The tattoo art is thousands of years old. In fact, man has been indulging in the
body art since the prehistoric times. Today, each and every region of the world
has its own tattooing technique. Most of these techniques have evolved over a
long period of time, adapting to the diverse climatic conditions, cultures and
ethos in each region. Though the techniques of tattooing differ in different
parts of the world, the end result remains the same - formation of designs and
marks on the body. In case you want to explore the main techniques of tattooing
in the world, the following information will come handy.
Techniques of Tattoo Body Art
Western Technique
In the western countries, an electric machine is used for the purpose of
tattooing. The machine was invented in England and patented in the late 1800s.
However, till date, it has undergone a few changes only, with the basics
remaining the same. In the western technique, a solid needle, placed in a metal
tube dipped into a cup of ink, is moved up and down a body part. A foot pedal is
used to control the on and off positions of the machine. While only one needle
is needed to make the outline of the intended design, coloring and shading
requires groups of needles, arranged into even numbered flat configurations.
Japanese Technique
Japan has its individual style of tattoo making, which has been, to a certain
extent, derived from the traditional methods. A hand-based style of tattooing,
the Japanese technique makes use of elaborate bamboo handles. The handles
incorporate a bunch of needles within themselves and work in a way much similar
to a hand-powered tattoo machine. While making the tattoo, the artist stretches
the skin with one hand and making use of his spread fingers, dips the brush into
black ink.
Samoan Technique
Yet another tattoo technique that is related to the Pacific culture comprises of
the Samoan one. In this tattoo technique, wooden hand tools are made use of. The
tattoo artists works with the help of two basic tools, namely a bone-tipped rake
and a striking stick. The rake is dipped in ink and placed against the skin.
Thereafter, it is struck with the stick, resulting in the puncturing of the
skin. As the artist moves the rake, a pattern is formed on the skin. In this
method, a group of assistants help keep the skin taut, while the artist forms
the designs.
Ancient Thai Technique
The tool that is used for making tattoo, as per the ancient Thai technique, is
quite similar to the one used by the westerners. The tattooing tool comprises of
a long brass tube, along with a sliding pointed rod that runs down the centre of
the rube. The artist makes use one of his hands to steady the skin of the
client, while the other is used to dip the tool in ink and pierce the skin with
it, just like the needle of a sewing machine. The ancient Thai tattoos revolve
around Buddhism and have religious symbols as the main designs.
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