There are many tattoo techniques and knowing them not only increases our personal culture but also gives us the opportunity to discover new very interesting methods.
Usually, we hear about Japanese tattoos, old-school tattoos, and so on. But what are the tattooing methods that have been used so far? Let’s try to take stock.
All tattoo techniques
Over the years, subjects, styles, fashions, and trends have alternated. But there is an aspect that is very little talked about. These are the techniques used to make tattoos. Basically, we can talk about the Samoan method, the Japanese method, the American method, and, more marginally, the Thai method. What are the substantial differences?
Samoan method
The Samoan method of tattooing is not practiced in Italy. It is an extremely painful technique, which is not appreciated in our country and therefore is far from our tradition. Basically, the tattoo artist needs two tools to tattoo. There is no classic tattoo machine we are used to, but a comb with needles. These can be in variable numbers, but a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 20. It is a rudimentary tool made with shells or bones and with wood. The comb, after being immersed in the pigment, is hit with a stick and penetrates the skin. It is a real tribal rite, which is experienced in this way by the whole community.
Much more widespread is the American method of tattooing. This is the most classic way of tattooing. This means that there is a machine with which the tattoo artist does his work. You don’t feel pain, at least not as much as with the previous method. Precisely for this reason, it is the most widespread type of method even today. Then there is also the Japanese method, which is also known and still used. Although the technique with an electric machine has taken hold in Japan, this type of method still has its charm and is still practiced by some tattoo artists who remain faithful to tradition. The peculiarity of the technique?
In this case, the instrument has a bamboo handle from which needles protrude. The tattoo artist has in his hands a brush impregnated with color and the technique consists in passing the tool from the brush to the skin, so as to let the color penetrate. It is a very particular method, very painful but still highly appreciated by purists of the Japanese style.
Finally, we must point out the Thai method of tattooing which is closely linked to Buddhism. In this case, the tattoo tool is composed of a long brass tube that is filled with ink. This technique is used for religious tattoos. These are the main tattoo techniques, the ones that are worth knowing if you are a lover or a lover of the subject.
