing for me is that I need a friendly tattoo artist. I've walked into shops where the tattoo artists are downright snobby and are pretty impatient if you ask questions (especially those pertaining to pain and price). To ready yourself for a tattoo, make sure your tattoo artist is affable and approachable and is ready to explain everything.

To answer the most widely asked question: DID YOUR TATTOO HURT? I've read so many testimonials saying that their outline hurt but the colouring didn't. Strangely enough, i hardly felt a thing when Jerry outlined but when he coloured, I was wincing underneath my brave facade. The pain is likened to that of a needle being inserted lightly into your skin and dragged from side to side inside your skin. Like Jerry said, it IS bearable, but it's not the most pleasant sensation in the world.

Warning: Tattoos really are addictive.

So much so that i'm going back for my 2nd one this weekend. :)

-theknees

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: How Much Do Tattoos Cost?

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
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How Much Do Tattoos Cost?
Nov 27th 2012, 11:03

Question: How Much do Tattoos Cost?

Answer: When it comes to tattoos, you get what you pay for. Yes, there are plenty of people tattooing out there that will ink you cheap, and you'll be crying to a real artist to have it covered up. Look for quality, and be willing to pay for it. NEVER haggle over the price of a tattoo. It is disrespectful to the artist. If you can't pay for quality, don't bother. This is not a bargain bin. It is a piece of art you will wear for life.

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Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now: piercing gallery - Surface Orbital Male Nipple Piercing

Tattoos / Body Piercings: What's Hot Now
These articles that had the largest increase in popularity over the last week // via fulltextrssfeed.com
piercing gallery - Surface Orbital Male Nipple Piercing
Nov 27th 2012, 11:03

Scroll down for full image.

Collector: Rob
Artist: "The Twiztid Dogg" - Body Art Tattoos
N. Columbus, Ohio - Tamarack Circle

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Monday, November 26, 2012

Tattoos / Body Piercings: Most Popular Articles: Body Piercing Aftercare - New Piercing Care and Remedies to Common Piercing Problems

Tattoos / Body Piercings: Most Popular Articles
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Body Piercing Aftercare - New Piercing Care and Remedies to Common Piercing Problems
Nov 26th 2012, 11:18

Body Piercing Aftercare and Remedies to Common Piercing Problems T.L.C. stands for tender loving care, and that is exactly what your new piercing is going to need. Slacking off on your aftercare or using harmful products will only prolong your discomfort and the healing process.

Most piercers will give you aftercare instructions, and the general rule of thumb would be to follow their advice. But I have found that about 60% of all customers allow this information to enter one ear and exit the other. Also, 47% of all piercing clients lose their paper aftercare instructions and blame it on their hungry dog. And then there is the 21% that go to a mall kiosk and get pierced with a gun, and then come here to learn they shouldn't have done that. For those of you in any of those groups, or if your piercer really didn't tell you how to care for your new piercing, here are my recommendations.

*Disclaimer* I do not claim to be a professional piercer. Not all aftercare methods are appropriate for all people, but I am recommending what I have found to be best after experiencing and caring for over 20 piercings.

General Piercing Aftercare

What You May Need:

  • Sea Salt
  • Mild Anti-Bacterial or Antimicrobial Liquid Soap/Wash (Like Provon or Satin)
  • Cotton Balls
  • Cotton-tipped Swabs
  • Small disposable cups (2-4 ounces)

Cleaning Your Piercing:
1. First, wash your hands thoroughly. Never touch your piercing or jewelry with dirty hands.
2. Saturate a cotton ball with warm water, and gently wipe away any "crusties" that have gathered around the piercing site. Throw the cotton ball away.
3. Apply a generous amount of liquid soap to your fingertip, and apply to the piercing site and jewelry. Make sure you get the soap everywhere, but rotating the jewelry is not necessary as long as you work the soap around the piercing and jewelry completely.
4. Rinse the piercing and jewelry several times with warm water, ensuring that all soap has been removed.
5. Dry your piercing with a clean paper towel and then dispose of it.>

Cleaning Tips

  • Although it's a very antiquated method, some piercers will still tell you to rotate your jewelry. This is not wrong per say, but I have found that it causes more problems than it solves. Any crusties or bacteria still on the jewelry are then introduced inside the raw piercing when the jewelry is rotated. This can cause irritation or even infection. It's best to just clean the piercing and jewelry thoroughly without actually moving it.
Acceptable Healing Aids and Products
  • Tea Tree Oil - This soothing liquid cools and refreshes an irritated piercing. Use only high quality tea tree oil that has been diluted with distilled water.
  • Emu Oil - A universal healing product that has been discovered to also produce exceptional results when healing a piercing.
  • H2Ocean - Although some would call it "glorified saline solution," most do report excellent healing results with this product.
  • Saline Solution - Less expensive and more readily available than most other products, saline solution is very effective in soothing and healing a new piercing. It's also an acceptable substitute for sea salt soaks.
Do NOT Use:
  • Hydrogen Peroxide - Hydrogen peroxide kills bacteria, but it also kills the white blood cells attempting to heal your piercing. It can cause irritation and lengthen overall healing time.
  • Rubbing Alcohol - Alcohol will dry the skin and irritate the raw piercing, which could actually lead to infection.
  • Glyoxide - This is a product that contains hydrogen peroxide and hinders healing rather than aiding it.
  • Ear Care Solution - Solutions that are provided by jewelry boutiques and department store piercers usually contain alcohol, hydrogen peroxide and other harmful chemicals that only aggravate a new piercing.
  • Ointments - Antibacterial ointments or similar products only clog pores and/or kill good cells trying to heal the piercing.
New piercings and sometimes irritated piercings can greatly benefit from a Sea Salt Soak. This simple remedy can soothe pain and even draw out infection when it's done properly. Visit the All About Sea Salt Soaks to find out if a sea salt soak would be beneficial to you and, if so, how to do it.

Piercing Guide Navigation: > Return to Main Menu, FAQ, Choose Piercer, Safety Musts, Aftercare

The Piercings > The Ear, The Face, Genital Piercings

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