Nice piece, ExtraBacon. Total commitment.
Thanks, alot of good advise, almost sounds like you speak from personal experience lol (hopefully a good one)
Your most welcome. Yes, I have a few and good experiences, mostly. I moon-lighted in a friends shop at night and on weekends for a few years, reception/phones/initial consult. The shop was more "art gallery" than "biker", not that its any indication of the work. It all the matter of talent/skill of the artist your sitting for. And yes, finding an artist will be the most important part of the process if you decide to go forward. Talk to more than a few, you want someone who is patient and listens and is willing to work a few ideas/sketches..and some who understands the gravity of a "First". You'll know when you click w/ someone or get a lousy feeling..listen to those feeling.
Ive managed to hold off on any manufacture logos, came close a few time. Im not against it, especially if the passion is there. I and the shop I worked at would advise against only a few certain directions..girlfriends/boyfriends name, /neck,face tattoos, cartoon Tasmanian devils, bands (tribal/celtic, etc, as it could potentially disrupt any future flow of work..think real estate)
I think a simple, single line, in a color other than black,(red/blue/green would be more subtle and be more easily covered, if ever it should come to that) of the logo w/ out the D-Tag and or text (artist should use stencil). Placement should dictate size, however..long straight lines and large perfect circles..some of the tougher technical aspects..when they are done right, you hardly notice..when done wrong...oof.
If you would be worried what others may think..you may want to rethink. IMO only two designs are truly timeless, traditional Japanese and "old school" flash...at the end of the day all that matters is if you are happy as the wearer..its all very personal and subjective.
Best of luck.
Edit to add two more " Beware"s..
Being asked if you want to add "this" or "that" in the middle of the work, w/ the gun running..ie.. Shadows, birds, skulls, trible.."no thanks"
They can be as or more addicting than the knives themselves.
