Sunday, 8 August 2010

Japanese Tattoos Designs And Pictures

Japanese TattoosThe art of Japanese tattoos is often referred to as irezumi; it is said that this particular type of Japanese tattoos has been going for hundreds of centuries now. It was when buddhism was introduced to Japan that Japanese tattoos saw a decline. At the time, the chinese, which brought buddhism to Japan, despised the art of tattooing. This lead to a decline in the number of Japanese tattoos inked.

During the Edo Period of Japan (in the early 17th century to the late 19th century), Japanese tattoos were most commonly seen on prostitutes. They used japanese flower tattoos, Japanese dragon tattoos, and more to entice customers. Japanese tattoos were also seen on firefighters who saw tattoos as a sign of masculinity and a show of brotherhood.
Japanese TattoosThe other main class of citizens who were tattooed during this period were criminals. For 150 years, these criminals were marked with a tattoo ring or character on the forehead or arm. This was done for each crime committed. While I bet some of these criminals did not like having a permanent tattoo, it was much better than the prior method of cutting off a criminal�s nose or ear.

It was with the Chinese novel �Suikoden� that Japanese tattoos regained their popularity. This novel was illustrated with pictures showing warriors having tigers, flowers, and dragons on their bodies. This book was a success in the lower class of Japan; it is that reason why the lower class started seeking different types of Japanese tattoos, such as koi tattoos.

At the time, woodblock printers were the only tattoo artists available. For this reason, they had little tools to work with. They were forced to use their woodblock tools, such as chisels and gouges. These tools were used along with blank ink that changed its color to a bluish green when it reacted with the skin.
Japanese TattoosAll authentic Japanese tattoos were made by hand; they use tebori, which is a group of handmade needles. These needed were attached to metal or wooden handles. This practice was very popular, but it took a lot of mastering. In the mid 1800�s, this process was very extensive and time consuming. In fact, it could take up to five years to finish a Japanese tattoo! Moreover, a tebori would cause more harm and bruising than the tattoo machines used today. Despite the fact that Japanese tattoos were very painful, many still underwent the procedure.

All Japanese tattoos are symbolic. For example, Japanese koi tattoos or carp tattoos highlight wisdom and endurance; this is because these fish outlive most humans. In the Japanese culture, dragon tattoos bring luck. In a country that relies heavily on the growing of rice crops and rain, lucky tattoos are very common and popular.

New Butterfly Tattoos

Butterfly TattoosWhen it comes to getting a tattoo, you know that you have millions of choices. With that said, butterfly tattoos have increased in popularity and that popularity is holding strong. A butterfly tattoo is one of the most requested tattoos for women. You might not find this fact surprising. After all, butterflies are beautiful creatures. Moreover, butterflies come in many different species and colors; there is no shortage of tattoo options. What does this mean for you? You cannot only get a butterfly tattoo, but one that is unique to you.

As you likely know, a butterfly has four main life stages. They start life as an egg. That egg turns into a caterpillar. Then, a cocoon or chrysalis is made. They then emerge from this state as an adult butterfly. The final stage of becoming an adult butterfly is a short one; it only lasts for about two weeks. This may have something to do with the popularity of butterfly tattoos; it shows that life is not only beautiful, but also fragile.
Butterfly TattoosOnce you have decided on a butterfly tattoo, it is time to make your design choice. Since there are thousands of different types of butterflies, various sizes, and hundreds of color combinations to choose from, making that choice may seem impossible. You have lots of choices. In addition to traditional butterfly tattoos, tribal butterfly tattoos and flower butterfly tattoos are very popular.

Finding the right design is
Butterfly Tattoosimportant; continue reading on for a few helpful tips:
Ask yourself �why do I want this tattoo?� What is it that you want your tattoo to represent? The answers to these questions can help you choose the shape, size, and overall design of the tattoo.

Ask yourself �what do you want your butterfly to look like?� What species would you like? What colors? Where do you want the tattoo? How big or small should it be? These are your wants, which are important. Butterfly tattoos lower back are popular, but you want a tattoo you will be proud of. The answers to these questions can help you narrow down your options from thousands butterfly tattoos to twenty or less.

Now, it is time to start looking through designs for butterfly tattoos. Keep in mind that you do not have to like the entire design. You or your tattoo artist can take a part of a design you like and finish it to be that perfect fit. When looking for sample butterfly tattoos, your best option is to search online.
Butterfly TattoosAs just mentioned, you want a butterfly tattoo that you are proud of. If you cannot find that perfect design online, grab a pencil and start drawing. Even if you just draw an outline and give it to an artist to finish, you are in control. You did not settle for one of the many butterfly tattoos out there; you custom designed your own. You cannot get a �more� perfect fit.

Finally, do not get a butterfly tattoo until you are 100% sure you made the right choice. Butterfly tattoos are beautiful, but you are inked for life. Take the time to ensure the design, size, and location of your tattoo is something you will not later regret.