The GYPSY is a Professional Member of the Alliance Of Professional Tattooists. He also has completed and passed the APT's Tattoo Mastery Test and is a certified Tattoo Master. Through education, knowledge and activism, APT and its members promote the understanding that professional tattooing is a safe expression of art.
EVERYTHING YOU EVER WONDERED ABOUT The GYPSY BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK!
The GYPSY was born in Topeka, Kansas in 1956. He exhibited his artistic talent at 18 months old when he drew a picture of a cow on the inside cover of a coloring book. He never had another color book after that time. His Mother, recognizing his natural talent, kept him well supplied in crayons and newsprint paper. The GYPSY'S Grandmother also recognized his early artistic abilities and at 6 years of age enrolled him in art classes at Washburn University where he soon out surpassed the other students in his class. His instructors moved him quickly from beginner to intermediate classes and soon into an advanced adult class where he was discovered by famed portrait artist Harry Roth. Mr. Roth took The GYPSY under his wing and gave him private lessons for the next 3 years. In 1964 The GYPSY won a City wide art contest with a crayon and water color drawing of a space walk. This picture went on to win first place for his age group in State competition and later in National. It remained on display at the Smithsonian Institution from 1964 - 1965. It resides in the museum archives.
In 1974, while still in High School, The GYPSY started doing freelance art for the Nazarene publishing House in KCMO. That same year he started college courses for Forestry & Wildlife Management. The GYPSY graduated from High School at Mid-Term in 1976 and immediately was called for an interview from a major greeting card company (at the time he was taking college classes for Technical Illustration & Mechanical drafting). Turning down the contract that the company offered The GYPSY stopped by a tattoo studio on his way back home and he was hooked. He started his 18 month apprenticeship the next day and the rest is history.
The GYPSY had the first professional Tattoo Studio in St. Joseph, Missouri which opened in 1977. He has also had studios in San Angelo, Midland, El Paso and Abilene, Texas. All except El Paso being the first of their kind in those cities. The GYPSY has had several careers in his life including Army Enlistment, Psychiatric Nurse, Senior Zoo Keeper and Truck Driver all while still maintaining numerous studios all under the Skin Art Creations name. In 1990 The GYPSY opened the first tattoo studio in the 4 State region of Southeast Kansas, Southwest Missouri, Northeast Oklahoma & Northwest Arkansas. In 1992 The GYPSY received formal training for advanced piercing procedures and became the first professional piercer in the region.
In 1995 The GYPSY opened a second studio in Independence, Kansas which he closed a year later due to lack of competent help. The Baxter Springs Studio operated until Christmas Eve of 2002 when, due to lack of community support and the overly liberal tattoo and piercing laws in Joplin, Missouri ($50.00 and a blood test will get you a license), which has caused the market to become flooded, the Baxter Springs studio was closed. The GYPSY reopened the Independence, Kansas Studio in November of 2002 and now operates full time from there.
The GYPSY has won World wide recognition and numerous awards for his artwork as well as being involved in community affairs and civic organizations. The GYPSY is the first tattoo artist to ever run for a Political office campaigning for a City Council seat in Baxter Springs, Kansas and the Democratic Candidate for the District 12 Representative seat for the Kansas House.
The GYPSY is currently writing his autobiography which has an expected publish date of Fall 2008.
The GYPSY has 1 Daughter, 4 Sons and 2 Granddaughters. He Married Debbie George on July 4th, 1998 whom he met .. in 1997.
Hobbies
AWARDS, MEDIA AND PUBLIC RECOGNITION FOR
SKIN ART CREATIONS TATTOO
EMPORIUM
WE
ARE PROUD OF THE AWARDS WE HAVE WON. HERE ARE A FEW OF THEM.
TATTOO RENDEZVOUS - 1992,
CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FOR PARTICIPATION PRESENTED TO THE GYPSY
SKIN ART CREATIONS TATTOO SHOW
- 1993, "BEST TRADITIONAL TATTOO," COLLECTOR - LINDA
BEAVER, ARTIST - THE GYPSY
SKIN ART CREATIONS
TATTOO SHOW - 1993, "BEST BLACK & GREY TATTOO,"
COLLECTOR - CHRIS FRIEND, ARTIST - THE GYPSY
SKIN ART CREATIONS
TATTOO SHOW - 1993, "BEST OVER-ALL TATTOO MALE," COLLECTOR
- NORMAN FISCHER, ARTIST - THE GYPSY
TATTOO RENDEZVOUS
- 1993, "BEST OVER-ALL TATTOO - MALE, " COLLECTOR - BUBBA
SCHMIDT, ARTIST - THE GYPSY
TATTOO RENDEZVOUS
- 1993, CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FOR PARTICIPATION PRESENTED TO THE GYPSY
THE GATHERING
PLACE - 1994, CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION FOR ARTISTIC TALENT
PRESENTED TO THE GYPSY
LION'S CLUB
INTERNATIONAL - 1994, CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION AS GUEST SPEAKER PRESENTED TO THE
GYPSY
SKIN ART CREATIONS
TATTOO SHOW - 1994, "BEST TRADITIONAL TATTOO," COLLECTOR -
MOTEL LEE, ARTIST - THE GYPSY
TATTOO RENDEZVOUS
- 1994, CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FOR PARTICIPATION PRESENTED TO THE GYPSY
STURGINK - 1995,
2ND PLACE "BEST COLOR TATTOO," ARTIST - THE GYPSY
STURGINK - 1995,
3RD PLACE "BEST TATTOO OF STURGIS," TATTOO ARTIST - THE
GYPSY
HAWG HAWLER - 1996, 2ND
PLACE "BEST TATTOOS," COLLECTOR - RICK MOORE, ARTIST -
THE GYPSY
SKIN ART CREATIONS
TATTOO SHOW - 1997, "BEST FRONT PANEL," TATTOO ARTIST
- THE GYPSY
25th ANNIVERSARY
REUNION CONVENTION - 1/19/2001, 2nd PLACE "BEST TATTOO OF
THE DAY," COLLECTOR - M.L. BRADY, ARTIST - THE GYPSY
ABATE OF TULSA
MOTORCYCLE & TATTOO SHOW - MARCH 2002, 1st PLACE "BEST
PATRIOTIC TATTOO" COLLECTOR - DARREN HENSLEY, ARTIST - THE
GYPSY
ABATE OF TULSA MOTORCYCLE
& TATTOO SHOW - MARCH 2002, 3rd PLACE "MOST REALISTIC
TATTOO" COLLECTOR - DARREN HENSLEY, ARTIST - THE GYPSY
TATTOO RENDEZVOUS 2008 KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JULY 2008, CERTIFICATION: ALLIANCE OF PROFESSIONAL TATTOOISTS TATTOO MASTERY TEST.
PUBLICATIONS WE HAVE APPEARED IN OR The GYPSY'S
ART HAS BEEN FEATURED IN.
"STANDARD PERIODICAL" FEBRUARY 1974
"TEEN TODAY" MARCH
1974
"ABILENE MAGAZINE"
JUNE 1981
"SCOUT JAMBOREE
PROGRAM" NOVEMBER 1981
"PRONGHORN PRESS"
DECEMBER 1981, FEBRUARY 1982, MARCH 1983, MAY 1983
"ENEWS" JUNE 1983,
JUNE 1986
"EL PASO SUN TIMES"
OCTOBER 1985
"BAXTER CITIZEN"
AUGUST 1992
"TATTOO" OCTOBER
1992
"TATTOO" MARCH 1993
"BAXTER CITIZEN"
JUNE 1993
"SKIN & INK"
APRIL 1994
"PARSONS TIMES"
APRIL 1995
"CROSSROADS" SPRING
1995
"PITTSBURG SUN"
APRIL 1995, APRIL 1996 & APRIL 1997
"A CRUISE DOWN MAIN
STREET" DOCUMENTARY ON RT. 66 FOR THE "TRAVEL CHANNEL."
"A ROTTEN LOOK AT
STURGIS" DOCUMENTARY ON BIKE WEEK IN STURGIS, SD. VHS HOME
RELEASE.
"THE GREAT RIDE"
DOCUMENTARY ON THE 60th ANNIVERSARY OF THE STURGIS RALLY AND RACES FOR
THE "TRAVEL CHANNEL."
MUSIC CDS WE'VE BEEN FEATURED ON
"ROTTEN ROLL"
FEATURING THE MUSIC OF HANK ROTTEN JR. & ALLEN ROSS. RELEASED
1995
RADIO STATIONS WE'VE BEEN
INTERVIEWED ON
"KOCD" RANDY
RICHARDS SHOW. NOVEMBER 1992 - Joplin, MO.
"KOCD" LIVE REMOTE.
JUNE 1993, 1994, 1996 & 1997 - Joplin, MO.
"BIG DOG 97.9"
SEPTEMBER 1999 - Joplin, MO.
"BIG DOG 97.9"
STEVE & JIM IN THE MORNING. MAY 2000 -
Joplin, MO.
"KCAR 104.3" THE
ROTTEN RADIO SHOW. JULY 2001, SEPTEMBER 2001, NOVEMBER 2001, DECEMBER
2001. - Joplin, MO.
"ROCK 105" MORNINGS
WITH CORIE. SEPTEMBER 2001, NOVEMBER 2001.
- Joplin, MO.
"KIND 102.5" CRUISE
NIGHT - NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2002, JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2003, MAY 2004 -
Independence, Kansas
MUSEUMS WHICH HAVE OR
HAVE HAD EXHIBITS IN WHICH "The GYPSY'S" ART HAS BEEN
FEATURED.
SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION
"YOUNG AMERICAN ARTIST EXHIBIT" 1963 - 1964
BAXTER SPRINGS, KANSAS HISTORY
MUSEUM - "FIRST COW TOWN" ORIGINAL SIGNED & NUMBERED PRINT ON
DISPLAY.
THE AUSTRALIAN
TRAVELING MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND CULTURE. "BODY MODIFICATION
EXHIBIT." 2000 - 2002
Movies
APPOINTMENT TIMES,
HOURS OF OPERATION, ARTISTS, DIRECTIONS AND MORE!
SKIN ART CREATIONS
TATTOO EMPORIUM
110 West Main Street, Independence, Kansas 67301
PHONE (620) 331-5938
IS THE OLDEST, ESTABLISHED, LICENSED STUDIO IN SOUTHEAST
KANSAS AND THE LONGEST SERVING TATTOO STUDIO FOR THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA IN THE UNITED STATES
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED ON MAIN STREET ON US 160 &
2 BLOCKS FROM US 75
IN INDEPENDENCE, KANSAS AND JUST 90 MINUTES FROM INTERSTATES 44
& 35 HIGHWAYS.
DIRECTIONS FROM SELECT
POINTS
Directions from Bartlesville, OK - 43 Total miles.
Go North on US 75.
US 75 turns into Main Street in
Independence, KS.
Stay on Main Street and cross 10th street.
The Studio is located on the north side of Main street just 2 blocks east of 10th street.
Directions from Coffeyville, Kansas
- 24 Total Miles.
Go North on US 169 to US 160.
Go West on US 160.
US 160 turns into Main Street.
The studio is 1/2 block west of Penn Ave. on Main Street.
The Studio is located on the
north side of Main street by the alley.
Directions from Chanute, Kansas -
34
Total Miles.
Head South on US 169.
Go to US 160.
Go West on US 160.
US 160 turns into Main Street in Independence.
The studi is located 1/2 block west of Penn Avenue on Main Street.
The Studio is located on the
north side of Main Street by the alley.
Directions from Parsons, Kansas - 40 Total miles
Go West on US-400 to US-169.
Go South on US-169 to US-160.
Go West on US 160.
US 160 becomes Main Street in Independence.
The studio is located 1/2 block west of Penn Avenue on Main Street.
The Studio is located on the
north side of Main Street by the alley.
Directions From Fredonia,
Kansas - 33 Total
miles
Go East on US-400 to US-75.
Go South on US-75.
US-75 Becomes Penn Avenue in Independence, Kansas.
Stay on Penn Avenue until Main Street.
Head West on Main 1/2 block.
The Studio is located on the north side of Main Street by the alley.
Directions from Pittsburg, Kansas - 70 Total miles
Go South on US-69 to US-400.
Go West on US-400 to US-169.
Go South on US-169 to US-160.
Go West on US 160.
US 160 becomes Main Street in Independence.
The studio is located 1/2 block west of Penn Avenue.
The Studio is located on the
north side of the street by the alley.
Directions from Pawhuska, Oklahoma -
63 Total Miles.
Head North on OK Route 99.
Go East on US 166
Go North on US 75
US 75 turns into Main Street in
Independence, KS.
Stay on US 75 crossing 10th street onto US 160 east.
The Studio is located on the north side of Main street just one half block west of Penn Avenue.
Directions From Tulsa, Oklahoma - 83 Total
miles
Go North on US 75.
US 75 turns into Main Street in
Independence, KS.
Stay on Main Street and cross over 10th street.
The Studio is located on the north side of Main Street 1/2 block west of Penn Avenue.
Directions from Joplin, Missouri - 79 Total
Miles
Go West on I-44 to Exit 1 (Baxter Springs).
Go West on US-166 to US-169.
Go North on US 169 to US 160.
Go West on US 160.
US 160 becomes Main Street in Independence.
The studio is located 1/2 block west of Penn Avenue.
The Studio is located on the
north side of Main street by the alley.
Directions from Wichita, Kansas - 116 Total Miles.
Go East on US-400 to US-75.
Go South on US-75.
US-75 Becomes Penn Avenue in Independence, Kansas.
Stay on Penn Avenue until Main Street.
Head West on Main Street 1/2 block.
The Studio is located on the north side on Main street next to the alley.
Directions from Topeka, Kansas - 136 Total Miles.
Head South on US 75 towards
Independence, Kansas
US-75 Becomes Penn Avenue in Independence, Kansas.
Stay on Penn Avenue until Main Street.
Head West on Main Street 1/2 block.
The Studio is located on the north side of Main next to the alley.
Directions from Kansas City,
Missouri - 166 Total Miles.
Take I-435 to US 169.
Head South on US 169.
Go to US 160.
Go West on US 160.
The studio is 1/2 block west of Penn Avenue.
The studio is on the north side of Main street by the alley.
Directions from Oklahoma City, OK -
203 Total Miles.
Take I-44 (Turner Turnpike) to
Tulsa, OK.
Go North on US 75.
US 75 turns into Main Street in
Independence, KS.
Stay on Main Street crossing over 10th street.
The Studio is located on the north side of Main street 1/2 block west of Penn avenue.
SACTE IS OPEN TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY TAKING TATTOO
APPOINTMENTS AT 11:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm AND 5:00pm
All work by appointment only. Walk-ins
may be taken on a time available basis however our schedule is heavy so
this should not be expected.
ALL BODY PIERCING DONE BY APPOINTMENT
ONLY FROM 11:00am TO 3:00pm
We are closed New Years Day, My Wife's
Birthday, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, My Birthday,
Thanksgiving Day & Christmas Day.
FROM APRIL 1st TO OCTOBER 1st WE ARE OUT OF THE STUDIO APPROX. EVERY
OTHER WEEKEND ATTENDING TRADE SHOWS, CONVENTIONS AND MOTORCYCLE RALLIES.
PLEASE CHECK OUR LIST OF EVENTS BY
CLICKING HERE TO SEE IF WE WILL BE IN THE STUDIO AROUND THE TIME YOU WOULD LIKE TO
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT.
CONTACT INFORMATION FOR
SKIN ART CREATIONS TATTOO EMPORIUM
The GYPSY - OWNER/FOUNDER SACTE TATTOOING
SINCE 1976, BODY PIERCING SINCE 1991
THIS IS THE MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
IN OUR STUDIO (and everyone else's studio) AND THE ANSWER IS.... YES, IT
HURTS!
But ask yourself this question.... "If it
hurt's that bad then why are there so many people with Tattoos and/or Piercings?"
The answer is simple... IT DOESN'T HURT THAT BAD! Everyone has a different
level of pain tolerance. What might be unbearable to one person might be
pleasurable to another. No matter who you are though, you can handle
it.
MORE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE MOST PAINFUL PLACE TO GET A
TATTOO/PIERCING?
For a tattoo the bottom of the foot is the
most sensitive followed closely by the
Gluteus
Maximus (buttocks). There
are a lot of nerve clusters located in the foot and "butt" which accounts
for the sensitivity of these areas. Likewise areas close to the bone are
sensitive for the same reason.
For a Piercing the nipple wins the sensitivity
award.
WHAT IS THE LEAST PAINFUL PLACE TO GET A
TATTOO/PIERCING?
For a Tattoo the outer bicep is the least
sensitive.
For a Piercing the tongue is the least sensitive
(if done correctly). The center of the tongue (where the piercing is done)
is a muscle and has no nerve clusters. All the nerve clusters in the tongue
are located in the outside edges.
DO YOU NUMB IT?
No! Why would you want too? A tattoo or piercing is not so uncomfortable that
you cannot stand it. The sensation is part of the experience. Without it you
have not earned your art! Besides the spiritual factor though there is a
physical reason for not "numbing it." All topical or sub-dermal anesthetics
work the same way, they swell the skin away from the nerve endings. For a tattoo
this can mean that the pigment will run and bleed under the skin, missing the
skin glands and making for a very ugly tattoo. For a piercing it can lead to
misalignment thus making for a botched piercing. Avoid any studio that offers to
"numb it" for you, they are ripping you off!
HOW DO I KEEP MY TATTOO/PIERCING FROM GETTING
INFECTED?
The best thing you can do to keep an infection from
occurring is follow to the letter what your artist or piercer tells you to do
for the aftercare procedures. In the event that you have gotten bad or no after
care advice.... here are 2 sets of care instructions (one for tattoos and one
for piercings) that may help you.
TATTOO AFTER CARE
INSTRUCTIONS
....
1. An hour and a half from now remove the gauze bandage! If it sticks to the tattoo use a little warm water, moisten the gauze and pull it off slowly.
2. Purchase a tube of 'A&D Ointment.' Apply a thin coat to the tattoo 3 to 5 times a day for the next 7 to 10 days. Do not use Neosporin, hand lotion, baby oil, creams or Vaseline! NOTE; Neosporin has been known to cause allergic reactions in a healing tattoo and petroleum jelly pulls the color from a tattoo.
3. Do not take a shower or bath today! Tomorrow when you shower or bathe, do not rub soap directly into your tattoo. When the tattoo gets wet pat it dry, do not rub it dry.
4. Do not use/soak in hot tubs, sit in steam rooms or swim in fresh, salt and chlorine water for 7 to 10 days.
5. Protect the tattoo from direct sunlight, sun lamps and tanning booths for 7 to 10 days. NOTE; The body perceives the new tattoo as a 2nd degree sunburn, if it is exposed to UV rays during the healing process you could receive a 3rd degree sun burn which may lead to skin cancer.
6. The new tattoo may form a light protective crust over the top of it, do not pick this layer, let it flake off on its own.
7. A healing tattoo may itch. Do not scratch it!
8. Do not wear tight clothing over your new tattoo while it is healing. NOTE; If you wear a bra and the tattoo is in a location where the bra may rub or press into it, either go without a bra during the healing process or keep it loose. Also, please do not wear panty hose for 7 to 10 days as the tattoo will bond with the nylon.
9. Of special note to those of you who spend a lot of time in the sun. Please wear a sun block over your tattoo to help preserve the color!
10. Infections are rare but in case you do not follow our care instructions and an infection occurs, pleaseconsult your physician immediately.
11. If you experience an allergic reaction to the ointment (which will appear as small pimples around the outside of the tattoo), we recommend discontinued use of the ointment and call us immediately. Some natural alternatives for the healing of your tattoo are 'Bag Balm', pure aloe vera gel and 'Golden Salve'.
PIERCING AFTER CARE INSTRUCTIONS
CLEAN YOUR PIERCING TWICE DAILY, UNTIL HEALED.
1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Remove any matter which may have dried on the jewelry and around the openings of the piercing with warm water. Next, pour a little antibacterial soap onto the jewelry and piercing, lather it up and then work the jewelry back and forth at least 6 times. Leave the soap in contact with the skin for about three minutes. Finally, rinse the soap off very thoroughly under running water, again working the jewelry back and forth at least 6 times. Antibacterial soap is strong, and unless it is all rinsed off, it can cause an irritation.
3. Apply a small portion of Bactine to the opening and on the jewelry.
4. To help your body fight infection and heal itself more quickly, eat a nutritious diet and if possible, take some form of multi-vitamin mineral supplement.
5. Leave the jewelry in for the first 2 months.
6. Infections are rare but possible. One way to keep an infection from occurring is do not touch the jewelry unless you are cleaning it. If an infection occurs, make up a hot Epsom salt water solution (as hot as your skin can take it.) Using a clean, white wash cloth, dip the wash cloth in the solution and press against the piercing until it cools. Do twice a day. If the infection is not gone after three days, contact your physician.
AVOID THE FOLLOWING WHILE HEALING:
Highly perfumed soaps, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, dirty hands, your saliva or anyone else's. Do not use any antibiotic ointments or take oral antibiotics unless authorized by your physician.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR TONGUE, LABRET OR LIP PIERCING
1. Brush tongue and teeth with toothpaste & toothbrush and rinse with Listerine for no less than 60 seconds, within 15 minutes after eating, drinking or smoking.
2. For the next 3 days, eat nothing but soft foods, i.e., jello, pudding, soup, ice cream.
3. Then for the next week, you can eat a little bit harder foods, i.e., soft meats, soft fruits, soft vegetables.
4. Avoid the following foods for the next 30 days: fried foods, crunchy foods, i.e., fried chicken, pizza, french fries, potato chips, hamburgers, etc.,
5. No french kissing, no oral sex for the next 30 days.
6. No malt beverages during the next 30 days. i.e.; Beer, wine coolers, malt liqueur, etc.
IMPORTANT: You must tighten your jewelry twice a day. When you get up in the morning and at night before you go to bed. Snug it but do not overtighten as stripping may occur. This is an ongoing procedure as long as you have jewelry in your tongue. Failure to do this procedure could result in injury or death.
To keep swelling down, carry a cup of ice with you at all times during the next 7 days. Suck on the ice, DO NOT CHEW IT. Tongue piercings take approximately 1 year to heal. Because the tongue is a muscle, removing the jewelry for any length of time, even after the healing period has passed, will result in the piercing closing. Please do not click jewelry on teeth as damage may occur to the enamel on your teeth.
It takes up to a year for the tongue to totally heal however the jewelry can be changed after 2 months. The minimum size of jewelry that should be used after healing is 5/8" in length and 14 gauge in size.
For Labret and Lip piercings replace the word "Tongue"(in the instructions above), with the words "Lip" and "Gum." EXAMPLE: Brush lips, gums, and teeth with toothpaste & toothbrush and rinse with Listerine for no less than 60 seconds, within 15 minutes after eating, drinking or smoking.
HOW DO I KNOW IF THE PLACE THAT I AM GOING TO
GET MY TATTOO/PIERCING DONE IS SAFE?
The answer is.... You don't know! Just because a
studio is licensed is not a guarantee that they are a professional
studio or that the people working there are competent. Unfortunately in many
locations tattoo and piercing laws are outdated and/or too liberal being
nothing more than a way for local government to generate extra revenue.
Don't be swayed by window dressing! Anyone can create a plaque, certificate
or trophy claiming skill or credibility. That is
why you should do your research and ask the right questions before you
decide on a place to get your work done. Below is a list of questions you
should ask yourself when choosing a studio.
Have you talked to people that have received
work from that Studio/Artist?
Have you watched the Artist work?
What is their
experience?
What is their training?
Do they take continuing education
classes
Do they Auto-Clave (steam pressure)
sterilize?
Do they understand that Dri-Clave is not proper
sterilization?
Do they have a current spore test for the auto-clave
(within 3 months) showing negative growth?
Do they open sterile packages in front of the client?
Are they a Tattoo Artist or a Tattooist?
Will they be able to
give you what you want?
Does the artist have proper hygiene?
Is the studio clean (use your nose and eyes)?
Is it free of animals (including fish tanks), and trash?
Are the work areas clinical and free of food and debris?
Do they restrict smoking to areas outside the building?
Do they practice "Universal Precautions" treating
everything as if it is contaminated and taking proper steps for sanitation
and disposal?
Do you feel comfortable with this person and were
you comfortable with their answers?
Was the studio personnel evasive in their answers?
All of the above questions and the answer
to them are very important when deciding who will do your Tattoo or Piercing
but the most important question is the last one! If the Artist you have chosen
gives you the run around, is evasive in their answers, doesn't have time to
answer, gets aggravated with your questions or just makes you feel
uncomfortable.... Then head for the door and continue your search because you're in the wrong place!
WHY ARE TATTOOS AND PIERCINGS SO
EXPENSIVE?
There is a lot of work that goes on
behind the scenes that you never see to give you what you want. Needle making,
sterilizing, cleaning, book keeping, etc. Then there is the cost of maintaining
a Professional Studio. License fees, training, continuing education, supplies,
building lease/mortgage, utilities, taxes, etc. Last but certainly not least is the
fact that you are paying the Artist for their Talent and expertise. Getting
a Tattoo and/or Piercing is not a bargain shopping experience. If the
price you are quoted seems to be too good to be true then there is
something wrong. Someone once
said it better then I....
"A GOOD TATTOO
IS NOT CHEAP AND A CHEAP TATTOO IS NOT GOOD."
MORE QUESTIONS WE'VE BEEN ASKED AND OUR ANSWERS
What you are about to read are
questions which we have received from around the world. We have left them
just as asked and have not altered the original answer which we gave.
Hopefully by seeing some of the questions that we are asked on a daily
basis you will be able to find the answer to your own question concerning
Tattoos and Piercing. However if you cannot find your answer here, please
do not hesitate to
e-mail us
or phone us at (620) 331-5938 11:00am to 5:00pm CST Tuesday thru
Saturday. After all as I am so fond of saying....
"THE ONLY STUPID QUESTION
IS THE UNASKED QUESTION!"
....
Subject: Begining tattoo Artist carrier
Question: Is there any way i can get a tutor at distance?
Do you know tutors in south america?(I am Colombian)
Thanks!
Answer: John,
What you should do first is try to find an apprenticeship with a qualified tattoo artist or piercer in a licensed studio. It is not as simple as buying a starter kit, picking up a machine or needle and starting to tattoo or pierce. There is a lot to know from sterilization to placement, needle depths, anatomy, client handling, business practices, needle making, jewelry type and more. Not to mention the legal aspects of licenseing, insurance, etc. Working with skin is a whole lot different than drawing on paper or whatever you can imagine. I have seen a lot of people who can draw or poke holes in their body, but tattoo and pierce very poorly. Four extra words of advice here;
First, you can not learn how to tattoo or pierce from a book. Secondly, you can not learn how to tattoo or pierce by watching someone else. Thirdly, tattooing and piercing is not a get rich quick profession, it takes years to get established and see the rewards of your work. And last
but certainly not least, You can not practice on your friends or children or yourself to learn.... Soon you will have no friends.
We have developed some courses that can help you tremendously towards distingusing yourself in a "SEA OF APPRENTICESHIP SEEKERS" by putting into your hand knowledge, transcripts and certificates of acheivement. These show how serious you are and that you are willing to work for your goals. It also tells the professional artist that you have made an effort to do things the proper way. It should open many doors for you that others find
slammed in thier faces. You can check it out by going to URL
http://www.sekpress.net Remember however, there is no substitute for a formal apprenticeship.
So please (as I've already advised) if you are serious about learning, get an apprenticeship. You will be glad you did. One last thing, if during or after your apprenticeship you find that you do not have a knack for tattooing or piercing (tattooing takes a certain touch, some can do it,
some not. Not everyone has that touch no matter how much training they've had), then you should give it up and not scar people for life.
If you would like an idea on what is involved with tattooing and piercing or have problems finding an apprenticeship please visit our web site http://www.sekpress.net
Subject: my hurting navel
Question: Hi, last saturday I went in and got my navel pierced. I am 17, my mom also got one and her friend plus 3 other kids ranging in age from 7 to 10. So there was 6 of us. All of ours is still sore, but they are getting better. But my hurts pretty bad, I don't they take time to heal. But I can't even sleep at night, because I have to sleep on my stomach and that hurts way too much, I can't bump it or anything. I am cleaning it all the time with povidone-iodine solution, 10%. It does not sting when I put it on or anything. They said to turn it around, but that hurts alot, and I have not been able to do, my sister who got it done 2 years ago, said just to wait until it stops hurting as much and in a few more days start turning it, is that okay? It does not look infected, if is a little red where the 2 ends go in but not infected. What I did yesterday was put some antibiotic ointment cream on it, a that helps it turn a little, but then it really stings when it turns. Is that still okay to put on?
How long is it usually sore for, I know they said it takes 9 to 12 months to heal, but how long is it sore for? Right now it has been 4 days and I can walk fine and bend over some, but if my shirt lays against it is starts to sting a little, and my I can't bump it against anything, even my jeans button touching it makes it hurt. Any suggestions?
Answer: Angela,
STOP USING THE IODINE AND OINTMENT!!!!! That is the worst thing you could be doing. For proper piercing aftercare instructions please go to my faq page at http://ubtat2d.com/faq.html
You are infected. Follow the instructions on #6 on the list on my faq page for infections.
Also, please be aware that no one under 17 should be getting any sort of body piercing. You are still growing up to 17-18 years of age and getting any sort of body piercing before that age can lead to migration which will leave a real nasty scar. The 7 and 10 year old would be well advised to remove their piercings and let them heal closed. They should wait until 17 until attempting it again.
Subject: working out after getting a tattoo
Question: Hey Gypsy..I am ready to get my first tattoo, it will be an arm band.. and want to know the following. I workout (lift weights) 6 days a week. Is this going to be a problem??? Thanks...Jeff
Answer: Jeff,
Hold off on your workout for approx. 10 days after getting your tattoo. This is so you do not damage it during the healing period. After it heals.... No problem!
Subject: Tattoo aftercare (natural alternatives)
Question: I am preparing myself for my first tattoo and am extensively looking into aftercare products. The tattooist in town recommends Lubriderm from day one of receiving a tattoo, but I am also interested in natural products as an alternative. I was wondering about Aloe Vera (right off the plant), or a powder I made which contains Alow Leaf powder, Slippery Elm Bark powder, Comfrey Root powder, Myhrr, and a few drops of Lavender Essential oil and Tea Tree essential oil. This powder is used for healing wounds, as well as skin conditions like psoriasis and ecsema. It forms a protective "scab" on the wound to help it heal, and the powders are used for their antiseptic and antibacterial, as well as healing properties. Would this be a good idea to use on my tattoo?? My skin doesn't heal very well on it's own (a small cut can last me a week), so anything to help speed up the healing process would help a lot. Thanks for your time, Leah
Answer: Leah,
Using pure Aloe Vera is ok as a natural healing alternative. However, I would strongly advise against the powder that you have made. The reason being the tattoo has to be able to breath in order to heal properly. It sounds to me like this powder you have made would seal the tattoo thus not allowing for proper healing. Another thing you might want to consider for the healing of your tattoo is bag balm. It is mostly natural ingredients. I do recommend against using Lubriderm or any other sort of hand lotion for healing as it has a tendency to dull out the tattoo.
When you get a tattoo, it automatically forms a scab which will fall off on its own in time (you do not pick the scab), therefore, the powders ability to form a protective scab is redundant since the tattoo will do that on its own anyway.
Please go to my website at http://www.ubtat2d.com/faq.html for instructions on proper healing techniques and let me know if you have any other questions.
Subject: tatoos on toes
Question: I have heard 'mixed/ reviews about tattooing your toes. I would like to do this - between the beginning of the toe and the first 'knuckle' - a band, like a ring....but I have heard that they don't turn out very good....they fade and people are disappointed. Any advice? Is there steps I can take in the aftercare stage to prevent excessive fading? Thanks.
Answer: Diane,
No matter what type of aftercare you use and no matter how careful you are a toe tattoo will ALWAYS FADE! The feet and toes are high wear area's and the tattoo will not hold up to the abuse that they take. Also, please be aware that the toes are one of the most tender areas of the body to be tattooed.
Subject: proper healing
Question: Okay, Gypsy....I asked you about tats on the toes and you advised against it....I did it anyway (gulp...). It has been a week and it looks awesome!!! The color is really strong and it hasn't faded or had color bleed (yet...). It never bled or scabbed. My question is two-fold (1) when is the aftercare period 'officially over' -when I can feel relaxed that it is 'fine' and isn't going to 'flake off' (an odd fear, but it seems like it might???) .... and (2) so far I have been wearing sandals...what will happen if I put on shoes/socks and start running again? Thanks!
Answer: Diane,
The healing period is 7 to 10 days. I think you are going to find that as soon as you do shoes and socks and start running, that is when the tattoo will start fading. Sorry, it can't be helped. (High wear area, as I stated).
Subject: Tatoo gone wrong
Question: Hello Gypsy,
I have a TRIBAL butterfly tatoo on my ankle about 2 1/2" x 2 1/2".
The guy that did my tatoo did a really bad job. The butterfly was suppose to be symetrical but if you look at it closely it is not.
I'm wondering if I should get it done over or should I just leave it alone? It's kind of hard to describe the butterfly. Please advice, I appreciate your help.
Answer: Violet,
Hi! It is really hard to answer this question without seeing the design. I can tell you that tribal is going to be hard to fix if the design is really bad. Sometimes, the best thing to do is to just cover it up with another design. Again, being a tribal design you will have to pick a new design that has a lot of color and a lot of detail or the black will show through. If there is any way you can get a pic scanned and email it to me at tatman@ubtat2d.com, I could tell you better what you will be facing and what your options are.
Subject: tattoo
Question: I got a tattoo on 5-18-01 and the next day i noticed that the edges were blurry. ..r inspection it looks like the ink (black) bled out under the skin away from where the actual tattoo was injected. the tattoo (scabs) are there then there are parts where the ink has blurred the image and it looks terrible. i did some prior research but found no answer to this. i am wondering if this is normal (this is my 2nd tattoo) and if i should wait til it heals before reacting. is that ink in the dermis or the epidermis? what can be done?
thanks.
Answer: May,
Actually, other than covering the design, removal or adding to it to hide the edges there is not much that can be done. The pigment is going to continue to spread. Unfortunately the artist technic was poor and they went to deep or on an angle or both. I don't want to lay all of this off on the artist though.... In rare circumstances (very rare) the person receiving the tattoo may have a skin condition which causes the skin to be overly soft and thin. This can also lead to the problem you are having. Or the person did something stupid like using a skin deadening solution before getting the tattoo. That would also cause a problem. But, 99 times out of a hundred it is the fault of the artist. I would advise that you either see if the artist will stand behind his work and fix the problem for you or find another artist.
Subject: Botched tattoo
Question: I got my first (and only) tattoo in November and it looks awful! I went to a reputable studio in Atlanta, GA.- Sacred Heart, but went with the first guy that waited on us because I thought my design was so small (about 2" high) and simple I was embarrassed to ask for anyone else. The tattoo is mushy looking, sloppy, uneven and 1/2 the ink is gone and I DIDN'T scratch! I desperately want to fix it but was told by another artist that I should just leave it alone. He said adding any new ink at this point would just make it look worse, unless I covered it with a new design. I waited a year for THIS DESIGN and I want to keep it and have it look great. Any ideas?? I had it done in dark purple with a red outline (I know, BAD idea). Can I have it reworked in plain black? Know anyone in the Atlanta area?
HELP!!!!
Kelly
P.S. Yes, the jerk also made one "leaf" of the flower look like an erect penis... would LOVE to have that changed too.
Answer: Kelly,
I have good news and bad news for you. The bad news is you've been talking to the wrong people. No reputable studio would have allowed you to leave their establishment with a bad tattoo. They also would have stood behind their work and offered to fix it for you free of charge. Also, the artist that told you the design could not be fixed probably just did not want to mess with it.
The good news.... A reputable artist can and will fix it without giving you a line of BS. What you should do is spend some time touring the studios in your area and talking to the artists and checking out their facilities. To get an idea what to look for in a reputable studio and artist please visit my FAQ page at http://ubtat2d.com/faq.html There you will find the info you need for locating the right person to do your fix-up.
You should never outline in any color other than black as colored pigment has a tendency to run under the skin. Yes you can have it reworked in black.
Subject: pubic area tattoos
Question: I am considering getting a tattoo in the pubic area.
1) how painful are they?
2) will pain killers, like vicodin, minimize the pain?
Any and all information will be most appreciated
Thnks
Answer: Jerry,
The pubic area is pretty tender, but if you want it there, you will survive. It is not a good idea to take any pain killers. I myself will not work on any one if I know they are on drugs or have been drinking. It is better to just grin and bare it! :)
Subject: nipple piercing
Question: i am gay and wanting to get my nipple pierced and was wondering if there was any gay symbolism relating to whcih i should get pierced.
i am proud to be gay and want others to know that i am without teling them
many thanks
Answer: Howard,
In todays society it really does not make a difference which nipple is pierced. There really is no symbolism assoiated with either one. It is just which ever one you want pierced.
It use to be considered that if your left ear was pierced you were straight and if your right ear was pierced you were gay but even that has fallen by the way side. Straight and gay males get both ears pierced now so it no longer matters. Just like it does not matter which nipple you have pierced. Just get the one that pleases you most.
Subject: tattoo
Question: im planning to have a tattoo on my arm, but which one? I know there's something with piercing ears, that gay ppl use rings in the left ear & so on..
I want a straight tattoo (i hope this doesn't sound too stupid) and i was wondering which arm i should put it on?
Answer: Odin,
It used to be considered if your right ear is pierced, you are gay. In today's society that is no longer true.
You can get your tattoo on either arm and it is not considered that you are gay if it is your right arm you decide to get the tattoo design on.
Subject: labret piercing
Question: Hello,
I'm thinking of having my labret pierced but have recently heard some horror stories about people having to remove them becouse of terrible tooth and gum erosion.Can a labret damage your teeth and gums? Also, could you please tell me how obvious the hole is if you haven't got the stud in as I'm into acting and could'nt risk anything too obvious.
Thanx,
Ruth
Answer: Ruth,
If a Labret is done properly it should not come into contact with the teeth and should not rub on the gums. As for how noticeable the hole is.... If you remove the labret for any length of time (even after healing), the hole will start closing ie; 30 minutes on up. Also it leaves a very notaceable scar. Also be aware that it takes 9 to 12 months to totally heal.
Subject: Tattoo
Question: I'm planning on getting a tattoo here in a few weeks and I was wondering if there's any kind of web-site where you can "build your own tatto" in a sense. Like you can pick a basic thing and customize it to your liking. I live near Baxter Kansas and was wondering if that is where you're located, because I was at a shop yesterday, and Gypsy is the name of the owner there.Thanks for your help.
Answer: Kelsie,
It was my studio you were at. I am The GYPSY owner of Skin Art Creations Tattoo Emporium, Baxter Springs, Kansas.
There is no web site where you can "Build your own Tattoo." Most generally you can discuss what you want with the artist and they can either show you a design along those lines, modify an existing design in their collection of flash or draw you up an original design.
Subject: tatoo school in Europe
Question -
where I can find information about good tatoo schools in Europe, preferably Italy. Thank you very much.
Answer -
Bajo,
Wish I could help you here but I'm not sure if there are any Tattoo schools in Europe. Most people have to apprentice under a qualified artist in an established studio to learn. You might want to do a key word search on the internet. You may also wish to check out my .. tutorial at http://www.sekpress.net
Subject: Questions
Question -
A.Would you recommend entering this career? Why or why not?
B.What is most rewarding about this career?
C.What is most frustrating about this career?
D.What is the most important ability or trait a person considering this
career should have?
E.Do you think you will stay in this career field? Why or why not?
Answer -
Chery,
A. Only if you have artistic ability and understand that it is not about
the money, it is about the art.
B. Making people happy that they came to you for their tattoo.
C. People who think that this is a get rich quick profession and go around
scarring people without a clue as to what they are doing. You cannot
tattoo without proper training.
D. Patience!
E. I've been doing it for over 26 years I don't see me changing careers now!
Subject: reworking
Question -
hi I was just wondering how long I should wait before getting my tattoo reworked? thanks alot
katie
Answer -
Katie,
You need to wait 2 weeks before you have a tattoo reworked. I think this is the simplist question I've ever had to answer. :)
Subject: Breast feeding
Question -
if breast feeding is it safe to get tatooed. and if u have any information on new demonic art.IS THERE any way of practicicng shading technics of all sorts like light shading but mostly detail shading from a blankoutline.
Answer -
Jen,
Not a good idea to get a tattoo until after you are done breastfeeding. There are alot of shading techniques, it just takes practice to determine what works best for you and the type of tattoo you are doing.
As far as demonic art, check your local library or do internet searches. HR Geiger is an artist that deals with this sort of thing, as well as Paul Booth.
Subject: 1st time tattoo
Question -
hi gypsy. i'm a 22 year old guy from the detroit, michigan area, and i've been thinking about getting a tattoo for years. my last name is king, so i want to get a simple tattoo of a crown on my upper arm. i want it to be plain and monochrome- maybe about the size of a silver dollar. do you
think that would make for a good tattoo?
when i get this done, should i bring in a picture of what i want? do you have any pictures or resources that might help me find a pic? and how much do you think i should expect to pay? thank you!!
ps- do you know of any good places in the detroit area where i should go?
Answer -
Rick,
This is Gypsy's wife, Debbie. You are my homie! I grew up in Michigan and lived in Detroit for a few years - (Redford area).
If a crown is what you want, then it's a good tattoo. Appropriate for your last name, anyway. It is something you will have to live with for the rest of your life so just be sure it's what you want.
For something the size of a silver dollar you shouldn't spend more than $50 to $65. I would think a crown the size of a silver dollar might be a little too small. It will be hard to see the detail in the design if it is too small. You might want to go a little bigger for a crown.
I will have Gypsy follow up with this question so he can recommend a good shop in the Detroit area for you. Debbie
----------
Rick,
I recommend Suzanne out of Ann Arbor, Michigan. I'm not sure what the name of her studio is but I think it's Creative Body Images. Check the phone book for studios in Ann Arbor and call around until you find her. She's got a heavy appt list, but she is excellent.
Subject: tattoo cover-up
Question -
I got a tattoo 8-9 years ago. It is the (once) famous picture of the 2 cherubs sitting on a cloud with the boy angel kissing the girl. Well, the cherubs turned out BEAUTIFUL, however, I hated the cloud. I went back to have them touch it up and now it looks like 2 cherubs sitting on a
brain....They filled it in with chunky blue and purple lines and it looks awful.
The total size is 3x4" and the cloud isn't THAT big - but to walk past someone and they only get a glimpse...it looks like a brain.
My question is - since the cloud is now so dark (royal blue and a deep purple), I would think the only way to fix it is to cover it up (as opposed to lightening it up in some way)....
Is it fairly easy to cover up just a portion of a tat? It would be weird regardless, because the boys leg hangs down in front of the cloud anyway...
Basically - do you have any suggestions?
Thanks a million
Donelle
Answer -
Donelle,
Unfortunately it sounds to me like you fell in with the wrong studio to do your tattoo. Instead of staying true to the nature of your tattoo they did what THEY wanted, not what YOU wanted. Truly unprofessional!
My advise to you is to visit some of the other studios in your area and talk with the artist there and see what they might be able to do for you. A good artist can fix or cover a tattoo that has been messed up with little trouble. If you will visit my faq page at http://ubtat2d.com/faq.html you will find a list there of things to ask an artist when choosing a studio to do your work.
Subject: Fading Tattoos
Question -
Is there anything I can do to prevent my red tattoo from fading?
Answer -
Samarah,
The best you can hope for is to slow down the process. Using Sun Block will help.
Subject: Tattoo meaning
Question -
What does the traditional dagger through the heart with the flowers mean?
Answer -
Galen,
It is an old design depicting love lost then regained. The dagger through the heart is the pain, love is the heart and the flowers represent
renewal.
Subject: Tattoo's vs. henna
Question -
Hey, question to throw out to you. I am considering getting a tatoo. However,the thought of it being permanent (and the pain) are what is
stopping me so far.
What are your opinions on tatoo's vs. henna tatoos. What would be the benifits of either... or the disadvantages of either?
~Jen
Answer -
Jen,
The easy answer is.... A Tattoo is permanent, Henna isn't. So it depends on what you are wanting, long or short term commitment.
If you have to ask weither a tattoo (or piercing), is right for you then there are only two correct answers,
(1) You are not ready. or (2) You should not get a tattoo (or piercing). Tattoos are a lifetime committment. Don't buy the lie that they are
temporary and can be removed with laser. It will still leave a scar and the laser does not remove all pigment. Tattoos for a lot of people are a spiritual thing and should be taken very seriously. My advise to you.... Do not get a tattoo until you are 110% sure that it is what you want to do. If the time comes where you are sure and are ready to get a tattoo, take your time to figure out what you truly want and make it something that has a deep meaning for you.
Subject: Studio Recommendation
Question -
Hi, I have been considering getting a tattoo for quite a while now. I think I've finally decided the placement and the size. Now all I need to
do is to find a studio.
I live in Atlanta, Georgia and there are so many tattoo studios that I don't even know where to start. Do you know of any good studios in the
area? Or maybe a website with ratings of different studios?
Also, I'm wanting to get a medallion on the back of my neck. What kind of price range am I looking at for this type of tattoo?
Thanks Amanda
Answer -
Amanda,
The best way to find a studio is by referal and footwork. Ask around and see who people mention the most then visit some studios in your area. To
see a complete list of things you should look for and questions you should ask when looking for an artist and studio please visit our FAQ page at
http://www.ubtat2d.com/faq.html
I can not give you any feedback on price as it varies from region to region. What I can tell you is that the avaerage going rate is from $100.00 per hour to $175.00 per hour.
Subject: Allergic Reaction to A&D Ointment?
Question -
Hi,I thought I should share you my situation about the tatoo on my lower back which i recently got. The day I got the tatoo, i didnt have a chance
to go to the pharmacy to get the A&D Ointment and the Bacitracin the artist recommended to me but he already put some on me before i left the
place and also had it covered. I woke up the next morning and it was fine. I went to the pharmacy to get the things I needed and instead of getting
the name brand A&D Ointment, I got the store brand. The person who worked there told me that it has the same ingredients as the name brand does. I followed instructions and applied the ointment. They told me before i shower, to apply a "liberal" amount of A&D Ointment to the tatoo. I got out, washed the ointment off, let it air dry and reapplied the ointment. The next day, it was VERY itchy and irritating and i also have red bumps
not just around the tatoo but ALL over my back. I applied Benedryl to help stop the itching and I've stopped using the A&D but I'm still using Bacitracin. I've read through your Q's & A's on your site and you've suggested to some people to stop using the A&D and let it heal naturally but if i try to do that, it'll be really dry. 1) Is it ok if i stop using the Bacitracin and used a non-perfumed lotion instead? 2) Will the red bumps ever go away and will it leave scars?
Answer -
Diana,
Here is the simple answer to your question.... Stop using anything on it, including soap. It is OK to shower and let water flow over it but all you
are doing is aggravating the skin by putting chemicals on it. Please discontinue use of all ointments, lotions, creams, etc. immediately and
let it heal naturally and you will be fine. The red bumps will go away and there will be no scarring as long as you do not scratch it.
Subject: fading in new tattoos
Question -
I am 50.Began tatting at 48.am very fair skinned, do not go out in sun or tanning beds and take xcellent care of skin.I have 9 tatts now and go to
the best guy in town who has 15 yrs.xperience.I follow all his directions for healing and use a non-mineral based fragrance free lotion for healing.I 've had chronic problems with reds,blues, pinks,purples,oranges, yellows and some greens fading on me.Some I've had redone twice and they
still fade.I'm going for a third round and am very frustrated.He is not charging me rightfully so and thinks it is my skin which is very delicate and i redden easily.Is it me or inferior ink from manufacturer?Thanks!
Answer -
Mary Jo,
Without being able to see the tattoos, read your care instructions you were given or know what pigment your artist is using I am unable to give
you an informed opinion on this subject. What I can tell you is this.... you should not be using lotion on the tattoos as the same compounds found
in lotion, glycerin and propylen glycol, are also found in tattoo pigment and can act as a thinner to the fresh pigment. For a list of proper tattoo care instructions please visit http://www.ubtat2d.com/faq.html
Subject: Navel Piercing
Question -
Hi! My aunt is home from Cali and we are in Ohio right now I'm 15 and she said she would take me to get my belly button pierced when she gets hers
re-done and my mom said I can. I'm a BIG chicken who is scared to death of neddles I really want this done so here are all my questions....does it
hurt really bad? Can they give you something for the pain? What should I look for when deciding where to get it done? What kind of belly ring
should I have put in at 1st? How long does it take to heal? What are my risks of infection? About how much does it cost? And do you know of any
good places in Northeastern Ohio? I know this is a lot sorry I'm just curious and want all the facts before I get this done.
Answer -
Brandi,
You really should not be getting your navel pierced at 15 years of age. I know that this may be something that you do not want to hear but there is a very good reason for it. Because the body is still growing until you are 18 years old there is a good chance of jewelry migration. What this means
is that the body rejects the jewelry and it moves out of the skin. It WILL leave a severe scar that can only be corrected with a very expensive surgical procedure.
Also, in most States it is required that a PARENT or Court Appointed LEGAL GUARDIAN sign for any invasive procedure done on a minor such as a tattoo or piercing. Relatives and friends cannot do it for you.
Word of advice here for you.... If you find a piercer that is willing to pierce a minor you should strongly question thier qualification. No true
professional that knows what they are doing will pierce anyone under 18 years of age. The only people that will pierce or tattoo anyone under 18
are those that are more concerned with the money in your pocket and not your welfare.
Subject: Itchy tattoo
Question -
I had a tattoo done about three weeks ago. It is on the top of my foot and covers pretty much the whole area. It is extremely itchy. Almost a firey
itch. The tattoo has no color other than black outline. I am supposed to go back to finish the color. It does not itch constantly but it has flare
ups throughout the day. I am using lubriderm lotion with no fragance or dyes. I have 5 other tattoos and I have never had anything itch like this
before. The entire tattoo is also raised but its not bumpy. It sometimes is a little red around the tatoo but only when its itchy. Am I having an alergic reaction to the ink? Or to the lotion I am using?
Answer -
Shar,
It could be a combination of both or it could be a lower grade or contaminated pigment which was used. Without seeing the tattoo it would be
hard for me to give you an informed opinion on this subject but it sounds as though you are having an allergic reaction. One thing I can tell you is that using ANY form of lotion on a fresh tattoo can have an adverse effect on it. For a proper list of care instuctions please visit http://www.ubtat2d.com/faq.html
Subject: lotions for tattoos
Question -
Recently sent you a question about fading in new tattoos.I have spotty fading after a couple months with certain colors.I was and am very finicky bout following care instructions to a t!You said not to use lotions with glycerin or propyl glycol in them.I see tattpeople reccommending Neosporin and Curel lotion which has these ingredients as well as mineral oil.I have used a fragrance free lotion with vegetable glycerin.would you reccomend a brand name lotion minus these ingredients for initial healing?
Answer -
Mary Jo,
Neosporin or any triple anti-bacterial ointment are the worst things you can use on a tattoo. For a tattoo to heal properly it has to heal from the
inside out. Those type of ointments heal from the outside in which can have a really bad effect on the tattoo and pigment causing severe reactions. I have been in this business over 29 years and have found that the 3 best things that can be used on a tattoo are, Vitamin A&D Ointment (which places important nutrients back into the skin), Bag Balm (which I myself use)or Pure Aloe Vera Gel which is an all natural healing compound. As I stated, do not use lotions! besides what I have already outlined to you, lotions can get into the open pores of a healing tattoo, just like a cream would, and can dull out the colors of a tattoo. Please, as I
advised, visit our FAQ page at http://www.ubtat2d.com/faq.html for proper aftercare instructions.
Subject: India ink
Question -
I have 2 tattoo's using India ink from when I was younger. that are fine. And about to do another down my forearm using it, but I've been hearing
things about the ink. Is it toxic? What will it do to me?What's the worst that can happen?
Answer -
Josh,
Despite the fact that india ink or any office supply ink is in fact toxic, it is not truly black in the skin. Leaving a bluish/green tint to the tattoo. It also (over a period of time in years) will spread and blot
under the skin leaving a blurry mess of the tattoo. You asked what the worst that can happen is? The worst that can happen by placing a toxic substance under the skin is a staph infection (blood poisoning) which can lead to death in a very short period of time. My advise to you is rethink strongly about using india ink for a tattoo. Tattoos can be beautiful, if done properly.
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Music
2009 UBTAT2D TOUR
Throughout the year we travel to several shows and events with our state of
the art mobile studio.
We carry over 30,000 designs with us and a full line of BODY PIERCING
JEWELRY. Other items that you will find in our mobile studio are; TEMPORARY
TATTOOS, CARE PRODUCTS for the healing of your tattoo and or piercing as well as
many tattoo/piercing RELATED MERCHANDISE items.
Below is a list of our confirmed events to date for the year 2008. Check
to see if we will be where you are next summer. Also be sure to check back often
as new events and shows are being added to our list on a regular basis.
ABATE OF KANSAS DISTRICT #10
CAPITAL CITY BIKE SHOW - MARCH 13th, 14th, 15th 2009 - KANSAS EXPO
CENTER, TOPEKA, KANSAS CONTACT: WWW.ABATEKS.ORG for more information. WORKING ARTIST; The
GYPSY
ABATE OF KANSAS DISTRICT #3 BIKE
SHOW - May 1st & 2nd, 2009 - NEODESHA AIRPORT, NEODESHA,
KANSAS. CONTACT (620) 421-1747 for more information. WORKING
ARTIST; The GYPSY
MAYFIT - MAY 15th, 16th,
& 17th, 2009 - BIKER PARK USA PAWHUSKA, OKLAHOMA CONTACT PAM
CARTER (918) 287-3244 FOR MORE INFORMATION. WORKING ARTIST; The
GYPSY
CROSSROADS RALLY -
JULY 11th, 12th and 13th 2009- KANSAS STATE FAIR GROUNDS HUTCHINSON, KANSAS
CONTACT: (620) 474-2546 for more information. WORKING ARTIST; The
GYPSY
TATTOO RENDEZVOUS - JULY
16th, 17th, 18th and 19th 2009 - Embassy Suites 7640 N.W. Tiffany Springs Pkwy. Kansas
City, Mo. -
CONTACT: WWW.SAFE-TATTOOS.COM for more information. - WORKING ARTIST;
The GYPSY
NATIONAL ABATE RALLY - LABOR DAY
WEEKEND - SEPTEMBER 4th, 5th, 6th & 7th, 2009 - LAKE PERRY, KANSAS. - CONTACT:
WWW.ABATEKS.ORGfor more information. WORKING
ARTIST; The GYPSY
BIKER DAYS IN THE OSAGE
-SEPTEMBER 18th, 19th & 20th, 2009 BIKER PARK USA - PAWHUSKA,
OKLAHOMA. CONTACT NELSON CARTER (918) 287-3249 FOR MORE INFORMATION. - WORKING ARTIST; The GYPSY
The SACTE mobile tattoo studio is currently licensed in the following
States - Kansas and Missouri (will license in other States as needed) If you
would like to book us for your show or event, make an appointment at a show we
will be at or contact us for any further INFORMATION, phone
(620) 331-5938 and ask for
The GYPSY.
About me
"The creative mind carries certain darkness, the creative mind sparks a flash fire in the heart, blood runs hot and there is that cupreous impulsiveness, the obsessive thoughts that lap around ideas, there is the tactile compulsion and the free thinking that often makes enemies of the normal populace." -The GYPSY-
Listen to The GYPSY'S SKIN ART SHOW on Internet Talk Radio Every Monday @ 9:00am CDT at URL:
"THE TATTOO ART OF WORLD RENOWN AWARD WINNING TATTOO ARTIST THE GYPSY"
The GYPSY Has Been Certified As A Master Tattoo Artist By The Alliance Of Professional Tattooists. There are only 24 people worldwide who have obtained this recognition and distinction.
CHECK OUT THE SKIN ART CREATIONS BODY ART STUDIO AT WWW.UBTAT2D.COM The Oldest, Established, Licensed, Tattoo and Piercing Studio In Southeast Kansas!
SKIN ART CREATIONS was established in 1976. We developed this studio with the view that; "It is the duty of each member of our staff to offer you the highest quality dermagraphic art at the most reasonable cost. Each of our clients are individuals with individual ideas and needs. Therefore we will always work to ensure that you always receive the best of individual attention and care while visiting our studio. We guarantee that you will be tattooed and/or pierced in the most sanitary and professional facilities available." Education is the best preventative medicine that is why we feel that no QUESTION you may ask is "stupid" just unanswered. We are here to serve all of your BODY ART needs. Your satisfaction is guaranteed!"
This has been our mission for since 1976 and will remain so today and into the future.
If you are in our corner of Kansas we invite you to stop by and discover the studio where Tattooing and Piercing is still an art and not an enterprise.
Below you will find a slide show with examples of The GYPSY's Tattoo Art.
..
ALL TATTOOING AND BODY PIERCING AT THE SKIN ART CREATIONS TATTOO EMPORIUM IS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY, NO WALK-INS. IN INDEPENDENCE, KANSAS PHONE: (620)331-5938 OR PHONE TOLL FREE 1-877-BDYARTS (239-2787). WE WILL NOT TATTOO OR PIERCE ANYONE UNDER THE AGE OF 18 NOR UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS FOR ANY REASON!
THE ART OF WORLD RENOWN AWARD WINNING ARTIST J. A. GEORGE AKA; THE GYPSY
..
J. A. George AKA; "The GYPSY", founder of Skin Art Creations Tattoo Emporium® is a State of Kansas licensed Tattoo & Piercing Artist & Trainer and has been in the Tattoo & Piercing Industry since 1976.
Coming from a long line of artists and craftsmen (he is related to Bertha Hummel of "Hummel Figurine" fame, Grandmother, Sculptress Pearl Clang Hummel and Great Grandfather Walter Hummel, US Calvary leather crafter & engraver), his formal art training and experience has helped him win numerous awards both Nationally and Internationally.
JAG's art has been exhibited in museums World wide, including the Smithsonian. He has also appeared on television, documentaries, albums, radio talk shows and in numerous magazines. Along with his Wife Debbie (D. Kay), they have developed and maintained numerous projects including Ubtat2d.Com®, Ablazable.Com®, Sekpress.Net®, Freaky-Links.Com®,Cyberflash® and Emerald-City.US®
The original creations of J. A. George AKA; The GYPSY are highly sought after since the majority of his art uses the canvas of skin and very few of his paintings currently exist. Historically value on original artwork and prints from art created by The GYPSY will increase in value over original purchase price per year.
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