Roman Tattoos

Courtesy Getty Images, Rob Koeberer, Aurora collection. 

If you're looking for a tattoo that's rich in symbolism and history, why not consider a Roman tattoo? Much like a good, well-planned tattoo, the culture of ancient Rome is rife with elegance, meaning and a timeless, permanent quality.

From the centurion soldier's armaments, to the diverse pantheon of gods and goddesses, to the language and Roman numeral systems, Rome was organized, elegant and dignified.

Here are some of the ways that you can incorporate some enduring class into your body art.

 

Latin: The language of Rome, Latin is a concise, organized language. Used by holy men and spellcasters alike, it is a language of power that connects the thoughts of men with the divine forces of the universe.

It is everywhere that things of importance need defining; law, science, medicine, religion. Why not use this ancient language to ink words of power into your skin? An important saying, a personal motto, a phrase from the Bible; all personal reminders of your beliefs permanently inked with an ancient, powerful language.

Gods and Goddesses: The Roman pantheon consisted of twelve main dieties and a few others that were less widely acknowledged. The Roman gods were dramatic, emotional beings that often became involved in the affairs of men. There are many ways to represent the dieties with a tattoo. Jupiter, Mars, Venus, Neptune, and Mercury could all be represented with their planets or astrological symbols.

Some of them, such as Neptune with his trident, make striking images by themselves. You could get some of the paired gods/goddesses, such as Mars/Venus, to show that you are a lover and a fighter. Choose what represents your beliefs and ink the appropriate god or goddess.

 

Roman Numerals: People get numbers in their tattoos for all sorts of reasons.

A birthday for a baby, a date on a tombstone for the departed, anniversaries, years of important events; we commemorate so many things with a time stamp. Why not use Roman numerals? Their appearance lends a certain official importance to marking an event. They are also just kind of cool looking and classy. Roman numerals are attention-getters that say, "Pay attention! This is important." And they're so much more imaginative and artistic than just a date. For instance, they look great in a good stone drawing, or you could have them designed with fallen columns or rock. Roman numerals do everything regular numbers can do, only better.

Arms and Armor: The gladitorial arena and the battlefield were important parts of Roman life. Native American warriors and fighters in fantasy art are popular representations of a fighting spirit. Why not consider a Roman soldier? The distinctive appearance of Roman armor and weapons make a striking tattoo choice. Maybe a tribal tattoo of a chariot and horses in profile, the fearless combatant standing proudly for the charge. Or the same drawing, but in the Realism style coming straight toward the viewer? Two gladiators in mortal combat, the iconic Roman gladius in hand, or spears raised and ready to throw. Opt for Roman weaponry for a killer tattoo.

Architecture: Some of the most recognizable buildings in the world are the ruins of ancient Rome. Roman architects erected magnificent structures that were built to last. Your tattoo artist should take the same approach to creating a permanent piece of body art. Many of these ancient structures make striking images that would be beautiful, tasteful additions to a personal body art collection. The Parthenon, the Colosseum, and many ancient Roman structures are instantly recognizable and awe-inspiring. If you stand the test of time, consider inking that personality trait with ancient Roman architecture.

Music Theme Tattoos

Image courtesy Getty Images/ Dimitri Otis. 

A music tattoo design is the perfect choice for anyone that is musically inclined or who has a passion for music, voice and playing. Music means so much to so many, and a good song lives on forever. Meaning, longevity... sounds like a great match for some permanent ink! Let the following music tattoo suggestions play on in your mind until you find one that harmonizes with your body art.

Who Wears a Music Tattoo?

Musicians are the most obvious wearers of a music tattoo design. However, that doesn't mean the beat stops for anyone not personally involved in the profession. Many people relate music to life. Lyrics and melodies can help us express our own thoughts without having to speak a word.  From music lovers to music teachers, conductors, band members, and professional singers, there are as many music theme tattoo designs as there are people who want to wear them.

It is a very personal choice with a lot of meaning to the one getting the tattoo, so the possibilities are endless.

Types of Music Themed Tattoos

Some people wear lyrics from a favorite song in a script tattoo design. Others wear music symbols such as treble clefs, notation, staffs, or even pieces of sheet music. You might want to show your dedication to your instrument of choice by getting a guitar, keyboard, drums or microphone tattoo. Another popular choice is a band name, logo, or even a particularly interesting or artistic album cover. For inspiration, consider any of the most popular verses from well-known musicians often tattooed to create an ode to a song or a favorite band. Some popular song lyric tattoo ideas to help get you inspired are: "Just Like Heaven" - The Cure, "Let it Be" - The Beatles, "Foxy Lady" - Jimi Hendrix, "I'm a Creep" - Radiohead, and "Be Strong When Things Fall Apart" - Blink 182.

Important Considerations

The most important consideration before getting a lyric tattoo is ensuring that the lyrics resonate with you on an emotional level, and that this emotional connection is likely to endure for a lifetime. You may want to avoid short-lived pop songs, even if you love the tune, because eventually you may feel like you've dated yourself and you'll be left with a costly mistake.

Make sure it's not too large or dark. The last thing any of us need is going in to cover up out-dated lyrics and hearing the artist say, "Can't touch this."

Where to Place a Music Themed Tattoo

If you're involved in the music community, you'll likely have more freedom regarding exactly how you express your design. Because you're in a creative industry, you're expected to be eccentric and are not subject to normal standards of appearance like those in the corporate world. With such freedom, the possibilities are more open. Over the heart is a good choice for anything you love. The hands for anyone who uses their fingers. The ears are also a good choice for notes or lyrics. If you have a heart for music, why not wear the music tattoos on your sleeve?

Do you have a music note or melodic theme tattoo? Send us a picture and share your art and talent. Email tattoo@aboutguide.com

What Hurts the Most-Tattoo Outlining or Shading?

Whether you're considering your first tattoo or adding to an existing design and are wondering how much discomfort you can tolerate, you may be asking what hurts the most- tattoo outlining or shading?

 

Both tattoo outlining and shading are necessary to create most tattoo designs, except for simple script or symbol tattoos. While pain variances and experiences will always vary, here's a brief overview of both steps, and how one or the other may feel the most painful.

Life is art. Image CC Dale M Moore@Flickr

1.  Tattoo Outlining

Tattoo outlining is the very first step of the tattoo process. This is where your artist will begin to draw your tattoo design onto the skin. If this is your first tattoo, you'll be in for a little bit of a shock. Some people describe tattoo pain like a sharp razor blade cutting the skin. Others may feel the sensation of the needle going through the layers. 

If your tattoo artist goes too deeply, you'll likely feel more pain. This is not a sign of a good artist, and you may want to consider finding a new one to finish the work if the pain is unbearable.

Some tattoo artists have the reputation of having a "light touch". So long as the ink is placed deep enough in the skin so that it stays, this is an asset to find in a tattoo artist.

If you opt for a large tattoo design, you're going to deal with a bigger outline. Small tattoos are a good first choice if you're not certain you have enough tattoo pain tolerance. If you're insistent on a grand scale tattoo design, you may decide to split your tattoo session into increments instead. If you opt for all outlining at one time, and add the shading or color later, your body will have time to heal and you can take, perhaps, a much needed break from the shock of the machine.

Image blaze of light @ Flickr. Image Courtesy blaze of light@Flickr

2.  Tattoo Shading

Unlike outlining, shading is only necessary when your tattoo design has more dimension than line work. This means anyone opting for anything more than a script or single line tattoo will need to experience the second part of the tattoo process.

Many people feel tattoo shading hurts much less than the original tattoo  outlining, so this can be good news. If you've  already made it through the tattoo line work, pat yourself on the  back. You can do this!

With that said, it helps to understand what is happening during the shading process.  Unlike a simple pass, your tattoo artist will be packing color or ink into your skin over and over  again, often for hours at a time. This is exactly why some people believe the shading is more uncomfortable that the initial outlining of the tattoo.

3.  Expect the Unexpected

There's really no solid answer to what hurts the most-tattoo outlining or shading. Both parts of the tattoo process have their own positives and negatives. If you are opting for your first tattoo, I recommend a manageable, medium size tattoo. You should also avoid some of the most painful tattoo locations, which include the ribs, hands, feet, and knees.

Once you have your first tattoo you'll have a better understanding of how your body reacts to the process. From there you can begin to get excited about adding more body art, or stop there if you've decided permanent tattoos just aren't for you.

There' s no reason to put yourself through pain just to prove a point or feel tough. Instead, opt for temporary tattoos, henna tattoos, or a basic body piercing.  You can still modify your body and style in ways that are more comfortable. And there's nothing wrong with that at all.

Make Your Mark

Image courtesy Bornero INk @ Flickr.  Image courtesy Bornero INk @ Flickr

Are you looking for a tattoo idea that celebrates your transitions? Perhaps it's time to let go of all your notions about body art. There are plenty of ideas that will help you fall in love with tattoos, no matter how much you may change, in a lifetime.

Just like the passage of spring into summer, and summer into fall, tattoos often signify great changes on life's paths. Some people get tattoos for memorial reasons.

Whether to honor a family member or friend, or even a major life change and accomplishment, memorial tattoos have a sentimental value about them that make the tribute all the more meaninigful. If you're hesitating about the idea of tattoos, there may be several things going on. First, you may be uncertain of your first tattoo commitment.

(And this is wise to be, as they are intended to be permanent.) While there are several things you can do if you aren't thrilled with your body art, from laser tattoo removal, to cover-up tattoos, there is simply no reason you should enter a tattoo studio with a tattoo idea that will be questionable or short-lived over time. Tattoos can certainly be fashionable, but you should perhaps buy a new pair of shoes or apparel if you want to make a fashion statement? Tattoos can also reflect current trends in entertainment as well. From sports teams, to music, to zombie tattoos, at that. You just have to have the brains to know what represents you, when the trends die out. Here's a few things to consider.

1. Your personality: All too often, people get tattoos that are currently all the rage. When horror tattoos go in and out of vogue, many people hop on the bus and get inked with their favorite version of Frankenstein. What may be worse, is having that monster expose himself during potential job interviews or social situations later.

Sure you can love tattoos, but for now, you need to be open-minded to the way the world currently works. Many tattoos will affect your chances of gaining employment. So be sure you really want a bloody zombie. And know your potential employer may run scared.

2. Artist selection: Speaking of horror stories, artist selection can be a scary process. Many people want what they want, when they want it. If you aren't diligent in researching your artist, you may end up with a tattoo that will not evolve with you over time. After all, who wants to live with shoddy ink?

3. Poor Placement: Tattoo placement is a huge consideration. Heed the experience of those before you. Lower back tattoos (known as tramp stamps) got their reputation perhaps unfairly, but they are still known as tramp stamps- and most gals try to cover them up. Be careful of "sexy" placement ideas. Today, those trendy placements include under the breast tattoos, butt tattoos, and rib cage designs.

If you truly want a tattoo that changes with you over your lifetime, you can't expect to ink something trendy, nor find your artist quickly. It's wonderful you are considering body art. Tattoos are a beautiful expression, especially when inked by a professional who loves his job, and is passionate about the challenge. You can make your mark less regrettable by spending the time to analyze tattoo art styles, learn what the different types of them are, and then find artists that specialize in that particular niche. From there, meet your artist first. Book a consultation, and ask her to draw up a custom tattoo based on all the things that are important to you. While these steps will prolong the permanent process, they'll ensure your tattoos are worthy for the lifetime trip ahead. You only have one skin. Don't be so quick to define it. 

Thigh Tattoo Question

CC Image Courtesy Photo the Berto@Flickr.  Cc Image Photo the Berto@Flickr

Hi,

I am thinking about an upper leg or thigh tattoo. I am in my mid-twenties with no children and I am an avid runner. My legs are one of my best features. I'm very fashionable. I change my style often. I'm not sure if a thigh tattoo is a good life-long commitment. I love the way they look and think that one would flatter my physique. Do you have any tips or advice to share before I make this tattoo placement permanent?

Signed,

She's Got Legs

 

Dear She's Got Legs,

Heck yes, I've got something to say. I adore thigh tattoos. If you've got them, show them off. The key to a good thigh tattoo is to go big or go home. There really is no in between. A tattoo that is too small in scale will look misplaced. Now is the time to analyze all of those designs you love and which ones fit the shape of your gams.

Popular tattoo designs include roses, dream catchers, feathers and gypsies. Some women opt for portraits or intricately framed cameo designs.

Thigh tattoos are easy to conceal, but you'll still be bearing them for a lifetime. Anytime you hit the beach or don a miniskirt, you run the risk of exposing your ink. This is why it's important to be certain that you want a tattoo in such a prominent area.

To look its best for a lifetime, you should try to avoid any major weight fluctuations. The good news is that pregnancy will not normally affect the size of your thighs. As long as you stay active as much as possible, a thigh tattoo carries little risk of changing with your shape.

The next thing to consider is whether you'll choose color or black and grey.

If you have darker skin, you might want to incorporate some brighter colors into your tattoo design, especially if you like to spend time soaking up the sun. If you're pale-skinned, a black and grey tattoo could look very defined.

Remember, it's all in the details, so try to find a tattoo artist that is professional and has a few ideas of his own.

The greatest risk of a thigh tattoo comes with forgetting how visible this placement will be for a lifetime. Bathing suits, short skirts, and short shorts will be revealing your thigh tattoo for eternity. With that said, you don't need a perfect body to make use of all this canvas. Even with only one tattoo, it will be beautiful if executed properly. Thigh tattoos are certainly on the trendier side of tattoo placement,and they can be quite sexy. You've worked hard to maintain your shape and you should be proud of it. Just make sure you really like this placement idea. Once you place a large tattoo in this area. you'll have it for life! Do you need ideas? Do you have questions? Be sure to visit tattoo.about.com

Mid-life Crisis Tattoo

Image Courtesy Natalie Maynor @ Flickr.  Image Courtesy Natalie Maynor @ Flickr

Dear Jodie,

I'm in my forties with two failed marriages. I met this girl at a bar, and we have been dating for awhile. Things are getting serious and I am thinking of getting her name tattooed on my body. I would never do this, normally, but I feel compelled to make some sort of statement of devotion. My last wife was very conservative. Perhaps that's why I'm so intrigued by the idea. But I read a lot about tattoo regrets and I certainly don't want to make one.

 I also have two children that are school-aged. Should I hide it from them? They have been to counseling, but I know they still miss the family unit. How do you feel about name tattoos? - Nameless in Ohio

 

Dear Nameless in Ohio,

I commend you for thinking about your children. They should come before Sally, Jane, or who knows?

Your children are likely looking at you for direction and how to pick up the pieces after the separation or divorce. I do not know who Jane is, but I wonder how much time Jane has spent with the children and what sacrifices she is willing to make to be part of the family unit. Name tattoos are very risky, as you might know. You should proceed with caution.

Here are my thoughts:

Jane might be gone next week.

Jane might have taken off with your best friend.

How well do you know Jane?

Your body will serve you for a lifetime. Name tattoos, while devotional, don't leave any margin for error. I do believe you should consider the circumstances of your divorce and your children's feelings before you ink another woman's name.

You said you are intrigued by the idea. This tells me that there is room for exploration in your relationship. Maybe Jane signifies either fantasies, or a lifestyle that you're considered acting out. Have you discussed other options for portraying your commitment?

Is Jane willing to get a name tattoo?

Sometimes Jane just needs the attention, especially if you have children. Is this a premature attempt to mark her territory?

Name tattoos are one of the most popular forms of tattoo regret. Many people cover them up once the relationship goes sour or remove them with advanced technology such as laser tattoo removal. Both options are costly and painful.

How about giving Jane some time? At least a year. By then, you will know if this is a fleeting romance or one that deserves a permanent place on your heart. I don't know the extent of your involvement, but I do know that many people regret name tattoos. If you're hell-bent on honoring Jane with a name tattoo, I recommend that Jane takes the plunge, as well. There are many couple tattoo ideas that may appeal to both of you. From script tattoos that commemorate your first date to a flower or Zodiac symbols that celebrate either your birth sign or relationship, I think it's safe to say that if Jane's not in, you shouldn't be either.

Many people have tattoo regrets. It's normal. It happens. Don't get inked when you're caught up in the moment. While Jane is a fairly common name, she might be a hard person to replace. On the other hand, your children deserve this devotion. Perhaps you should consider tattoos that honor them. Ask Jane how she feels about that. If she agrees, she might be a keeper, rather than a costly mistake.

Custom Tattoo Question

Image blaze of light @ Flickr.  Image Courtesy blaze of light@Flickr

Hi,

I came across  your site today. I was considering getting my first tattoo, but I wanted it to be personal. I've seen a lot of the tattoo reality shows, and I am interested in getting some custom work done. How does this happen? How much does it cost? Where do I go? What should I expect?

Signed,

Ink Virgin

 

Dear Ink Virgin,

I think it's wonderful that you want a custom tattoo design. This is just one way that you can ensure that you'll love your body art for a lifetime.

The most important aspect to consider in this quest is finding a skilled and professional tattoo artist who can breathe life into a premature tattoo design.

Have you visited local tattoo shops? This may be something you should consider as the first step. Unless you have been referred to an artist or plan on visiting a tattoo convention, you'll need to do some research on the talent in your area.

Don't expect every tattoo artist to whip out something that you've seen on reality TV. Most artists dislike this pressure, and the expectations of drawing a design so quickly are quite unrealistic. Should you be paying for the process? In short, the answer is yes.

Whenever you visit a tattoo shop and have a consultation with a professional tattoo artist, his time is money. If he doesn't charge for the custom design up front, he risks losing his time. And time is money. Most artists will ask you what you want, and give you a brief idea of what he is capable of. From there, she'll expect you to flip through the portfolio and discover her style. If it's a fit. there will be a connection. From there you will discuss the basics.

A custom tattoo design will cost more than a traditional flash tattoo. It will not be mass-produced, and it will be one of a kind. Your potential artist will begin throwing out a few ideas, and then decide to sketch something up. This design fee will likely be collected at the time of the consultation.

Most artists will apply the design fee to the later tattoo service.

When you commission the design, your artist is aiming to please. He wants to be creative and bring your custom tattoo ideas to life. He's also analyzed potential tattoo placement, and has coordinated this new tattoo with any prior body art for best results.

If you dislike the finalized sketch, that's all good. Don't feel bad for walking away or letting your artist know a few more changes need to be made. So long as they are basic and simplistic, and do not affect the overall tattoo design or placement, most artists will willingly change anything to your liking before inking your first custom tattoo.

There are many advantages to opting for a custom tattoo design. The world of body art is changing significantly, most people seek out a tattoo artist that can create the brilliant tattoo designs found in magazines or on the Internet. Be patient with your tattoo artist and be thorough when requesting a custom tattoo design. The more information and ideas you can provide, the more likely you will love the end result.

Custom tattoos aren't for everyone. Some people simply love the tradition of flash tattoos and popularized designs. If you're planning a new and unique custom tattoo, be sure you consider not only where to go, but what to do. The more images, ideas, and inspiration you bring to the table, the more you'll love the finished piece. Time is money. And that is often well spent. Choose accordingly.