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Perfect Placement: The Ultimate Guide To Picking Your Next Tattoo’s Location
February 16, 2023
You might know what design or style tattoo you want, but how do you choose the placement? Here’s the need-to-know info to help pick!
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February 16, 2023
Perfect Placement: The Ultimate Guide To Picking Your Next Tattoo’s Location
Most people don’t know what makes a tattoo placed “correctly” or what makes a design look good on the body. You might know what design or style you want and the general area in which you want it, but how do you really choose?
Whether you have an idea of where you want to get your tattoo or you’re open to suggestions from your tattoo artist, it’s always a good idea to have a consultation with your artist before starting. Allowing them to view and run through your ideas before the design stage ensures everyone is satisfied with the outcome.
Keep reading to learn more about picking your tattoo’s placement and why you should always consult a professional!
Visibility & Hideability
Whether you want your tattoo to be easy to hide or not can impact its placement. For example, a tattoo on the torso, upper arm, or upper leg will be easier to hide than on the forearm or calf.
While tattoo stigmas are starting to change, a tattoo on the hand, face, or neck can change how others see you. People with tattoos in these areas are actually more likely to get stopped at customs and by police, and some licensed venues will not allow them.
Additionally, tattoos on the face, hands, or neck can limit career opportunities, as most corporate jobs will not hire applicants with visible tattoos. If you’re not heavily tattooed (yet) or are still very young, you might want to wait before getting a tattoo in a prominent area.
Consider the Size and Amount of Detail
The size and details of your tattoo should match its placement. It’s easy to see that a large and detailed tattoo just won’t fit right on someone’s wrist or ankle. Even if your artist did cram detailed linework into a small space, the lines would blur together over time, leaving a “blob” of ink.
Be Wary of Your Pain Tolerance
If you’ve come this far, you’ve probably already acknowledged that the tattoo will hurt, but the pain is temporary and worth something that lasts a lifetime.
However, we usually tell newbies to avoid big tattoos or particularly painful areas, like the ribs or armpit. If you’ve never felt the pain of a tattoo before, it can be challenging to prepare for, but by picking a place on the body that hurts less, you’ll have an overall better experience.
Numbing cream can help you through the tattoo if you have a low pain tolerance. It won’t take the pain away entirely, but even the idea of it can make the tattoo easier.
Future Plans & Tattoo Goals
Bodies change over time, which means your tattoos will change, too. If you’re planning on seeing a client significant change in your body, like major weight loss, pregnancy, or significant muscle gain, a tattoo can become warped as the skin stretches or shrinks.
If you plan on getting more tattoos — like, for example, a full sleeve later down the road — putting a tiny tattoo on your forearm can make that more difficult for your tattoo artist. You’ll probably have to cover up the tattoo or remove it entirely.
Consult With an Expert at Lamar Street Tattoo Club
Lamar Street Tattoo Club, we don’t compromise on the quality or cleanliness of our work. Whether you need some assistance with creating a design or just need to find the perfect tattoo placement, we’re here to help.
Visit Lamar Street Tattoo Club and see why we’re voted the number-one tattoo shop in Dallas. Send us a message, or book your complimentary consultation today!
Coverup Tattoos: Cost, Process, & Expectations
January 19, 2023
Before deciding how to get rid of your unwanted tattoo, you should know whether or not a cover-up tattoo will work for you. Click here to learn more about the cover-up process from the experts at Lamar Street Tattoo Club!

January 19, 2023
Coverup Tattoos: Cost, Process, & Expectations
The reasons for wanting a cover-up tattoo are as varied as those who want them. Whether you regret getting the tattoo or just want something else in its place, a cover-up is an excellent option for those who love ink, just not that certain piece…
Before you decide on the best method for getting rid of your unwanted tattoo, it’s essential to understand your options and the likelihood of a cover-up tattoo working for your particular piece. A cover-up won’t work in some cases, so it’s always best to consult with a professional before making any final decisions.
Keep reading to learn the basics of cover-up tattoos, including the cost, process, and how to manage your expectations. We’ll also recommend one of the best spots for your next ink!
The Cost
Like every tattoo, the cost will vary depending on multiple factors, including size, ink color, amount of coverage needed, and whether or not laser removal is part of the process.
Most tattoo artists charge by the hour, and you can expect to spend around $50-$300 per hour, depending on their skill and experience levels. If the coverup tattoo is particularly challenging — like concentrated black ink in a large area — you can expect to pay a bit more than someone with a small outline tattoo.
The Process
The process isn’t as complicated as it may seem. However, you’ll definitely want to meet with an expert or a trusted artist when deciding the best way to hide your tattoo.
Pick a Design
You probably already have lots of tattoo cover-up ideas. Decide what style of tattoo you’d like to use to cover up the old design.
Consider the size, colors, design elements, and placement, but know that things might have to change depending on the opinion of your artist. If you have questions or don’t want to pick a design until you have professional input, make an appointment with a trusted artist or a cover-up specialist.
Meet with an Experienced Artist or Cover-up Specialist
Work with a cover-up specialist to determine if you’ll need any laser tattoo removal sessions to fade your original tattoo. They can help you determine placement, make final tweaks to your design, or even let you know if it’s not the right fit. Some areas or tattoos will require a specific shape and color placement to cover them effectively.
Choosing an Artist
A tattoo artist’s experience level and specialties are critical when deciding who to work with to get your cover-up. Even if you’ve found someone whose work you love, you should work with someone who has experience doing cover-up tattoos.
Manage Your Expectations
A cover-up’s effectiveness definitely depends on the original tattoo and the cover-up design.
For example, old, faded tattoos in light colors like blues and greens are much easier to cover than a brand-new all-black tattoo. If you’re a patient person, some tattoos are good candidates for laser tattoo removal sessions that will help fade the tattoo before getting it covered up.
While having a clear idea of what you want is great, make sure you think realistically, so you don’t get disappointed. You won’t be able to cover up an incredibly detailed dark portrait with a cloudless blue sky unless you have many tattoo removal sessions beforehand.
It’s essential to work with experts early in the process, so you can let them know your desired outcome — they’ll help you determine the most effective way to get there!
Always Pick a Trusted Tattoo Shop
From consultation to aftercare, you can count on Lamar Street Tattoo Club for a clean, professional experience. We don’t compromise on our work, and neither should you! Whether you need a full cover-up from one of our experienced artists, a little help from laser tattoo removal, or just want some new ink, we’re here for you.
Visit Lamar Street Tattoo Club and see why we’re voted the number-one tattoo shop in Dallas. Send us a message, or book your complimentary consultation today!
Designing Your Own Tattoo: Important Things to Know
December 29, 2022
If you want new ink but don’t know where to start, consider creating your own unique design! Lamar St. Tattoo Club shares the dos and don’ts of designing your next tattoo.

December 29, 2022
Designing Your Own Tattoo: Important Things to Know
While most people opt for pre-made designs, like a custom drawing from an independent artist or a studio flash design, some want complete control over their tattoos.
Tattoos are all about expressing yourself. In most cases (but definitely not all), people get tattoos that reflect their personality, individuality, and interests. But while the thought of designing your tattoo may seem intimidating, it’s sometimes the best way to get a unique piece — especially if you’re hard to please.
This post will cover the basics of tattoo design and how you can get the best results when creating your piece.
Find Some Inspiration
The first step is to research, especially if you’re unsure what tattoo style you want. You don’t have to base your idea on a design you find online, but taking inspiration from a preexisting design or common styles can help you create a unique piece.
There are many different tattoo styles, including fine line, neo-traditional, watercolor, and black work, so it helps to have an idea of what kind of style you want before choosing the content.
Consider the Content
Tattoos make bold statements but can reflect significant parts of your life and personality. People often choose to create a tattoo design that means something to them. However, this isn’t always the case!
We recommend people choose something they’ll be comfortable with on their body for a long time — remember that these things are permanent! Trends come and go, but your tattoo remains a part of you. Unless you opt for laser tattoo removal, that is.
Creating the Tattoo
You have a few options for the actual tattoo creation process. You’ll most likely have to collaborate with an artist to determine your tattoo’s size, detail, and placement, but most artists will work with a design you walk in with. It’s always best to set up a consultation before your tattoo appointment; many shops require this before booking.
One of the most important things to note is that your tattoo artist will not use another artist’s design without their direct permission. You wouldn’t want a design that is a copy of another person’s anyways, but you can work with an artist to help make something similar if you find something you really love.
For the actual drawing, you can show your tattoo artist something you like and have them draw something similar, or you can draw something yourself and bring it in as a reference.
Get Some Guidance at Lamar Street Tattoo Club
At Lamar Street Tattoo Club, we have a higher standard of tattooing. You can always expect comprehensive consultations, professional execution, and body art that stands the test of time.
We can give you the guidance you need on your next tattoo — whether you’re starting from scratch or have a design in mind. We don’t compromise on the quality of our work, and you shouldn’t either!
Visit Lamar Street Tattoo Club today and see why we’ve been voted the number-one tattoo shop in Dallas, Texas. Send us a message, or book a complimentary consultation at our shop today.
Tattoos in the Workplace: The New Normal?
November 24, 2022
Though society has grown more accepting of tattoos, most Americans agree that they are still frowned upon. Learn more here!
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November 24, 2022
Tattoos in the Workplace: The New Normal?
In May 2022, Virgin Atlantic became the first UK airline (and one of few worldwide) to allow cabin crew to display their tattoos, marking a shift in workplace values and tolerance of tattooed employees.
For thousands of years, cultures around the world have celebrated the art of tattooing. But in recent history — specifically in the Western workplace — they’re considered taboo. Even though around 40% of the US workforce has a tattoo, many companies have policies that require employees to hide their ink, and only 12% of people report feeling comfortable enough to show them off.
But are tattoos becoming more accepted in professional environments? Or will some industries never get with the times?
Join Lamar Street Tattoo Club as we examine the taboos surrounding office ink and the most favorable industries for every tattoo lover out there.
Have attitudes towards tattoos really changed?
Tattoos are much more accepted than they were ten years ago. As societal rules and norms have become more relaxed, workplace values have (thankfully) followed. The increased tolerance of casual attire, piercings, and tattoos comes primarily from the recent influx of Millennials and Gen Z in the workplace.
As workforce age demographics continue to shift, the younger generations’ “laid-back” attitudes toward body art and appearances will continue to filter into professional environments.
Most Gen Z members are truly digital natives, hence the name ‘Zoomers’ (get it? Because they zoom the internet? Okay, I’m done, moving on). They were raised on technology and probably don’t remember a life without it. Zoomers share their entire lives online, but no matter how much it may annoy you, it does have some pros. The more tattoos and body art people see, the more it becomes normalized in our society. The more tattoos are normalized, the more they’re generally accepted. See? Everyone wins.
I Wouldn’t Hide My Tattoos For Anyone… Where Can I Work?
Whether you don’t want to hide your tattoos or you only want to work for someone who values your individuality and creative freedom, you have some options.
Employers are free to decide their tattoo policy, as there are no laws against tattoos in the workplace or tattoo-based workplace discrimination. Whether or not a company allows tattoos sometimes depends on the industry, but it varies from place to place.
If you have tattoos you can’t (or won’t) cover, here are your best bets:
- Creative jobs, including graphic design, hair styling, and anything in the arts
- Skilled labor and contracting jobs like carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work
- Public safety occupations like firefighters, paramedics, and police officers
- Restaurant and service industry jobs
- Most remote positions
Many people have culturally significant body art that is part of their core identity. And while it may be challenging to find a position with visible tattoos, their cultural or ethnic importance is not something you should have to compromise. Before applying to an open position, read employee reviews about the company to ensure they prioritize diversity and value the need to represent your culture openly.
The Cover-Up
If you don’t mind covering up your ink for the workday — and don’t want to wait for the times to change — your employment options are pretty much unlimited.
But as mentioned above, every company is different, and studying a company’s tattoo policy before going to an interview or starting a new job is always a safe bet. If you feel like your visible tattoos are hurting your chances of securing a job you’re passionate about, you always have the option of removal.
Trusted Tattoo Removal (and Expert Application) at Lamar Street Tattoo Club
Want to celebrate your new job with another tattoo? Need to get an old one removed before your search? Either way, count on expert execution at Lamar Street Tattoo Club.
From consultation to aftercare, we ensure a clean, professional experience. We don’t compromise on our work, and neither should you.
Visit Lamar Street Tattoo Club and see why we’re voted the number-one tattoo shop in Dallas. Send us a message, or book your complimentary consultation today!
5 Things to Remember When Considering a Fine-Line Tattoo
October 27, 2022
Fine-line tattoos have become extremely popular in recent years. In our latest blog, we discuss the seven most important things to consider!
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October 27, 2022
5 Things to Remember When Considering a Fine-Line Tattoo
Due to social media, fine-line tattoos have grown in popularity over the past few years. Online interest in fine-line tattoos grew around 90% this year alone, with over 44 thousand monthly searches.
But before booking your next fine-line tattoo appointment, Lamar Street Tattoo Club has a few things you should consider.
Only Schedule Your Appointment With an Artist Who Specializes in Fine-line Designs
Fine-line tattoos take a lot of practice to master since the needles artists use are very small. With small groups of needles and single needles, all imperfections show, so try to find an artist specializing in this kind of work.
Look through their social media or website and see if they’ve done fine-line tattoos similar to what you’re looking for. If you like a specific artist’s work but want to see more examples, reach out to them!
Each tattooing style has a different skill set, so finding an artist specializing in fine-line tattoos is the safest option.
Look Through Your Tattoo Artist’s Healed Designs
When choosing a fine-line artist, one of the most important things to consider is how their healed work looks.
Fine-line tattoos can fade quickly and sometimes look different after the healing process, so it’s always good to get an idea of how your artist’s work ages.
It’s also a great way to set your expectations for your fine-line tattoo — a tattoo never looks as crisp and vibrant as it does the day you get it.
Consider the Tattoo’s Placement (Obvious? Yes. Important? Also Yes.)
The placement of your fine-line tattoo is a critical factor in how it will heal. It’s best to choose an area that doesn’t move a lot or see too much sun to help your tattoo last as long as possible.
The inner forearms, upper ribs, and upper thighs are good spots for fine-line tattoos because they mostly stay out of the sun and don’t bend. Wrists, feet, hands, and thighs move a lot and often rub against clothing, affecting the healing process.
However, it’s always best to consult with your tattoo artist beforehand. They can help you find the best placement for your fine-line tattoo based on size, color(s), and design.
Come to Terms With the Fact That Your Tattoo May Require Touchups
Always check with your artist about their touch-up policy in case they need to fix the tattoo after the healing process is complete.
Touch-ups aren’t always necessary with fine-line tattoos but know that it’s possible due to the style’s delicate nature.
If you’re traveling to get your tattoo, consider that it may need a refresh in the future. Most tattooers don’t touch up other artists’ work, so you’ll have to return to your original artist.
Schedule Your Fine-Line Tattoo Consultation at Lamar Street Tattoo Club
At Lamar Street Tattoo Club, we have a higher standard of tattooing. You can always expect comprehensive consultations, professional execution, and body art that stands the test of time.
From consultation to aftercare, we provide a unique, unparalleled experience. We don’t compromise on the quality or cleanliness of our work, and you shouldn’t either.
Visit Lamar Street Tattoo Club today and see why we’ve been voted the number-one tattoo shop in Dallas, Texas! Send us a message, or book a complimentary consultation at our shop today.
Tattoos Over Time | How Has Tattooing Changed?
September 29, 2022
Equipment, safety standards, & aftercare practices have drastically changed for tattooing, but the reasons we decide to ink our skin haven’t.
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September 29, 2022
Tattoos Over Time | How Has Tattooing Changed?
For over 5,000 years, humans around the globe have used tattoos as a form of self-expression. And though tattoo equipment and safety standards have changed a lot since the first tattoo, the reasons people continue to get them really haven’t.
If you’re a tattoo-lover like us, you may be curious about the ancient art of tattooing and how much it differs from today. So, we put together a brief history detailing the contrast between outdated and modern-day tattooing practices.
Ancient (and Slightly Frightening) Tattoo Equipment
In ancient Samoa, minimal tattoo designs were created on the skin using a thick needle and wooden mallet. They would tap the needle into the skin repeatedly until the design was deep enough for the pigment to stay in the skin’s lower layers after it healed. After the “drawing” process, the pigments — made from soot — were rubbed into the open wound.
In ancient Egypt, they pressed bronze tools with wide points deep into the skin, and in pre-Columbian South America, it was common to use sharp sticks. Both created their pigments from plants, soot, and other natural materials available in their environment.
Tattoo removal was also impossible. So, if you really wanted your blurry, misshapen tattoo removed in 500 BC, you were out of luck. Unless you took the chance of removing it yourself in ways we probably shouldn’t discuss in this blog.
Okay, so maybe the word ‘equipment’ is too generous when describing some of the tools they used near the beginning of time. But over the next couple thousand years, tattoo artists’ tools drastically improved for tattoo lovers — and haters.
Modern-Day Tattoo Equipment — No Mallet Required
Today, artists use automatic tattoo machines with small, fine needles that move extremely fast, minimizing pain and skin damage. These tiny needles’ accuracy and continuous in-and-out motion allow for a deeper, more concentrated color and improve the ink’s look and contrast against your skin.
With a more precise tool, modern-day tattoo artists can draw clean lines and detailed works of art that come in nearly any style — from watercolor landscapes to bold, American Traditional pin-ups.
Tattoo artists also use specialized, skin-safe inks now. These inks are designed to be in contact with your skin and permeate deep into its layers to stay there forever. Unless, of course, you decide to go the laser tattoo removal route.
Tattoo Safety Standards Before There Were Safety Standards
Now the only thing that might be more frightening than the tattoo equipment they used in ancient times was their aftercare and sanitation process — or lack thereof.
Picture this: it’s 830 BCE, and you’re sitting with your pals around a fire. You’re eating something you grew yourselves when one of your friends says they want a tattoo. So what do you do? Get a sharpened stick and some soot, create a basic design by poking or drawing deep into their skin with the stick, then rub some soot in it.
Sounds sanitary, right? In ancient times, they didn’t know how to prevent infection, and sterilizing tools wasn’t common practice. As a result, some horrible complications likely stemmed from untreated, infected tattoos — like staph infections, septic shock, and toxic shock syndrome.
Tattoo aftercare didn’t exist, either. People in ancient cultures cared for them as best they could, using water and homemade salves. But with no bandages, no Optiscrub, and no ointment, we can assume there were some complications.
It’s safe to say that (most) tattoo artists’ sanitation standards have vastly improved since ancient times.
Tattoo Safety Standards After Someone Discovered the Magic of Science
Thankfully, we now know what it takes to have a clean, healthy tattoo that heals beautifully. But it’s important to remember that tattoo aftercare is just as important as the application.
Sanitized tools and workspaces are commonplace, and we recommend washing your tattoo with antibacterial soap — our favorite is Optiscrub — to prevent any infection that could cause long-term damage.
After washing, apply a small dab of organic, petroleum-free, vegan ointment or moisturizers like cocoa butter, coconut oil, or shea butter. Make sure it’s a thin layer, and only put on enough to fully rub into the skin.
More is not always better!
If you want your tattoo to look bright and bold for years to come, check out our complete Tattoo Aftercare guide on our blog!
Honoring Tattoo Tradition, Embracing Modern Aftercare
Lamar Street Tattoo Club and our elite tattoo artists in Dallas will help you find the best artist for your tattoo, whether you’re looking for something old-school or new-school. If you’re interested in working with the top tattoo artists at the top tattoo shop in Dallas, send us a submission form! Along with a high-quality tattoo, you’ll receive the highest level of tattoo aftercare when you choose Lamar Street Tattoo Club. Contact us, and we’ll get back to you with a consultation, appointment time, and tattoo artist recommendation!
Walk-ins Always Welcome, Appointments Preferred.