tattoo artist

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Porter: Revolutionizing the Tattoo Industry


Being a tattoo artist can be loads of fun. But let’s be real – managing the business side of your passion is not, with the chaotic whirlwind of emails, rescheduling nightmares, and financial headaches. Many tattoo artists have resorted to using general booking software and piecing together various tools, but these solutions often fall short of addressing the unique needs of the tattoo industry. Enter Porter: a revolutionary app designed specifically for tattoo artists. Porter is tailored to the tattoo world’s distinct needs, offering a comprehensive suite that encompasses booking, payments, marketing, and even financial management – all under one seamless digital roof.

Created by co-founders Mat Lefkofsky and Zack Neff, Porter was born out of a realization that the tattoo community lacked a comprehensive platform tailored to their unique requirements. As Lefkofsky explains, “Tattoos are exploding among our generation, but the booking process hasn’t changed much in the last 20 years, making it extremely inefficient and difficult for both artists and customers to book tattoos.”

The catalyst for Porter’s creation came when a friend shared his experience navigating the intricate web of emails, direct messages, and rescheduling efforts required to book multiple tattoo appointments. This insight prompted Lefkofsky and Neff to embark on a quest, interviewing countless tattoo artists and studio owners to understand their pain points and aspirations better.

“We literally spent a few months in early 2023, going around to tattoo artists and studio owners bargaining for their time, just to sit down and interview them about their business,” Lefkofsky recalls. The resounding feedback? Existing booking software and tools were inadequate, failing to account for the nuances of the tattoo industry.

With a clear vision in mind, the Porter team set out to create a platform that would revolutionize the way tattoo artists operate. At its core, Porter offers a comprehensive booking platform designed explicitly for the tattoo world, allowing artists to manage consultations, appointments, liability waivers, and more seamlessly.

But Porter goes beyond just booking. It’s an all-encompassing platform with point-of-sale hardware, customer relationship management (CRM) tools, marketing capabilities, and financial management features. This holistic approach empowers tattoo artists and studio owners to streamline their entire business within a single, intuitive platform.

“We built an all-in-one-suite with custom payment devices, marketing tools, and financial reporting designed specifically and only for the tattoo industry,” Lefkofsky explains. “So that a tattoo artist or a tattoo studio owner can come and run their entire business in one place gaining the ability to power their business with their data.”

For independent artists, Porter offers a streamlined solution for booking, calendar management, and payment processing, with a monthly subscription fee of $35 after a free trial period. Studio owners can opt for a more comprehensive package, which includes additional features like payroll management and employee scheduling at a monthly cost of $100 for studios with three or fewer artists, or $150 for larger studios.

What sets Porter apart is its unwavering commitment to understanding and catering to the unique needs of the tattoo community. As Lefkosky emphasizes, “We are completely dialed into the needs of our customers, constantly making changes to the product to better suit their business needs as artists and studio owners, based on their real-time feedback”

This customer-centric approach has worked wonders, as Porter users have reported tangible benefits, including increased revenue, fewer no-shows, and improved efficiency. “Artists who use us typically see a 25-35% increase in revenue within their first 3 months after switching to Porter,” Lefkosky proudly states. “Appointments don’t slip through the cracks, and they are able to schedule more appointments in a shorter amount of time”

Tattoo artist and Porter user Deundre can confirm. “I get so many more bookings now. Porter makes it so easy for me to see what exactly a client wants with a description, photos, which area of the body, the size, the color. With other software, I used to have to gather all this information through DM,” Deundre continues, “A lot of bookings used to get lost in the conversation, or clients would stop replying. With Porter, there is no back-and-forth. So whenever a client is inspired to book, they can without having to wait for me to reply. They are more likely to book because it’s a simpler process.”

As the tattoo industry continues to thrive and evolve, platforms like Porter are poised to play a pivotal role in empowering artists and studio owners to focus on their craft while leaving the operational complexities to a seamless, industry-tailored solution.

Learn more about Porter here.



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admin published in News

Porter: Revolutionizing the Tattoo Industry


Being a tattoo artist can be loads of fun. But let’s be real – managing the business side of your passion is not, with the chaotic whirlwind of emails, rescheduling nightmares, and financial headaches. Many tattoo artists have resorted to using general booking software and piecing together various tools, but these solutions often fall short of addressing the unique needs of the tattoo industry. Enter Porter: a revolutionary app designed specifically for tattoo artists. Porter is tailored to the tattoo world’s distinct needs, offering a comprehensive suite that encompasses booking, payments, marketing, and even financial management – all under one seamless digital roof.

Created by co-founders Mat Lefkofsky and Zack Neff, Porter was born out of a realization that the tattoo community lacked a comprehensive platform tailored to their unique requirements. As Lefkofsky explains, “Tattoos are exploding among our generation, but the booking process hasn’t changed much in the last 20 years, making it extremely inefficient and difficult for both artists and customers to book tattoos.”

The catalyst for Porter’s creation came when a friend shared his experience navigating the intricate web of emails, direct messages, and rescheduling efforts required to book multiple tattoo appointments. This insight prompted Lefkofsky and Neff to embark on a quest, interviewing countless tattoo artists and studio owners to understand their pain points and aspirations better.

“We literally spent a few months in early 2023, going around to tattoo artists and studio owners bargaining for their time, just to sit down and interview them about their business,” Lefkofsky recalls. The resounding feedback? Existing booking software and tools were inadequate, failing to account for the nuances of the tattoo industry.

With a clear vision in mind, the Porter team set out to create a platform that would revolutionize the way tattoo artists operate. At its core, Porter offers a comprehensive booking platform designed explicitly for the tattoo world, allowing artists to manage consultations, appointments, liability waivers, and more seamlessly.

But Porter goes beyond just booking. It’s an all-encompassing platform with point-of-sale hardware, customer relationship management (CRM) tools, marketing capabilities, and financial management features. This holistic approach empowers tattoo artists and studio owners to streamline their entire business within a single, intuitive platform.

“We built an all-in-one-suite with custom payment devices, marketing tools, and financial reporting designed specifically and only for the tattoo industry,” Lefkofsky explains. “So that a tattoo artist or a tattoo studio owner can come and run their entire business in one place gaining the ability to power their business with their data.”

For independent artists, Porter offers a streamlined solution for booking, calendar management, and payment processing, with a monthly subscription fee of $35 after a free trial period. Studio owners can opt for a more comprehensive package, which includes additional features like payroll management and employee scheduling at a monthly cost of $100 for studios with three or fewer artists, or $150 for larger studios.

What sets Porter apart is its unwavering commitment to understanding and catering to the unique needs of the tattoo community. As Lefkosky emphasizes, “We are completely dialed into the needs of our customers, constantly making changes to the product to better suit their business needs as artists and studio owners, based on their real-time feedback”

This customer-centric approach has worked wonders, as Porter users have reported tangible benefits, including increased revenue, fewer no-shows, and improved efficiency. “Artists who use us typically see a 25-35% increase in revenue within their first 3 months after switching to Porter,” Lefkosky proudly states. “Appointments don’t slip through the cracks, and they are able to schedule more appointments in a shorter amount of time”

Tattoo artist and Porter user Deundre can confirm. “I get so many more bookings now. Porter makes it so easy for me to see what exactly a client wants with a description, photos, which area of the body, the size, the color. With other software, I used to have to gather all this information through DM,” Deundre continues, “A lot of bookings used to get lost in the conversation, or clients would stop replying. With Porter, there is no back-and-forth. So whenever a client is inspired to book, they can without having to wait for me to reply. They are more likely to book because it’s a simpler process.”

As the tattoo industry continues to thrive and evolve, platforms like Porter are poised to play a pivotal role in empowering artists and studio owners to focus on their craft while leaving the operational complexities to a seamless, industry-tailored solution.

Learn more about Porter here.



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Celebrating the Allure and Empowerment of Tattooed Females


By Nicole Stover (@litlifecole)

Tattoos have become more than just ink on the skin — they evolved into a powerful means of self-expression, captivating attention, and inspiring awe. Once considered taboo, female tattoos have experienced a remarkable shift in societal perception. Previously regarded as rebellious and unruly, ink on women evolved into a celebrated symbol of strength, beauty, and individuality.

We’re moving past outdated stereotypes and toward celebrating these inked individuals, challenging the norm. They proudly display their body art, breaking free from traditional beauty standards and reclaiming their bodies as canvases of expression.

Bailey Sarian (@baileysarian) has emerged as a powerhouse of positive influence for women, inspiring them to live life on their own terms. Sarian skillfully combines her passion for true crime stories, makeup artistry, and history through enthralling podcasts such as “Murder, Mystery & Makeup” and “Dark History.”

In a recent interview, Sarian shared how tattoos contribute to her overall sense of identity: “I love my tattoos. I love body art. I feel gorgeous. I feel beautiful and like a piece of art myself. It’s a part of me.”

Sarian’s latest campaign with Melt Cosmetics’ Fatally Yours further showcased her ability to break barriers in the beauty industry, proving it is possible to thrive by embracing one’s unique passions while challenging society’s expectations along the way.

“Every tattoo artist is an artist, and I like to collect their work from all over,” Sarian said. “Most collectors put it on their walls; I put it on my body.”

Tattooed women challenge traditional ideas of femininity, defying expectations imposed on women’s bodies and their roles in communities. Tattoos empower these women to assert control over their physical selves and unabashedly express their distinct identities without apology.

MiMi Fulton (@mimi.fulton), a globally recognized model from Philadelphia, shared her perspective on challenging conventional standards: “People see the beauty of what I’ve collected in these wonderful photos that would not have the same powerful message had I no tattoos at all.”

As our cultural attitudes evolve, so does our understanding of what it means to be adorned with ink. Molly Hammons (@mollyyyhammons), a personal trainer and influencer in Los Angeles, is one of many women working toward changing the stigma surrounding tattooed females. As owner of streetwear clothing brand Intensions, Hammons defies society’s negative outlook on strong, inked women in the workforce.

“What people choose to do with their bodies does not correlate with their work ethic,” she said. “I love that I can be a part of the change and show other women that we can work corporate jobs, model, and so much more while being tattooed.”

The rise in visibility through social media platforms has played a crucial role in shattering cliches and paving the way for acceptance and inclusivity. Denver-based artist and painter Hailey Crossley (@hailstormtattoos) shared her thoughts on how media has played a role in the shifting popularity: “I think seeing more tattooed women in the media contributed to the rise in popularity of female tattoos. We can thank Kat Von D and tattoo TV shows for bringing tattoos into the mainstream media. Also, with social media, we have proof of females owning their truth and getting tattooed all over the world.”

Beyond personal significance lies an appreciation for the artistry behind each tattoo. Tattoo artists skillfully and creatively bring these designs to life, turning human skin into living compositions. The intricate details, vibrant colors, and expert craftsmanship make each tattoo unique.

Anna Chernova (@horror_tattoo), a 29-year-old studio owner based in San Francisco, explained her approach to designing tattoos for each of her clients. “I always approach each client’s idea individually; this inspires me very much,” she said, explaining, “First, I listen to each woman’s story, her idea, and what it means to her to create a masterpiece that we both like and so that no one else has such a tattoo.”

Undeniably, behind every tattoo lies a story waiting to be told — a narrative that speaks volumes about personal experiences, beliefs, or aspirations. From breast cancer survivors adorning mastectomy scars to individuals using tattoos as a form of activism or self-acceptance, these stories showcase the profound impact that tattoos can have on one’s sense of self.

At the center is tattoo artist and single mother of two, Rachel WS (@rachlws), who dedicated herself to transforming painful memories into beautiful works of art for her female clients. At her Rhode Island-based studio, Rachel WS Fine Arts, she empowers her clients to reclaim their bodies despite their overwhelming challenges. With compassion and impeccable skill bleeding through each stroke of her tattoo machine, she brings healing and beauty to those seeking solace in the transformative power of art.

One client, 30-year-old lab technician Kate Godfrey, revealed, “I’ve had visible self-harm scars on my arms for my whole adult life, and it’s always been an insecurity. Covering up the scars with art has been insane for my self-confidence.”

Similarly, preschool and dance teacher Meag Foy-Anderson emoted passionately about Rachel’s life-changing artwork. “Rachel WS understood the deep connection of trauma to scars and how much of an impact can be made by taking away that visual reminder of an ugly time in your life and replacing it with a thing of beauty and inspiration. I am ever grateful for her.”

As society increasingly embraces the allure and significance of tattooed artwork on women’s bodies, we wholeheartedly applaud their courageous defiance of conventions and the embrace of their authentic selves. Moreover, we pay tribute to their personal stories and commend the extraordinary artists who skillfully bring these narratives to life.

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An Original, Original  – InkedMag


Located on the Sunset Strip, Mark Mahoney’s Shamrock Social Club might be best described as a place where the elite and the underworld meet. A hangout for his celebrity friends, or a drop-in for anyone looking to ink an occasion with his classic black and gray aesthetic. The shop might as well be a confessional as those who sit and listen to his calm, cool drawl call him “Priest.”

The first time he walked into a tattoo shop at 14 years old, he knew he wanted to spend his life as a tattoo artist. The look, smell, artwork, and groups of outsiders always appealed to him.

“I was always attracted to counterculture,” Mahoney said.

Born and raised near Boston, Mahoney left art school in the mid-70s with his eye on Manhattan. He spent time tattooing bikers and outlaws before he met his people at the Chelsea Hotel. He once beat up a member of the Ramones at CBGB, and got stoned with William Burroughs and Allen Ginsburg before seeing his friend Nancy Spungen off to London. When she came back, she brought Sid Vicious.

He moved to LA in 1980 and made friends with punk rockers and gangbangers. He ran with movie stars and musicians, and shot dope with intellectuals and degenerates. He’s a dying breed of 100% true originals and calls Johnny Depp, Lady Gaga, and Lana Del Rey friends.

He landed roles in a few movies, including playing a cool, Catholic, well-dressed man of many talents — not much of a stretch from his roots when he looked up to local heroes, gangs, and villains in his neighborhood. He thought about the priesthood as a young man, saying his prayers, following most rules, and trying to live up to expectations as a New England-born boy who loved motorcycles, leather jackets, and greasers from car magazines.

Most people will tell you his reputation and caring spirit extend beyond the famous to the infamous and unfamous alike. His shop is like a clubhouse for anyone looking to mark the good, bad, and ugly chapters of their lives. Mahoney sets the blueprint of what is cool and is a muse for creatives all over the world. If you’ve been in a tattoo shop recently, it’s probably built around the framework he and his colleagues laid down in the past half-century.

After almost 50 years of work, he routinely visits and catches up with old friends, even tattooing their children and grandchildren — imparting wisdom on ways to connect, meet likeminded people, sit, listen, and talk. “I think they keep coming back because I give a fuck,” Mahoney said. “Their pain is my pain; their joy is my joy.”

The shop is decorated with images of hope and faith: relics of a time gone by, a quote overlooked, and a tribute to his Catholic upbringing. Faith plays a big role in his life, and he never gives up on the idea — putting all his trust and confidence into something underground, misunderstood, and illegal until not that long ago.

Mahoney has a lot of reasons to love his job. His shop is in the middle of Hollywood, along one of the most iconic strips in the world. He spends time with people who kept coming back and are now lifelong friends. He goes to work every day, does his job, and makes a living, but doesn’t consider himself an artist and isn’t concerned with the art side of his pursuits. He sees his single-needle, black-and-gray designs the same as he sees black-and-white photography or movies: an idea etched in time that gets softer and more beautiful. 

“I think black and gray ages more gracefully,” Mahoney said. “It has more drama to it.”

The clubhouse moved from its original location to 1114 Horn Ave in West Hollywood, just down the strip. Mahoney also started a clothing line called the Shamrock Social Club Collective that features his original designs screen printed on classic styles, the type of clothing you might expect anyone to wear in a tattoo shop.

Mahoney continues to keep tattoos affordable for everyone, not opting for a private studio and thousand-dollar designs. He’s still a modest tattooer inspired by the beauty he sees all around him. He believes in friendships, family, and the power to connect with clients over the good times, hard times, and everything in between.

“Tattoos are a joint effort,” Mahoney said. “Connection is the most important part.”

Don’t let the alligator shoes and vintage Cadillacs fool you — Mahoney believes in the power of connection; it’s what keeps him coming back. He’s one of the original outsiders, teaching the next generation and beyond about the power of being yourself, staying true, and authentic, and not following trends. When you lived through the 70s punk scene, the obnoxiousness of the 80s, and the death of originality, you look for what’s real, with true friends.

Appointments can be made by contacting the Shamrock Social Club at 310-271-9664. There is a bit of a waitlist, but you can expect the highest quality work, the finest conversation, and, if you’re up for it, a place to confess all your sins. Then, just sit back, watch a master, pay your respects, and believe in that power that faith brought you together with the Godfather.

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Get a Grip – InkedMag


Top-notch tattoo machines packed with innovation and safety provide precision performances. Small in stature and ample in capabilities, these three tattoo pen manufacturers present their latest and greatest instruments, helping tattooers achieve premium results on every canvas.

Mast Archer S by Dragonhawk

Dragonhawk cranks up its technological offerings with the Mast Archer S wireless tattoo machine. The attention-drawing Archer S supplies tattoo professionals with ultra-fast charging capabilities that offer an hour of continual use with merely a five-minute charge. It is powered by Dragonhawk’s self-developed brushless motor, and equipped with MastLabs’ electronic control technology, high-res color display, and powerful performance. Compact, lightweight, and agile, the Archer S provides tattoo professionals with a comfortable grip, a 4.2 mm stroke, and safety features that are recognized internationally. dragonhawkofficial.com

 

FURY by OG Produce

One machine with multiple uses, the FURY by OG PRODUCE packs premium technology into a small package that flows smoothly in the palm. From hairline details to dotting and smudging, tattooers will get up to nine hours of continual use with no tail-heavy feeling. The FURY features a 1.47-inch color screen and three adjustment modes, and is available in vibrant purple, green, or red. It is quiet, safety-protected, and equipped with an RCA connector, so you can amp up your machine even if you forget to put the pen on the charger. OG is offering Inked readers an exclusive discount with code OGFURY. ogtattoo.com

SOL Nova Unlimited by Cheyenne

Discover more artistic capabilities with the wireless SOL Nova Unlimited tattoo pen, Cheyenne’s enhanced version of the SOL Nova. The Berlin-based company created the elevated machine with advanced technology, time-saving, and ease of use in mind. The Unlimited is run by an exchangeable standard battery and available in four different stroke options. It operates with a single button that powers and pauses, switches operating modes, and adjusts quickly and intuitively as you tilt the machine. Thanks to the motion control you won’t be distracted from the tattooing process. cheyennetattoo.com   

 

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THE FUTURE IS NOW – InkedMag


Inksquad Artist

The Inksquad Artist App is like a personal assistant, helping tattooers improve, manage, automate, and experiment with their projects’ color palettes. Pre-equipped with more than 400 colors, amateur and expert ink artists alike have ready-to-use hues at their disposal. Need to match a color? Just import a Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate file. The app will create an Inkboard folder, pinpoint the necessary pigment for your patrons’ projects, and then automatically create a full palette of the best color matches in your sketch, drawing, or image. From there, shades of the existing colors are generated in the app’s Matrix and Wheel tabs for advanced color study, experimentation, and blending. Also, artists can crop, resize, and print stencils using the generated images. Inksquad developers plan to release a customer management system to assist in client communications, scheduling, and calendar management; create an AI-based image generation system; and introduce a platform where artists can share discoveries. The app is available only for iPad and no subscription is needed. inksquad.com

Ghostline

Established in 2022 by renowned tattoo artist London Reese, Ghostline revolutionized tattoo stencil creation and printing for tattoo artists worldwide. Recognized by TechCrunch, Ghostline ‘s innovative solution alleviates the time-consuming stencil process. By eliminating the hand-tracing step — a process that can add 30 to 90 minutes to your workload — you free up more time, allowing you to put your energy into other things. Boasting a pro team comprised of the world’s top-tier artists, Ghostline continues to elevate the tattoo industry with unparalleled innovation. ghostline.app

DaySmart

DaySmart Body Art functions as a practical assistant for your tattoo or piercing business. The all-in-one software simplifies managing appointments, handling payments, communicating with clients, and staying organized. Ditch the hassle of paper schedules or generic software not tailored for artists and take charge with a solution that has backed artists for more than two decades. Whether you’re independent or part of a larger team, DaySmart offers reliable support, helping you cut down on stress, save time, and work more efficiently. daysmartbodyart.com

Geometrica

Geometry and ornamental tattooers all over the world are using Geometrica on their iPads to create and elevate their designs. The first drawing app created for tattooers was made by second-generation and geometric tattoo pioneer Cory Ferguson. The groundbreaking symmetry features make it easy to create mandalas, fading patterns, spiral designs, and more. Geometrica is so enjoyable you won’t even realize you’re leveling up your career in the process. Multi-page printing, converting images to outlines, and six free patterns every month make this app a must-have. geometri.ca

NightCafé AI Tattoo Generator

Capture the exact essence you want to convey in your tattoo design. The NightCafé AI Generator wields the power to create limitless tattoo designs using advanced AI algorithms. Simply describe your vision to the generator to unveil results. Modify the description down to the minutest of details — from color scheme to style and complexity — until the generator reveals the masterpiece you created in your mind’s eye. creator.nightcafe.studio

 

Tattoodo

Lean on an experienced tattoo artist to bring to life the design you want inked on your skin. Just provide a brief description of your design and the people at Tattoodo will select compatible artists and studios for you to choose from. From there, pick your favorite, discuss the price, and schedule your session. Customers pay their deposit directly on the Tattoodo platform, which is applied toward the overall cost of the tattoo. tattoodo.com

InkHunter

Get an inkling of how ink will look on your skin using only a smart device. Once the InkHunter virtual tattoo app is downloaded, users can analyze the intricacies of how their tattoo will present when — and if — they decide to get inked. Just draw a square smile on your skin; select a gallery image or use your own sketch; and the AI program immediately displays the virtual tattoo on your skin. Continue modifying the design until you’re delighted. inkhunter.tattoo

Apple Vision Pro

Do an online search for “Apple Vison Pro Tattoo” and videos of Vison Pro-wearing tattoo artists will pop up on your results page. While wearing the specs, tattooers zoom in on imagery and sketches to access the finer details of the artwork while simultaneously inking their clients. Apple Vision Pro opens a new realm of possibilities with assets such as pointer control, surround sound, a virtual office, built-in apps, and otherworldly environments. apple.com/apple-vision-pro

Fotor AI Tattoo Generator

Fotor’s AI Tattoo Generator can help you create the tattoo you always longed for. And the process is simple. Go to the Fotor website, click on “Generate Tattoo with AI Now,” choose the “From Image” or “From Text” option at the top of the lefthand toolbar, type in detailed information in the text box, and an image will generate. Make modifications to your description until the ideal image is generated, then save the image to share with your tattooist. fotor.com

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THE FUTURE IS NOW – InkedMag


Inksquad Artist

The Inksquad Artist App is like a personal assistant, helping tattooers improve, manage, automate, and experiment with their projects’ color palettes. Pre-equipped with more than 400 colors, amateur and expert ink artists alike have ready-to-use hues at their disposal. Need to match a color? Just import a Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate file. The app will create an Inkboard folder, pinpoint the necessary pigment for your patrons’ projects, and then automatically create a full palette of the best color matches in your sketch, drawing, or image. From there, shades of the existing colors are generated in the app’s Matrix and Wheel tabs for advanced color study, experimentation, and blending. Also, artists can crop, resize, and print stencils using the generated images. Inksquad developers plan to release a customer management system to assist in client communications, scheduling, and calendar management; create an AI-based image generation system; and introduce a platform where artists can share discoveries. The app is available only for iPad and no subscription is needed. inksquad.com

Ghostline

Established in 2022 by renowned tattoo artist London Reese, Ghostline revolutionized tattoo stencil creation and printing for tattoo artists worldwide. Recognized by TechCrunch, Ghostline ‘s innovative solution alleviates the time-consuming stencil process. By eliminating the hand-tracing step — a process that can add 30 to 90 minutes to your workload — you free up more time, allowing you to put your energy into other things. Boasting a pro team comprised of the world’s top-tier artists, Ghostline continues to elevate the tattoo industry with unparalleled innovation. ghostline.app

DaySmart

DaySmart Body Art functions as a practical assistant for your tattoo or piercing business. The all-in-one software simplifies managing appointments, handling payments, communicating with clients, and staying organized. Ditch the hassle of paper schedules or generic software not tailored for artists and take charge with a solution that has backed artists for more than two decades. Whether you’re independent or part of a larger team, DaySmart offers reliable support, helping you cut down on stress, save time, and work more efficiently. daysmartbodyart.com

Geometrica

Geometry and ornamental tattooers all over the world are using Geometrica on their iPads to create and elevate their designs. The first drawing app created for tattooers was made by second-generation and geometric tattoo pioneer Cory Ferguson. The groundbreaking symmetry features make it easy to create mandalas, fading patterns, spiral designs, and more. Geometrica is so enjoyable you won’t even realize you’re leveling up your career in the process. Multi-page printing, converting images to outlines, and six free patterns every month make this app a must-have. geometri.ca

NightCafé AI Tattoo Generator

Capture the exact essence you want to convey in your tattoo design. The NightCafé AI Generator wields the power to create limitless tattoo designs using advanced AI algorithms. Simply describe your vision to the generator to unveil results. Modify the description down to the minutest of details — from color scheme to style and complexity — until the generator reveals the masterpiece you created in your mind’s eye. creator.nightcafe.studio

 

Tattoodo

Lean on an experienced tattoo artist to bring to life the design you want inked on your skin. Just provide a brief description of your design and the people at Tattoodo will select compatible artists and studios for you to choose from. From there, pick your favorite, discuss the price, and schedule your session. Customers pay their deposit directly on the Tattoodo platform, which is applied toward the overall cost of the tattoo. tattoodo.com

InkHunter

Get an inkling of how ink will look on your skin using only a smart device. Once the InkHunter virtual tattoo app is downloaded, users can analyze the intricacies of how their tattoo will present when — and if — they decide to get inked. Just draw a square smile on your skin; select a gallery image or use your own sketch; and the AI program immediately displays the virtual tattoo on your skin. Continue modifying the design until you’re delighted. inkhunter.tattoo

Apple Vision Pro

Do an online search for “Apple Vison Pro Tattoo” and videos of Vison Pro-wearing tattoo artists will pop up on your results page. While wearing the specs, tattooers zoom in on imagery and sketches to access the finer details of the artwork while simultaneously inking their clients. Apple Vision Pro opens a new realm of possibilities with assets such as pointer control, surround sound, a virtual office, built-in apps, and otherworldly environments. apple.com/apple-vision-pro

Fotor AI Tattoo Generator

Fotor’s AI Tattoo Generator can help you create the tattoo you always longed for. And the process is simple. Go to the Fotor website, click on “Generate Tattoo with AI Now,” choose the “From Image” or “From Text” option at the top of the lefthand toolbar, type in detailed information in the text box, and an image will generate. Make modifications to your description until the ideal image is generated, then save the image to share with your tattooist. fotor.com

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admin published in Hottest Tattoos

Get a Grip – InkedMag


Top-notch tattoo machines packed with innovation and safety provide precision performances. Small in stature and ample in capabilities, these three tattoo pen manufacturers present their latest and greatest instruments, helping tattooers achieve premium results on every canvas.

Mast Archer S by Dragonhawk

Inkedshop

Dragonhawk cranks up its technological offerings with the Mast Archer S wireless tattoo machine. The attention-drawing Archer S supplies tattoo professionals with ultra-fast charging capabilities that offer an hour of continual use with merely a five-minute charge. It is powered by Dragonhawk’s self-developed brushless motor, and equipped with MastLabs’ electronic control technology, high-res color display, and powerful performance. Compact, lightweight, and agile, the Archer S provides tattoo professionals with a comfortable grip, a 4.2 mm stroke, and safety features that are recognized internationally. dragonhawkofficial.com

 

FURY by OG Produce

Inkedshop

One machine with multiple uses, the FURY by OG PRODUCE packs premium technology into a small package that flows smoothly in the palm. From hairline details to dotting and smudging, tattooers will get up to nine hours of continual use with no tail-heavy feeling. The FURY features a 1.47-inch color screen and three adjustment modes, and is available in vibrant purple, green, or red. It is quiet, safety-protected, and equipped with an RCA connector, so you can amp up your machine even if you forget to put the pen on the charger. OG is offering Inked readers an exclusive discount with code OGFURY. ogtattoo.com

SOL Nova Unlimited by Cheyenne

Discover more artistic capabilities with the wireless SOL Nova Unlimited tattoo pen, Cheyenne’s enhanced version of the SOL Nova. The Berlin-based company created the elevated machine with advanced technology, time-saving, and ease of use in mind. The Unlimited is run by an exchangeable standard battery and available in four different stroke options. It operates with a single button that powers and pauses, switches operating modes, and adjusts quickly and intuitively as you tilt the machine. Thanks to the motion control you won’t be distracted from the tattooing process. cheyennetattoo.com   

 

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admin published in Hottest Tattoos

An Original, Original  – InkedMag


Located on the Sunset Strip, Mark Mahoney’s Shamrock Social Club might be best described as a place where the elite and the underworld meet. A hangout for his celebrity friends, or a drop-in for anyone looking to ink an occasion with his classic black and gray aesthetic. The shop might as well be a confessional as those who sit and listen to his calm, cool drawl call him “Priest.”

The first time he walked into a tattoo shop at 14 years old, he knew he wanted to spend his life as a tattoo artist. The look, smell, artwork, and groups of outsiders always appealed to him.

“I was always attracted to counterculture,” Mahoney said.

Born and raised near Boston, Mahoney left art school in the mid-70s with his eye on Manhattan. He spent time tattooing bikers and outlaws before he met his people at the Chelsea Hotel. He once beat up a member of the Ramones at CBGB, and got stoned with William Burroughs and Allen Ginsburg before seeing his friend Nancy Spungen off to London. When she came back, she brought Sid Vicious.

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He moved to LA in 1980 and made friends with punk rockers and gangbangers. He ran with movie stars and musicians, and shot dope with intellectuals and degenerates. He’s a dying breed of 100% true originals and calls Johnny Depp, Lady Gaga, and Lana Del Rey friends.

He landed roles in a few movies, including playing a cool, Catholic, well-dressed man of many talents — not much of a stretch from his roots when he looked up to local heroes, gangs, and villains in his neighborhood. He thought about the priesthood as a young man, saying his prayers, following most rules, and trying to live up to expectations as a New England-born boy who loved motorcycles, leather jackets, and greasers from car magazines.

Most people will tell you his reputation and caring spirit extend beyond the famous to the infamous and unfamous alike. His shop is like a clubhouse for anyone looking to mark the good, bad, and ugly chapters of their lives. Mahoney sets the blueprint of what is cool and is a muse for creatives all over the world. If you’ve been in a tattoo shop recently, it’s probably built around the framework he and his colleagues laid down in the past half-century.

After almost 50 years of work, he routinely visits and catches up with old friends, even tattooing their children and grandchildren — imparting wisdom on ways to connect, meet likeminded people, sit, listen, and talk. “I think they keep coming back because I give a fuck,” Mahoney said. “Their pain is my pain; their joy is my joy.”

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The shop is decorated with images of hope and faith: relics of a time gone by, a quote overlooked, and a tribute to his Catholic upbringing. Faith plays a big role in his life, and he never gives up on the idea — putting all his trust and confidence into something underground, misunderstood, and illegal until not that long ago.

Mahoney has a lot of reasons to love his job. His shop is in the middle of Hollywood, along one of the most iconic strips in the world. He spends time with people who kept coming back and are now lifelong friends. He goes to work every day, does his job, and makes a living, but doesn’t consider himself an artist and isn’t concerned with the art side of his pursuits. He sees his single-needle, black-and-gray designs the same as he sees black-and-white photography or movies: an idea etched in time that gets softer and more beautiful. 

“I think black and gray ages more gracefully,” Mahoney said. “It has more drama to it.”

The clubhouse moved from its original location to 1114 Horn Ave in West Hollywood, just down the strip. Mahoney also started a clothing line called the Shamrock Social Club Collective that features his original designs screen printed on classic styles, the type of clothing you might expect anyone to wear in a tattoo shop.

Mahoney continues to keep tattoos affordable for everyone, not opting for a private studio and thousand-dollar designs. He’s still a modest tattooer inspired by the beauty he sees all around him. He believes in friendships, family, and the power to connect with clients over the good times, hard times, and everything in between.

“Tattoos are a joint effort,” Mahoney said. “Connection is the most important part.”

Don’t let the alligator shoes and vintage Cadillacs fool you — Mahoney believes in the power of connection; it’s what keeps him coming back. He’s one of the original outsiders, teaching the next generation and beyond about the power of being yourself, staying true, and authentic, and not following trends. When you lived through the 70s punk scene, the obnoxiousness of the 80s, and the death of originality, you look for what’s real, with true friends.

Appointments can be made by contacting the Shamrock Social Club at 310-271-9664. There is a bit of a waitlist, but you can expect the highest quality work, the finest conversation, and, if you’re up for it, a place to confess all your sins. Then, just sit back, watch a master, pay your respects, and believe in that power that faith brought you together with the Godfather.

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admin published in News

A Glimpse into the Future


Prior to the late 1990s, tattoo culture primarily existed on the outskirts of the mainstream. A badge of honor amongst sailors in the U.S. Navy and cultural subgroups, as well as an artistically rebellious symbol of expression for curators of punk, metal, goth music, and more. Subsequently, during the 2000s, the painfully enticing trend of getting inked transcended emo, hip-hop, the NBA, Hollywood, and the corporate world. Near the turn of the 2020s, a number of tech companies began implementing inventive ways of tatting up their clientele with new software, 3D tattooing, eco-friendly methods, and more. In November, Blackdot, a tech company based in Austin, Texas, introduced the “V1 Device” as part of a game-changing initiative that also includes an online tattoo marketplace where consumers can purchase signature designs from entrepreneurial-minded artists all over the world. Blackdot’s V1 Device generates body art in high definition, utilizing an unprecedented technique that serves as a fresh alternative to modern wireless tattoo machines and traditional hand-tapping methods. The future is here. But, according to the company’s CEO/Founder Joel Pennington, it should not deter tattoo enthusiasts and artists who view the time-honored process as a rite of passage.

“Blackdot is not a substitute for the experience found by way of various traditional tattooing methods,” explained Pennington. “Instead, Blackdot offers an entirely different tattooing experience; it’s an interesting option for tattoo seekers looking for something new and forward-looking…The Blackdot device can be thought of as a futuristic stick-and-poke device whereby each dot that we tattoo is intentional…We use continuous suction for ink removal and are therefore able to tattoo without the need to wipe-think-tattoo-repeat.”

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Alongside Pennington at the forefront of the Blackdot technocentric movement is the company’s Chief Technology Officer Yan Azdoud. The pair of business partners met in 2017 after Pennington took on a mentorship role with a startup established by Azdoud called Project Canary. This experience gave Pennington an up close and personal view of Azdoud’s penchant for navigating scientific principles. It also sparked a resolution about how their ideals in the tech world could add a new dimension to the tattoo industry.

“After the three-month program, I debriefed with Yan Azdoud,” recalled Pennington. “Yan had a great deal of experience with hyper-elastic surfaces, medical devices, and mechanical design–he was uniquely qualified to help bring my vision to fruition.”

Shortly thereafter, Blackdot entered a developmental phase that lasted nearly half a decade. Two years into the stealth period, during the Summer of 2019, the company administered its first-ever tattoo on human skin. In addition to presenting Blackdot’s inaugural recipient with hi-res body art, Pennington wanted to ensure that the gift from his company also came with quality that would stand the test of time without the common necessity of tattoo retouching.

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“Our first human tattoo was executed on a gentleman named Chris Harvey,” Pennington said. “We then developed the first version of our automated tattooing device (the V1), followed by the commercially viable version we’re using today—the V1c… Blackdot is able to minimize the discomfort associated with tattooing. As for healing, we use a slim needle and do not tattoo deeper than necessary. We’ve conducted [more than 90] tattooing sessions over the past five years and have never caused bleeding or scarring.”

Today, Blackdot is fully operational with plans to expand to major U.S. cities like Los Angeles, New York, Miami, and Las Vegas. In recent years, these regions have hosted some of the biggest live events in sports entertainment, from Super Bowl LVI, WrestleMania 39, and Rolling Loud to ComicCon, EDC, and the Met Gala. During his exclusive interview with Inked Magazine, Pennington floated the idea of teaming up with notable fashion lines to provide attendees at similar affairs with customized body art ranging from the song lyrics of iconic recording artists to Marvel Comics’ sketches and skateboard decks from old-school skaters. For now, shoppers can purchase their next tattoos at the company’s flagship location in Austin, Texas, or remotely through the Blackdot Certified Artist Program. The BCA allows online shoppers to survey Flyway designs drawn by prominent visual artists such as Tyler Hobbs and other notable creators.

Kevin Rose, a California-based entrepreneur, recently stopped by Blackdot’s headquarters where he became one of the first costumers to procure Hobbs’ signature Flyway design. The on-camera session depicted the founder of Revision3 resting comfortably in an exam chair while the V1 Device tattooed the image of three birds on his inner right arm. As for the founder of Blackdot? Pennington suggested that the next time he is under the V1 Device, he will get a tattoo that combines the love of his youngest daughter, Naiya, with his admiration for the Smashing Pumpkins. Pennington and his staff met up with Jimmy Chamberlin and Jeff Schroeder from the two-time Grammy Award-winning band in the Winter of 2022 after being given backstage access. 

“I found myself sitting on the couch beside [Schroeder], a Pumpkins guitarist,” Pennington said. “I struck up a conversation and eventually asked if I might show him some tattoo designs made by my young daughter…His favorite was the dragon holding the guitar. He let me take a photo of him holding the drawing and signed the back of it. Naiya would be thrilled. I looked up to see my team was already chatting with [Chamberlin]…They were discussing how he might potentially be able to help Blackdot…I later showed [Chamberlin] Naiya’s designs and asked him the same question. He also went for the dragon holding the guitar and signed the back of it. Naiya’s drawing of a dragon holding a guitar, affectionately referred to as ‘The Pumpkins-approved tattoo,’ is likely my next tattoo.”

Blackdot was made with advanced technology. But if Joel Pennington’s company grows into a well-known commodity, it will likely be due to principles based on diversity, where everyday people and his kids have input just like his business partners and favorite Rock stars.

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