How much?

As a tattoo artist this is often a question we are faced with. When we open our facebook, emails, phone calls or someone walking into the studio, its usually, "How much for this?" And we are all aware that money isn't easy to come by now a days. We all have bills to pay, gas prices are on the rise and some people don't make much at the jobs they may be fortunate to have. And quite often if its something relativity small then we can toss out a ballpark figure for a simple one sitting piece. But what grinds my gears is the, "How much for this?" when its a full sleeve or back piece. A large project takes time. I know, on TV they do full back pieces in the hour it takes to film the show right? Uh, nooooo. These shows are edited, most are scripted too but lets not get off subject. I recently found a picture posted by an artist on face book.

The caption was, "Peacock" tattoo done in 3 days, 24 hours, during the Milan tattoo convention 2013, he participated in the contest for Best of Show". Now, this is a large piece, no doubt, and its very well done, obviously. But, do you see how much untouched skin STILL remains on his back? And this is after 24 hours of work. Twenty four hours! Not all at once. Sure, he sat three days in a row so I figure he probably did three eight hour sessions. Now most sessions I do on fairly large pieces are 2-3 hours. And for those we charge an hourly rate. So now imagine a full sleeve or back piece. I don't think most of my clients want to sit for 8 hours at a time but even at three hours that's a total of 8 sessions to get that far. And at an hourly rate of even $100 that would be $2,400 before tax. And that's not a fully covered back. Large pieces are a commitment. And not all backs or arms are the same size nor have the same amount of detail in them. So for us to just toss out a random price is next to impossible. 

Now some of you might be thinking that $100 and hour is pretty steep for hourly work. And since I only work in one studio this is what I'm going to do. Today I'm going to anonymously email all of the local studios and find out how much they charge per hour. I will then compare our hourly rate to those other studios to see how we fair. I want to be informed as to what our competitors are charging and why you feel you'd get a better deal elsewhere.

I hope this sheds some light on the subject of pricing tattoos for those of you who may not have understood. Take care and thanks for reading! :)

Rose Tattoo

The color you choose may have a much to do with the reason for getting the rose tattoo. Of course, tattoo lovers are free to select any color they desire, no matter its purpose.

The rose fascinated the Victorians and, as a result, they assigned different emotional qualities and meanings to different color variations. These colors are generally taken under consideration when choosing a rose tattoo design.

• Red – True love (particularly when presented as a single rose), passion, and saying “I love you,” romantic love, and respect.
• Pink – Grace, elegance, gentleness.
• Coral – desire.
• Orange – Enthusiasm, excitement, and fascination.
• Light Peach – modesty and friendship.
• Yellow – Jealousy (historically). Familiar love, friendship, gladness, joy, and devotion (modern times).
• White – Purity, innocence, spiritual love, youth, and secrecy.
• Blue – Fascination, fantasy, impossibility (largely because the blue rose does not really exist – all “blue” roses are really lavender or white roses that have been dyed).
• Purple – Enchantment and love at first sight.
• Black – Death and darkness (black roses in nature are really deep purple).
• Red and White Combined – Mercy, unity, and justice.
• Red and Yellow Combined – Congratulations
• Yellow and Orange Combined – Passionate thoughts.

The rose tattoo is a popular choice among both men and women. But, why is this image so popular and what is the meaning behind the flower?

The History of the Rose

The Rose has the same symbolic meaning as the Lotus does in the East: love, particularly love that is pure. The Ancient Greeks believed the rose was originally white in color. It turned to red when the goddess of love, Aphrodite, pricked herself with one of its thorns and bled on the blossoms.

The actual plant was first grown in ancient Persia. At this time, it was looked upon as a masculine flower. Over the next several thousand years, the rose was cultivated into many different varieties. As a result, it is now more closely linked to femininity and beauty. Nonetheless, variations of the rose tattoo are found on nearly as many men as women. In fact, the rose tattoo was once a popular choice amongst sailors in the 40s, who got one of these tattoos as a way of honoring their wife or girlfriend they left behind at home. At the same time, it was viewed as a suitable tattoo choice for women.

The Rose Tattoo and Beauty

The most common meaning behind the rose tattoo is the representation of beauty. Many rose tattoo lovers believe the rose represents both inner and outer beauty. When thorns are present on the image, it means the person does not place a great deal of emphasis on outer beauty. For others, the rose image refers to everlasting beauty, with the thorn meaning you can look but you can’t touch.

The Rose Tattoo and Love

The rose tattoo is also closely linked to love. It can be a symbol of being in love when the rose is without thorns. Or, the thorned rose can be a reminder that love should be entered into with caution because you may be “pricked” by the thorns. The thorned rose tattoo serves as a reminder that love does not come without certain sacrifices. As such, caution should be used when falling in love. The thorned rose tattoo means love is not without its risks and that ecstasy will not come without enduring a certain amount of agony.

Rose Tattoo Meaning

They can also be tattooed in a variety of different sizes. Rose can also be done with tribal art as well. When it comes to the rose tattoo, there are many options to consider for the perfect design. There also is a large variety of different items that can be associated with the rose tattoo. The rose tattoo can be portrayed with fairies, butterflies, and anything else that you want in the design. The rose tattoo can be placed in a variety of different places on the body.

Rose tattoo is one of the top flower tattoo designs in the entire world. The rose tattoo is popular in the West culture as the Lotus is to the Eastern culture. In fact, the rose and the lotus share similar meanings in the tattoo world and in symbolism. The rose has been a symbolic symbol throughout history by several different cultures, legends, and myths. Most of us already know that the rose is a symbol of love. The rose has a few different representations.

In mythology, the rose has played a symbolic role. The ancient Greeks believed that the rose was actually first white instead of red. They believed that the goddess Aphrodite, which is the goddess of love, was poked by a thorn on the rose bush and bled on the blooms of the rose. By doing so, the white blooms turned to red. This is just one example of the many myths and legends that portray the rose.

When we look back through history, we find that the rose first had origins in ancient Persia. The rose was first grown in Persia. When the rose was first grown, the rose had a masculine look to it. But through thousands of years of evolution and cultivation, the rose was transformed into the flower we see today. In present day, the rose is linked to femininity due to its slender build.

Although roses have been popular for centuries, the rose tattoo really didn't begin gaining popularity until the 1930s and 1940s. At this time, rose tattoos began being wore by sailors. The design began to gain popularity and the next thing you knew, they were seen on everyone. Sailors chose the rose tattoo for an honorary purpose. They often chose the tattoo to represent their girlfriend, their wife, or even their mother. Life was rough on the seas for these brave men and their rose tattoo could bring peace to them in a symbolic way.

The most common meaning for the rose tattoo is "love". Such tattoo designs may include the bloom of the rose, the entire rose, or a full rose bush. The rose tattoo design can be designed for a number of purposes. The rose and cross tattoo can be used to symbolize a love for Christianity, a love for Jesus. The same design can also be used to represent the death of a loved one. Such designs may have their name inked in the tattoo. Another variation of the rose tattoo is the rose and diamond tattoo. Since there are so many different designs, it is no wonder that the rose tattoo is so popular.

ROSE TATTOO MEANINGS AND IDEAS

As you read earlier, the most common meaning for the rose tattoo is "love". Not only does the rose represent love, it can also represent death. Many people choose to add roses into their tattoo design as a remembrance tattoo for a loved one. In such cases, a cross is usually added in the rose tattoo and bears an individuals name. Their name can be written outside of the tattoo, on the cross, or on a ribbon. You usually will also see a birth date and a date of the day they passed. Some people may incorporate the black rose to represent this, but some may feel it has too much of a dark impact on the meaning.

The rose tattoo is a perfect tattoo for a loved one or to represent your love for another. You can get rose tattoos for a variety of different reasons. Some people choose to get colored roses because the colors of each rose hold symbolic meaning. Below, you can find out their meanings.

• Red Rose- True Love
• Orange Rose- Fascination And Excitement
• Pink Rose- Grace And Elegance
• Purple Rose- Love At First Sight
• Coral Rose- Desire And Passion
• Black Rose- Death
• Peach Rose- Friendship
• Blue Rose- Fascination And Impossibility
• Yellow Rose- Devotion And Friendship
• White Rose- Purity And Innocence

Married couple may choose to get matching rose tattoos to represent their love and partnership. If you have a partner or a boyfriend/girlfriend, you may choose to get their name in a rose tattoo, although you might want to make sure things are going to work out. The rose tattoo is also a great design to have your children's names inked inside. Roses can also be portrayed in floral tattoos or flower tattoos. These tattoos are more so for beauty then meaning.

There also is a large variety of different items that can be associated with the rose tattoo. The rose tattoo can be portrayed with fairies, butterflies, and anything else that you want in the design. The rose tattoo can be placed in a variety of different places on the body. They can also be tattooed in a variety of different sizes. Rose can also be done with tribal art as well. When it comes to the rose tattoo, there are many options to consider for the perfect design.

Special Design of Rose Tattoo

Mix gun and rose tattoo

Color Tribal Rose Tattoo

Very Popular Rose Tattoo

Without doubt the rose is the most adored breed of flower throughout the world. One would have to guess that the popularity of this exquisite flower has been linked to the romantic connotations that roses have between lovers. Every woman would appreciate a beautiful bunch of even a single rose from their lover as a token of their love and affection. The red rose in particular undoubtedly the most popular color and relates strongly to romance as well as sexual relationships.

Oh really?!

I’m about to go on a little rant, so you can either ignore me or ride this out. Every so often I run into people who claim they are tattoo artists. Now I am not the most social of people but I do know of many of the local talent let’s say. So when someone whose name I do not recognizes pops up I like to know where they work. Often I will look them up on the internet or facebook to see their examples of their work. When I can’t find a single picture I then ask them which studio they work out of. Most often I get no response. So I must assume they work out of their house. So no, you are not a tattoo artist, you are a scratcher. A low life, law breaking, know nothing who is probably fucking up people who lay down their hard earned money. Sure these “clients” are either stupid or ignorant and we should all feel sorry for them. I am a tattoo artist, I’ve been doing this a while. I know what makes a good tattoo good. I’ve studied other artists, I strive to get better every day. My work has won awards and I’ve seen it published in many magazines. This doesn’t make me the greatest, but I believe it makes me qualified to know if your tattoo sucks.

So why would you get a shitty tattoo? Is it because you can’t afford better? I’d say this is the worst excuse EVER! I understand not having the nicest clothes, or the fanciest TV. But a tattoo last F-O-R-E-V-E-R! Why would you want to walk around the REST of your life with a shitty tattoo? Do you like looking stupid? We all make mistakes but the trick is to learn from them. Soooo after you’ve gotten one bad tattoo why go back for more? This doesn’t just mean the idiot doing tattoos out of his place or yours, but also the shitty artist working out of the studio with the bad reputation. A little research goes a long ways. Google the name of a studio and see what the reviews have to say. Better yet look at the artist’s portfolio! If he doesn’t have one walk out. How can you trust him?

Okay, so we now know that home tattoo artists are breaking the law and can’t be trusted. Good. We know that if the artist works in a studio with a bad reputation or doesn’t have a portfolio that you should probably walk out. Which brings me to the next bitch I’d like to talk about. Why do people feel the need to let me know that their “artist” was too busy so they came to me instead? Better yet their “artist” “hooks them up” and my prices are too high. FUCK YOU very much. First off, your “artist” yeah I’ve heard of him, 20 years ago he was cutting edge. But in the past 20 years he hasn’t grown as an artist and is STILL doing tattoos like he did 20 years ago! And they suck. Have you picked up a tattoo magazine lately? Have you seen what can be accomplished? This is why he’s “hooking” you up, he has to lower his price to keep people coming back and getting the horribly out dated work he keeps churning out.

Again, my work has received recognition, and no I’m not bragging. All I’m saying is that I’m proud that my hard work has paid off. I try to continue to grow and not become comfortable, complacent, or stagnant. Oh, you like my work? But the price is too much? The drive is too far? If you only knew how much some of these artists charge per hour, you’d be amazed. No, they never discuss prices on those tattoo shows you like to watch. If they did you probably wouldn’t think about getting a tattoo from the sticker shock alone! $200 to $300 an hour is not unheard of, but my $125 is too steep? And I am in no way saying I am in the league with these top name artists. But I am not a scratcher or other shitty artist carving out a living doing flash pieces on tourists. I tattoo, I draw, I paint. I don’t have a side job. I’m devoted to doing tattoos and doing them to the best of my ability.

I love tattooing. It’s a challenge every day. Something new and exciting. Sometimes you amaze yourself, and sometimes you know you could have done better. It’s the best job I’ve ever had and it’s not for everyone. Its takes drive and determination. It becomes more than just a job it becomes a life style. Some people take it too far and get wrapped up in drugs and alcohol trying to live like a rockstar. But the good ones keep a level head, they push and strive never resting, never satisfied. But damn it man if some people don’t take the wind right outta your sails. I’m lucky to have a strong group of devote followers and to them I say thank you. Thank you for letting me do what I love. Thank you for showing me your continued loyalty. Thank you for bringing me your family and friends. For showing up on time and keeping your appointments. You make all the sacrifices worth it. And to the rest of you I just sit back and shake my head. And if you read ALL of this, wow, I'm amazed.

Symbolic Rose Tattoo

To other people this flower rose may have other symbolic meanings. For example it is claimed in folklore that both Aphrodite who was the Greek Goddess of Love, and Venus who was Aphrodite's Roman equivalent, revered the red rose. It also has religious connections and is known to be symbolic of the Virgin Mary. The people who claim to have witnessed a vision of Mary say that her appearance is always accompanied by the smell of roses.

Rose Tattoo, oldschool

The rose is one of several old school designs that is undergoing a growth in status. In addition, there is also an increasing amount of ladies who are having designs which include roses tattooed on their lower back. They are seizing the traditional symbol of the rose and joining it with up to date ideas.

Simple Design Rose Tattoo, black and grey

Here are free simple design black and grey rose flower tattoo.

Simple and Beauty Rose Tattoo

On a very simple level, it is a exquisite blossom; it is straightforward to understand the reasons why folks want rose tattoo designs tattooed onto their lower back. The circular nature of the flower is perfect for the circular area of the hips, and gives womanliness and beauty.

Rose Tattoo for Female

Loads of girls are attracted to the rose because of its symbolism. Needless to say a red rose denotes passion and love; a rose lacking thorns signifies love at first sight. The rounded bulbous head of the flower indicates female fertility.

All through the years, roses have been used to satisfy our need for ingredients used in many lotions, potions and medicines. In addition, the rose has divine substance, as many link its beauty to religious figures.

For lots of people, it is a sign of peace. Each and every person is able to be aware of the splendour and fragrance of the flower.