Polynesian Tattoos and their histories

When people think of getting tattoos, the type often considered are tribal.  The origins of these designs are inspired by Polynesian tattoos.  Although today, tattoos are mostly done with tattoo guns, the original and authentic tattoos in these regions were created in more primitive methods.

In Samoa, the techniques have basically remained unchanged for over two thousand years and the skill is passed down from father to son using tools consisting of boars teeth, turtle shell and wooden handle.   For the men, it is like a right of passage and young men would endure the pain,from morning through night for a period of about 3 months to show their strength and bravery.  Incomplete tattoos are viewed as a mask of shame.  Although Christian missionaries attempted to stop such acts, viewing them as inhumane and barbaric, but Samoans resisted and the traditions continue to this day.

Hawaiian tattoos served as body art and distinction but also to protect their health and spirituality.  Images of lizards, which were greatly respected and feared, and of the Hawaiian crescent fan (Peahi niu) for the highest-ranking members of society, dominated Hawaiian kakau. Intricate patterns, mimicking woven reeds or other natural forms, graced men's arms, legs, torso and face. Women were generally tattooed on the hand, fingers, wrists and sometimes on their tongue.

Maori - The full-face moko was a mark of distinction for Maori men, which communicated their status, lines of descent and tribal affiliations. It recalled their wearer's exploits in war and other great events of their life. The Maori chief Te Pehi Kupe said during a visit to England in 1826, "Europee man write with pen his name — Te Pehi's is here," pointing to his tattooed face.  By the 1920s, the last of the tattooed men had died, but many women continue to wear moko until the middle of the century.

In addition to full-face moko, Maori men also wore puhoro, an intricate tattoo extending from mid-torso to the knees, which featured the characteristic design of a spiral on the buttock.

Information from PBS.org

Hibiscus flowers are the state flower of Hawaii and often used in tattoo designs

Honu (turtle) tattoo - representing long life and longevity.

In Hawaii, the Plumeria, often used in leis represents 'new life' and perfection, the coming together of everything good.

Foot Tattoos

Finding the Right Foot Tattoos For You


Tattoos are not for men alone. Currently, the girl's foot tattoos designs are also becoming more and more popular. This leg must be one of the most unique place where you can sport a tattoo. As with any other tattoo though, getting a foot tattoos is a big decision. Here are some important points you should know about foot tattoos.




Benefits of a Foot Tattoo




People may have different reasons for getting tattooed legs. You may still confident though about the feasibility of getting a tattoo the feet. Why do feet to the right place for a tattoo? One of the main reasons for this are that they are not as common as lower back and arm tattoos for women. Although foot tattoos are gradually becoming popular, they are still relatively rare. Getting a foot tattoo will make you feel more unique than other tattooed individuals.




Foot tattoos are also less obvious compared to tattoos on other areas. This is important for some people who want to keep secret their tattoos. You may wish for example to have a tattoo of something significant, but do not want to flash directly to the whole world to see. A foot tattoos would therefore perfect. You can have a small design that you can show or hide at your own discretion.




Girl's Foot Tattoo Disadvantages




Some tattoo artists do not do foot tattoos. This is because there will be some peg leg for tattoos. It's also likely why his legs are not as popular as other tattoo sites. One major concern is that the ink on foot tattoos tends to spread, disseminate or blur faster than those on other tattoos. You may have to get you back tattoo ink more often than other tattoos.




Tattoo on foot are also generally more painful. This is because the leg meat is being close to capillaries and bones. Unless you have not seen yet, most tattoos are located in areas with lots of meat. It reduces pain during the tattoo process. Tattoo leg pain can actually exceed the actual process. This should not be a surprise to you if you feel uncomfortable while using your legs.




You also have to consider about your recovery and activities after getting a tattoo on the foot. This can create more than two weeks to tattoo leg to heal. In the span of time, the tattoo must remain dry and clean. You should also avoid getting your tattoo rubbed. It is very difficult to do with tattoos foot. You may have to spend all my time away from closed shoes.




Precaution




These are just some of the unique challenges of getting a tattoo the feet. You still want to get one. If you are really bent on it then the best thing you can do is find an experienced tattoo artist. Remember that not everyone is tattooed legs. Therefore you must choose one who knows how to do it correctly and with the least possible pain. You can also satisfied with a smaller design. It would be ideal for feminine feet. You also have to cope with less pain and blurred.




A girl foot tattoos can be an entirely different experience even for the avid tattoo fan. You must make sure though that you are truly willing and ready to meet the unique concerns foot tattoos. By Reese Lanter