What happened and how can it be fixed?

[cwagn]

This tattoo is 4 weeks old. I wanted something simple and dainty on my wrist. I’ve had this idea that I drew out for years (it’s my kids’ initials). Finally got it done. I was a bit concerned about the “artist” but figured it’s just lines, how hard can it be? This is my second tattoo so I know what it feels like. This one felt like he was ripping the needle through my skin (more than normal). Did he press too hard? It looks like the ink just ran all under my skin. And parts are screwed up compared to my drawing, especially the R. Also the color was supposed to be lavender but that looks like crap too. Any ideas on how to fix it?

[Hogrider]

"It's just lines."

Drawing accurate, consistent lines isn't easy. And you had it done on thin, delicate skin prone to blow-outs. And in a very visible spot. And you had concerns about the artist before you started. No way that could go wrong.

I would look for the best artist you can find to see what they can do about that. Look at this as a very valuable lesson - don't cheap out on artists. And take your time. I've seen many people rush out to fix something they didn't like and wound up making it worse.

[cwagn]

1 hour ago, Hogrider said:

"It's just lines."

Drawing accurate, consistent lines isn't easy. And you had it done on thin, delicate skin prone to blow-outs. And in a very visible spot. And you had concerns about the artist before you started. No way that could go wrong.

I would look for the best artist you can find to see what they can do about that. Look at this as a very valuable lesson - don't cheap out on artists. And take your time. I've seen many people rush out to fix something they didn't like and wound up making it worse.

I guess this is what I get for being totally uneducated. Thank you for your response

[SStu]

at least it's not super dark, but without lasering first it's never going to look "dainty". 

[cwagn]

1 hour ago, SStu said:

at least it's not super dark, but without lasering first it's never going to look "dainty". 

I was wondering if I should go that route first and if it would help. My dermatologist does laser removal. Would it be better to meet with a good artist before I do any lasering to see what ideas they have and what they suggest? Or just go for the laser and find a good artist after?

[ChoWai]

Just my 2c, but I would see if I could get a consult with a good artist first before going for laser to see if they think I need total removal or partial lightening.

But make sure the artist you go to actually specialises in dainty linework. 

I am not a tattooist but a good artist could go over, make the line neat and solid. But it won't be dainty or the minimalist look but clean and bold. 

The line thickness he used is already thicker than the minimal /dainty look you prefer.

But this can be fixed 'fairly easily' (whether you completely remove, partially lighten or redo) as it is small tattoo so thats good news!

[cwagn]

I have a coworker who’s husband has a lot of beautiful work on him. So he got me in touch with his artist. I sent him the same picture that I posted here. I’ll post his reply below. Any opinions on this? It won’t be what I originally wanted (a light color) but at least it should look good after it’s done?

”Yeah it definitely looks a little overworked. Really light colors like that  are easy to do. I wouldn’t have it lasered off because the process is extremely time consuming and costly. I would rework it with black and make the lines smooth. And add some light purple shading to it like a shadow.”

[SStu]

post a link to his/her work

[Gingerninja]

Don't rush into anything!

[cwagn]

Look at the pictures by Flex

http://www.idlehandstattooparlour.com/artists

[SStu]

Ok, New Orleans. I might suggest you also try and talk to:

https://www.instagram.com/justinoliviertattoo/?hl=en

or any of the girls at:

https://www.instagram.com/tattoo__temple/?hl=en

[Hogrider]

On January 12, 2019 at 8:55 PM, cwagn said:

I have a coworker who’s husband has a lot of beautiful work on him. So he got me in touch with his artist. I sent him the same picture that I posted here. I’ll post his reply below. Any opinions on this? It won’t be what I originally wanted (a light color) but at least it should look good after it’s done?

”Yeah it definitely looks a little overworked. Really light colors like that  are easy to do. I wouldn’t have it lasered off because the process is extremely time consuming and costly. I would rework it with black and make the lines smooth. And add some light purple shading to it like a shadow.”

I'd pass on this artist. First, there are only a few tattoos that show their delicate line work and if you look closely, some of that line work is really wonky. What you want to look for is someone that has examples of delicate line work on thin skin, just exactly like what you are looking to have done.

Look for someone that does what you want done. It doesn't matter if someone does the best traditional Japanese if you are looking for a portrait and it doesn't matter if someone can do big, bold colorful tattoos if you are looking for small, delicate line work.

[cwagn]

4 hours ago, SStu said:

Ok, New Orleans. I might suggest you also try and talk to:

https://www.instagram.com/justinoliviertattoo/?hl=en

or any of the girls at:

https://www.instagram.com/tattoo__temple/?hl=en

Thank you! Their work looks amazing! Especially tattoo temple. I’m about 20 minutes outside of New Orleans so this is perfect

Edited January 14, 2019 by cwagn

[cwagn]

4 hours ago, Hogrider said:

I'd pass on this artist. First, there are only a few tattoos that show their delicate line work and if you look closely, some of that line work is really wonky. What you want to look for is someone that has examples of delicate line work on thin skin, just exactly like what you are looking to have done.

Look for someone that does what you want done. It doesn't matter if someone does the best traditional Japanese if you are looking for a portrait and it doesn't matter if someone can do big, bold colorful tattoos if you are looking for small, delicate line work.

Thank you so much! Like I said, I definitely don’t know what I’m doing or what to look for. I appreciate you pointing this out

[Hogrider]

43 minutes ago, cwagn said:

Thank you so much! Like I said, I definitely don’t know what I’m doing or what to look for. I appreciate you pointing this out

There were a couple of good artists at Tattoo Temple.

You are looking for lines that are straight (with no wobble), an even width (where they are supposed to be even), no blow-outs, on thin skin like the inner wrist, hand, foot, among other's. Think of it like this - what is a Japanese dragon supposed to look like? Answer - you could draw it 1000 or more different ways and everyone would instantly know what it was. That symbol you want can only be drawn one way and if it's not exact, it's not right. Which do you think is harder?

Good luck.

[bongsau]

"it’s just lines, how hard can it be" ...well, clean line work is the foundation of any good tattoo.

A good solid tattooer can just run right over it with a fatter solid line at the right depth under the skin. 

[SStu]

20 hours ago, cwagn said:

Thank you! Their work looks amazing! Especially tattoo temple. I’m about 20 minutes outside of New Orleans so this is perfect

These girls are up and coming here, and quite popular locally. This isn't a walk-in street shop, so be patient. 

[cwagn]

57 minutes ago, SStu said:

These girls are up and coming here, and quite popular locally. This isn't a walk-in street shop, so be patient. 

Only one of them has their books open right now. Rachel Robinson. But I think I like Natasha’s work better. It doesn’t say how long until her books are open. So I can’t request an appointment. I wonder if she would respond if I send her an email? Or would it be worth booking an appointment with Rachel R? Her work is still beautiful and she does have some stuff that I like

Edited January 15, 2019 by cwagn

[Hogrider]

39 minutes ago, cwagn said:

Only one of them has their books open right now. Rachel Robinson. But I think I like Natasha’s work better. It doesn’t say how long until her books are open. So I can’t request an appointment. I wonder if she would respond if I send her an email? Or would it be worth booking an appointment with Rachel R? Her work is still beautiful and she does have some stuff that I like

Don't be in a hurry. Wait for the artist you want. Send her an email, what's the worst that could happen?

Do you know that your tattoo probably isn't even fully healed? A tattoo can take 4 - 8 weeks to fully heal. I don't understand the rush. There are people on this board that wait months (at least) to get a spot with the artist they want. I've been working with the same artist for years and I still have to wait to get my first appointment when I start a new project.

Take your time and your next post will be, "I love my tattoo and it was worth the wait" instead of "I got this tattoo to fix another bad one. How do I fix the new one?"

Just my opinion.

Edited January 15, 2019 by Hogrider

[el twe]

Get the tattoo you want, not the one you can get now.  Like @Gingerninja already said.  I'd stop in the shop one of these days and see if you can talk with Natasha in person.

 

edit: @Hogrider beat me to it, and then some!

Edited January 15, 2019 by el twe

[cwagn]

Thanks guys. I know I’m being impatient. I guess I just want it fixed but I do realize that I need to take my time with this. Thanks for all the advice. I really do appreciate it. 

[SStu]

Natasha generally opens up her books via Instagram post every few months. Visiting the shop will always be your best bet.