More About Tattoos

Tattoos are applied using a small electric device which operates similar to a sewing machine. One or more needles are grouped together and attached to the end of a metal rod called a needle bar. The other end of the needle bar is attached to the tattoo machine. The needle bar moves up and down through a tube or barrel which serves two purposes: to keep the needle bar from moving side to side and as a handle for the tattooist to grip the machine. The needles stick out only a few millimeters from the end of the tube, no more than the thickness of a dime, so they do not go very deep into the skin. Rubber bands are also used to minimize the side to side movement of the needle bar.

Redbeard will prepare the body for tattooing. First he will cleanse the skin with green soap. Then David will shave the area of the body where the tattoo will be applied, (this minimizes the chance of a hair getting caught and pushed into the skin creating an ingrown hair or infection as well as assuring a smooth service for tattooing). After the area has been prepared Redbeard will then place a stencil on the skin. The stencil is placed where the you want the tattoo to go, you will have an opportunity to approve the position prior to the tattoo application.

Once preparation is complete Redbeard can begin his work. He will dip the needles into a small amount of ink. As the machine is guided over the skin the needle bar moves up and down allowing the needles to puncture the skin, depositing the ink. First the outline will be completed then any color will be added. Once the tattoo is completed David will apply an antibiotic cream or ointment and covers the area with a clean bandage. He will then provide you with oral and written instructions on how to care for your new tattoo.

Redbeard's Tattoo - 709 E. Main St. # 4 - Lebanon, KY 40033 - Ph. 270.699.3842