Traditional Crane Tattoo for a 10 Year Anniversary
This traditional crane tattoo was for a client's 10 year wedding anniversary, such a great romantic idea, I dig it. Crane's a perfect symbol for it, and it fits the leg really well.
Sketching a Traditional Crane Tattoo for an Out of Town Client
Client came in from out of town, so I sketched up a few versions ahead of time. I usually do that for anyone traveling in, there's a few ways to go with a crane and it's nice to have something to decide on before they sit down. Was pretty excited about this one, honestly could've kept drawing more.
Crane Tattoo Meaning
Cranes mate for life, which is pretty hard to beat for an anniversary. In Japan they mean long life and good luck, and you see em all over weddings. In Western tattoos they often mean loyalty. They came into Traditional American flash mostly through Japanese influence, so you kind of get both.
All Black, No Grey, Whip Shading
This traditional crane tattoo is all black, no grey, with whip shading. Just flicking the machine out on the pull so the black fades out into skin. Gives it a classic texture and it holds up really well.
I really like how the composition sits on the leg with this design. It fits the leg really well, after all it's gonna be there a while.
Shaded this one with a midi Perfection shader I built for a gentleman in Seattle, broke it in on this tattoo before shipping it out.
Coming From Out of Town? No Problem
I often have clients visit for a tattoo. We can always work out the design remotely to make sure the process goes as smooth as possible, so you can get back out to checking out the city. I tattoo at Remington Tattoo in North Park, San Diego, mostly Traditional American and Japanese. Book a consult and let me know you're traveling.
FAQ
What does a traditional crane tattoo mean? Long life, loyalty, and good luck. Cranes mate for life too, which is why they're big at Japanese weddings.
What is whip shading? Flicking the machine out as you pull so the black breaks up into a gradient. No grey wash, and it holds up great.
Can I travel in from out of town for a tattoo? Yep, just mention it when you book and I'll sketch up a few options ahead of time.