#fnottattoos

Right, my ex boyfriend had a massive problem with bad tattoo blogs and I just wanted to add some defence for those whom see them as 'bullying'.

I can understand being upset with something you've looked forward to for a long time. I for one regret my awfully wonky pierced lobes, which I had done from the ages of 12 to 17. I had them done at Claires (never go to Claires for a piercing PLEASE) and I hope one day I can get them repaired somehow.

The reason these blogs exist is to help people create a critical eye. I myself have benefited massively from reading these blogs. I am the proud owner of a beautifully done Primeape Pokemon tattoo, which healed perfectly as I followed the advice of the things I read online. I designed it myself, I listened to my tattoo artist, and took care of it probably while it healed.

The only problem with tattoos is they are on people, people with easily bruised egos. Tattoos are an art form, and all art can be critiqued within reason. 

You may try to defend your tattoo by saying "but the MEANING!" or "It's exactly how I want it". Cool, right, but the tattoo community do have an issue with it. If it's shoddy, badly healed, or done by someone unskilled, they're going to comment. They're not attacking you, but it's quite clear you are quite uninformed. It's horrible to be used as an example, but you need to listen to these people offering advice. There's no excuse to be ignorant to body art rules these days, there's so much information out there today. Especially if you're posting on Tumblr, you're clearly pretty internet savvy, so use that to your vices. If you want a cliche tattoo, or your practicing mate to have a go on you in their grimey kitchen, know the risks so you can act accordingly.

The best thing to do is simply send an ask detailing why you'd not like your tattoo appearing on their blog, thank them for the advice and take it to heart. Most blogs I know would be nice enough to take them down. Don't get angry, don't throw a tantrum, but think about the options and decisions you make in future. Tattoo artists are artists. If they see work they know could be done better, they're gonna speak up.  

We all love beautiful body art, and we all understand people start somewhere. If you're a beginning tattoo artist, you can buy a kit from eBay and practice on fake skin or even pig skin from a butchers. Don't ruin your friends and don't put yourself at immediate risk of MRSA. Be careful, practice your art.

And those getting tattoos, search for artists. Find one that you love. Talk to them about the tattoo you want. Don't be afraid to spend a pretty penny for something you will love forever. Perfect your design yourself, with an arty friend and listen to the advice from your tattoo artist.

And don't get it upside down. If you get more tattoos in the future, they're going to look stupid together.