Tattooing has a long and rich history, but the advent of electric tattooing in the late 19th century revolutionised the craft by drastically increasing speed and efficiency. Before electricity, tattooing was a slow and meticulous process, often performed by hand using sharpened tools, sticks, bones, or needles to puncture the skin and insert pigment. Indigenous and tribal cultures across the world, from the Māori of New Zealand to the Iban of Borneo, have long used tattooing as a rite of passage, a mark of status, or a spiritual symbol. However, the introduction of the electric tattoo machine made the practice more accessible, bringing tattooing to a much wider audience. For those in Perth seeking traditional tattoos that honor the past while embracing the present, understanding the pioneers of electric tattooing is essential. Samuel O’Reilly: The Inventor of the Electric Tattoo Machine Samuel O’Reilly is credited with patenting the first electric tattoo machine in 1891. Inspired by Thomas Edison’s electric pen, O’Reilly modified the design to create a faster, more efficient way of injecting ink into the skin. His invention allowed tattooing to move beyond the painstaking hand-poking method, leading to smoother lines, deeper color saturation, and significantly reduced tattooing time. Charlie Wagner: Refining the Craft Charlie Wagner, a protégé of O’Reilly, further improved the electric tattoo machine and played a crucial role in making tattooing more accessible. Based in New York City, Wagner patented an improved machine in 1904 and became known for his bold, classic designs, which laid the foundation for modern American traditional tattoos. His contributions to tattooing can still be seen in many of the iconic motifs used today, such as roses, eagles, and pin-up girls. Amund Dietzel: The Father of Traditional Tattooing in America Amund Dietzel, a Norwegian-born tattoo artist who later settled in Milwaukee, was instrumental in popularising traditional tattooing. His clean, strong lines and dedication to the craft made him one of the most sought-after tattooers of the early 20th century. Dietzel’s influence on traditional tattooing remains strong, with many artists, including those in Perth, continuing to draw inspiration from his work. Bert Grimm: Spreading Traditional Tattooing Across the US Bert Grimm is another pivotal figure in the history of electric tattooing. Throughout the 20th century, Grimm operated some of the most famous tattoo shops in the United States, including the legendary Pike in Long Beach, California. His bold, direct, and timeless style has defined traditional tattooing ever since. His influence extends across the globe, and many traditional-style tattooers, including myself, still draw from his work. My take on a Bert Grimm tiger Percy Waters: Innovator and Educator in Tattooing Percy Waters was a significant figure in the evolution of tattooing, known not only for his work as a tattoo artist but also for his contributions to tattoo machine design and education. In the 1920s, Waters patented a new, improved electric tattoo machine that became a standard for many artists. Additionally, he was instrumental in developing and distributing flash designs, which helped standardise traditional tattoo motifs and made them more widely accessible. His influence can still be seen today, as many of his designs remain foundational to traditional tattooing styles. Electric Tattooing Today: Honoring the Pioneers in Perth For those in Perth seeking traditional tattoos, understanding the roots of the craft can help you appreciate the artistry behind every piece. With a deep respect for the pioneers of electric tattooing and a passion for historical references, I aim to create bold designs that stand the test of time—just as the early pioneers intended. If you’re looking for a timeless piece that pays homage to the greats of modern electric tattooing, book a consultation today.

So, you've decided to go for a bold and timeless traditional tattoo in Perth—well, welcome to the club! Whether you're getting a back piece or small lettering, your tattoo deserves the best care to ensure it stays vibrant and sharp for years to come. Getting a traditional tattoo isn't just about the art itself; it’s also about how you take care of it before, during, and after your appointment. I’ve put together a list of tips to help you get the most out of your new piece while keeping your skin happy and your tattoo looking fresh. 1. Lay Off the Booze the Night Before  I know, I know. It’s tempting to have a couple of drinks to calm the nerves before a big tattoo appointment. But trust me—if you’ve got a tattoo appointment the following day, give the booze a break. Alcohol thins your blood, making you bleed more during the session. More blood means your tattoo artist has to work harder, and your tattoo might not heal as well. So, drink water instead of wine, and save the celebratory drinks for later! 2. Eat Something Before Your Appointment This one’s simple: don't show up on an empty stomach! Getting a tattoo takes a lot of energy, and you need fuel to keep your body happy while you're sitting there. Skipping meals can lead to dizziness or fainting. Opt for a hearty meal before your session and maybe a snack afterwards—you'll thank me later! 3. Wash It Thoroughly Before Bed on the First Night On your first night with your fresh tattoo, wash it gently but thoroughly before heading to bed. Use lukewarm water and mild, unscented soap to remove any excess ink, blood, or ointment from the tattooed area. Gently pat it dry with a clean towel, then let it breathe before you apply any healing ointments. This first wash is super important to avoid any bacteria buildup while you sleep. Plus, it helps kickstart the healing process!   4. No Gym for a Few Days After Listen, I get it. You're committed to your fitness routine. But right after getting a tattoo, your skin is healing, and your muscles (and the tattoo) need some TLC. Avoid hitting the gym for at least a few days after your appointment. The friction and sweat can irritate your fresh tattoo, and if you’re lifting heavy weights, it might cause the tattoo ink to blur. Give your body time to recover, and then go back to crushing those squats in a week! 5. Stay Away from the Pool and Ocean for Two Weeks You’ll need to resist the temptation to dive into the pool for about two weeks after your tattoo. Water can soften the scab, and if you’re doing laps or lounging in salty ocean water, it can make your tattoo fade faster. Plus, there's the risk of infection from dirty water. Keep your tattoo dry, and enjoy those sunny Perth beach days under the shade for now! 6. Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise Your tattoo is like a new plant—water it (well, not literally!) and keep it moisturised to help it heal. Use an unscented, gentle moisturiser to keep the area hydrated. It’ll soothe the skin and help the healing process along. Dry, cracked skin equals faded ink, and nobody wants that.   7. Don’t Scratch or Pick at It!  I get it —healing tattoos can be super itchy, but scratching and picking can cause scarring and damage to the design. Resist the urge! If it's unbearable, slap some moisturiser on and let the healing process do its thing. You’ll be thankful when your tattoo has no weird scars or spots. 8. Follow Your Artist’s Aftercare Instructions Tattoo artists in Perth (especially those with historical expertise) are the real pros. Follow their aftercare instructions to the letter. Whether using a special ointment or keeping the tattoo wrapped for the first few hours before cleaning it thoroughly, those steps are part of their tried-and-tested formula to ensure you get the best results. 9. Sunscreen Is Your Best Friend  Sunscreen is the MVP for longer-term tattoo care, especially in sunny Perth. UV rays are your tattoo’s worst enemy—they cause fading and dullness and can even contribute to skin cancer (yikes). Make sure you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your tattoo whenever you go outside. Protect that art like it’s the Mona Lisa!