INTRODUCTION

You look around today and it isn't uncommon to see arms, legs, and other body parts covered in ink. Tattoos are becoming increasingly more popular and acceptable, especially in the city. Could tattoos be just another trend that will fade out like disco and bell bottoms? Based on what history has to say, the answer is no. Tattooing has been around for a lot longer than most people realize. The Maori tribes of New Zealand were noted to be covered in tribal tattoos in the 1700s. Only back then, the reason for tattoos was to distract opponents when fighting and as part of ritualistic ceremonies. Whatever the reason was, cultures all around the world adapted tattooing into their societies in one way or another.

Traditional methods vary around the globe. For instance, the Inuit stitch tattoos into the skin with a needle and coloured thread, while the Japanese method, more of a sophisticated manual technique, uses a row of sticks with needles joined to created a particular pattern. It wasn't until 1891 that the now popular electric tattooing gun was first patented by Samuel O'Reilly.

Being an ink fanatic myself, I know how important it is to find a talented, trustworthy artist without having to travel too far or break the bank. The first tattoo almost always takes the most planning. Some go to shops with high recommendations, while others go for cheaper hourly prices. Some artists charge at an hourly rate, while others might give you a flat rate up front for a particular design. This can vary from shop to shop as well as from artist to artist.

I've researched various tattoo shops in downtown Vancouver and explored different criteria. Everyone has a different taste, and each artist has his or her own specialty. If you are in the market for a tattoo or have pondered the idea, my website will hopefully help you with your decision.