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Hi-Tone Valenz (@hi_tone) is a serial entrepreneur based out of the LA area who has inspired me since about seven to eight years or so ago. He for sure gave me some of my initial motivation to build a tattoo collection of my own since I was young and first introduced to tattoo collecting.

His resume includes being a legitimate and certified rapper, a talented realism tattooer, and the owner of multiple companies including his clothing line Top of the Food Chain (@tfc_tmbh) as well as as a liquor company The Gold Michi Come over (@thegoldmichico).

I got the chance to speak with Tone about a variety of topics including the value of taking L’s at times, how he got started with the world famous Inkslingers family, the importance of having woman by your side, and more.

I hope you guys enjoy the read, thanks for looking. 

 I just want to start this off by saying that way before I collected any solid tattoos, you were one of my main inspirations for building a collection.  What was the mindset you went in with when starting to build your own bodysuit? What is your current mindset as far as collecting? 

I appreciate you. That’s dope to think I inspired you in that way that many years ago.  I was young, I was apprenticing and working with some of the dopest artists in Southern California at the time, so collecting just came with the territory.  To be honest, I don’t think it was a mindset for me, it just became a lifestyle.  Once you collect a few award winning tattoos and walk around a convention proudly showing off, not only the art but the pain you endured to collect it, it becomes somewhat of an addiction to keep adding.  It’s like when you’re building a custom old school car, you can’t just stop after the paint job.  You’re gonna want the interior, wheels and sound system to make that car complete.  As far as my current stage of collecting, I took a break to live life and experience more things that may spark new tattoo ideas with the little room I have left.  Keep in mind I started really young and went really fast.

 

 

Being a serial entrepreneur like yourself I know you’ve counted many wins, but inevitably must have also taken a couple L’s along the way.  What are a few of the toughest but most valuable and notable lessons you’ve learned since being in the tattoo/rap/clothing game?

Most people consider L’s as losses, I consider them L’s as lessons.  Nothing we do or try that doesn’t work is a failure cause if you didn’t try them, you wouldn’t know if that particular venture was for you or not. It’s simple math: the more times you try, the better the probability is that you’ll catch a W (win).  But if I had to pinpoint some notable lessons or knowledge I’ve gained along the way, I’d say… mastering patience, not believing everything you hear, stepping back from the chaos to realign and remember why you started this journey in the first place. This is a quote I live by: “The only time you fail is when you quit on yourself”.

 

Can you talk a little about how you came up in the game, maybe a little about the legendary Inkslingers culture that I believe you got started with?

Coming up in the rap game and coming up in the tattoo game are two completely different stories that eventually come together and merge into one but we’ll focus on tattooing and Inkslingers.  There was a time in my young music career when I was signed to a major label and got dropped from that label, which led me to becoming a broke young kid with no money to chase his music dream.  At the time my cousin Bobby Serna and good friend Tommy Montoya were working at Inkslingers where I was currently already collecting art from.  I received a phone call from them saying they needed some help around the shop cause their current shop manager had gone under some medical procedures and of course I took the offer to make some extra money.  Note: being at a shop like Inkslingers with that many world renowned artists, a shop manager could leave with $200-$300 a day.  But let’s not get it twisted, I  started from the bottom there.  I cleaned toilets, mopped floors, made appointments, answered phones, set up and broke down tattoo stations and got lunch for the artists everyday.  This eventually led me to becoming a part time shop manager and full time apprentice.  I quit music for 3 years to learn how to tattoo so I can one day invest in myself to make music again. 

Can you tell me a little about your daily morning routine before you start the grind? How are you mentally preparing for long sessions? I know cats like you move different so I’m just curious what that looks like for you lately.

I wear a lot of hats.  My day isn’t like most because not only do I tattoo and create music but I also own multiple businesses.  So self care is a big part of my daily routine.  The first thing I do when I open my eyes is give thanks for another day.  I focus on spending 10-15 minutes praying and meditating for everything I have and for what blessings my future holds.  Us tattooers sit down 8-10 hours a day at work.  So a morning workout to me is very important because not only does it clear your mind and get you ready for the day but it keeps you from losing your health. 

 

 

I know you got your queen by your side bro, can you talk a little about what she has done for you on your journey and in what ways that she’s helped get you to the place you’re at today?

Every man needs a good woman in his life.  Even if it’s just a friend.  A good woman adds value to a man’s life no matter what capacity she serves.  I’ve been surrounded by good women my entire life.  Being the only son with a younger sister from a single parent mom, I spent my whole life around women.  Then came along my fiance (Stef Lova)  “another good woman”.  They all play an important role because they teach you balance, patience and love.  In particular they just have a different type of emotional support you can’t get from anyone else in my opinion, and let me tell you…  When you’re chasing your dreams, opening businesses, feeling like a failure, stressed out, depressed and down, they know exactly what you need. 

 

 

Three crazy shifts you’ve seen in the industry since you first came into it (which was when by the way)? Any big shifts you predict to see over the next few years?

1. Freehanding to photoshop… Photoshop has now allowed tattooing to become more of a trade rather than a natural God given talent. Back in the day you had to know how to draw and learn how to tattoo. Nowadays, you just need to learn how to tattoo because everything can be found on the internet.

2. The process of actually becoming a tattoo artist. Back when I was coming up you had to apprentice and start from the absolute shit-hole. Cleaning piss and shit in the restroom to get 7 people lunch everyday. Getting to the shop first and leaving last. Setting every artist up and breaking every artist down. Meanwhile watching and learning how to properly tattoo. Nowadays, you can buy a machine, watch youtube, practice in your room and open your own private studio within the first year of getting started. 

3. Coil to rotary, overall tattoo equipment and of course how dark black/grey work got over the years. It used to be loud in tattoo shops. 5-6 coil machines going off at once. Now with the shift to rotary, it’s nice and peaceful in shops. You can have a nice convo with your client and it seems like clients are a lot less scared of the noise now.

 

 

Wildest/most bizarre experience with a client thus far? Craziest email you ever got?

I’ve had some really bizarre experiences with clients but it’s code not to talk about them. LOL. As far as the craziest email, we played a prank on my assistant.  Hahaha One of the homies came to hangout while I was tattooing and we decided to send a prank email to my assistant regarding someone inquiring about a penis sleeve. We sent him a detailed email with photos of what “this fake client” wanted. A few minutes later my assistant walked in and started telling me about this email that just came in.  I went along with it and told him to reply.  We went back and forth on email for an hour.  My assistant still didn’t know it was us playing a joke on him. lol

 

What’s going through your brain when you tattoo? How many more years you got left in the tank? I know that sh*ts hard on your guys backs and wrists!

Nothing but the tattoo is going through your mind during a tattoo.  It’s impossible to think about anything but the tattoo unless you want to perform a bad tattoo. That’s why I still tattoo, cause it takes me away from the stress of my other businesses and allows me to disconnect and get creative. It;s definitely mentally tiring but it’s so satisfying and the end. I feel like I have many more years in the tank simply because I’m very big on self health and self care. 

 

RIP Kobe 💔💜💛 Can you talk a little about what you learned from this man during his powerful time on this planet? Who’s taking the chip this year?

R.I.P. Kobe!!! Growing up in LA and being a natural born Lakers fan, he was everything to us.  He brought the city to life.  He taught us that practice makes perfect and dedication mixed with talent equals greatness.  Lakers all day.

 

2021 mindset/mantra?

My mindset is the same every year.  I try to make each new year better than last year.  I focus on baby steps.  One foot in front of the other because as long as you’re climbing the mountain consistently, you’ll eventually get to the top. I believe hard work pays off and that’s been my motto for a decade now.  My entire brand is based on that saying. 

 

 

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Thanks to anyone who took the time to check out this article, be sure to follow Tone on IG @hi_tone.

Much love!! – JF

 

 

 

 

What is the most popular tattoo for a girl?

Well, there is no perfect answer to this question.

Simply because, from beautifully intricate floral designs to cheeky, graphic symbols and typefaces, there are plenty of options when it comes to tattoo designs for girls.

Tattoos for women are often personal and come with a strong internal message for many people. Tattoos are indeed beautiful decorations that not only go well with almost any look, but also represent your personality.

If you feel comfortable, you can also go a little bold with your outfit. On the other hand, large and elaborate works of art come with a strong message that your outfit may need to be toned down.

Sometimes even a single dot can work wonders, as long as it’s done by a good artist.

While there are literally thousands of tattoo studios available across the country, make sure you choose the best tattoo artists in India (if you want your tattoo to stand out).

  Tips: If you get a tattoo for the first time

Be sure to do your research to find a reputable salon with the proper license, and find out everything you need to know about tattoo aftercare.

Having an idea of the design you want and where you want it to be placed is important to know beforehand.

The more fleshy the area, the less it will hurt. Therefore, parts of the body such as the ribs, feet, ankles, neck, back of the knees, or the inside of the elbows will hurt more, since they have less fat and a high level of nerve endings.

Stop drinking right before your tattoo appointment, as alcohol thins your blood, which can dilute your ink and alter your final result.

Also, avoid the sun beforehand to avoid sunburn or dry, flaking skin.

Stay away from any water source for two weeks after your tattoo is done. During that time, stick to showers and do not use saunas, hot tubs, pools, lakes, oceans, ponds, etc. to prevent infections. You’ll even want to avoid energy-consuming activities that can cause a lot of sweating, like working out.

Now that you’re prepared for this commitment, let’s go through our curated list of the best inspirational tattoo ideas for girls:

Extraordinary Tattoo Designs For Girls

Extraordinary Tattoo Designs For Girls

Best Of Full Body Tattoo for Women 2023 for Girls

Best Of Full Body Tattoo for Women 2023 for Girls

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make tattoo unique tattoos for females unique tattoos for women great tattoo ideas best tattoo ideas all tattoos female tattoos gallery minimalist tattoo for women feminine tattoo heart tattoo ideas best tattoos for women flower tattoos for women tiny tattoos for women best tattoo designs 

make tattoo unique tattoos for females unique tattoos for women great tattoo ideas best tattoo ideas all tattoos female tattoos gallery minimalist tattoo for women feminine tattoo heart tattoo ideas best tattoos for women flower tattoos for women tiny tattoos for women best tattoo designs 

make tattoo unique tattoos for females unique tattoos for women great tattoo ideas best tattoo ideas all tattoos female tattoos gallery minimalist tattoo for women feminine tattoo heart tattoo ideas best tattoos for women flower tattoos for women tiny tattoos for women best tattoo designs 

make tattoo unique tattoos for females unique tattoos for women great tattoo ideas best tattoo ideas all tattoos female tattoos gallery minimalist tattoo for women feminine tattoo heart tattoo ideas best tattoos for women flower tattoos for women tiny tattoos for women best tattoo designs 

Are tattoos painful?

When the tattoo is applied to the skin, the skin must be temporarily damaged for the ink to settle. This process alone is painful until the healing process is complete. This also depends on which part of the body is dyed. In general, the neck, armpit, groin, and face are more sensitive to pain due to increased nerve endings. The pain chart is provided here for reference.

What is the tattoo healing process?

Once the needle pierces the skin, the white blood cells and platelets automatically start the healing process by clotting the blood and closing the wound. At first, it’s a four-step process with its own healing time. It includes oozing, itching, scaling, and ongoing aftercare. The care consists of applying soothing creams and balms and not touching the inked area for about a week.

How often should tattoos be moisturized?

A very thin layer of lotion should be applied three times a day initially and then twice a day, that is, once every eight to twelve hours. Too much lotion can suffocate the tattoo, skin pores, and lead to bacterial growth.

Best Of Full Body Tattoo for Women 2023 for Girls    

Will tattoos fade and why?

Yes, all tattoos will eventually fade. Wounded skin (inked skin) will attempt to heal by shedding old skin and regenerating new skin. The trick to having a long-lasting tattoo is to apply the ink just the right depth into the skin. If the ink is deposited on the first layer of the skin, the tattoo will fade very quickly as the skin regenerates every four weeks. If the ink is deposited too deeply, i.e. below the second layer, the tattoo will smear and fade over the years. This is called Tattoo Blowout.

Can tattoos cover stretch marks?

Objectively yes, tattoos can cover stretch marks. But there are quite a few variables. Depositing ink on already damaged skin is more difficult than on normal skin and will require the skill of an experienced tattoo artist.

These tattoos only last for three to five years, depending on the extent of the stretch marks, the age of the person, and the part of the body such as the abdomen, thighs, etc.

What tattoo should I get?

The beauty of tattoos is that there are so many designs out there, from minimalist finger tattoos to huge, bold designs for the entire left leg. You can choose between words, images, a person’s name, a band, song lyrics, calligraphy, lyrics, mandalas, etc. The choice is absolutely yours and you can also design your tattoo!

What tattoo gives me luck?

Luck is very subjective and very intangible. Trying to capture this in a physical form as a tattoo is an admirable task. Luck can also be superstition. Tattoos that bring luck such as dream catchers, dolphins, a plant, horseshoe can be inked. But then again, luck for you could be the name of the loved one, a special date, a number or a color. The bottom line is that anything that gives you a moment of comfort, hope, and reassurance when you look at it is lucky for you.

What tattoo symbolizes freedom?

Many interpretations can be made to symbolize freedom. The word ‘Free’, a person breaking the shackles, a person flying are some ideas. Some designs are given here.                          

Best Of Full Body Tattoo for Women 2023 for Girls

There must be many reasons to ask; Do tattoo removal creams work? Maybe one reason, because this way we can do it alone at home.

So you want to remove a tattoo and now you’re trying to find out how to remove a tattoo in the least painful way. Both physically and monetary, this method is almost without risk.

There are several options to consider but which is the best one? One of them is tattoo removal creams. Having one or more tattoos will usually make you think that removing them will be so difficult. You may regret getting a tattoo, but do not just stop on regretting since there are many ways of removing your unwanted tattoo. You need to think that removing tattoos will be so easy and free from pain.

How Do Tattoo Removal Creams Work?

This will require a lot of applications that persist for more than 6 months, depending on the design and depth of ink. In order for this creams really can penetrate the epidermis; the formulas must contain a lot of chemicals.

Actually, this cream has been around for at least 10 years, but they are not very popular among the tattoo artists. Tattoo removal creams use is the alternative way without pain, because it is much cheaper than using a laser method. This cream you can get at the Pharmacy and you can buy it easily at the local drugstore or specialty stores. If you’re still trouble you can find it on the internet.

But, do tattoo removal creams work? According to experience, a friend so far his tattoo is still visible, though somewhat blurred. “Of course, this method will take a lot of time.” His said. Just as a method of laser tattoo removal, remove the tattoo with tattoo removal lotion uses is not a onetime deal. Since tattoo ink, you are in a layer below the surface of the skin. Then the surface of the skin layer it, certainly it is difficult to eliminate it.

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Although tattoo removal creams are safe to use. If you are not careful then it is potentially dangerous. But just to make sure; look for brands that do not have the active ingredient, like Hydroquinone.

The Risk of Tattoo Removal Creams

Hydroquinone is the ingredients to treat freckles and wrinkles on the skin. According to the issue of this material can cause cancer and certain skin conditions; we have to be careful to use it. According to Dr. Debra Jaliman, a dermatologist in New York City:

“Actually, using the tattoo removal creams at home is risky. Some side effects are burns, itching, irritation, and even change the color of the skin. You may also experience an allergic reaction to the cream. And, FDA not approves this method.”

Its magical creams also contain trichloroacetic acid. This substance is also often used to care for the condition of the other skin. So, once again is careful to use it. It can be dangerous if you use it at home without supervision.

Solution:

Instead, you use substances that still contain mysteries, for all of us. There are Homeboy Industries maybe can be the solution for you. They are one of the organizations that provide free tattoo removal by voluntary doctors.

So, do tattoo removal creams work? It’s a pity and a short answer. No.

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Sneakers have come a long way, both culturally and design wise, since their very humble beginnings almost 100 years ago

Initially a practical piece of footwear, they have evolved into a cultural phenomenon that transcends generations and cultures

It’s little wonder that people have been expressing their love for sneakers through various different means, including using them as a subject for a tattoo

In this article, we will look into the history of sneakers, the culture of “sneakerheads”, why people might want to get a sneaker tattoo and some of the different styles

 

The word “sneakers” comes from their rubber soles which allowed the wearer to “sneak” around without making noise

The first sneaker was created in 1917 by the Converse Rubber Shoe Company

The sneaker, called the All-Star, was designed originally for basketball players and in 1936 became the official shoe of the NBA

In the 1960s sneakers became popular in youth culture and were seen by many as a symbol of rebellion

The rise of hip-hop culture in the 1980s really popularized them in the public consciousness, as fans and rappers themselves used flashy and expensive sneakers to show off their style

Today, sneakers are a multi-billion dollar industry and an integral part of streetwear culture with many people collecting, trading and wearing sneakers from the everyday, to special limited edition or rare models

 

A sneakerhead is someone who is passionate about sneakers

They often collect sneakers, attend sneaker conventions, follow releases and spend a lot of time and money on their hobby

Sneakerheads are known for their extensive knowledge of sneakers, including the culture and history surrounding them

Sneaker culture has spawned the creation of things like “sneaker bots” and “sneaker cook groups” which are online communities where people share information and knowledge and often help each other to buy limited edition models

 

For many, sneakers are more than just something to wear on your feet

They represent their personality, style, and sometimes even values

Getting a sneaker tattoo can be a way for people to express their love for sneakers and everything they represent

A sneaker tattoo can also be a reminder of a particular time or memory

Perhaps a person’s first pair of special sneakers was a gift from a loved one, or they were wearing a particular pair during an important even in their life

 

There are many different styles of sneaker tattoos and the choice really depends on personal preference

Some popular styles include:

 

Realistic Sneaker Tattoos

This style aims to create a tattoo that looks similar to a photograph of the sneaker. It requires a skilled artist to capture all of the elements and details, from the laces to the texture of the material

 

Neo Traditional Sneaker Tattoos

This style is categorized by bold lines, bright colors and often exaggerated proportions

 

Sketchy Style Sneaker Tattoos

This style looks like a drawing of a pair of sneakers and often uses a technique known as “whip shading” to create details in the tattoo

These are just a few of the many styles of sneaker tattoos you could get

Not everything translates well to a tattoo, this is why you want to ensure you are working with a studio that can go through your ideas and suggest what they think will work best

 

If you’re looking to get a sneaker tattoo in Bangkok then look no further than ALL DAY Tattoo, located in the heart of Sukhumvit

As the city’s top fully licensed studio, our team of expert artists and English-speaking staff are committed to providing you a five star experience from start to finish

Our passion for tattooing is evident in the many positive reviews we have received from satisfied clients

We take pride in maintaining the highest hygiene standards and exclusively use top quality FDA approved inks imported from the USA

So why not come in and catch the vibe?

Message our friendly team and discuss your sneaker tattoo that’s sure to turn heads wherever you go

WARNERS Media has made it offical, WW84 will premier on Christmas Day both in Theaters Natiowide as well as streaming on HBO MAX in an attempt to bolster its subscription base.  WW84 gets an international theatrical release wherever theaters are open on Dec. 16.

This isn’t the fist time studio execs have gambled on a Dual Release around the Holidays. On December 24, 2014 Sony’s controversial comedy The Interview with James Franco and Seth Rogen was released to mixed reviews and without the usual theatrical fanfare.

Not since William Moulton Marston, who published his first Wonder Woman strip in 1941, debuted his creation has there been a more iconic female character to inspire and empower woman around the world.

It’s been some time since Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) defeated Ares, and partnered up with The Justice League, but we’ve had plenty of wonderful wonderwoman tattoos since then to keep us excited with artistic representations and portraits from some amazing artists around the world.

Cover art – Lukash Tattoo | Tattoo artist | World Tattoo Gallery

Growing your savings is not an easy feat. It takes discipline, hard work, and some professional guidance. Fortunately, many money experts today aren’t selfish with their knowledge. They share saving tips on various platforms, helping people to grow their savings and achieve financial security. 

It’s never too late to change your mindset and spending habits and achieve financial freedom. Sometimes, all it takes is thinking outside the box and a little encouragement from financial experts. Here are 4 helpful tips given by financial experts. Use them to grow your savings.

1. Save First Then Spend

“Don’t save after spending, spend what’s left after saving”—Warren Buffet, Investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway.

Saving before spending helps you cultivate financial discipline. That way, you achieve your saving goals within a short time.

Many people find it hard to save first then spend, but with a proper strategy, it’s doable. A simple trick is to have a standing order. As soon as money lands in your bank account, a certain amount can be deducted automatically and transferred directly to your savings account. 

2. Apply the “Deferred Gratification” Approach

Best Money Moves CEO Ilyce Glink extensively talks about deferred gratification when discussing spending and saving. According to her, many people tend to buy things to meet their psychological needs and end up buying them expensively.

She advises that the best approach to take before buying something is to wait for a week. When the second week rolls around, check whether you still need it. If you can defer a purchase for an extended period, you’ll realize you don’t even need the item at all. And if you decide to buy it, you’ll be more strategic and end up not overpaying.

3. Pay Off Your Debts

Paying off all your debts is the best investment you can make, according to Mark Cuban, an Entrepreneur and Investor. Some lenders give discounts to debtors who pay loans early or on time. For instance, if you pay your student loan early, you might qualify for forgiveness (for a federal loan) or receive an actual discount. Prioritize paying all your high-interest loans early–such as credit card bills and even auto title loans. The last thing you want is paying penalties because you made late payments.

4. Learn How to Cook!

Americans eat out between four and five times a week, on average. But eating out is expensive, because people spend $67 a week on takeout. When you cook your own food, you save money and also eat healthier. You can learn how to cook and buy fresh food in bulk to save money.

Julia Child said you should only use real ingredients when making meals, and you can only do this when you cook at home. She also said that there’s no point in paying someone to cook for you when you can learn to cook and save that money.

So, as you can see, saving doesn’t have to be an uphill climb. Once you know how to manage your money, you only need to change your mindset to achieve financial security.