What Is the Difference Between Dot Work Tattoo and Line Work Tattoo?
If you’re after an intricate, yet minimalist piece, either a dot work tattoo or a line work tattoo could be exactly what you’re after. But what are the differences? At Inception Ink, we’re both a dot and line work specialist lounge. Here, we take a closer look at the contrasts, so you can make an informed decision when it comes to your preferred piece of body art.
Dot Work Vs Line Work
The difference between dot work and line work is the technique used to create the tattoo. In both, the variety of designs that can be created is limitless and challenges industry rules, making these tattoo techniques increasingly popular.
A dot work tattoo is created by applying lots of small dots that accumulate to create a bigger picture. It’s a versatile style that can be used on full images, portraits and to create particular shading.
A line work tattoo is developed through a series of delicate lines made with a lining needle. Line tattoos vary from simple outlines to bolder pieces that can include shading with lots of little lines to create a more dimensional piece!
Both generally involve utilising small needle grouping tapered into a point which makes them perfect for delicate dots or clean lines. This way, intricacies can be catered for to produce the most precise results.
What Are Minimalist Tattoos?
Both dot and line work tattoos are considered part of the increasingly popular minimalist style. A minimalist tattoo doesn’t necessarily have to be small; it can be a larger piece. What’s prevalent in minimal tattoos is:
Crisp and sharp dots or lines
Clean and simple designs
Sparse colour palettes
Negative space
As their name suggests, minimal tattoos follow the ‘less is more’ principal. They’re a popular choice with people who would like a discreet piece or specifically want a tattoo with minimum pain.
Not everyone wants a bold, large or colourful piece, so minimalist tattoos are a brilliant alternative, giving clients another option to express themselves through ink. These designs can easily be made to look more delicate and feminine, which is why they are extremely popular with our female clientele.
How Long Do They Take?
This depends on the size of your required design. However, smaller minimal pieces can be finished in around 30 minutes. Additionally, the pain level doesn’t usually get the chance to rise too high. As mentioned in our previous page, each person’s pain threshold is completely different. So, bear in mind that the length of a sitting will depend on each individual client.
Can Colours Be Used?
Of course! It’s your tattoo. A lot of people do like the clarity of black and grey when it comes to minimalist designs though. We recommend talking to your artists about any colour ideas and they can carefully incorporate these into your design. At Inception Ink, we’ll always be
honest as to what we think would work and what is possible to do.
Aftercare
Even with smaller or minimalist pieces, aftercare is still so important as the intricacies can be easily affected in the early stages of healing. Keep the area clean and carefully follow the aftercare advice given to you by your artist. Tattoos generally take 2 weeks to heal, but remember if you have any questions, we have heard it all before so don’t be embarrassed. Just ask!
Get in Touch
Whether you’ve decided to invest in a dot work tattoo or a line work piece, Inception Ink will ensure you leave with a tattoo you’re proud to wear. Check out our Instagram, @inception.ink to see more of our previous work!
Have you got a question for us? Maybe you’d like to book in with one of our artists? You can contact us below. We look forward to hearing from you soon!