79 Best Tattoo Books of All Time
We've researched and ranked the best tattoo books in the world, based on recommendations from world experts, sales data, and millions of reader ratings. Learn more
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In April 1942, Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew, is forcibly transported to the concentration camps at Auschwitz-Birkenau. When his captors discover that he speaks several languages, he is put to work as a Tätowierer (the German word for tattooist), tasked with permanently marking his fellow prisoners.
Imprisoned for over two and a half years, Lale witnesses horrific atrocities and barbarism—but also incredible acts of bravery and compassion. Risking his own life, he uses his privileged position to exchange jewels and money from murdered Jews for food to keep his fellow prisoners... more
Imprisoned for over two and a half years, Lale witnesses horrific atrocities and barbarism—but also incredible acts of bravery and compassion. Risking his own life, he uses his privileged position to exchange jewels and money from murdered Jews for food to keep his fellow prisoners... more
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Looking to level-up your art and impress your clients and peers?
Skulls & Anatomy, Copyright Free Vintage Illustrations for Artists & Designers is a collection of 180 high quality, digitised, anatomical drawings for use in personal or commercial creative projects. This is an essential resource to take your art and design to the next level and give you a competitive advantage over your peers.
Vault Editions' team of professional designers and illustrators have spent a lifetime hunting and restoring vintage woodcuts and engravings from around the... more
Skulls & Anatomy, Copyright Free Vintage Illustrations for Artists & Designers is a collection of 180 high quality, digitised, anatomical drawings for use in personal or commercial creative projects. This is an essential resource to take your art and design to the next level and give you a competitive advantage over your peers.
Vault Editions' team of professional designers and illustrators have spent a lifetime hunting and restoring vintage woodcuts and engravings from around the... more
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Whether you are preparing for your first tattoo or your twenty-seventh, you need artwork and designs that are just-right. Tattoo Bible, authored by Superior Tattoo, provides well over 500 pieces of unique flash art. Everything is here, from Hearts to Dragons, tattoo designs that range from traditional to the avant-garde. Tattoo Bible includes flash never before compiled in one single book. While most tattoo books available today concentrate on one specific genre, this book covers many different genres and the ideas are endless. This is not just a book to add to your collection - this is your... more
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Tattoo Tarot is a beautifully illustrated, fully functional set of 78 tarot cards featuring vintage tattoo designs.
This set of fully functional tarot cards is based on traditional tarot iconography as interpreted by MEGAMUNDEN, author of Tattoo Postcards and the best–selling Tattoo Colouring Book.
The set contains the 78 cards of the tarot deck, luxuriously packaged in a gift box. A 28–page booklet explains how to interpret the cards and conduct your own readings, gaining a fascinating insight into what lies ahead and a fresh perspective on... more
This set of fully functional tarot cards is based on traditional tarot iconography as interpreted by MEGAMUNDEN, author of Tattoo Postcards and the best–selling Tattoo Colouring Book.
The set contains the 78 cards of the tarot deck, luxuriously packaged in a gift box. A 28–page booklet explains how to interpret the cards and conduct your own readings, gaining a fascinating insight into what lies ahead and a fresh perspective on... more
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Harriet Vanger, a scion of one of Sweden’s wealthiest families disappeared over forty years ago. All these years later, her aged uncle continues to seek the truth. He hires Mikael Blomkvist, a crusading journalist recently trapped by a libel conviction, to investigate. He is aided by the pierced and tattooed punk prodigy Lisbeth Salander. Together they tap into a vein of unfathomable iniquity and astonishing corruption.
An international publishing sensation, Stieg Larsson’s The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo combines murder mystery, family saga, love story, and financial intrigue into... more
An international publishing sensation, Stieg Larsson’s The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo combines murder mystery, family saga, love story, and financial intrigue into... more
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#1 New York Times Bestseller
"Amy Schumer's book will make you love her even more. For a comedian of unbridled (and generally hilarious) causticity, Schumer has written a probing, confessional, unguarded, and, yes, majorly humanizing non-memoir, a book that trades less on sarcasm, and more on emotional resonance." —Vogue
"The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo is an alternatingly meditative, sexually explicit, side-splittingly hilarious, heart-wrenching, disturbing, passionately political, and always staggeringly authentic ride through... more
"Amy Schumer's book will make you love her even more. For a comedian of unbridled (and generally hilarious) causticity, Schumer has written a probing, confessional, unguarded, and, yes, majorly humanizing non-memoir, a book that trades less on sarcasm, and more on emotional resonance." —Vogue
"The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo is an alternatingly meditative, sexually explicit, side-splittingly hilarious, heart-wrenching, disturbing, passionately political, and always staggeringly authentic ride through... more
Recommended by Emma Watson, and 1 others. 8
The newest installment of the -Superior Tattoo Bible- series has been in the works for a while since we have amassed countless lettering submissions throughout the years. With an exponential number of tattoo designs that include lettering, we thought it time to come out with an entire book devoted to letters and banners. Superior has put out several small books on a variety of lettering styles that have been well received. To date, thousands of these books have been purchased or downloaded. But, why flip through several books to find the perfect font? When your customer wants his or her loved... more
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AMAZON BEST SELLER 2016-2019! Best Selling Adult & All Ages Coloring Books by Hannah Lynn Color the day away with the Tattoo Darlings! Inspired by Artist Hannah Lynn's popular Whimsy Girls, these beauties are each adorned with tattoos in a variety of fun themes for all ages! This ultimate collection coloring book features *40* adorable girls from Hannah's hand drawn illustrations, each printed single-sided! Suitable for all ages, but intended for adults and older children due to the detail. Designs range from moderate to challenging in this book. True to the artist's personal style, the... more
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From delicate roses to majestic animals, from steampunk to Celtic, from fairies to Mayan warriors, this comprehensive collection of original artwork presents all of today's most popular tattoo subjects. If you're inspired to make a permanent personal statement with artwork that is truly artwork, these tattoo-friendly designs are just what you're looking for. Nationally recognized graphic designer Lora S. Irish looks at the human body with an artist’s eye, to create designs that look great on skin. Her exquisite patterns strike the perfect balance between artistic vision and the practical... more
Don't have time to read the top Tattoo books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
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Thinking of getting a Japanese-style tattoo? Want to avoid a permanent mistake? Japanese Tattoos is an insider's look at the world of Japanese irezumi (tattoos).
Japanese Tattoos explains the imagery featured in Japanese tattoos so that readers can avoid getting ink they don't understand or, worse, that they'll regret. This photo-heavy book also traces the history of Japanese tattooing, putting the iconography and kanji symbols in their proper context so readers will be better informed as to what they mean and have a deeper understanding of... more
Japanese Tattoos explains the imagery featured in Japanese tattoos so that readers can avoid getting ink they don't understand or, worse, that they'll regret. This photo-heavy book also traces the history of Japanese tattooing, putting the iconography and kanji symbols in their proper context so readers will be better informed as to what they mean and have a deeper understanding of... more
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Vintage Tattoo Flash is a one-of-a-kind visual exploration of the history and evolution of tattooing in America. A luscious, offset-printed, hardcover tome—a beautiful and serious addition to the understanding of one of the world’s oldest and most popular art forms.
Electric tattooing as we know it today was invented in New York City at the turn of the 19th century. In the first days of American tattooing, tattoos were primarily worn by sailors and soldiers, outlaws and outsiders. The visual language of what came to be known as “traditional tattooing” was developed in those... more
Electric tattooing as we know it today was invented in New York City at the turn of the 19th century. In the first days of American tattooing, tattoos were primarily worn by sailors and soldiers, outlaws and outsiders. The visual language of what came to be known as “traditional tattooing” was developed in those... more
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The best way to learn to tattoo is as an apprentice, but some things you should know going into the situation. Just because we stress an apprenticeship does not mean that this 240+ page manual is lacking by any means! Basic Fundamentals of Modern Tattoo covers everything from how to build a tattoo machine to what types of needle configurations are best for each task. The best part of the book is that you get access to www.TeachMeToTattoo.com an interactive website designed specifically for the book. Where you can ask... more
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Tattoos have gone from badges of rebellion to fashion statements fully absorbed into mainstream culture. They are enjoying a renaissance, with graphic designers and artists creating specialty tattoos for a growing audience, unleashing a revival of interest in the bawdy vintage tattoo. Old school tattoos are being rediscovered (sometimes ironically, sometimes not) by a new generation. Originally embraced by rebels, sailors, and gangsters, these tattoos—broken hearts, naked girls, floral motifs, and maritime emblems—are now showing up on the fashion runway and in music videos. This book... more
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Are you unhappy? You’re not alone. Unhappiness stalks us all, from that first painful slap in the delivery room to the final sorrow of a graveside service. Rather than attempt to alleviate or rise above life's trauma, the Crap Hound Big Book of Unhappiness instead enthusiastically catalogs popular culture's attempts to illustrate, channel, and finally exploit our anxieties. Editor Sean Tejaratchi arranges this monumental tome with an artful eye, documenting and teasing out the patterns in popular depictions of human suffering. Between a brief introduction and the end credits, The CrapHound... more
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"A perfect gift for anyone who loves ink or is looking for inspiration for their next tattoo, this book is filled with enough unique designs to satisfy all fans of body art." Buzzfeed
"Fill these incredible tattoo illustrations – from the traditional to the more elaborate – with ink of your choice" Creative Bloq
Packed with stunning illustrations, this unique coloring book celebrates the art of the tattoo. The tattoo designs – all specially drawn for the book – range from traditional motifs – hearts, sailors, girls, skulls, roses – to more elaborate... more
"Fill these incredible tattoo illustrations – from the traditional to the more elaborate – with ink of your choice" Creative Bloq
Packed with stunning illustrations, this unique coloring book celebrates the art of the tattoo. The tattoo designs – all specially drawn for the book – range from traditional motifs – hearts, sailors, girls, skulls, roses – to more elaborate... more
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BEST GIFT IDEA 2018 -SPECIAL LAUNCH PRICE (WHILE STOCKS LAST!!!! )
Fun! Fun! Fun!
Let your creativity run wild!
30 Original Artist Designs, High Resolution
A Gorgeous Tattoo Coloring Book!!!
*Printed on one side of the paper
*Incredibly Fun and Relaxing less
Fun! Fun! Fun!
Let your creativity run wild!
30 Original Artist Designs, High Resolution
A Gorgeous Tattoo Coloring Book!!!
*Printed on one side of the paper
*Incredibly Fun and Relaxing less
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Discover your perfect tattoos here, from more than 1,000 designs!
These days, it seems like everybody—male, female, young, and old—wants a tattoo. But choosing the right design isn’t always easy. Tattoo Johnny to the rescue! Culled from the world’s leading tattoo Web site, this in-depth resource offers more than 1,000 designs in a wide range of styles, all by renowned artists: angels, devils, flowers, pirates, pin-ups, religious images, stars, zodiac signs, and more. Whether readers are getting their first tattoo, or a second, third, or tenth, this is the ideal place... more
These days, it seems like everybody—male, female, young, and old—wants a tattoo. But choosing the right design isn’t always easy. Tattoo Johnny to the rescue! Culled from the world’s leading tattoo Web site, this in-depth resource offers more than 1,000 designs in a wide range of styles, all by renowned artists: angels, devils, flowers, pirates, pin-ups, religious images, stars, zodiac signs, and more. Whether readers are getting their first tattoo, or a second, third, or tenth, this is the ideal place... more
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Occasionally a book is published that reveals a subculture you never dreamt existed. More rarely, that book goes on to become a phenomenon of its own. The 2004 publication of the "Russian Criminal Tattoo Encyclopaedia" was such a phenomenon, spawning two further volumes and alerting a fascinated readership worldwide to the extraordinary and hermetic world of Russian criminal tattoos (David Cronenberg, for example, made regular use of the "Encyclopaedia" during the making of his 2007 movie "Eastern Promises"). Now, Fuel has reprinted volume one of this bestselling series, whose first edition... more
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Body art meets popular science in this elegant, mind-blowing collection, written by renowned science writer Carl Zimmer. Showcasing hundreds of eye-catching tattoos that pay tribute to various scientific disciplines, from evolutionary biology and neuroscience to mathematics and astrophysics, Science Ink reveals the stories of the individuals who chose to inscribe their obsessions in their skin. Best of all, each tattoo provides a leaping-off point for bestselling essayist and lecturer Zimmer to reflect on the science in question, whether it's the importance of an image of Darwin's... more
Geoffrey MillerPPS The book 'Science Ink' by @carlzimmer is a fascinating look at scientists' science-themed tattoos. https://t.co/YDTsO4uUPq (Source)
Natasha Mitchell@Constababble Yes and it's in @carlzimmer's beautiful book, if you haven't seen Carl's book you will love it https://t.co/FiOAOWw5Na (Source)
Don't have time to read the top Tattoo books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
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"Filled with a vibrant and varied collection of tattoo flash for you to color in" – Things and Ink
MEGAMUNDEN, creator of the best–selling The Tattoo Coloring Book, takes adult coloring books to the next level in this stunning collection of tattoo art. More than 60 interactive coloring pages of elaborate flash sheets depict themes from ghost trains to Venice Beach, pinball to pin–ups, with all artwork drawn specially for the book. Use felt tip pens to add bright colors or a black pen with a fine nib to create your own details. Includes a full–color, pull–out... more
MEGAMUNDEN, creator of the best–selling The Tattoo Coloring Book, takes adult coloring books to the next level in this stunning collection of tattoo art. More than 60 interactive coloring pages of elaborate flash sheets depict themes from ghost trains to Venice Beach, pinball to pin–ups, with all artwork drawn specially for the book. Use felt tip pens to add bright colors or a black pen with a fine nib to create your own details. Includes a full–color, pull–out... more
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The world's best, most innovative, creative tattoo art.
New works from over forty of the most ground breaking and up-and-coming tattoo designers are featured in this highly curated collection. Aimed at profiling the next generation of skin art, the selected artists are at the forefront of where tattoo art is going and display a wide degree of diversity in terms of geographic origin, culture, race, and gender.
Among the artists and designers included are are Scott Campbell, Sasha Unisex, Tea Leigh, Johnny Gloom, Tati Compton (a.k.a. Tati Fox), Georgia Grey, Lauren... more
New works from over forty of the most ground breaking and up-and-coming tattoo designers are featured in this highly curated collection. Aimed at profiling the next generation of skin art, the selected artists are at the forefront of where tattoo art is going and display a wide degree of diversity in terms of geographic origin, culture, race, and gender.
Among the artists and designers included are are Scott Campbell, Sasha Unisex, Tea Leigh, Johnny Gloom, Tati Compton (a.k.a. Tati Fox), Georgia Grey, Lauren... more
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Another addition to the bestselling Just Add Color adult coloring book series! Coloring has taken its place at the grown up's table as a legitimate form of artistic expression, right along with painting and drawing. In Tattoos, you'll be enthralled with hours of coloring fun as you create your own masterpiece out of these inspiring tattoo designs. This book offers more than 120 gorgeous pull-out illustrations ready to be brought to life, including tribal, nature, magical creatures, fairytales, script & lettering, and more. It's so relaxing and fun that even the most mature... more
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Tattooing is a very old and spiritually respected art form that has existed in many different cultures around the world. After many centuries of not being practiced in Europe, tattooing was re-introduced to the Western world through the inhabitants of the Pacific Ocean. Beginnning in the 16th century, European explorers came across many people who practiced tattooing as an integral part of their cultures. This is the first serious study of Filipino tattoos, and it considers early accounts from explorers and Spanish-speaking writers. The text presents Filipino cultural practices connected with... more
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American tattoo master Sailor Jerry Collins of Hawaii is best known for his remarkable tattoo designs, blending the fluidity of Asian motifs into classic American tattoo imagery. Until now, most of Sailor Jerry's work has been controlled by a handful of collectors, seen only at museum or art gallery exhibitions or in short-run, self-published books. Here is a sizeable portion of Sailor Jerry's stencils, the newest tattoo collectible, spanning his tattoo career, from the 1940s to the early 1970s. The basic line work of hundreds of his staple and surprisingly beautiful designs--pin-ups, roses,... more
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Based on the success of Tattoo Bible - Book One, ArtKulture and Superior Tattoo bring to market Tattoo Bible - Book Two, another unique and colorful collection of flash art. Everything is here, from Skulls to Tribal, from Americana to the avant-garde. Tattoo Bible - Book Two, covers different styles and an endless supply of ideas. The images are represented in a range of physical sizes, some are printed two or four per page, the more intricate designs are reproduced one per page. The categories include Hearts, Dragons, Roses, Skulls, Butterflies, Girls, Crosses, Celestial, Tribal, Back... more
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"Sailor Jerry" Collins of Honolulu, Hawaii, is arguably the greatest tattoo artist of the 21st Century. His best-known contributions are the now classic designs . . . fat round roses, plump pin-ups, and scathing military/political cartoons. Now, in a second volume, more of his great stencils are reproduced. Hand-cut, hundreds of basic line works are printed here for the first time. The pages are perforated to make it easier for today's tattoo artist to display the work of this master. less
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Danzig Baldaev's father was an academic, an ethnologist who found himself imprisoned under Soviet rule as an enemy of the people. In fact much of Baldaev's family moved through the Soviet prison system, while he became a guard. At his father's suggestion, Danzig used his access to document and study the tattoos that were pervasive among the truly criminal portion of the prison population, the vory v zakonye, or legitimate thieves, a semi-professional class who kept their own brutal laws. During his 30 years supervising inmates in St. Petersburg's notorious Kresty Prison, Baldaev... more
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Bodies of Subversion
was the first history of women's tattoo art when it was released in 1997, providing a fascinating excursion to a subculture that dates back to the nineteenth-century and including many never-before-seen photos of tattooed women from the last century. Newly revised and expanded, it remains the only book to chronicle the history of both tattooed women and women tattooists. As the primary reference source on the subject, it contains information from the original edition, including documentation of:
•Nineteeth-century sideshow attractions who... more
•Nineteeth-century sideshow attractions who... more
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This volume of drawings and photographs completes the Russian Criminal Tattoo Encyclopaedia trilogy. Danzig Baldaev's unparallelled ethnographic achievement, documenting more than 3,000 tattoo drawings, was made during a lifetime working as a prison guard. His recording of this esoteric world was reported to the KGB, who unexpectedly supported him, realizing the importance of being able to establish facts about convicts by reading the images on their bodies. The motifs depicted represent the uncensored lives of the criminal classes, ranging from violence and pornography to politics and... more
Don't have time to read the top Tattoo books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
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Acclaimed as the best book ever published on the subject, A Complete Guide to Special Effects Makeup covers everything from basic facial makeup styles, simple scars and gashes, to masks, molds and cast-making; everything you need to know to create vampires, zombies and other fantastical characters.
With clear step by step instructions and hundreds of color photos, it includes stunning conceptual pieces from many of the contributing artists and a section on manga/cosplay hair and makeup. Bound to thrill anyone interested in creating realistic and unique makeup effects! less
With clear step by step instructions and hundreds of color photos, it includes stunning conceptual pieces from many of the contributing artists and a section on manga/cosplay hair and makeup. Bound to thrill anyone interested in creating realistic and unique makeup effects! less
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Color Theory for the Make-up Artist: Understanding Color and Light for Beauty and Special Effects analyzes and explains traditional color theory for fine artists and applies it to the make-up artist.
This book is suitable for both professionals and beginners who wish to train their eye further to understand and recognize distinctions in color.
It explains why we see color, how to categorize and identify color, relationships between colors, and it relates these concepts to beauty and special effects make-up. The book teaches the reader how to mix flesh tones... more
This book is suitable for both professionals and beginners who wish to train their eye further to understand and recognize distinctions in color.
It explains why we see color, how to categorize and identify color, relationships between colors, and it relates these concepts to beauty and special effects make-up. The book teaches the reader how to mix flesh tones... more
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ENGLISH VERSION. Practical guide to creating meaningful Polynesian tattoos.
This book by the creators of TattooTribes.com takes the readers by the hand through the meaningful beauty of Polynesian tattoos, in a clear and easy to read way that helps understanding many traditional symbols and how they can be used to create a custom personal piece.
The book is beautifully crafted for easier consultation and a more enjoyable experience and it features:
List of symbols and their meanings. Quick reference to find the right symbols for the desired meanings. Positioning the... more
This book by the creators of TattooTribes.com takes the readers by the hand through the meaningful beauty of Polynesian tattoos, in a clear and easy to read way that helps understanding many traditional symbols and how they can be used to create a custom personal piece.
The book is beautifully crafted for easier consultation and a more enjoyable experience and it features:
List of symbols and their meanings. Quick reference to find the right symbols for the desired meanings. Positioning the... more
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Shading is one of the easiest ways of adding depth, contrast, character and movement to your drawings. By controlling pencil pressure and stroke, understanding light and having knowledge of blending techniques, an artist can enhance their work and offer the "wow" factor needed to produce photorealistic artworks. Drawing Dimensions - A Shading Guide for Teachers and Students offers a series of shading tutorials that are easy to understand and simple to follow, it goes beyond the standard "step by step" instruction to offer readers an in-depth look at a variety of shading techniques... more
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A one-of-a kind coloring book showcasing tattoo designs by the talented artists featured on Spike TV's Ink Master!
This unique coloring book features eighty-seven original tattoos designs by the talented artists featured on the popular reality series, Ink Master, including detailed designs from Joey "Hollywood" Hamilton (winner of season 3), Scott Marshall (winner of season 4), Jason Clay Dunn (winner of season 5), Dave Krusman (winner of season 6), Jime Litwalk, Cleen Rock One, and more. Also included are twelve four-color, rub-on temporary tattoos.
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This unique coloring book features eighty-seven original tattoos designs by the talented artists featured on the popular reality series, Ink Master, including detailed designs from Joey "Hollywood" Hamilton (winner of season 3), Scott Marshall (winner of season 4), Jason Clay Dunn (winner of season 5), Dave Krusman (winner of season 6), Jime Litwalk, Cleen Rock One, and more. Also included are twelve four-color, rub-on temporary tattoos.
more
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A lavishly illustrated global exploration of the vast array of styles and most significant practitioners of tattoo from ancient times to today
Tattoo art and practice has seen radical changes in the 21st century, as its popularity has exploded. An expanding number of tattoo artists have been mining the past for lost traditions and innovating with new technology. An enormous diversity of styles, genres, and techniques has emerged, ranging from geometric blackwork to vibrant, painterly styles, and from hand-tattooed works to machine-produced designs.
With over... more
Tattoo art and practice has seen radical changes in the 21st century, as its popularity has exploded. An expanding number of tattoo artists have been mining the past for lost traditions and innovating with new technology. An enormous diversity of styles, genres, and techniques has emerged, ranging from geometric blackwork to vibrant, painterly styles, and from hand-tattooed works to machine-produced designs.
With over... more
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Exotic birds and butterflies, hypnotic paisley prints, and flowers galore — these mehndi designs offer colorists an array of exciting challenges. Derived from the ancient art of henna body painting, 31 striking patterns are based on authentic Indian, African, and Middle Eastern sources. Pages are perforated and printed on one side only for easy removal and display. Specially designed for experienced colorists, Mehndi Designs and other Creative Haven® adult coloring books offer an escape to a world of inspiration and artistic fulfillment. Each title is also an effective and fun-filled... more
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Megan Massacre, one of the most popular tattoo artists and reality TV stars with starring roles in TLC's NY Ink and America's Worst Tattoos, brings her wildly popular art style to a coloring book.
Tattoo artist Megan Massacre invites adult coloring book fans into her whimsical world of sugar skulls, sailing ships, mermaids, owls, and more. Now you can add your own bold, vibrant colors to her signature edgy and artistic tattoo designs--and tear each perforated page out for display! less
Tattoo artist Megan Massacre invites adult coloring book fans into her whimsical world of sugar skulls, sailing ships, mermaids, owls, and more. Now you can add your own bold, vibrant colors to her signature edgy and artistic tattoo designs--and tear each perforated page out for display! less
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The Tattoo History Source Book
is an exhaustingly thorough, lavishly illustrated collection of historical records of tattooing throughout the world, from ancient times to the present. Collected together in one place, for the first time, are texts by explorers, journalists, physicians, psychiatrists, anthropologists, scholars, novelists, criminologists, and tattoo artists.
A brief essay by Gilbert sets each chapter in an historical context. Topics covered include the first written records of tattooing by Greek and Roman authors; the dispersal of tattoo designs and... more
A brief essay by Gilbert sets each chapter in an historical context. Topics covered include the first written records of tattooing by Greek and Roman authors; the dispersal of tattoo designs and... more
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This book contains 25+ years of professional Tattooing experience. Erick Alayon has been Tattoo professionally since 1988, no other tattooing instruction author can say that! This new volume contains Erick Alayon's three previous best selling tattooing books plus a whole lot more! Most of Erick's famous (or infamous!) typos have been corrected! Old info has been updated and new info has been added along with many additional explanations and insights. New topics include: photography, frame geometry, sterilization and more! While no book on tattooing is truly complete, this book has to be the... more
Don't have time to read the top Tattoo books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
41
Over the past century, tattoos have emerged from the underground. From body art's early association with sailors, convicts and side-show acts to the current adoption of tattoo culture amongst celebrities and the mainstream via the tattoo renaissance of the 1970s, this book reveals the entire history.
Combining a wealth of visual material from across the many cultures and sub-cultures we associate with tattoos, including fashion, music and art, with examples of some of the most exquisite tattoos ever inked, the book shows over 400 photographs, many published for the first time. more
Combining a wealth of visual material from across the many cultures and sub-cultures we associate with tattoos, including fashion, music and art, with examples of some of the most exquisite tattoos ever inked, the book shows over 400 photographs, many published for the first time. more
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Enter into a racy world of tattoo art with these edgy, imaginative renditions of flowers, dragons, skulls, hearts, wild animals, angels, and other creatures of fantasy and nature. Designed by an accomplished tattoo artist who appeared on season five of the Spike TV show Ink Master®, the full-page illustrations form a stunning array of images to color. Specially designed for experienced colorists, Creative Haven® adult coloring books offer an escape to a world of inspiration and artistic fulfillment. Perforated pages are printed on one side only for easy removal and display. Each title... more
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Sacred tattoos, called sak yant in Thailand, have been around Southeast Asia for centuries and afford protection from accident, misfortune, and crime. Young women get tattooed with love charms in order to attract better partners, while adolescent men use the protective power of their yants in fights with rival youth gangs. For most though, the tattoos serve as reminders to follow a moral code-endorsing positive behavior. At the time of the application of a sak yant, the tattoo master establishes a series of rules that his tattooed disciples will have to follow for the rest of their lives,... more
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Traditional American tattooing has a rich, extensive heritage. Often underappreciated, it represents a true folk art, encompassing design motifs and themes that are expressions of the heart, the desires, loves, and ambitions of the artists and those who wear their artworks. After carefully studying work by renowned American tattoo artists (including Paul Rogers, Leonard "Stoney" St.Clair, George Burchett, August "Cap" Coleman, Percy Waters, Owen James and others) the author distilled it into five component colors: black, red, yellow, green, and brown, and developed a new interpretation of... more
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This book applies the simple hair stroke patterns from my first e-book "Microblading Patterns: The Beauty Of Simplicity". Using those simple patterns, I created 30 brows styles for you to use in your real work on clients. There are three male brows styles, and the rest are female.The main objective of this book is to show you how easy it is to create beautiful brows styles by using simple hair stroke patterns. I show you step by step with drawings on computer first before I go on to show you how to simulate the steps on latex skin. In many examples, I use both left and right hands to help... more
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The follow-up to "Tattoo Darling", this includes an introduction by tattoo legend Mike Giant. less
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The fourth volume in this series of stunning tattoo-inspired macabre artwork from Argentinian publisher Arte Tattoo Books. Large pages showcase each piece beautifully in this gorgeous book. * Includes bilingual English/Spanish text Features the work of 65 artists including Aaron Ruby, Adriano el General, Alex Eckman-Lawn, Alexander Yanitskiy, Alfredo Mojo, Anabi, Anrijs Straume, Bali Revai, Ben Hamill, Brittni Rene DeWeese, Chancy Gartner, Chet Zar, Chris Guest, Chris Mars, Cigla, Dan Henk, David Jorquera, Dejan Videkanic Deyyoo, Don McDonald, Dylan Garrett Smith, Emanuel Oliveira, Ezequiel... more
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A lush sourcebook of nearly two thousand tattoo designs from artists around the world. From the editors of TattooFinder.com, it's a fantastic compendium for people who want to think before they ink!
Whether you're tattoo-curious or tattoo-crazy, The Tattoo Sourcebook has everything you need to pick and choose the perfect design for you. Browse the nearly two thousand designs included - everything from Celtic and tribal to butterflies and fairies. It's a visual compendium of high-quality, detailed designs from artists all over the world including contributions and commentary... more
Whether you're tattoo-curious or tattoo-crazy, The Tattoo Sourcebook has everything you need to pick and choose the perfect design for you. Browse the nearly two thousand designs included - everything from Celtic and tribal to butterflies and fairies. It's a visual compendium of high-quality, detailed designs from artists all over the world including contributions and commentary... more
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Legendary American tattoo artist Ed Hardy's groundbreaking tattoos, flash, drawings, and artworks are gathered together for the first time in one brash book.
Ed Hardy's (b. 1945) unique vision spans decades, creating an indelible mark on popular culture. Accompanying a major exhibition, this profusely illustrated survey of his life in art traces his inspirations, rooted both in traditional American tattooing of the first half of the twentieth century and in the imagery of Japan's ukiyo-e era. Hardy, raised in Southern California, became intrigued with tattoo art at the age... more
Ed Hardy's (b. 1945) unique vision spans decades, creating an indelible mark on popular culture. Accompanying a major exhibition, this profusely illustrated survey of his life in art traces his inspirations, rooted both in traditional American tattooing of the first half of the twentieth century and in the imagery of Japan's ukiyo-e era. Hardy, raised in Southern California, became intrigued with tattoo art at the age... more
Don't have time to read the top Tattoo books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
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Color your world with the fabulous art of henna tattoo. Mehndi, also known as henna tattoo, is a traditional Middle Eastern art used to adorn the body for weddings and other special celebrations. Today, you can join in the beauty and fun of mendhi with this simple book of patterns and instructions for the body and even home decor objects! Inside, you will find a variety of original henna tatttoo patterns that can be applied to the hands, feet, belly and back. You'll also be interested in creating your own designs by following the simple instructions for the 5 basic henna shapes and learn how... more
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The intimate relationship of Japanese tattooing with the dark world of the yakuza has helped cover this form of artistic expression with an aura of mystery. But the culture of irezumi is deep and rich in meanings, shapes and motifs that have gone from color woodblock prints to being applied to the skin to beautify and protect their bearers. This richly illustrated book reveals the meaning and the secrets behind the most significant motifs from traditional Japanese tattooing—such as mythological and supernatural creatures, animals, Buddhist deities, flowers and historical characters—and turns... more
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Covering the history and context of tattoo design, as well as offering a comprehensive instruction in hand lettering, this guide is packed with enough detail to fascinate anyone interested in tattoo design.
Learn to recreate all of the most widely used techniques—from embellishing West Coast letter forms to mastering calligraphic style—with guidance from one of today’s most influential tattoo artists. Each chapter also includes an account of individual styles’ histories, complexities, and relevant substyles, along with interviews spotlighting leading practitioners and... more
Learn to recreate all of the most widely used techniques—from embellishing West Coast letter forms to mastering calligraphic style—with guidance from one of today’s most influential tattoo artists. Each chapter also includes an account of individual styles’ histories, complexities, and relevant substyles, along with interviews spotlighting leading practitioners and... more
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Time for a new tattoo?
The easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions and gorgeous photo graphs in DIY Henna Tattoos make learning henna art simple and fun. In no time, you will master the basic techniques and designs, including:
• Flowers
• Leaves
• Swirls
• Vines
• Paisleys
• Netting
• Petals
• Mandalas
• Lines and dots
Whether you want to sport something quick and simple or decorate a large area, you can easily choose how much of your skin to adorn with these stylish motifs. And because the tattoo... more
The easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions and gorgeous photo graphs in DIY Henna Tattoos make learning henna art simple and fun. In no time, you will master the basic techniques and designs, including:
• Flowers
• Leaves
• Swirls
• Vines
• Paisleys
• Netting
• Petals
• Mandalas
• Lines and dots
Whether you want to sport something quick and simple or decorate a large area, you can easily choose how much of your skin to adorn with these stylish motifs. And because the tattoo... more
56
Living in a time when it was scandalous even to show a bit of ankle, a small number of courageous women covered their bodies in tattoos and traveled the country, performing nearly nude on carnival stages. These gutsy women spun amazing stories for captivated audiences about abductions and forced tattooing at the hands of savages, but little has been shared of their real lives. Though they spawned a cultural movement almost a quarter of Americans now have tattoos these women have largely faded into history. The Tattooed Lady uncovers the true stories behind these women, bringing them out of... more
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This monograph happily traverses the nostalgic, eclectic and beautifully rendered artistic wonderland of Angelique Houtkamp with a strong focus on her fine-art practice. less
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A series of step-by step painting sequences done with a group of the country's best and best-known airbrush artists. Each sequence moves from the concept to the planning, layout, and execution. The discussion and captions cover each artist's personal choice for tools, paints, and materials. Subjects include everything from life-like pin-ups to abstract flags painted on custom motorcycles, hot rods, and shirts. less
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The Craft of Tattooing was written for the beginning student of Tattooing. This easy to use and comprehensive guide will show you everything you need to know to get started as a Tattoo Artist. Erick Alayon has been Tattoo professionally since 1988, no other tattooing instruction author can say that! Inside you will learn, How to set up and tune Tattoo Machines, equipment you will need to get started, how to get started, tips on outlining, shading and coloring, plus lots more! Covers advice and technical information to help you get started toward a successful career! less
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The Scottish Gaelic language is growing in popularity due to the media phenomenon of "Outlander" as well as people exploring their ancestry. Many people want a tattoo with a Gaelic word or phrase to tell a story about their Scottish or Celtic roots. But most people can't find the accurate information about Gaelic that is needed to get a good tattoo. They try to do their own translations instead and end up with embarassing mistakes. With this book, Gaelic specialist in Nova Scotia provides a guide to how to choose an appropriate word or phrase for a tattoo in the Scottish Gaelic language. The... more
Don't have time to read the top Tattoo books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
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A skilled tattoo artist who appeared on season five of the Spike TV show Ink Master® presents more than 30 black-and-white versions of his innovative floral designs. Stylized images of roses, peonies, and other lush blossoms appear in large, full-page formats that are ideal for colorists looking for more sophisticated images. Pages are perforated and printed on one side only for easy removal and display. Specially designed for experienced colorists, Floral Tattoo Designs and other Creative Haven® adult coloring books offer an escape to a world of inspiration and artistic... more
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Wearable art. An exploration of tattoos past and present
Whether you’re thinking of getting a tattoo or just want to see to what lengths others have gone in decorating their bodies, this is the book to check out. This special edition of 1000 Tattoos explores the history of the art worldwide via designs and photos—from 19th century engravings to tribal body art, from circus ladies of the 20s to classic biker designs—giving a fascinating insight into the art of tattooing.
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Whether you’re thinking of getting a tattoo or just want to see to what lengths others have gone in decorating their bodies, this is the book to check out. This special edition of 1000 Tattoos explores the history of the art worldwide via designs and photos—from 19th century engravings to tribal body art, from circus ladies of the 20s to classic biker designs—giving a fascinating insight into the art of tattooing.
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Discover the true meanings behind over 200 popular tattoos with this comprehensive book, illustrated with over 100 tattoo designs.
From sailors' swallows and Mexican skulls to prisoners' barbed wire and intricate Maori patterns, tattoos have been used as a means of communication by cultures all over the world for thousands of years.
Through meticulous research, The Tattoo Dictionary uncovers the history of the most popular symbols in tattoo history, revealing their hidden meanings and the long-forgotten stories behind them in this beautifully packaged book. less
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Book Three of the popular Superior Tattoo Bible series continues the tradition of offering a vast collection of only the best tattoo artwork available. Unlike the earlier Bibles, Tattoo Bible Book Three is a collection of designs from opposite ends of the spectrum. This new book contains images from both the old school and the new. Among this expanse of flash are colorful images of sacred hearts and black and grey representations of Celtic knots.
With over 350 images, this new book is the perfect companion for any tattooist, from the aspiring novice to the seasoned vet; and... more
With over 350 images, this new book is the perfect companion for any tattooist, from the aspiring novice to the seasoned vet; and... more
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The ancient art of henna body painting — widely used in India, Africa, and the Middle East — varies from country to country and spans different cultures and religious traditions. Aside from the modern use of henna as a trendy, temporary tattoo, traditional designs have been used to celebrate weddings, births, and religious holidays.
This collection of charming images, adapted from authentic mehndi designs, incorporates more than 160 lovely, royalty-free patterns (largely Indian) that are used to cover hands, forearms, and feet. Included are fine line, lacy, and paisley motifs; detailed... more
This collection of charming images, adapted from authentic mehndi designs, incorporates more than 160 lovely, royalty-free patterns (largely Indian) that are used to cover hands, forearms, and feet. Included are fine line, lacy, and paisley motifs; detailed... more
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Following the success of Muerte, the renowned tattoo artist, Mike Giant, explores fine art, graffiti, and pop culture in his latest book, Coup d'Etat. Celebrating the works that he exhibited at the Magda Danysz Gallery in Paris together with his friend and contemporary, Dalek, this collection offers a chance to contemplate a truly unique oeuvre that fuses the taste of the street with the finesse of fine art. This time, the so-called "master of black ink" displays an evolution of his unique work as he mixes his stunning iconography with a new passion for photography. "Each of Giant's drawings... more
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One of the 20th century's most original artists, Frida Kahlo often incorporated themes from Mexican folk art while bluntly recording on canvas many of her personal passions. Details from four of the artist's extraordinary paintings have been adapted for this ready-to-wear tattoo collection: the provocative Self-Portrait with Monkey, The Little Deer, Diego and I, and Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace. Sure to be prized by tattoo enthusiasts, these large, haunting images will also appeal to lovers of fine art and admirers of this important artist. less
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This unique book presents the work of more than 80 famous tattoo artists specializing in film, TV series, animation, toys, and music. It is an incredible international panorama explaining how Pikachu, Batman, and other international pop culture characters have become contemporary icons.
Pop culture is everywhere, even in the flesh! less
Pop culture is everywhere, even in the flesh! less
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Don't have time to read the top Tattoo books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
71
Derived from the ancient art of henna body painting, 31 designs offer exciting coloring challenges. The illustrations ― featuring exotic birds and butterflies, swirling paisley prints, and fabulous flowers ― are printed on a black background that creates dramatic effects. Pages are perforated and printed on one side only for easy removal and display. Specially designed for experienced colorists, Magical Mehndi Designs and other Creative Haven® adult coloring books offer an escape to a world of inspiration and artistic fulfillment. Each title is also an effective and fun-filled way to... more
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A unique sourcebook of 1,000 mini works of art, ranging in myriad styles and subjects, curated by acclaimed tattoo artist Rebecca Vincent, complete with black-and-white illustrations and 50 color photographs throughout.
Tiny tattoos are perennial favorites with both ink enthusiasts and the curious interested in getting their first piece of body art. Going back to the minimal style of the very first tattoos known to humanity—dotted patterns and lines found on mummies—celebrated English tattoo artist Rebecca Vincent brings together 1,000 small yet striking tattoos in... more
Tiny tattoos are perennial favorites with both ink enthusiasts and the curious interested in getting their first piece of body art. Going back to the minimal style of the very first tattoos known to humanity—dotted patterns and lines found on mummies—celebrated English tattoo artist Rebecca Vincent brings together 1,000 small yet striking tattoos in... more
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For both the experienced and aspiring tattoo artist, as well as creative tattoo customers, this book of inspirational examples of script and banner lettering in a wide range of styles is the ideal cheat sheet. Beginning with traditional handwriting, the book moves into more complex script styles. Discover a range of banners for application on the chest or back, in styles that look elegant and ornate, yet are designed to be natural and easy for artists to draw and apply. Tattoo collectors can choose from the many script samples to write a loved one's name and bring this book to the shop, where... more
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In this book, Bill Valentine, author of Gang Intelligence Manual, shares the latest intelligence on the predominant street and prison gangs and other disruptive groups, with particular emphasis on their identifying tattoos. Supplementing the text are scores of detailed illustrations by Correctional Officer Robert Schober that replicate some of the most common tattoos worn by members of each of the groups discussed. This groundbreaking work makes a substantial amount of previously classified information available to the general public for the first time. In addition to presenting the... more
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When you're looking to tattoo, what design would you do? From intricate Celtic knotwork patterns and geometric tribal art to old-school flowers, skulls, and hearts, this chunky tattoo sourcebook has it all, with a vast range of ideas on a wide cross-section of themes. Before getting inked, check out 1000 possibilities, along with technical advice on reproducing the most intricate tattoos and safety tips before going under the needle. For those who want a trial run, there's also information on using body paints and mehndi.
Use these images as inspiration to design your own tattoo,... more
Use these images as inspiration to design your own tattoo,... more
Don't have time to read the top Tattoo books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.