National Tattoo Day

National Tattoo Day History

National Tattoo Day celebrates the rich history, artistry, and cultural significance of tattoos. The event sheds light on tattooing as a form of creative self-expression and pays tribute to the artists who have honed the craft over the years. Throughout the day, individuals are encouraged to share their own tattoo experiences and stories with others, deepening their connection to this vivid and ever-growing cultural phenomenon.

Though the history of tattoos can be traced back thousands of years in various civilizations, National Tattoo Day is a more recent recognition that emphasizes the growing acceptance and mainstream status of tattoos in America. Seen as a symbol of rebellion and counterculture in the past, tattoos have since evolved into a highly valued art form, with many Americans spurring the growth of the tattoo industry. According to a Harris Poll from 2016, three in ten Americans have at least one tattoo, showcasing the widespread influence and connection that tattoos have in American society.

National Tattoo Day is observed in America through various events and activities, such as tattoo expos, art exhibitions, and online contests to showcase personal tattoo stories and designs. Tattoo studios and artists also join the festivities by offering special deals and promoting their finest work on social media, opening up discussions on the beauty and significance of tattoos in modern American culture. National Tattoo Day is celebrated annually on July 17, providing an opportunity for tattoo enthusiasts and artists alike to come together in recognition of this timeless art form.

National Tattoo Day facts

• According to authoritytattoo.com, the oldest evidence of human tattoos is believed to be from between 3370 BC and 3100 BC.
• The history of tattoos in the Western world has its roots in seafaring. Many designs have specific meanings; a pig on one foot and a rooster on the other was meant to protect a sailor from drowning.
• A tattoo is essentially a wound, so it needs to heal. This process takes about 2-4 weeks, during which time the tattoo needs to be kept clean and moisturized.
• The first electric tattoo machine was patented in 1891 by Samuel O’Reilly.
• Black ink was made using iron oxide or carbon. The mineral cinnabar was used to make red ink. Other shades of orange, red, and yellow were made using the silvery-white metal cadmium.
• According to tattooodo.com, Americans spend about $1.65 billion per year on tattoos.

In the News and Trending in the US for National Tattoo Day

Top things to do in the US for National Tattoo Day

• Get a tattoo! Your local tattoo parlor may be offering special deals to celebrate the day.
• Invite your friends to get matching tattoos. It can be of something with a lot of meaning or it could symbolize something specific.
• Browse new tattoo ideas. You can also try to draw your own design.
• There are many documentaries on the history of tattoo arts. However, we recommend "Tattoo Nation" that revolves around the evolution of tattoos from being symbols for criminals or gangsters to their acceptance in mainstream culture. And
  "Ink:The History of Tattoo in America" (2020), an upcoming documentary devoted to the rich and colorful history of the art of tattooing in America.
• Check out a show "LA Ink" that shows what goes behind the scenes in a high-end tattoo parlour in Los Angeles!