Melissa & Shauns Tattoo's if your interested :)

Was not sure where to put the links so thought id just create my own little thread. So now you can see who you are talking to..so im not just an entity and my tattoo's.. P.S...The guitar and the back stars where both 14yrd old tattoo's (in response to "post up or shut up") Opinions welcomed :) http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/Tongue.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/Group.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/wrist2.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/Stars1.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/Stars2.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/stars4.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/body3.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/body2.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/words.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/words2.jpg Shaun's http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/Aztec1.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/atoms2.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/Atoms.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/guitar2.jpg http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/guitar1.jpg

I am thinking of having more words on my front, just above my jeans...but will it look weird with the other writing i have on my front??

Uh, as much as it pains me to say this.............................who's looking at the tattoos? TCE

.......................in other words, you're painting flames on a Ferrarri!!!!!

hmm im not sure i understand your flames on a ferrari analogy..sorry.. was it good or bad?

that's an awsome analogy. He's complimenting you, darling.

Oh ok Thankyou :) So have you seen another side to me TCE?? xx

Whoa Wo!!! Easy there tiger........................it was a backhanded compliment....................let me see if I can explain this a little better...................the tattoo on your tummy, just like some graffiti, is beautiful in it's own right.................but not even the most artistic graffiti is going to compliment the Cistern Chapel! TCE

Ok im confused again! this doesnt happen often..its you TCE "but not even the most artistic graffiti is going to compliment the Cistern Chapel!" Please explain again, maybe im just not good with analogy's? :(

Melissa, I'm sure you saw where I told Al, I wasn't a sucker for a sweet face, or in your case...................tummy. Now, I do have a weakness, but you'll have to read through a few hundred threads to find it............ And the rest of y'all SHUT UP!!! TCE

THIS IS THE EXPLANATION.......................YOU DON'T PAINT FLAMES ON A FERRARRI, JUST AS YOU WOULDN'T GRAFFITI THE CISTERN CHAPEL!!!!!!!!!! THOSE THINGS DETRACT FROM THE ORIGINAL ART................WHICH IS..................FIGURE IT OUT!!!!!!!! TCE

Hmmm......couldn't you just tell me?? Please :)

Ok if i have this right..i am the "original art".... So are you suggesting that some things cant be improved upon? So are you for or against my possible 4th tattoo? x

Well, you're getting there....................I was only suggesting that that one particular spot didn't need the distraction of ink......................I don't know what you're weak areas are...............You do.................those are the areas I would tattoo first. TCE

hmm...ok thats an interesting concept.... well have you seen anything you would consider a weakness on my pictures? I have grown to value your opinion quite highly. :) x

Unfortunately, you seem fragile........................and sometimes tattoo placement on girls becomes a delicate balancing act in your own minds...................but you should get it because you like it!! It was, again, only MY opinion that your tummy wasn't the spot for it. And when everyone else gets on here today, they're going to tell you they love it!!! Nothing in the pictures is really screaming out in need of a tattoo, but I haven't seen everything.................heh heh. TCE

Okay, Melissa, I'm here to save you and explain this for you. What TCE is trying to tell you is that you are one hot little chicken. You are a very pretty girl. (in fact, you look a little like Gloria Estefan in a good sort of way). A Ferarri is a work of art that is so beautiful in it's own right that it doesn't need and extra painted shit on it to make it any prettier. In fact, if you've got this sleek, gorgeous Ferrari, why the hell would you want to go ruining it by painting dumbass flames on it? It just takes away from the beauty. In other words, he's trying to give you a compliment without taking away from his original crustiness. Now, here's the deal... You are very pretty. That said, that only accounts for a little bit around here. Maturity, and thoughtfulness in your responses account for a whole lot more. TCE is trying to get you to use your brain, and see all sides of these issues, especially the tattooing kids thing, because the truth is, pretty girls like yourself are used to being able to say, do and get whatever they want, and society pretty much eats that shit up. I'm definitely not insulting you, you look like a real cutie pie actually with a great personality, It's just that TCE ain't gonna let you off the hook for that. For the same reason that I don't overtip Hooters girls. I could care less how gorgeous your ass is, because you're never going to get with me, because I'm not necessarily a handsome-boy modeling school graduate chest shaver. (Actually, I'm not all that bad, I'm in pretty good shape actually, but you get what I mean.) In otherwords, I'm not gonna tip you for a pretty ass and live in some dream world like it's gonna give me a chance with you... You know what I mean? I'm not saying you personally, just followin' the arguement right? That's what TCE is trying to tell you. Now here's how I'm going to back up his arguement for him. I've looked at your tattoos, and yes, I am qualified to judge them on a lot of levels, cause I've been an award winning graphic designer with over a dozen awards for art and design, and I've been doing it for over 15 years. After looking at your stuff, I've come to a couple of conclusions that support TCE and that is this: 1. Your tattoos are not bad, their just not good. They just sort of fall in that, oh well, whatever range... so it turns out being like TCE said. Flames on a Ferarri. You are an awfully pretty girl. A canvass like that deserves an awfully pretty work of art. Now. I'm not insulting you, or your tats, and if you really like them, then that's great. You're the only one who has to ultimately. But, let me put it this way. If you had waited until you were of age, and it wasn't an issue for you to scrape together $1500 to go see a really good custom artists, what might the possibilities have been? Instead of having a couple of little mediocre stars, you might have had something really amazing and beautiful. That's the whole point why adults want teenagers to wait. First of all there's the whole disease thing, which I'm not even going to touch. That's not debateable. But most of the people on this site think that everyone deserves a really killer, kick ass tattoo... and a lot of times, that can only come from WAITING, until you are of age, until you can afford it, and until you've scored a really good custom guy that can improve on your ideas. What you have is cute, and it's fine, but it's nothing amazing. That is NOT an insult. Unfortunately, 9 times out of 10, IT IS the definition of an underage tattoo. Flames on a Ferarri. I like you Melissa. I think you are pretty cool actually. So think about what I've said. First I give you serious props for sending your pics because most people don't even have the guts to do that. So I say, Your in Kid! Go post your pic on the tattoonow family site! But when I look at your tats, I just think to myself, aw, that's such a pretty lady, why didn't she do something more thought out than that. And Mostly Melissa, that's what all of the underage tattoos that show up around here look like. The whole line weight issue, etc. I'm gonna skate out of at this point. Again, however, if you like it, It's all good. You're pretty sparkly! Just about anything on you would look good. Just wonder what that canvass would look like if you'd waited. SHAUN: Same thing. Shaun had hyped the virtues of this amazing, completely custom Les Paul tattoo that he would never change his mind about, that he had had done custom, and I was expecting to see this really awesome piece of art in my face and be all ready to apologize, but again, it's the same thing. If it makes you happy Shaun, great. But this is nothing special. In fact, it's a pretty poorly constructed tat. Don't get me wrong man, I LOVE your idea, especially about the Les Paul... but someone did you a disservice with this tat. What if you had waited until you were old enough to afford it and did this fucker full on as a custom Les Paul with color, backed up by some flames, whatever, dice, old school, music, whatever.... the possibilities are ENDLESS!!! THIS COULD HAVE BEEN SUCH A FUCKING COOL IDEA!! But alas, the execution of this thing is poor at best. So to sum it up, I'll speak for myself, TCE, and everyone else when I say, that the stuff you sent just proves our point of the original thread. This is why it's not a good idea to get tattooed as a teen. If you take that as a personal insult, or get angry with my comments, then you will be missing the point of what I am trying to tell you. So please don't miss my point. Melissa, very proud of you for having the guts to send in your stuff, and take the heat. You've got some spunk babydoll!! Al

Tce...Au contraire!! The Cistine chapel WAS decorated and would never have been nearly as famous without those beautiful paintings by the master!!! But I DO get the gist of flames on a Ferrari!!! I use that line too tho!...When I am at a club drinkin and minding my own business and some hottie comes up to me and says,"Aren't you TAz?...I want a ttattoo of a _________ on my _____ what do ya think?"...I respond,"I'm sorry I could never tattoo you..." She says ,"But why?"...I say,"Putting a tattoo on you would be like spraying graffitti on the Mona Lisa!...What could my humble skills possibly do to improve the beauty God has already gifted you with?"....Works EVERY time pal!!!! Melissa as to your tattoos...They are pretty much mediocre at best ( both yours and Shauns) But if they have meaning to you that is whats important...Now before you even start I am not trying to be an asshole...believe me when I say that we have seen much much worse....yours are simply OK...By posting the links here you invite comment and there is mine!! Have a nice day! Oh yeah! Just want to say that I for one really enjoy your posts and would like to welcome you to our little family here...when you aren't being combative and overly defensive you make a LOT of sense!.. Hope ya stay with us kiddo!!...TAz

Okay TAz,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,you're really pinching the fine points here.....! You know what I meant smartass!!!!! Graffitiing over the painting, not the ceiling...........................DAAAAAAAAAMMMMMMMIIIIIIIIT!! ................................That really works for you, huh? See there Melissa.............you can always count on Al to mediate things. And TAz, well..........that depends on what he was up to last night..... TCE

He said "Cistern" chapel originally, and I almost died laughing....

And Al.....................well, you got me there..............Damn You!!!!! Screw you guys, I'm going home!!!!! TCE

TCE: Read carefully bubbahead! I wasn't mediating! I was agreeing with you! (LOL)

Now, if you'll excuse me, uh, if I look at those pictures again.........................does Mt. St. Helens mean anything to anyone? ................good thing they weren't of her feet!!!!! Jeez! TCE

Um, yeah. Young lady's got a bod.... But Alas, as I said, I don't tip extra for that anymore.

She knew exactly what she was doing when she posted those..............but................she missed the money spot! What can she do if she doesn't have any tattoos there? Ha ha!! TCE

Just one last thing...I don't give a crap how great looking you are....I wouldn't care if you looked like Jabba the Hut with warts!....I see beautiful all day long and I quit being impressed by that aspect longh ago...T

TAz, I agree with you on that one, and I said it yesterday in the heat of the discussion..................."I run into cute girls every day, but at my age, the cute runs right out of them the second they open their mouths!". I think Melissa MAY be a little different here.....................or maybe I'm just in a jovial mood today, but she has lightened up to some degree, and has clearly tried to ease the tension, unlike some of these little pecker snots who come on here and just keep spewing attititude..................like Babywoofs............. But tomorrow is another day. TCE

I have to say I think this is all pretty lame, well, I think it's pretty lame in two distinct aspects. First, the whole trade in on your looks thing. That kind of does a disservice to every woman. I for one know I worked extremely hard to be as intelligent and well qualified as I am. I don't need anyone to back me up on that, and I'm not going to cry in a corner if someone says I'm stupid, because I'm not. This all goes to confidence I think, I might cry if someone called me ugly for long enough and in enough terrible ways...but I would be crying while I beat the hell out of them and simultaneously quizzed them on the line composition of the Italian Sonnet. That's just me. No one is going to treat you any different here, or in reality, in the real world because of your looks. Well strike that, you can end up being just another pair of boobs with a bunch of guys from the internet masturbating to you. It's not my ideal presentation of self, but hey, whatever works for you. Second, the tattoos. They're ok. If just "ok" does it for you, then alright, fuck I don't know a thing about who tattooed you or what it meant or anything like that. It might have some special meaning because the tattoo artist was your best friend or something like that. But I think, in reality, in about 5-10 years both of you will have had your tattoos redone in some way at least once. I'm not into tattoos in the sense of repeat visits. I mean let's face it, they hurt like fucking hell, you're contorted into a weird position for hours, all the while 5-7 (or how many needles there are, honestly I don't know) needles are slammed into your skin in the most painful way possible....I want to return to that kind of pain like I like to return to the dentist every couple of years and have him dig around in there for fun. More money, more excruciating pain, all for what? Something that could easily be avoided with a couple of years waiting. I wanted a tattoo since I was about 13, I waited until I was 21. I wanted my tongue pierced since I was 14, I waited until I was 16, whereupon some wonderful gentleman shoved a bar through my tongue in his room. I'm lucky that I'm alive, and that my tongue hasn't fallen off. Actually, I had no complications with that piercing, but the reality is I should have. It was blind dumb luck that I didn't end up with a staph infection or worse. It's true, I only have one tattoo, and I'm only 21. It's about one and half to two feet long, about 7 or 8 inches across and on my ribs. I sat for it for about 11-13 hours. The artist who did it was a genius. I waited about a year on his list. And guess what, I'm doing my other side too. If I had gone and gotten a tattoo when you did, I would have probably ended up with something like yours...ok, not bad..but *shrugs* I waited, and I ended up with this. http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f10/ahlyn/tattoo%20progress/phase2.jpg

deirdre, That is beautiful work.

YOUR work, I am talking about your work, not Melissa.

Why thank you ma'am!

Yes melissa the tatts are nice. If folks say they're "just okay" or mediocre or whatever, take comfort that at least they're not downright ugly! And, as many have said before me, the tattoos are not as pretty as you. If you do increase your quota, i suggest you be very very careful and critical of the next artist, even before they rev up the autoclave. Make sure that your next one is exceptional... wow-ful... explosive - earth-shaking! ...To you.

Deidre, When I first started reading the part of your post re:the pain, I must admit, I thought to myself 'what a wuz' and that desciption should sure scare people away, thank you very little...BUT, then I took a look at your tattoo. Aside from the fact that it is a beautiful tattoo, damn, you sure did pick a tender spot for your first as well as a good sized one. Most people start small and in a much easier place. Much props and again, NOW I understand why you said what you did about the pain, you have that right considering. Thanks for sharing the photo and who did the work?..Doc

Oh yes, the pain was awful the second time. The first time he went lightly to see if I could take it and I took it extremely well, he even commented on it, and it made me feel better. But fuck, that latest session, he didn't hold back, he drilled me for what seemed like an eternity. I still like the pain in the way, adrenaline rush and all. He bactined me quite a bit which made it better too. Actually, I'm probably exagerrating...it's not -that- bad, but it's bad enough not to want to have someone fuck up that area and then have to go back and do the whole thing over again. My artist is Guy Aitchison.

D, Absolutely gorgous. And as for the rest of the thread.... I kind of like the stars on the lower back. I wouldnt get them myself, and I would have added a bit to em, but I like them. I like the black and grey Les Paul as well. As for the pictures overall, Yep, feels like fishin' to me. Gorgeous girl. But the "Huh? Whadya mean?" I can almost see the knees askew, the curl twirling and the pinky in the mouth. Dont play stupid. You obviously arent. Your brain lasts alot longer than your looks will, and in the end, they are alot more important.

Look Melissa ...I like you...you aren't spewing vindictive bullshit repetitively and you are obviously intelligent and you aren't afraid to fight for your opinion (even if you ARE wrong) ...BUT!!!!!!! And please take this as constructive.... We didn't ask for cutesy pics of you and I quite agree with D....all we wanted was to see pics of your tattoos....and the only reason I am even saying anything is that maybe ya got the wrong idea of us and this forum....You know and I know that most of the oics of you were posed in a sexy manner...not one of Shauns were like that...his pics showed us his tattoos...PERIOD!!And there are a few of us ,being in the tattoo biz for years ,that have seen it ALL and then some....a cute little bod just don't impress much. Now I ain't mad at ya...but jeeesh!! Anyway thanks for sending the posts at least the ones that predominantly featured your tattoos...TAz

And with that said..................................let's get back to arguing!! I'm a fighter, not a lover!!! TCE

.....you're agreeing with me? You're bizzarro Taz from the megaverse aren't you?

I have only caught bits and pieces of this and have no idea how all of this stuff came about since I have been on and off the forum sporatically lately but... Melissa: You first. "Meritus Meas Pennas" ... Googled that one. Love how your name popped up on a latin forum, no more than 15 days ago. Couldn't wait to get that one, huh? My point being why would you get a phrase which translated means "Earned My Wings" on your sternum? Common sense was tragically usurped in the name of urgent desire there. I'm not even going to comment of the stars because you're obviously more interested in showing your ass to everyone... Yes, indeed! Thank you for showing us the intelligence and maturity of the younger generation. Keep watching those Christina Aguilera videos. Shaun: If Les Paul made guitars that looked like the one on your arm they would be sold right next the the "First Act" guitars that are sold on the shelves at Wal-Mart. What an exquisite piece of vintage hack to visually expess your "obvious" deep love and appreciation for music. ... The "atoms" wisked my mind away to memories of third grade sciences fairs and group projects. At least the guy could have filled in the protons, neutrons, and electrons... Oh wait! I'm sorry, that was a shading techique to give them a spherical affect! How ignorant of me! And how many childrens maze-puzzle books did you have to look at before you found your "Aztec" design? Geeeeez! Thank God for job security....

Ahlyn, I think everyone agreed with you on this....................I said early on that she knew exactly what she was doing when she posted the pics..................I'm surprised her fiance' even supported that decision. TCE

...........................Yes Melissa...........we Yanks get cranky and mean as the day wears on!! TCE

It's very strange when people agree with me, I then immediately think that I've been transported to a parallel universe, where everything is exactly opposite. Bizarro Bizarro Bizarro! "Hey...why is my guy an egg?" The lessons of Auqa Teen Hunger Force.

Deirdre I think you're right on the ball with what you said! Plus, even though I've said it before I'll say it again, your tattoo is beautiful! The way I look at it if you're gonna do it do it right! I'll be getting my first tattoo in September, it'll be half my back, across my ribs, and down to my hip! Can't wait! But anyway, I think you can tell just from comparing the pictures of tattoos given in this thread the difference between someone who really waited to get what they wanted and someone who didn't. I'm not trying to be insulting, it's just a big difference. Dana

God dammit!!! why do the threads shot my posts halfway up the page out of order??!! Well anyways, it's up there anyway. I don't feel like doing the whole copy/paste thing.....

J-werk, I saw what you said.........................Ha ha ha ha ha aha ha!! Good ones!!!! TCE

Well fuck Man! Seriously, you know..... *perplexed look of absolute vexation.*

I'll admit, I got a little soft on her this morning, but I wasn't in full battle gear when I logged on this morning and looked at those pics. I hadn't yet consumed my first 64 oz of Diet Coke for the day......... TCE

Now how come is it (probably just my insecurity) that I feel like everyone thinks I was somehow defending Melissas Hottie pics? I especially feel like D was jumpin on me (though I don't know why) when I'm pretty damned sure I said exactly the same thing and I wholeheartedly agree with D! Didn't I even say I'm NOT going to tip for hooters ass? Am I being insecure here? Where's my meds....

Al, Now don't feel bad......................I was somewhat taken aback as well when that was the first thing I saw this morning................... But I did say that I felt it was a devious act of purported endearment, and the pictures definitely displayed far more (the undies, the belly button ring) than what was necessary to show the tattoos. I've been being nice and restrained all day now, but I still feel that the tattoo on her sternum wasn't any kind of an enhancement....... and I tried to be civil in the way I presented my opinion to her, so that it wouldn't seem like I'm trying to rip on her just for the sake of ripping on her. TCE

.....................and you gotta admit it's a crafty way to stay in the game!! TCE

Al, I think you are in desparate need of a hug... And I know you weren't defending them. I got the Hooters analogy. I just wanted to put my change in the thread machine for a minute. It's all good, Chief!

No, I didn't think that at all. I think I was merely repeating the point coming from a female standpoint.

And D., That makes it a stronger case!! Good, you gotta fight fire with fire!!! .................... or Dremel Dave with Guy Aitchison!!!!!! TCE

I agreed with D? Is this the end of the world as we know it or what? LOL!!!

Had a chuckle when I read J-Werk's post stating what that Latin translates to ('Earned my Wings') as in days of old it was a hardcore biker term involving cunnilingus and I'm amazed I'm the only one to know that or to have caught it (or am I the only one old enough?) FYI...Doc

Well Doc, to be honest I was really considering putting some other selective things there but then my point of "why would you ruin your skin with cheap, petty hack-n-crap?" would get lost in the "this guy is just an asshole and saying mean shit." I was, believe it or not, trying to be tactful in a passive/agressive way.... But you aren't the only one who was thing along the lines of "earning there wings." ..hehehe.

Red wings Doc...Red WINGS!!! URK!!!< VOMIT!!!...SPEW!!!...PUKE!!!...GAG!!!

I heard something once apon a time about red-wing dive bombers or something like that Doc...

Well, kinda sorta , Al, actually it involves 'diving' that has nothing to do with planes and the 'red' signified bleeding (hence Taz's comments re:) I'm trying to be subtle for any ladies who might be reading this...Doc

Fuck subtle! You get yer red wings when you have eaten pussy during the menstrual cycle There ya go!!!

Thanks guys. Hard cider snerked out the nose. DAMMMMMNIIIIITTTTT

Dude.....sick.......

Dude....................not sick when the pussy is fine!!!!!!!!!! Tangy Red sauce available during lunar cycle...................mmmmmmm, very tasty! TCE

:^@~

We all better scurry off to bed now, before Melissa comes home and sees the whirlwind of activity on her thread...............woo hoo, boy howdy!!!! Tangy, er, I mean, Sweet Dreams! TCE

...............and Melissa, if you still value my opinion, don't get any more stuff on yer front, not at all accentuating!! If you network with these guys on here, your next piece will be pristine!! TCE

Good Morning, well a mixed response i must say. Not many actually gave advice on whether i should have another tattoo on my front....apart from you TCE. Just to clear up, yes i was trying to ease the tension abit.. I appreciate all your opinions on what you have said about my tattoos. Because yes they are just ok, simple and understated which is what i wanted. So you are all right about them. Yes the latin does mean earned my wings, because, long story i have...anyone wants to know more on that just email me an di will tell you. "Just about anything on you would look good" Daddy Rose that was very sweet Thankyou. "Oh yeah! Just want to say that I for one really enjoy your posts and would like to welcome you to our little family here..." Taz i would be most happy to join. "Hope ya stay with us kiddo!!...TAz " Dont worry i dont plan on going anywhere :) "I think Melissa MAY be a little different here....................." TCE give me time and i will show you im different. "First, the whole trade in on your looks thing" deidre i was not trading in on my looks, to be honest i dont think im that much to look at which is why the pictures dont bother me. BUt thats your opinion and i respect that. "No one is going to treat you any different here, or in reality, in the real world because of your looks." i have no intention of using my looks in any aspect of my life, i cant help what i look like. "Make sure that your next one is exceptional... wow-ful... explosive - earth-shaking! " Rasclarke i do plan on having a whole back piece done, hence the small stars...that will be a very expensive custom piece...i know im going to get slated but yes it will be of wings...hence the latin on my front..there will be alot of time, thought, imagination, creativity and money put into my wings as they will mean so much to me, on a very personal level. "Your brain lasts alot longer than your looks will, and in the end, they are alot more important." Saiyge, im not good with analogies that is the honest truth, but your point is very worthy for every one in life. "the pictures definitely displayed far more (the undies, the belly button ring) than what was necessary to show the tattoos." TCE, to put the record straight they werent my undies, they were just shorts...i guess i just wanted you guys not just to see me as an entity and see who you are talking to. I didnt know what any of you guys would think of me, i stuck my neck out on the line to show you who i was and my tattoo's, yes the response has been alot nicer than expected as i would never consider myself a "hottie", just a girl with aspirations. "Had a chuckle when I read J-Werk's post stating what that Latin translates to ('Earned my Wings') as in days of old it was a hardcore biker term involving cunnilingus and I'm amazed I'm the only one to know that or to have caught it (or am I the only one old enough?) FYI...Doc" MY dad who i am very close to is a hardcore biker so i did have that connection as well. :) "...............and Melissa, if you still value my opinion, don't get any more stuff on yer front, not at all accentuating!! If you network with these guys on here, your next piece will be pristine!!" I do and i will seriously give more thought as to my next placement. Any suggestions anyone, my back in taken so i wont put anything else on there.?? Thanks for all your comments :) x

Now see guys?....She IS AWESOME!!!!! Send yer pic Melissa!! ...TAz

Thanks :) Touchy subject...which one would you like?? x

I too think that Melissa is awesome, stood up to the critisism very well, responded back in a very straight forward way and I, for one, believe what she said about the pics not being intended to flaunt her hot little bod. I've known many a hottie who did not really think of herself as 'all that' and did not try to use their appearance as so many others DO. As to you (Melissa) adding anything to the 'front', think about that very carefully and bear in mind child bearing can seriously ruin tattoos on a woman's stomach/abdomen area. Excellent response Melissa, hope ya post again...Doc

See .... you took this whole thread alot better than I thought you might, and alot better than I probably would have if I were in your shoes. M, you seem alot more down to earth than I gave you credit for. I felt really bad for feeling the way I did about the thread in general. Welcome to the forum hon. Hope you stick around, especially after being dragged over the coals and doing so with this sort of grace. :)

I can understand why all of you treated me like you did, if i was in your position i would have probably done the same. We just all didn't meet on the best of grounds. Hopefully my opinion on things in the future will be more agreeable to all you guys but i would also like to think that we can all still battle, heated discussions are very productive :) Im a nice girl really, even though im English! x

As far as the pic...JUST THE FACE PLEASE!!!

will the first one on this thread do? http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n143/Melissa_Hewett/Tongue.jpg x

Hear hear! Melissa, you are unanimously wonderful!

Melissa, You accepted all of the criticism very graciously, so as far as I'm concerned, we're more on commond ground now..................and I will refrain from taking any more cheap shots at you in the future, unless it is all in good fun!! So, just tell us, how'd you earn your wings? Or is it a secret???????? TCE

And Melissa, One other thing, and this isn't a shot at you, but make sure it's okay with Shaun that you put your mug up on the Family site, and that he won't get upset if some of us at some point talk about doing dirty stuff to you picture...............like yesterday..................there seems to be an epidemic of paranoia around here. Apparently a few of us, through late night discussion, have led a few other's of us to believe that their fully clothed, waist up photos are being used for unkosher behavior. TCE

GAWD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

dude, feet. come on. how did that happen.

No TAz, Now, I think we need to be sensitive and understanding here...................I mean, I've said some things on here that were very incriminating................this is just like Oklahoma City, if only we had looked for the signs, perhaps the whole thing could have been avoided. TCE

You mean their NOT being used for questionable behavior BLAST!… that’s the only reason I wanted mine up to begin with!! LOL

Oh, it's ME again.....................because, they're there!!!!

Fine Molly, when you put up a picture without a big gun, I'll make you my first priority..............................and if they pull the site.......................email it to me!!!!!! TCE

Maybe I'll join Tattooed Singles....................whattaya think Molly?

What!? You don't like my big gun! Come on!! A girls gotta have a hobby!!

It's great when a girls got a hobby...................I wish mine would get one other than shopping!! TCE

Yay, im glad we are on common ground :) “So, just tell us, how'd you earn your wings? Or is it a secret????????” Email me and I will tell you the whole story, it’s a little long for the forum :) “but make sure it's okay with Shaun that you put your mug up on the Family site” Shaun is fine with me being up on the site, and “ he won't get upset if some of us at some point talk about doing dirty stuff to you picture” It wont bother him coz he knows he is the one fulfilling what may be being discussed : ) hehe

Melissa, I just wanted to ad some clarifacation to this whole subject. I think too many guys beat around the bush when they were taking to you, when they really wanted to say....."your tattoos arent good at all". Here is the real deal... This forum is okay for learning about tattoos, if the rate you learn at is from other peoples opinions and recycled information. A lot of these guys up here claiming to know it all.....are just that....know it alls. You can tell from the way they word themselves. Not much good information, without stupid metaphors and dumbed down statements for a pretty girl. But, I think you have gotten a good dose of medicene from these guys....so let me address some finer points. Tattooing is a craft. Within this craft lies different styles of art, like traditional american, new school, portrait, realistic, cartoony, tribal, or traditional japanese. All of these catagories CAN be pulled off BY THE RIGHT ARTIST. You see....tattoos have values, that if designed correctly, they can look good even with age, wear and tear, and some fading. A lot of this new skool, shiney bullshit you seen being put out.....is great....when its first done. Then after time, where no lines or little lines lay, colors blend and fad, making the tattoo look soft and definitely not worth the time it took to apply that mirage of colors. But ask yourself the question why most of the best tattooers go back to traditional styles??? Clearly.......BECAUSE THEY WERE DESIGNED FOR THE SKIN. There are certain tattoo artists who are really pushing the mark.......like Nick Baxter........ But thats his deal....and I would never rock his stuff in a million years. It may look nice in pictures, but in person, especially after time, tattoos like that loose their power. You see.......Power is an important thing with tattoos. The message of the tattoo doesnt have to convey power, but the tattoo should stand the test of time and remain powerful itself. Thats why the old school legends like Sailor Jerry, and Horiyoshi design their tattoos with so much black. Black atmosphere, black shading, black and greywash clouds, black and greywash waves. Because it creates a powerful image people can easily recognize from across the street. Im real picky when it comes to tattoos, and most of the crap I see now-a-days.....I just dont like. It could be that I have an opinion like everyone else.......or........It could just be, that I believe in the principles from the old school. 1. The tattoo must have a good drawing to start with. It is the basis of a good tattoo. 2. The artist may be able to draw, but he or she also needs to be fully capable of applying a clean tattoo. While not wasting your money I may add. 3. It is of my belief that nice, and clean black lines, with black shading, makes for a powerful long lasting tattoo. Personally, I believe tattoos that are designed for the craft of tattooing are the best. New skool doesnt benefit the craft in any way. By some books on tattooing.....and do your own research. Look at tons of pictures, and start to gain a liking for the way GREAT ARTISTS do certain things. Dont be so crictical over what image is tattooed. I dont like certain themes in tattooing, but I still may be able to respect it as an awesome tattoo. In other words......I dont like the idea of having wings tattooed on your full back....but if it contains all the aforementioned elements, I could surely respect it as a tattoo. If you havent ate much food before.....How would you know what your tastes are? Wouldnt your tastes grow the more you eat?? Tattoos are the same. You dont know much about the art of tattooing. So stay open to ideas, and continue to listen to those who REALLY know about BIG designs. Dive into their minds, and seek truth. Guys who could tattoo a circle around everybody........= Filip Leu Horiyoshi 3 Joe Capobianco Shige from Yello blaze tattoo Seth Cifferi Chris O'Donnel Grimemonster Dana Helmuth Mike Rubendall Chad Kopelinger Tim Lehi Scott Slyvia Don Ed Hardy Chris Trevino Kevin LeBlanc Robert Atkison Jason Kundell In my opinion....a winged backpiece....is....okay. But remember.....Meanings change throughout life. Good Art doesnt. People (especially women)....always want to have some super embedded meaning behind their tattoo.....why be that serious????? At the end of the day, its just freaking artwork, and no matter what you say, thats all its ever gonna be. Leave the memorials for walls and paper..... Skin has its own unique flavor. Besides.....when you decorate yourself....why decorate yourself with images that your personality already speaks?? For example, if Im a rock musician......would I want an entire backpiece of guitars, drums, mics, amps, apeakers??? To me, its just dumb........ Thats only ONE outlet of life. Be open to more. Learn why the japanese culture goes and gets full body suits when they decide to get a tattoo. Paitence Devotion Dedication Tattoos need to have flow, transition, and emotion.....true japanese style does this best. American style tattoos are called "one point", because they only have one point of reference, and looks like a sticker. But thats fine too....people like Seth and Chad can make these look outstanding, with bigger elements. I hoped this helps homegirl..... peace

Personally, I think this is a really great post... this is full of great information. Always nice to start off with a condescending insult to everyone else on the forum though. You must be really important. Or maybe you are the best of the best!! If you are that's great, I'd love to see some of your stuff because like you, I'm a stickler for quality work. I'm a collector, not a artist, so I pay for all of mine, and I pay for em well. Your statement "A lot of these guys up here claiming to know it all.....are just that....know it alls. You can tell from the way they word themselves. Not much good information, without stupid metaphors and dumbed down statements for a pretty girl" is pretty condescending. I see a lot of people on this forum saying a lot of things, but I don't see anyone here pretending to know it all... except maybe you. But Hey, I sincerely loved your post. I thought it was great! Take some time to get to know these guys. I think a lot of em might know more than you think... Once you get to know them you might lose a little of that edge of superiority. But I for one, like ya! That was truly a good post!

TCE, your being thick. I dont think people are worried about you as much as you reminded them about the people who arent vocal. As you said the offending folks probably wont be advertising it for all to hear. Thats awesome that Melissa's boyfriend dont mind the idea of people whacking it to her photos, not everyone trusts the Internet as much and it still amazes me you cant easily see that point of view. Sorry man, its pretty simple... I dont necessarily want to wake up in the morning and read about your fetishes on my messageboard over tea. Im have not censored you but I'll tell you strait up I dont want to read about it. While sexuality is a part of tattooing, I dont feel like Im overstepping any bounds by asking people to tone it down for the general public who swings through here looking for tattoo artists and what not... I do think tattooed singles is the perfect place for you to get it out (if you will).

After three decades of tattooing I make no claim to "knowing it all" I still learn on a daily basis....however I have forgotten more about tattooing than most people on this forum will ever know,,,,and to say that new school tattoos don't last is laughable at best...Nick Baxters tattoos don't stand up?...ludicrous! While your ideas about quality have merit beliittling all the styles of tattoing except those that YOU prefer has no merit whatsoever.

2 cents, mostly great post (at least the jabs will bring the drama back to tattooing again...). Do you think that clever use of high contrast can ever replace solid black lines? I understand being very sure that tattoos last as long as possible, but to some extent experimentation is necessary to push the art forward, no? That is, how will we know whats possible if artists aren't pushing it and learning. Of course, experimenting in tattooing is a tricky weird space to be in... ack. I'll be sure to tell Dana he got a fine compliment when he gets here in a few hours!

"I have forgotten more about tattooing than most people on this forum will ever know,,,,and to say that new school tattoos don't last is laughable at best...Nick Baxters tattoos don't stand up?...ludicrous!"-TAz Good job bud.....you sucsessfully didnt read and intelligently digest what I was saying. New skool tattoos CAN last, if designed corectly, by keeping SOME traditional values. Okay, aside from the fact you CANT already tell what in the hell Nick Baxters style of tattooing is conveying, how about grabing a half sleeve from him, working construction for about 5 years, and then try explaining to somebody why it looks like a 5 year old played paint with your arm!!! Then go and get a americana themed sleeve, or a japanese sleeve with a lot of bold lines, and black shading...... Do the same test out in the sun for 5 years. AT LEAST IT LOOKS LIKE A TATTOO. Tattoos are supposed to be BOLD, and powerful. Remember, history proves that was their original nature. And even tho tattooing has, and will continue to evolve.......there is no reason for us to play paint with the skin.....its a different canvas. Im sorry, while you were learning so much new about tattooing, you must have forgeten these essentails!!!!

I havent known these guys long but i think it is fair to say that these gyus say what the mean rather than wanting to say ....."your tattoos arent good at all". They would tell me there honest opinion. I agree with you that tattoing is a craft, which i admit i dont know that much about. "but the tattoo should stand the test of time and remain powerful itself" Very true and back that all the way. "Thats why the old school legends like Sailor Jerry, and Horiyoshi design their tattoos with so much black. " My tattoo's will only ever be in black or black with shading. "Because it creates a powerful image people can easily recognize from across the street. " That is exaclty the image i will be conveying wiht my wings. "It is of my belief that nice, and clean black lines, with black shading, makes for a powerful long lasting tattoo. " Again i totally agree, i myself dont like colour tattoo's on my skin so would neve rhave one, however would never write them off all together as a bad choice of tattoo as i have seen some tattoo's in colour that are amazing. "do your own research" That is exaclty what i am doing, just using a numbe rof different sources, one being this forum to ascertain other people's opinions. To think about, not for them to decide for me. "but if it contains all the aforementioned elements, I could surely respect it as a tattoo. " Then you will pleased to hear that you should like my wings tattoo. "You dont know much about the art of tattooing. " I have never said i know anythign about the art of tattooing and will never pretend to do so. I just respect the art from a distance. "So stay open to ideas, and continue to listen to those who REALLY know about BIG designs. Dive into their minds, and seek truth" That is my plan hence i am on this site asking opinions. "always want to have some super embedded meaning behind their tattoo.....why be that serious?????" Personally, to mark my body permanetly is has to be that serious! just my opinion. I also want to mark my body with things that mean so much to me that they will never change and therefore no regrets! "thats all its ever gonna be." I disagree its not only ever going to be artwork. A star to you is a star...a star to me has a whole depth of meaning. "why decorate yourself with images that your personality already speaks??" Simply to express my inner on on my outer. "Tattoos need to have flow, transition, and emotion" You said before why does it have to be so serious, if it is only ever going to be art then why does it need emotion?? This has helped to an extent, im not sure quite where you were coming at with me, but rest assured that im a black ink kinda girl and respect your appreciation and understanding for the art of tattooing. x

And BTW......I dont want it to seem like Im picking on Nick's style of tattooing. Like I said, Nick is pushing the mark, and plenty of people are happy with that style of work. Im sure it would look good if you have super pale skin and are an eskimo. Same with Guy Atchison....... Everybody recognizes this guy as a great.....and so do I......because he broke the mold and showed what could be done with the skin. But I absolutely dont dig his stuff at all. On the same note, everybody has noticed, and maybed even borrowed a little from what he is doing. And it just seems like this new generation of tattooers and tattoo collecters run to his stuff and overlook traditional GREATNESS in the process. At the same time, traditional stuff is becoming a trend. These little punk rockers running around with nautical stars and skulls, and rockstars getting tibetan skulls, hannya and oni masks......The shits unbearable. People.....please KNOW what the FUCK your getting. If you like the way something looks.....RESEARCH IT......then make sure you want it. And for TAz......I suggest you buy the new book from Horiyoshi 3. I havent got it yet, but you seem to need a copy more than me.

And BTW......I dont want it to seem like Im picking on Nick's style of tattooing. Like I said, Nick is pushing the mark, and plenty of people are happy with that style of work. Im sure it would look good if you have super pale skin and are an eskimo. Same with Guy Atchison....... Everybody recognizes this guy as a great.....and so do I......because he broke the mold and showed what could be done with the skin. But I absolutely dont dig his stuff at all. On the same note, everybody has noticed, and maybed even borrowed a little from what he is doing. And it just seems like this new generation of tattooers and tattoo collecters run to his stuff and overlook traditional GREATNESS in the process. At the same time, traditional stuff is becoming a trend. These little punk rockers running around with nautical stars and skulls, and rockstars getting tibetan skulls, hannya and oni masks......The shits unbearable. People.....please KNOW what the FUCK your getting. If you like the way something looks.....RESEARCH IT......then make sure you want it. And for TAz......I suggest you buy the new book from Horiyoshi 3. I havent got it yet, but you seem to need a copy more than me.

And BTW......I dont want it to seem like Im picking on Nick's style of tattooing. Like I said, Nick is pushing the mark, and plenty of people are happy with that style of work. Im sure it would look good if you have super pale skin and are an eskimo. Same with Guy Atchison....... Everybody recognizes this guy as a great.....and so do I......because he broke the mold and showed what could be done with the skin. But I absolutely dont dig his stuff at all. On the same note, everybody has noticed, and maybed even borrowed a little from what he is doing. And it just seems like this new generation of tattooers and tattoo collecters run to his stuff and overlook traditional GREATNESS in the process. At the same time, traditional stuff is becoming a trend. These little punk rockers running around with nautical stars and skulls, and rockstars getting tibetan skulls, hannya and oni masks......The shits unbearable. People.....please KNOW what the FUCK your getting. If you like the way something looks.....RESEARCH IT......then make sure you want it. And for TAz......I suggest you buy the new book from Horiyoshi 3. I havent got it yet, but you seem to need a copy more than me.

"Im sorry, while you were learning so much new about tattooing, you must have forgeten these essentails!!!! " "And for TAz......I suggest you buy the new book from Horiyoshi 3. I havent got it yet, but you seem to need a copy more than me." Why are you being so harsh to Taz? "If you like the way something looks.....RESEARCH IT......then make sure you want it. " I am not sure that this directly relates to this thread, as thats exactly what has been done, and is currently being done. :)

Thanks for your suggestion I will put that on my to get list And thanks for your post ...it was amusing Hope to hear from you again!!!...TAz

I just want to know were the, "Grab a half sleeve from him (Nick Baxter); work construction for 5 years, etc...." vs. "Then go and get an americana themed sleeve/japanese sleeve with a lot of bold lines, and black shading; then do the same.", came from. Is that personal experience or something you heard. Either way, at the same time you are preaching the power of research then you would know that no matter who you get a tattoo from, prolonged exposure to the sun is devestating to ANY tattoo. I appreciate the fact that you have a strong appreciation for the more conventional, tried and true tattoo styles. But seriously, don't you think that just for a minute that back in their day they were considered as pushing the limits too? I don't know man. Maybe a response in your own words and not something that you read out of a book is what I'm looking for. Not trying to be an ass, it's just the way you're coming across on an internet forum.

Gabe, I absolutely agree with you, although, Im not sure just how far the experiments will take us. It may take us right back down the road to traditional tattoos! Im sorry if I came off wrong to anybody. Dana is the man when it comes to tattooing. Im a nobody. peace

2Cents...Well Pal we sure do agree on one thing ...DANA HELMUTH is da SHIT!!!....I only wish I had more skin!!! I do want to say that I love the traditional styles as much as you do and agree to a point...I do however think that other styles are just as good and ,if done by an accomplished artist, will have nearly the same longevity...to be honest if I had it to do all over again all my stuff would be american traditional without a doubt! But for style sake NOT for longevity! Again 2 cents whoever you are thanks for the post and I AM gonna get that book...I didn't realize that it was out yet!...THANKS!!!...TAz

2Cents...Well Pal we sure do agree on one thing ...DANA HELMUTH is da SHIT!!!....I only wish I had more skin!!! I do want to say that I love the traditional styles as much as you do and agree to a point...I do however think that other styles are just as good and ,if done by an accomplished artist, will have nearly the same longevity...to be honest if I had it to do all over again all my stuff would be american traditional without a doubt! But for style sake NOT for longevity! Again 2 cents whoever you are thanks for the post and I AM gonna get that book...I didn't realize that it was out yet!...THANKS!!!...TAz

2Cents, you sound like somebody we've heard from before.... Can't quite put my finger on it.... But I'll figure it out. Can't help but think you've done this before under a different name....

Was thinkin the exact same thing AL!!!

Thanks to the more appropriate reponses to my original post, i will no tbe getting nay more tattoo's on my tummy :) or atleast wont think about anymore until after child bearing age.... Will move onto focusing on my wings... : )