Sunday, August 18, 2013

Birthday Tattoo Call



My birthday is in a little over a week, and I plan on getting my first (and probably, last) tattoo. I think a small, simple mermaid on the inside of my left wrist is what I'd like, but I'm not sure if it should be black and white or colored or a bit of both. The sketch above is by an artist friend of mine who used it for a birthday card for Sophie a while back -- I like the simple lines and elegance (minus the flower, of course) and even the tiny bit of green and red. What do you think?

What about this one?



Ideas? Send me links!

24 comments:

  1. I like the first one the best of those two but maybe with some of the moon and stars from the second? And I would want some color, I think.

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  2. I love them both, but the first one best.

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  3. I like the picture at the top of your blog. Why not that one?

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  4. Something to keep in mind, colors fade, especially if exposed to sun.
    I like your blog header mermaid and the one from the card.

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  5. I like the second one, without the stars and moon. No. wait. The first one. I like her face.

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  6. I would find a tattooer you trust and ask him or her to design a mermaid for you and then see what you think. They are so accustomed to working on skin which is a completely different canvas a movable aging canvas. And I'd put a LOT of color in it since the tatt colors these days are remarkable and bright and blue and green scales would be heavenly. Tattoos like the ones above all in black would not last as well as an outlined mermaid. The black lines alone tend to thicken over the years. I would bring the two drawings in as a mere template to give the tattooer an idea of what you want. I really love the second her longing at looking at the sea. The first looks too much like the Starbucks logo for me. I'm very excited. Remember, you're buying art. Be prepared to pay what it costs and tip generously.
    love,
    Rebecca

    ps. Just advice take it or leave it. No worries. I can't wait to see the results.

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  7. the first one. definitely the first one.

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  8. I totally agree with Radish King. Have a tattoo artist design it for you. Get exactly what you want that way. Remember, you're going to have to look at it every day for the rest of your life. Get something you'll love.

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  9. I like the first one, but with less Medusa-ish hair.

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  10. I like the first one, and I like the bits of color.

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  11. The second one may not wear well. Ink migrates over time. The little non-inked parts will eventually lose their crispness. My tattoo is 40 years old, and is much muddier than when I had it applied. Commit to sunscreen - they do fade in strong light.

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  12. Hi - I actually really like the logo on your blog as the mermaid :-) Cheers

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  13. I would go with something more stylized and pacific islander (Maori) - just a hint of a mermaid - less is more

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  14. I like the first one. Colour does fade but it can always be touched up so I vote for colour.

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  15. Simple and black only. First is a touch Starbucks-ian, may want to go with an older Starbucks like look (google it!).

    Simple says more, you know that.

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  16. I think you're on the right track with the first option. And I think some of the other commenters are right about taking your design to a tattoo artist and seeing what he/she comes up with. I think they could create a version of that first illustration, perhaps with slightly cleaner, smoother lines (more suited to a tattoo as opposed to a drawing, not that I am criticizing the drawing in any way). And I love your idea about incorporating the colors from the drawing.

    I have a tattoo from my Peace Corps years, a tiny one, and I've never regretted getting it. It's a little reminder of a very special time in my life.

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  17. wrist?! ouch!
    how about a less sensitive spot? the back of your shoulder?
    i prefer monochromatic tattoos, especially henna colored ones.
    first option.

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  18. i like the touch of color in the first one, with perhaps the more stylized lines of the second. good luck with the wrist! it really is a sensitive area!

    (and sorry i haven't been visiting - having a bad time with my health and not online nearly as much...)

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  19. oooooo!! I so wish i was getting my first and last tattoo with you! i had told myself it was gonna be my 40th bday gift to myself... its almost 5 years later and still havent done it LOL!
    I love them both. While I might be a bit more drawn to the second drawing, the first i think would make a better tat. you can't go wrong with either though. i cant WAIT to see how it looks :)!!

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  20. I have a suspicion that you know in your heart of hearts which one to go with and I suspect it will be absolutely perfect.

    Love.

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  21. I like something like the first one with some color. And I agree with what others have suggested about working with a tattoo artist who can help find something that fits you and your story and your skin.

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  22. Funny, like you, hubby and I chat often about getting a tattoo, something to symbolize our journey with our children and initiation into the world of special needs parenting. Problem is I can't seem to find something I really love. And more importantly, I have not found my courage to just do it. You are so brave.

    You've got the concept, now find the right artist.

    Believe it or not, I have watched my share of tattoo tv. I am always amazed at the brilliance of those unique artists who are incredibly adept at embracing their client's concept and entwining their own intuitive and creative magic. They seem to instinctively breath life into all their creations.

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  23. LOVE them both. Perhaps the one turned away is more like Sophie, as she is mysterious, ethereal being? :) Liz the PT

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  24. i just got a tattoo on my inner right wrist of 4 flowers. color is nice.

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