Elmer's Tattoo

     White lace floral curtains are typically found at a grandmother's home but this isn't a visit to grandma's. Elmer's tattoo has both display windows covered with them, making it impossible to view through. Although, a neon sign reads ''TATTOO'' stuck to the left display window. Situated on the white wooden door reads "Elmer's Tattooing

Tattoo ideas to flip through

" in thick cursive. Three concrete steps lead to the entrance of this small red bricked shop. Both right and left walls look protected in laminated tattoo ideas. The white paint shows no sign of dullness due to the contrast. Countless designs stare in from all angles which range from traditional, animals, nature, and mystical creatures. "What can I help you with today?" Elmer asks as he cleans up his station. This bald, older man sleeved with ink on both arms sends a very laid back demeanor that allows friendliness to be reciprocated. 
     The counter wasn't glass as most shops have, this wooden counter has black and white tattoos for decoration. These counter designs follow a Religious and Christianity theme. Similar to a family's physician office, a bucket of lollipops rests on top. Three thick photo albums hugged in leather sit beside the bucket, inside reveals Elmer's work on skin. Elmer shows his traditional, geometric, religious, and abstract art in the photo albums. He does it all except for finger tattoos, "I'd rather not mess it up and have customers unhappy with the future result" he claims. He knows his strengths and weaknesses considering that he's been tattooing since 1982.

Counter tattoo 

      Two black fold-able chairs await for customers on the far right next to the copper wall blocking the drawing table. Elmer's station contains numerous ink bottles including brights blues, reds, yellows, and even greens. On the small shelf screwed above lay boxes of plastic wrap and a latex glove box. The most patient man sits at Elmer's station while he peels the stencil on him, it's not much after the tattoo gun begins to buzz. The buzzing ceases once Elmer releases his foot off the pedal. 
     They start conversation about fishing and explain past experiences on their catches. Their voices blending in with the soft playing country music and AC unit noise in the background. Elmer focuses but also looks in his comfort zone as he inserts ink into the man's wrist. He feels as though this is his home, after eighteen years of owning his shop. He loves making people feel at ease as well. 
     A group of young girls walk in and two of them request a tattoo. Both of them decided to trust Elmer with their first tattoos. The first girl became nervous but Elmer consoles her with "it kind of just feels like a burning sensation." As she's laying down exposing her ribs, Elmer traces a line on her stencil so she could get a feel for it. "It's not that bad!" she yells. After a quick 5 minutes, her small body art is instilled in her rib. She loves it and her friends do too. 
     Clearly, Elmer loves what he does and encourages his customers to ask questions. Soon after customers walk in he provides ideas, estimates, and honesty. Prices at Elmer's Tattoo are ridiculously low because no deposit is required. "I only go by the size of the tattoo" Elmer states. This shop has no family heritage but Elmer sure does run a great shop on his own. The work ethic, attitude, and honesty he offers makes for a nice scene while acquiring self expression through the flesh.