Different styles of tattooing and the cultures they represent

Tattooing is more then just throwing on a stencil and going to town on someones skin. For thousands of years tattooing has represented the many different cultures around the world. One of my favorite styles is that of the great Japanese artist Hiroshi Kawai who tattoos out of his studio in Tokyo Japan. An article with an interview with Hiroshi tells of his attention to detail. Hiroshi believes that the outline of the tattoo must be the first and foremost area of the tattoo the artist must concentrate the most on. Here at Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo  we pound this fact in the heads of our apprentices. The outline should take the longest, it should also be crisp and clean. Our shop sees some very bad tattoos done by scratchers who have no other motive but to make the money. For an individual to be an artist he/she must always remember that the work going into the piece must always be 110%.

Many times if an individual has a trained eye. The individual should be able to tell by the piece of art what kind of style had a influence on the piece. Whether it be Western or Eastern. One of the great Western Artist Larry Brogans is located in Joliet Illinois. He is the owner of Skin Art Studio and has been on the convention circuit for many years winning all kinds of awards. If you look at his art you'll be able to pick out the differences from Hiroshi's work. Artist from a particular region of world will always be influenced by the environment around them. Dragons, tigers play a big part in the Japanese culture. While here in the West and more particular the United States skulls, zombies and realism portraits dominate the tattoo scene.

In order to better enjoy and understand the culture of tattooing an individual must go behind the scenes. Look at a piece and see what the piece represents to you or what the artist was trying to convey through the piece. One practice that has really started to disappear in the states is the pre-tattoo meeting. It's still pretty much alive in the east but here in the states tattooing has become very popular. Artist are more concerned with tattooing in a factory assembling line then to sit back with the customer and really dig into what they are wanting the tattoo to represent or given pointers to how to make it look better.

A shop here in Rockford advertises that they are open 24 hrs a day. My questions are many regarding this gimmick. Does it really help the customer coming in for a tattoo at 3 in the morning when the artist is in no mood to tattoo in the first place. This is an example of trying to put money before the customer. It's one thing to be open till 2 in the morning but an entirely different story being open 24 hrs a day and slave driving your employees. The stories have been numerous as people come into the shop for cover ups or fix ups. Or the stories of employees sitting and playing PS3 and ignoring customers. A tattoo shop now a days needs to be friendly and inviting. In the Eastern culture you would never see any of the above taking place. Tattooing is still considered to be a craft that is to be respected. Here in the West we have lost our way, not because we are not artistic but because we are more into the money then the art.

Carpenters have hammers and Tattooist have their machines

Just like any other profession needs to be familiar with their tools tattooist need to be familiar with their machines. Nothing is worse then when a machine breaks down in the middle of a tattoo. Here your on a roll and all of the sudden a back spring breaks or capacitor goes out. Machine maintenance is often one of the least taught to new apprentices. Now a days it's easy to go onto ebay and just buy a bunch of machines every time one breaks down. This is a scratchers way of doing things. A professional will have a tool kit on hand consisting of extra coils, springs, contact posts, o-rings and even extra frames in case a machine needs to be totally rebuilt from the bottom up.

Many artist have their choice and preference on what type of machines to use. Aberration Tattoo Artist usually prefer the coil machine. These machines have been old reliable for over a hundred years. They have plenty of surplus parts- they are the easiest to break down and get going again. Other machines can cost hundreds of dollars more and basically do the same thing. I was asked by one of the apprentices which one I prefer. I've always been found of the Mickey Sharpz Tattoo Machines. They are unbelievable in quality and craftsmanship.  They are balanced and run very smoothly on the skin. Only skilled artist should use them since they are very interesting to tune once out of balance.

As apprentices we usually recommend that they just get a set of good irons. Any brand is fine but we want them to stay away from the cheap machines that are brought in from China. The coils are never any good, the frames crack easy and the lines pulled are never any good. Many scratchers use these machines and many of them wonder why tattoos never come out right. The tools of the trade is one of the most important aspects of the craft. A difference in keep hand tools compared to Snap-On tools-same goes with the machines we use in the business.

So as anyone in the business getting started. U don't have to spend huge amounts for equipment. You don't have to have the best of the best. You do need reliable and solid equipment. This includes your power supplies, inks, grips and so on. Shop around- many supply companies are good on the Internet. Due diligence is your responsibility in choosing your equipment as well as maintaining and tuning it to have it help you do the best that you can.

Tattoo inks and whats the best or worse

Personally at Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo we have a few artist and with that comes different tastes in tattoo ink. I've worked with many inks over my 15 year career. I started out using Mom's back in the day when it really wasn't anything to talk about let me tell you. Today when of our best color artist use only Mom Tattoo Ink and his color blends are just out of this world. The ink goes in smooth and easy without mixing it with witch'es hazel or water. The ink settles great and stands the test of time.

As for what I use I'm sold on Starbrite and Intense. I really only like using the primaries because from that palette of ink I can pretty much mix any color I want. Over the years in my career I've used the clean and dip method but as time went on and different types of techniques came about I rarely use nothing but the mud and dip technique. I don't like throwing just straight black anymore without mixing it with one of the primaries. The only time I go straight black is when doing a Black and Gray piece but at the same time I stay away from the mixes or dipping method and use the needle to give me my different shades of black.

Outlining ink has been a tough change for me. I use to use Kumo Sumi but now I've decided to go with Dynamic  Black ink from Kingpin Tattoo Supply. The black ink goes in just awesome and has a great tone to it. Kumo Sumi I've found has that problem of just lightning up way too much and lately isn't hitting the skin good. Kingpin Tattoo Supply sells the Dynamic Black in 8oz bottles so it's going to last you awhile. I use it for lining as well as shading.

Tattoo Ink is really just a preference of the artist. Some will do better then others. I never recommend going to off brands or tattoo ink made out of the country. The quality is very poor and it could be dangerous because it can contain toxins that the FDA does not allow. Before any artist settles on one brand of ink over the other I suggest trying them all out at least once. Always buy from a Tattoo Supply store that is reputable and sells to professional artist. There is Kingpin, Unimax, and a whole lot more. I would recommend staying away from Superior Tattoo Supply because they are way overpriced and cater mostly to non professionals. Places like Unimax, Cam, and Kingpin actually check out if your a legit pro or apprenticing with a shop.

Some cool facts about tattooing and it's history

The first tattoo machine was actually invented by non other then Thomas Edison. His invention did not gain traction in the commercial world so in 1891 Samuel O'Reily improved on his design and had much better success. In 1899 Alfred Charles Smith invented the modern 2 coil machine. It can give you a perspective on just how long it's been for tattooing to become main stream (Easily 110 years from the modern invention). From my perspective as an artist this machine has carried the industry this far and I don't believe the Neumas or rotary machines will ever be widely used. Call me an old dog but I can't see them taking over as the tool of choice for tattooist.

Did you know the word Tattoo comes from Tahitian  "Tatu" which means "To mark something". Since the days of the cavemen the Human race has used tattooing in many ways. It could be a status symbol within a tribe, a religious practice still used today in cultures in the Middle East, Africa and South America. Tattooing could be a right of passage into adulthood for many cultures. It wasn't until the last 20 years that tattooing became socially acceptable in much of North America, South America, Europe. For a really in depth history of tattooing I recommend the Smithsonian which is really a whole world of knowledge on the subject of tattooing.

It's this rich history of tattooing that got me in the industry. Aberration which means "Not to conform to society" is in part why I named the shop Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo. I know one day the fad of tattooing or piercing will eventually die out with each and every generation. It's the shops that hold true to it's core beliefs that will make it in the industry. Being an artist is not a job- it's an art form there for each and every individual to express his/her vision on someone else who shares some of the same types of inspiration as we do. As long as there is rebels from outside what society thinks tattooist should be very busy in the future. Hopefully artist will find that passing our craft to the next generation is urgent. Without our traditions as an industry we could see what we know today gone tomorrow.

How to deal with an employee situation at a tattoo shop

If you are an owner of a tattoo shop or work at a tattoo shop an individual must realize just how important it is to have the right type of artist or even apprentices working with you. Artist are the trickier to hire because this industry is full of drama, full of "I'm the Best" attitudes and frankly individuals who are not business orientated. In the apprenticeship school I teach it's a big point of mine to make sure that the students understand that they are in business for themselves. Each person that works at the shop is the owner of his/her business and must approach their career from that perspective.

As a shop owner it's only my responsibility to promote the shop according tho my marketing plan that was set up. It's the artist who contracts with the shop to ensure that they are building a client base. Lately I've been seeing some disturbing trends within my shop. Artist are getting comfortable relying on walk-ins. Walk-ins are those people who the shop has advertised for on it's own business budget. So this week I must take the step of informing the artist at the shop that they can no longer rely on just walk-ins. Most of their schedules will be based on Appointments only! I've decided that it is better this way because it helps the artist get up and moving and promoting their abilities as a Independent Business Owner.

The artist I want working at Aberration Tattoo are ones that are motivated to better themselves and never become reliant on someone else. As shop owners an individual must always do whats best for his/her shop and clients. This is why it's imperative that the owners or shop managers never become too friendly with staff. Either one of the mentioned must maintain a strictly professional relationship. I've seen many owners go down fast for either being non-professional or never at the shop at all. It's a huge step going from artist to shop owner. It's a big step because this industry is still taking baby steps forward to social acceptance for one. For too long artist or apprentices in this industry have been slow to grasp the concept of being in business for themselves.

Aberration Tattoo prides itself with being an industry leader. We hope all shop owners and artist soon realize it's up to us to set the standards in the industry. Artist must always maintain a professional attitude as well as a professional look to them. Customers don't want to walk in seeing an artist about to do a tattoo dirty or smelling bad. No they want to see an artist who is professional. The Illinois Tattoo Body Code has even stated this in its rules and regulations for tattoo shops. What does a shop do when faced with a unprofessional artist? The shop owner or manager must address the problem with the artist before it becomes a problem for the business. A shop owner must remember that it is his/her shop that will suffer when customers walk out the door.

So it is important for an owner of the shop to think about his/her business. Issues that come up should be addressed right away before the business is affected. Artist and apprentices must remember by getting into this field that they are self employed. Both need to promote their businesses because that's why most shops pay them a 50/50 cut. If an artist and owner cannot agree on an issue then it's up to the owner to use his/her best judgement in making sure the business don't suffer.

How emotion plays a big part in your art

Teaching a class last night at the tattoo school the apprentices learned how pressure changes the emotions which they have when drawing. Starting the exercise I started to lay the pressure on them through timed drawings as well as throwing out negative feedback. At first they started sweating and shaking and the pictures they were drawing showed how they were acting to the stresses that were being put on them.

As the exercise continued you could look at the drawings and you could see that they started to learn how to control the pressure and negative feedback. The exercise was designed to ensure that when they become tattoo artist it would help them understand how the acts of emotion will effect the art they put out. When customers come in an spend lots of money on a piece they expect the piece to be perfect every time. In order for artist to meet that expectation they have to clear their minds and concentrate at the task at hand.

Being a tattoo artist is more then just throwing a piece on someones arm or back. The human body is a huge canvas and just waiting to be decorated with art from great artist. A tattoo artist has to look further then just collecting money or the career as a job. They have to look at this career through the eyes of expression. Those who are great will always be drawing, engaged in more then just tattooing but in other art forms as well. It could be watercolor, paintings, working with clay. An artist is never hindered just by one craft. An artist must always carry their imagination with them at all times. Look at the world and it's possessions as a big canvas and make your own realty out of it. When your able to accomplish such things you can be the king of the mountain in the tattoo world, you will become the master of your own destiny.

A great article on emotions in art can be found at (Role of Emotions in Art)

                                       WHAT DO YOU SEE IN THE PIC BELOW??
                                                              PIC BY Michael-Maier

Social Networking for your Tattoo Business

The tattoo industry has always been a word of mouth venture. In the old days of the industry owners and artist in shops had to take out yellow page ads  or spend huge amounts of money on billboards, flyers etc. An average advertising budget could run into the thousands monthly or quarterly. Even with that amount of money you always had to worry about your return on investment. If you are not familiar with your return on investment an example would be a shop puts out say $500 on radio commercials and the shop hopes to get at least $1000 back in customer traffic. In a large city say like Chicago a shop had to worry about the competition and what they were doing or if they were copying the deals heard on your commercials. In other words your advertising could help out the competition.

Now a days we were blessed with something called the internet. It has revolutionized the tattoo industry as we know it. Shops are now able to build a personal relationship with clients through websites like Facebook, Mypace, Twitter and a whole host more. To use this new tool shop owners as well as artist have to learn that it's relationship building that pays off. People are sick and tired of those in any industry shoving commercials down their throats. I know that I cannot stand for someone to sell me something every time I go to a site. The products I use is because I've built a relationship with the product. I get good customer service as well as quick answers to my concerns. I'm engaged on a personal level and not someone telling me to buy something.

Social Networking should be a breeze and second nature to the Tattoo industry because we engage and interact with customers on a daily basis. Sometimes were head doctors because we sit through and help people through problems while we are tattooing. Other times we give an individual comfort of just having someone to talk too when they have no one else. Besides the artwork on them customers come back to us because they feel comfortable with us and how they were treated in the shop. So as tattooist we have to take what we do in the shop and bring it into the online environment. By bringing it to the online environment we can not only gain customers, we can gain friends. We all know by gaining a friend or even an associate that helps build our business for years to come.

I would recommend any shop out there start a organized social network plan. Newspapers and print media are now going to be extinct. For a shop to get a good return on investment they must go to where the audience is. That is on the internet and sites like facebook that account for 25% of all internet traffic.

Evolution of art in the Tattoo Studio

Back in the early 40's and 50's art in the tattoo studio might of been USN with anchors or USMC with a bullog. On the West Coast it could of been a chicano traditional portrait that by today's standard would be a cartoon. As you progressed in the 60's 70s and even the early part of the 80's the skull, panther and eagle dominated flash racks all over the Unite States.

During my apprenticeship during the early 90s we were taught flash and how to shade them with the minimal amount of shade and contrast. Most tattoos back then that were custom were done by only a few amount of artist around the country. We use to say that artist were just a copy machine because we were to take a pic someone picked off the wall and do the best we could to copy it on the person who picked it out. We never worried about color blending, never worried about soft or hard lining. We were paid to copy the picture.

At the beginning of this century we started to see artist break out of that mold. Many started refusing to just take a flash piece and put it on the body. They wanted to put their own view on the piece. Color blending started to take root. Adding on to a piece became popular with the artists twist. You can always tell a new school artist versus an old school artist. Old School artist follow the flash to a tee or refuse to do a lot of pieces because of the work involved. It's the attitude of the artist that also show how the studio is looked at by the others in the industry.

Some shops are happy just being a flash studio and nothing is wrong with that. Those studio's are still needed in the industry. They tend to be less expensive then most shops that do just custom work. I see no problems with that since I might be old school I still embrace the new generation of artist. At the same time embracing the new school I still like to see prices stay within reason. Does a portrait need to start at $350? Yes it does because of the skill needed by the artist to get the piece on. Does a kangi symbol need to be $50 bucks? No that's out of line because it's a flash piece for one, second off it takes like 15 minutes of work. Thats where Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo came up with the $10 Tattoo.

Would the shop charge $10 for say a heart an name? No but we would charge a fair price for it. Not $100 bucks for something like that, maybe $50 which is fair. So the art in shops will continue to evolve into more and more cool things. But prices will always remain the top priority to a shop in order to compete an stay afloat. It's a circus to try and mange both. But the shops that stay around are the ones who will make it in the business.

One small thing the Illinois Tattoo Law got wrong

I sat here most of the day pondering a question about the new Illinois Tattoo Law that was passed back in 2008 and until recently was finally being enforced. Do you know that a Hairstylist has to complete at least 1500 hours of schooling both in the classroom and doing practicals? Also do you know that most medical careers are required to complete hours both in the classroom and on the job training? So I was thinking to myself and pondering why in the world doesn't tattoo artist or piercers need to complete any kind of training? Ya the law says that artist have to be Bloodborne Pathogen certified!! But does that really mean they have training in the art of tattooing or body piercing? No it does not. Most people go and buy equipment of Ebay or Craigslist not even knowing how to tune a machine by the way-then go and screw someone up.

I believe that Artist and Piercers need to have so many hours of education as well as an apprenticeship before being allowed to tattoo. I think that a 1500 hour educational program would do wonders with weeding all the bad shops out as well as push fines on scratchers that work out of non certified shops. I believe it would help the industry remain stable through the years as well as get rid of fly by nights that are just there for their pocket book.

Well how could something like this work? Well all artist now that are listed on a shops sheet with the State of Illinois would be grandfathered in and regarded as licensed under that shop. Real Estate salespersons have there licensed sponsored by a broker in order to work. I think something similar could work in the Tattoo industry. An artist would have to be licensed but sponsored by a shop only after receiving the appropriate number of hours with a state certified school. Alot of people will pay up to $8000 for an apprenticeship and learn very little and not receive any certification what so ever. If the State of Illinois requires certification then paying that kind of money will mean something and other shops will then recognize that certification as legit.

I truly believe this is where the industry needs to go. Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo has already started a Tattoo School which requires at least a one year schedule. If a law was passed to train artist not only in the arts and safety but also require additional skills that a person can use if they dont make it in the tattoo world it would just be great for everyone involved.

For more info on attending Aberration Pro Custom Tattoos School visit http://www.aberrationink.com or to view information about tattoo laws visit http://tattoos.lovetoknow.com/State_Tattooing_Laws which gives a number of great articles on the regulation of the profession.

Tattoos versus Piercings

Tattoos and Piercings have been around for thousands of years. Many different cultures used either or to make a statement about who they were or where they were from. Piercings were more prevalent in the Eastern countries until the 80's and 90's when finally they began becoming more widely performed in the West such as the USA. In the beginning it was celebrities and members of new age music bands that sported piercings other then the normal ear piercings. As the bands toured the country and younger people started seeing them piercings started to hit the mainstream and it was the tattoo shops around the country that started performing the procedures.

During the first few years of this new fad shops made a killing money wise. They would often start out charging $80 dollars for just a nose piercing. Then to add on to that tattoo shops were really the only place that you could by the out of this world jewelry nobody else could find. So add on another $20 bucks and the shop was making some very decent money. Piercings in the industry is quick easy money that can get an artist by when tattoos are slow. Piercings have been excellent source of publicity for tattoo shops because it's a procedure that takes no time at all to complete and most people do not associate that much pain with piercings as tattoos do.

What many need to realize before going to get a body piercing is that risks are present when shops and artist do not take the proper precautions regards to sterilization and education. Apprentices at Abberation Tattoo must complete 100 piercings of each type of piercing with a master artist before being allowed to pierce on clients. The shop does have a body piercing apprenticeship program that individuals can enroll in. Aberration Tattoo has actually started Illinois first Tattoo and Body Piercing school. We are hopeful that state regulators will one day require actual schooling and training in the arts so that artist can be certified by the State of Illinois

A lot of shops in the area would not support the regulation of artist because they are still getting use to the new shop regulations. But for the industry to keep moving forward into the mainstream we need to push schooling our artist in the craft. It only helps the industry grow and help customers know they will get quality pieces.

As far as some of the risks involved in body piercings I would recommend Web MD and their articles on some of the medical risks that could happen if precautions are not taken.

Tattooing in the 21st Century

Before tattooing was mainstream Tattoo Shops were scarce. You couldn't find them on every corner as you can today. "Tattoo Wars" as we old timers use to call it were apart of the business of tattooing. Shops back then would go break windows or go on smear campaigns of one another shops because clients were really limited. Actually back then many tattoo shops were considered to be apart of motorcycle club cultures because of course many tattooist were apart of the club scene.

Slowly over time those who did their apprenticeships with no ties to the biker culture started going out on their own and starting shops. These were those artist that actually started reaching new clients and eventually led to the tattoo culture going mainstream. But the ugly side of owning a shop still goes on. Shops still haven't grown up. Instead of coming together the war of words started ramping up. I see many posts on craigslist about one shop saying this shops works sucks, or one shop going after another. Instead of these morons understanding that their is enough money to go around and its time to come together through our common work, they still go around acting like a bunch of freaking kids.

According to the US Department of Labor tattooing will still become a major force in the labor market. We hold positions that can earn us on average $100 an hour. But with that comes the pain of marketing ones talent. Thus were most of these others morons go out and start bashing you. I'm a huge believer in the push for States to require an extensive education process for tattooist and piercers. By doing this the industry can start training it's people correctly and through the years weed out the idiots as I call them.

Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo is trying to be a leader in the field by having a comprehensive 1 year training program that not only teaches the tattooing and piercing aspect but also that of business management and other comprehensive subjects. For more information on our school check out the website at http://www.aberrationink.com or give us a call at the shop at 779-475-0750

What does it mean when a shop or artist claim to be "Certified"?

In many craigslist ads you will see many claim that they are "Certified"!! My question then becomes what kind of certification are they talking about? I know in the State of Illinois that in order to be certified a shop (Not the Artist) has to make an application to the State of Illinois to get certified by Public Health. See the link right from the Health Department in regards to the Illinois Body Art Code.

In order for a shop to get certified they must undergo a yearly review by the Department of Public Health. Blood Born Pathogens does not constitute being a certified Tattoo Artist. The Blood Borne Pathogen Certification is one of only many requirements that the State of Illinois requires of a shops artist. They also require that a shop submit floor plans, Operation and Sterilization Procedures, Names and Addresses of Artist who perform the work as well as a variety of mandatory shop equipment that is needed.

So if you follow the link to the Body Art Code you will find that all these artist working out of their own private home studio or going to your location is indeed not certified by the State of Illinois. A studio is required by law to apply for a temporary permit 14 days prior to the event to be tattooed. I highly doubt that these artist have that when going to your house.

Bloodborne Pathogen certification is important. It's important in the shop environment because many things can and sometimes go wrong. The safety of the artist and also the client is at stake. So it's very important to go to a certified shop from your tattoo because the process in which that shop became certified for your protection.

Some cool tattoo design websites

As many of you know when coming into Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo we do a lot of custom pieces. Yes we carry a few thousand designs of flash but it's the custom stuff we like doing for those who want a truly unique piece. Here are a few sites that you can go to for ideas for your next tattoo.

Free Tattoo Flash - http://www.tattooflash.org

About article on Tattoo Flash- tattoo.about.com/od/tatflash

Tattoo Designs- www.bullseyetattoos.com

Tattoo noodles- www.tattoodles.com

Alot of the flash we have in the shop comes from years of collecting in the business. But these websites are a great source of getting a general idea of what you want so we can draw it up by hand for you. Don't forget to feel free to come in the shop for a free session with one of our artist to draw up that perfect tattoo.

http://www.aberrationink.com To visit the shops gallery of tattoos already done by our two artist.

Dare to Dream

  Making your dreams come true what does that say to you? Everyone has dreams that they envision everyday. It could be to get out of an individuals situation that they are currently in that they dream big. They don't like where their life is right now and want something better. Or a person could have a dream long held since childhood that they still haven't gotten around to achieving yet. Why do people sit by and not act on the dream they have? Many will say dreams are for those who have money. Still yet many say dreams are for children and the real world doesn't allow for dreamers. I have to disagree with both the above situations. Life is a gift that the old man upstairs has given each and every one of us. Nothing has ever been predetermined for any of us. It is our responsibility to dream and make our lives better. It's an individual experience not a collective whole that must go after the dreams we might have had since childhood.

 What makes it hard for someone to achieve the dreams they set out to achieve is the lack of vision, desire and most of all hard work. An individual must believe in their capabilities. An Individual must solve problems and break through any and all barriers in order to make that dream come true. Life is a hard game just getting by as it is. But life loves throwing those curve balls at a person to get them off the path they were going down. Once that curve ball happens people get all off their game plan and most of the time never find the way back to their original path. It is hard to accept some of the cards life deals. In honest terms though it is the individual that is the creator of their own problems. It's the failure to address the problems head on that lead to the problem to become bigger then it already was.

 The biggest dream most have is to be rich. Well isn't it? Be honest now with yourself. Look at all the people who have millions and billions. Now look at those who look to the government for their care. Is there a pattern here? Yes the rich get richer and the poorer get poorer. Why is that? The rich have a outlook-dreams to live a better life. The poor want the government to solve their problems. I'm not rich by far. Actually I live paycheck by paycheck like most people. One thing I'm doing is reaching out with two feet planted and given it all I have to make myself learn more about how to make more money and take the risk to achieve it. I've been doing a lot of reading. Books like Rich Dad and Poor Dad or even books by Donald Trump. Who better to get advice from then those who already achieved their dreams? At the end of the post I will give the reader some of the links I go to for my education. Yes I said it education. In order to achieve your dreams you have to get educated. Without education and especially financial education which school doesn't teach us you will have little chance of getting rich if thats your dream. Without training in a sport you won't be able to make it in that arena either.

 So whats the point of everything here? Work and more work along with education will enable you to achieve your dreams. Be the person who takes on problems and spits at them. Develop a strategy and follow it. If it doesn't work then adjust to another one until it works for you and where you want to be in life.

http://www.richdad.com

http://www.trump.com/

http://www.yousaveusa.com

                                                          

Cash Flow and Starting a free business

Cash Flow has been a very important subject that I've been going over with apprentices at the shop. Since the Tattoo Industry sees a slow period that usually runs November-March a successful Shop owner will think ahead and establish different flows of cash to keep everything at the shop happy. It's hard now a days to really find opportunities that has nothing to do with MLM's or get quick rich schemes. Most of these you have to pay a monthly fee or spend hundreds for a product that turns out to be worth ZERO!!! So how do you find an opportunity to increase your cashflow?

The opportunity needs to have a viable product. Something people need. The organization should not try selling it's network opportunity. That's an MLM scheme. So what do you know that we don't? In Illinois we've been forced to deal with Com Ed and it's monopoly for Electric. Illinois finally got smart and deregulated. I own Aberration Power Brokerage. An Affiliate of Emex Power in Texas who gives customizable qoutes to commercial customers from it's website. Everyone wants to save money on their electric bill. So customers give us their zip code and a couple of things from their bill and they get a qoute for free from Electrical Suppliers all over the Country. There is no interruption of service, no money needed to switch. Everything is free for the customer to switch over. It's a win win situation.

So by being a broker and teaming up with EMEX I'm able to sell electricity (NO Experience Needed by the way) and make .002 KWH on every account. Plus the residual money every time they renew the contract. So I have no upfront money to sign up. No money ever to buy company products. So its a perfect cash flow business. It's not a get rich scheme. It takes work and dedication. But the rewards pay off. The professional training you get, the support from the home office. Everything you need to run a brokerage is there. You can check out my site at http://www.yousaveusa.com to get more info on how to get your own free site and business that takes nothing to start. Get additional cash flow in your pockets.

Important update !!!

As everyone knows Aberration Tattoo now know as Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo use to be in Belvidere Illinois on Buchanan Street. We were forced to locate the shop to South Beloit because of the neighborhood the shop was in. It has come to our attention that a guy we had hanging around the shop along with his wife are going around saying they had ownership in the shop.

This is very false. Larry and Meridith at no time had any ownership interest in the Tattoo Shop. No license or partnership agreements were ever signed with Larry and Meridith's names. Larry is not an artist or affiliated with Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo at all. In fact they still owe Shawn one of our artist a $100 bucks for a tattoo that he did on Larry. I would be aware of Larry and Meridith for the simple fact that they will tell you many stories about being owners but it isn't true at all. We would never partner with anyone without tattoo industry experience. Neither Larry or Meridith have any shop experience.

What should be included in a Tattoo Apprenticeship?

Many individuals have been contacting me asking what a Tattoo Apprenticeship involves and how long it takes before they can start tattooing. Here at Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo we believe in taking a more involved approach when it comes to training compared to other Tattoo Shops. We believe the following has to be included in any training program.

1. A organized class participation outline

2. Hands on Experience

Each week the shop holds a class where the apprentices come together for a 2 hour class and learn about a variety of subjects. As an example our apprentices will be spending the next few weeks on Cash Flow. Some ask if they are here to learn how to tattoo then why should that subject be something they are learning in an apprenticeship program? The answer I would give to that is real simple.  I do not train individuals to work for me forever. I want them to go out and start their own shops one day, I want them while they are working with Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo to be able to go out there and promote themselves which in turn means they are running their own business while contracting with us for space.

Our school system does not teach financial education which is a shame. That is why you see must people in debt and trying to make ends meet paycheck by paycheck. The Tattoo Business is some kind of monster. It has it's ups and downs, it's feast or famine in the industry. Most people think that artist make tons of money. Yes that can be the case if your smart and run it as a business that depends on your abilities to achieve a set a of goals. Yes I could just put apprentices through the same program most places use. But is it helping train someone for what is really out there in the industry? No it isn't. How can someone be successful in the industry without basic financial education? They can't.

Some other things we have in our program is an extensive amount of Health and Anatomy. I must hit on Bloodborne Pathogens a hundred times a class and during the practical aspect of the Apprenticeship. This is because just like a hospital setting a tattoo shop if not maintained or staff educated can lead to some really bad stuff creeping around. A tattoo shop must be maintained better then a surgical room or doctors office. That takes training every time to drill that into someones head. Our Anatomy class is a month long program that covers everything from nerve and blood vessel location to CPR and First Aid. It is important for an artist to know the locations of important vessels or nerves on someones body before performing a tattoo or piercing.

Last but not least you have to get the hands on experience with everything you learn in class. This can be tracing 1000's of flash designs to making a business plan for your future shop. Our program takes a year to get by the educational part before putting you on an additional 1 year probationary period. In total it's a two year process. You have to be very dedicated to finishing the program or usually it's just a waste of time on both of our parts. If your interested in learning more about the apprenticeship program at Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo visit our website at http://www.aberrationink.com or stop by the shop at 611 Blackhawk Blvd in South Beloit.

Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo Is Illinois State Certified

Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo has received it's Illinois Department of Public Health Certification!!!! What's this all mean? Aberration Tattoo has passed a stringent process in which tattoo shops in the State of Illinois must now pass in order for the shop to remain open. All artist must be Bloodborne Pathogen Certified, the shop must meet the requirements of sanitation set forth by the Department of Public Health. Aberration Tattoo is proud of complying with the new Illinois Tattoo and Piercing Laws. It keeps the good shops open and the bad ones closed.

What are they Thinking?

Nancy Pelosi is set to become the Democratic Party Minority Leader. What the the Democrats thinking? They just got whooped in the last election because the people said that they didn't like what was happening to this country. The people don't like the spending these Democrats went on the past two years and they said it was enough by giving the Republicans the control of the house and almost the whole Senate.

This should show the American people just how screwed up Politicians think. They are in their own little world, power hungry and looking out for their best interest. Nancy Pelosi is the kind of person who cares nothing more then her image and how much control she can get. If elected to be the Minority Party Leader the Democrats will be looking at the defeat of the White House as well as both chambers. The American People are fed up with this non-sense in Washington. The Tea Party has proven that this election cycle. Already the Republicans are moving to kill earmarks and cut taxes. They are the ones with he wind to their back.

Obama is already looking at a crushing defeat no matter what in 2012 and this doesn't help him throwing support behind Pelosi. After all it was her used in half the Republican campaigns to defeat Democratic Runners. I believe the democratic party has been torn apart by these socialist thinking people and until the rest of the democrats stand up and say "Enough is Enough" their party will become less and less viable because the American People are just sick and tired of everything they are about.

The Past-The Present- The Future

I've been personally tattooing since 1994. Back then the stigma of tattoos and piercings was just starting to lift from the old just bikers,convicts and military just got them. The one thing that took a while was the bloodborne pathogen education to really start taking hold. Back then everyone worried about AIDS but since no documented case of the virus being transfered everyone was still dumb when it came to Hep or other types of infections such as staph. I still remember when artist would tattoo without gloves. Talk about a risky business back then.

The art and types of ink we had was way different then it is now. Just like their wasn't many places to go to get a tattoo, supply places to get inks and needles were also in short demand. Moms was the staple of the industry and back then it wasn't really all that good as it is today. Mom's ink today is some of the brightest stuff on the block. Back then tattooist use to use a jigger to make their own needles then use a autoclave to sterilize them and go straight to work.

Most of the tattooing back then was done either at the shop or someone with skill would tattoo you out of the house. Most were called scratchers because they didn't complete the apprenticeships the shops offered. Problem was without that many shops back then those apprenticeships were few far and between. Today the problem of scratching is rampant with the advent of the internet. Anyone can go and buy a kit off Ebay and just start going at it on someone. The biggest problem I see with this is that they have no training in Bloodborne Pathogens. It is the health side of the industry that most people have no clue. There is some nasty stuff out there that can be passed. Yes tattooing is an art form. Yes it is a lifelong journey to get it right. But safety has to be the most important aspect of it.

Back when I started out the Art of tattooing was still in the stone age. Our lining techniques as well as shading techniques were just basic at best. Nowadays artist are doing full color portraits on people. The inks are just out of this world. I've recently changed from Star Bright to Intense. The difference is just amazing. In the future I just can imagine what will be headed our way. Now we have the disposable tools in which to use. No more autoclaving like in the past. Personally I see no reason why if these disposables are here why any other shop in this country would go with metals any more. One time use is the norm and the risks to someones safety is greatly reduced. With the autoclavable barrels or forceps there is still a chance something can be passed. Now with disposable unless some artist is just a pig the chance of something being passed is erased.

The future of tattooing should be very exciting considering all the technology out there. Machines are being developed different from the old coil based machine. Different art techniques are being brought in by the younger generation. I'm waiting for when lasers will be used for tattooing lol. But in the meantime safety remains the biggest issue. Make sure that as a customer you are aware of the artist and the safety of the procedure. Tattooing has been around for millions of years and should be around for as long as the human race remains. Safety must always be the first thing not only on the customers mind, but also the artist.




http://www.aberrationink.com

How can you do $10 Tattoos and $10 Piercings?

Here at Aberration Tattoo we always get the question "What can you get for only $10?" Aberration Pro Custom Tattoos has over 30 different styles of Kangi (Chinese Writing) name tattoos (Actual Edwardian Script 72 Font Size) sheets of flash with $10 Tattoos. We also have plenty of other tattoos that are our daily special such as praying hands, paw prints and a whole lot more.

Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo is a leader in being innovative in the Tattoo industry. Other shops are upset because we drive down prices. Aberration feels it should be on the side of the consumer. Tattoos and Piercings have been over priced for so long it was time for a shop to be proactive in helping all the hard working individuals a chance to get a work of art

The economy today has been rough on everyone. The Tattoo industry still hasn't evolved with the times. Competition is rampant in other industries, Why not the Tattoo Industry? Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo will always be on the cutting edge to promote our industry in a good light. When it comes to the customer you can always know that we have your back.

Time to take a stand against Pitbull Dogfighting

The Pitbull breed has been so misinterpreted in the media it's sickening. Yes the Pitbull is part of the bully breed. Yes they are the number one animals used in the dogfighting arena. But is that the breeds fault? The answer is no! It's low life want to be gangsters and individuals who get their rocks off on trying to make money off of the animals blood. I would really love to have these individuals put into a ring and make them fight to the death while we sat around cheering and betting on who was going to die first.

I'm an owner of a pitbull named Harley. She is a wonderful vibrant one year old American Pitbull who was rescued off the street and became a very close member of the family. She represents everything that the Pitbull breed is all about. Shes cuddles better then the wife does LOL! She is always right there to cheer you up when you are down. But most of all she has given my children someone who is close, playful, and someone to love. My 7 year old is her best buddy and she loves being around him all the time.

A Pitbull is more loyal and playful then most breeds of dogs. You would never guess this because the media has made them into monsters because off what idiot people train them to do. It's sickening to see that the media will only pay attention when a Pitbull is involved in a bad activity. It's up to us Pitbull owners to stand up and speak for a breed that has got a raw deal all these years.

I say it's time to circulate petitions or bug the hell out of our representatives to make it a serious felony to be caught dogfighting. Make the penalty really hurt those who wish to make money off the blood of these lovely animals. If ever there was a cause to be involved in this would be the one. Why should an innocent dog be put through the torture it endures because we have idiots out there getting their rocks off?

Politicians only listen to the masses. Join in the campaign to get tougher laws on Dog Fighting. Write your representatives and get them to pass laws for tougher penalties. Get involved with your local Pitbull rescue by donating time, resources to these great organizations. Lets speak up for those that can't speak for themselves.

The Government for the People by the People

I talked to a friend today about what was happening in the world today as far as how the political climate has changed in the last 20 years. Her answer was she really didn't care about politics and what the government was doing. That seems to be the norm now. People feel as though it's not in their best interest anymore to take an active stance in their community or their government. This can be the most important single reason why we have seen crime, unemployment and a host of other modern worries everyone faces each day skyrocket the last 20 years.

When the individual becomes uninvolved in his/her community you only have a handful of others that make the decisions that affect the masses. I use to be a Republican. I own a small business and it was always important that taxes were in line for me so I could make a living. Another important issue was that of Health Care for everyone. I once heard a Republican commentator say that it was not a "right" to have insurance but a privlage. Well that idiotic thinking turned me away from the Republicans right away. The Democrats on the other hand are notorious for raising taxes. President Obama likes to spread the wealth to those who are needy. Like a small business that is built on sweat and hard work likes giving it's profits to someone else that hasn't worked for it. So the Democrat Party was out for me.

The problem that we face as Americans is the reality that the two party system is broken. I now consider myself an independent who votes for the person that closely relates to the issues I care about. I know it's dam hard for that to happen, but they are out there. We witnessed this year the Tea Party rise against the political machine. Hopefully those individuals that won election will stand behind their platforms. More importantly we as the citizens of the United States need to get involved.We need to get involved with whats going on in government. Yes everyone deserves Healthcare. Yes it's a right for everyone to be covered. No it's not right the politicians on the right passing it off as socialist policies. Here's a solution to get everyone covered without hurting the national budget without being a socialist policy. STOP sending billions of our tax payer dollars in foreign aid to other countries and instead invest in our peoples health care. They fought for it, they died for it, they earned the right to health care.

And to the Democrats interested in sharing the wealth. Stop raising our taxes to spend the money on bail outs and programs that are failures. You cannot have an economic recovery with taxing the very people that hire and have direct influence on the unemployment rate. You cannot spend yourselves out of an economic recession. No it's not right nor is it American to spread the wealth. That is insane and idiotic way of looking at solving problems.

Politicians if they work together can always find common ground. Take out wanting to get re-elected and actually working for the people and I know that things in this country can get done. If the politicians can't get it done then it's our job as citizens to vote them out of office just like this past midterm elections. America is a great country. Our system works. But without the involved citizens of this country being directly involved then the ideas our great country was founded on will be replaced with money and power hungry idealist. I still have hope that those who say it's not a care in the world to them what the government does will one day wake up and realize before it's too late- Yes it is your responsibility to care.

New Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo School Opening

With the ever growing interest in Tattooing and Body Piercings these days a growing trend has emerged. People will go onto Ebay or Craigslist and buy a tattoo kit. Then they go out and tattoo on people without having a clue of what they are doing and what dangers await them and their clients. Apprenticeships are very hard to find now a days and cost lots of money where most people can't afford it.

Aberration Tattoo decided to solve these problems by offering training from pro artists in a school/shop location that will afford individuals to receive the proper training at a price they can afford. We are now enrolling students in our new Tattoo and Body Piercing School located in South Beloit Illinois. The course will run for a year in which the student will learn everything from drawing skills, Business Management, Human Anatomy and more. The student will also receive time in the shop on a weekly basis to observe and practice what he/she has learned.

The cost of the program is $25 per week. This will includes a two hour class and 2 days in the shop. This is for those only who are dedicated and want to learn how to be a professional tattoo and body piercer. After the class completes in a year. If your attendance and work is good then you will be offered a probationary position with the shop or you can take the skills you've learned to another shop or start your own business. When you leave the class you will be able to go to new heights in the industry knowing you completed a bona fide apprenticeship program. This class is not like the 4 or 5 week courses you see on the internet. No one and I mean no one can learn the trade in that time. It's more then just picking up a machine and tattooing people. If your interested in enrolling or have more questions give us a call at 779-475-0750 or email us james@aberrationink.com


Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo
"Home of the $10 Tattoos and $10 Piercings"
www.aberrationink.com

Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo: How our logo came about

Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo: How our logo came about: "As everyone knows our logo is of a Pitbull. Pitbulls are the most misunderstood dogs out there. Our pitbull was rescued from the streets whe..."

How our logo came about

As everyone knows our logo is of a Pitbull. Pitbulls are the most misunderstood dogs out there. Our pitbull was rescued from the streets when she was only 9 months old. At first the wife was very scared to have the dog around the kids and the house because of all the negative things she heard about the breed. I would always tell her that it was the idiot owners that gave the dog a bad name. Sometimes I wish I could put the idiots that dog fight into the ring and let them fight it out like the poor dogs had to and see how they liked it.

Pitbulls are the most loyal dog I've owned. Let me tell you I've owned many. My Pitbull Harley is more of a lap dog, she loves to cuddle and be around humans. She lives with two other dogs Dakota (Siberian Husky) and Molly (Ankle Bitter). She gets along with them great!! Other dogs are another story. The breed has it in them to be protective over their turf. Most dogs are like that but Pits have more of that protective instinct bred in them.

Harley has been a great addition to the family. My kids are in love with her-she plays all day with them and at night you can find her cuddled up in the bed snoring away. It's a shame that these lovable dogs have gotten such a bad rap. It's the dam owners who make the breed bad. Following simple rules can make a Pitbull a welcome addition to a family.

1. If other dogs are in the house make sure that they are properly introduced.
2. Make sure you and every member of the family displays a leader of the pack attitude.
3. Socialize socialize your Pitbull around other humans.

3 Simple things can really help a Pitbull make a wonderful pet and friend who is loyal and expects just a belly rub to be happy.

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LA INK or other Tattoo Programs

Around the tattoo scene you will hear lots of bitching about Kat Von D or other artist that appear on the programs. The bitching is coming from within the profession mainly artist. Why you bitching? Miami Ink was one of the first shows to bring tattooing to the mainstream then from there LA INK. Without those popular shows tattooing could of remained in the bottom of the barrel in society. Those fantastic artist brought tattooing into the modern age. With tattooing coming out into the open laws regulating the industry finally started surfacing in Illinois.

Illinois passed a more stringent law in Sept 2008 and the enforcement of the laws have finally started coming around. Before taking over our present location at 611 Blackhawk Blvd in South Beloit this place would've never been able to pass a state inspection. One of the reasons I believe the operator shut it down. What the health regulations do is force the operators of the shop to be sanitary and responsible. The tattoo industry has come a long way since the dark ages. No longer is it bikers, convicts or military getting them. Thanks to Kat Von D and others the industry has gone mainstream with Doctors, CEOS, and other high profile people getting into the action.

So all you tattoo artist out there who like complaining about Kat or Cory Miller-take notice. They are the main pushers behind this industry coming into it's own. Now it's our responsibility keeping it mainstream. Keep up on the local laws, be responsible and know limits of your abilities. Don't always be about the money and treat your customers with respect. The industry should grow from there if we do our best to keep it real.

www.aberrationink.com

Tattoo shop compared to Home Tattoo Parties

Imagine if you were sick and wanted to get better. Would you go to a person with no medical training or some witch doctor? No you go to a professional who has the training and experience to help you with your problem. What amazes me is the total disregard people have when it comes to letting just anyone tattoo or pierce their bodies. Did you know that almost all artist in a shop has completed at least 2 years of an apprenticeship under a trained artist? Did you also know that those tattoo parties being ran out of someones your house probably bought their equipment off of ebay and started scratching on people without any training.

Individuals are putting their health and the risk of bad art in the hands of an untrained professional. Again would you go to a witch doctor to make you better? Then why go to someone with no training in the field? Another big thing people don't look at is just because  a person claims to use disposable needles and barrels doesn't mean your safe. Cross contamination occurs such as bacteria from everyday living that can cause some major health risks to a person getting tattooed.

At a shop everything is disinfected on a daily basis with such stuff as Madacide-A hospital grade chemical that kills virus and bacteria that can get pretty nasty if in the body. Don't treat your body to something you will regret by going to someones house for a tattoo. Go to a studio that is certified and have artist who know how to deal with sterilization.

All artist at Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo have completed an apprenticeship-certified in a OHSA Blood borne Pathogen course. Visit us at 611 Blackhawk Blvd in South Beloit. And yes we book tattoo parties but the difference is we have them at the shop in a safe and clean environment.

Website address updated and the new move

Aberration Tattoo has just launched it's new website so customers can navigate easier and book appointments easier. Visit us online at www.aberrationink.com to check it out.

On a more important note Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo completed it's move to 611 Blackhawk Blvd in South Beloit. Everyone is excited about being closer to the Stateline and serving both the Rockford and Beloit Areas. We've been getting an overwhelming response to our opening and would like to thank all of our customers for coming out and seeing us.

Aberration Pro Custom Tattoo Opening November 3rd at new South Beloit Location

We've completed the move from Belvidere and were setting up the shop at the new location at 611 BlawkHawk Blvd in South Beloit. We will reopen on November 3rd at noon. We still have the same great artist and the same great prices. Come on down and see us as we bring our ink slinging skills to the South Beloit Area.

Funny how the tattoo industry works

Since opening Aberration Tattoo in Belvidere I've been really able to gauge how the other shops work in the Rockford Area. Ever since coming on the scene in this area our customers have been just the best anyone could ever dream of. We've been greeted by some of the best people, done a lot of great pieces with meaning attached to them. We've been able to hear stories and share in the experience with our customers.

Now to the other shops in the area. It's funny how when Aberration brought a little of Chicago flavor to the area how up in arms the other shops got when  we moved in. We have shops down the street that try coping every move we make. They try copying the specials we have but with no success. The reason why they have no success is because they cannot compete with the quality of art that comes out of our shop. All Aberration Artist have a minimum of 5 years in a shop atmosphere. All artist have to had completed a shop apprenticeship under a Master Tattoo Artist. Now a days most people don't look at the training of their artist. They automatically think because they walk into a tattoo shop that the artist that tattoos them has the training needed to perform the tattoo they thought long and hard about.

Well now a days since tattooing has been so popular every one has went on Ebay purchased a bunch of equipment and called themselves artist. No formal training, half ass drawing skills and some money to open a storefront. Well guess what we are starting to see all over? People walking around with tattoos that are just horrible, scarred and infected. Being an artist is not just drawing or tracing on a stencil. Being sanitary in your craft is the biggest and most important thing in the industry. The disease that can be passed through unsanitary means is a laundry list. Some of the things are Hepatitis, Staph, possibly AIDS!!! It's our responsibility as artist to convey to the public the risks involved going to a non license shop.

What is a License Shop? It's not going online and getting a certification from a online Blood borne Pathogen training. Anyone can do that!!! The State of Illinois now has a program in which all shops must pass a yearly inspection by the Health Department. Make sure you ask your tattoo shop if they are certified by the State of Illinois. You can do this by calling your local Health Department or asking to see their certification. Those who are certified will have nothing to hide. Be willing to show you around their shop and see the instruments they use. They will educate you on your decision for the best tattoo and placement.

So next time you are looking into your next tattoo make sure to shop around and make sure the shop is clean and certified. Check us out at www.aberrationink.com to learn more about our shop and how we can make your next tattoo or piercing experience something to remember.

Roll with WHO??

Its funny how prices work in the tattoo industry. Here you have artist who think they are a Kat Von D or Leonardo. So now they think they can charge you the customer $100 an hour or $500 for a piece that should run you $100. We moved out of Chicago and into the Rockford Area to provide the customer a reliable and safe shop that frankly isn't going to spill you a bunch of crap about how good we are and thus have to charge premium dollar for it. Some of the shops around this area are charging fees that even the best in the industry isn't getting. Don't be fooled by shops advertising on the radio how good they are or how they are the best around. I've seen the work most shops in this area put out and let me tell you it isn't all worth no $100 an hour or even $65 an hour. Aberration Tattoo has artist that have completed a minimum of 2 years in an apprenticeship and 1 year probationary period. Other shops employ artist that go online and buy a tattoo kit and call themselves artist. We have a shop in town that should by no means have the doors open. Aberration has had to fix numerous tattoos from this shop and it's quiet scary that its still has its doors open to the public.

So we encourage anyone looking to get a tat or piercing to do research before just walking into any old shop. Check for their State License, ask for a tour of the shop. Make sure your making an informed decision. And o yea shop around for the best price. Don't believe a radio ad and think they have the best artist. You'll be in for an experience you won't be to happy with. Come visit us at Aberration Tattoo and check out the work and ask for a price on drawing you up that custom piece.


815-975-9049

Aberration Tattoo

Aberration Tattoo is located in Belvidere Illinois. "Home of the $10 Tattoo and $5 Piercing" Owned and Operated by a Chicago Tattoo Artist who believes that people shouldn't have to pay huge amounts of money to get Tattooed or Pierced. The shop is 100% disposable and artist are certified in Bloodborne Pathogens. Our new website is www.aberrationink.com . We will be blogging and letting our customers know what Our daily specials are and whats happening around the shop.