American Made Tattoo LLC

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It is not only cool to have a Polynesian tattoo. It is much more cool to know its rich tradition and history. I got all these while visiting American Made Parlour in Oahu for a superb tattoo.

The knowledge and skill of tattooing was usually passed on from master to apprentice, who were often father and son. In many Pacific cultures, it was considered a sacred knowledge.

The artists spent many years working as apprentices, working hard for their masters.

Often, they started by simply watching the master work, then progressing to serve the master throughout each tattoo session. For example, apprentices performed the important task of stretching the skin.

The apprentice also had to learn how to make the traditional tattoo tools and the techniques of using the tools well.

Learning the deeper meanings of the tattoo in their culture was equally important.

You could not become a tattoo artist without knowing the specific construction and placement of the tattoo design, the significance and meanings of the motifs used, how to choose the appropriate tattoo designs for a person, and the rituals and traditions surrounding tattooing.

Today, this tradition is continued by the small number of apprentices of the Samoan Sulu'ape family of tatau masters who have earned their place in the family and the title Sulu'ape.