First off, I have shared several experiences here at BME, and love the community. I have many mods (including a split tongue, tongue web removal and a few tattoos). I have always been fascinated with branding. Being that my back is dedicated to the American Pit Bull Terrier ink-wise, I decided the same on my front side would be a bore. Doing research and visiting a few local establishments, I decided to attempt another art form myself. I have been around Pit Bulls since I was 10, and have since donated a large portion of my life, finances, and time to do rescue and public information work for the breed.
At A Glance Author WIKD Contact WIKD@bme.anon When It just happened Artist WIKD Studio WIKD Location Albuquerque, New Mexico
After doing so much for them, I thought it was time to give myself a treat. An outline of a Pit Bull head covering my heart. But this time, the image would literally be burned onto my heart. For the most part, branding here is done via a torch and a tool in the "striking" method. Don't get me wrong, the guy is great at it, but after researching scarification via a (cautery) pen, it seemed to look more of like what I had envisioned.
The day came when my tool arrived. A large "Solan REF 84-40000" greeted me at my door. With much anticipation, I prepared. I had been working on the outline for awhile. With help from my wife, we centered the design on my heart. I fired up the pen and smiled when seeing the warm red glow!
As I made first contact, I heard a sizzle, and my wife quickly was dismayed at the smell that filled the room. It was NOT as bad as I have read or thought it was going to be. After a couple contacts, the tool seemed to be an extension and I was feeling very well about the procedure. The burning flesh became pleasant in an odd way as I was achieving my goal. About 20 minutes later, it was finished. I had no blood. I cleaned it up with alcohol, which stung. I now have the outline of the dogs I care so much about. Depending upon the scarring, I may redo the design to achieve a more raised result.
I also decided to omit the eyes and the nose on the initial pattern, instead choosing to wait until I see how raised the scar tissue will be. From what I have read people always complain about the pain, and the pain is equal to or just a bit more than getting a decent ink job accomplished. I think I will follow the irritation method of peeling the scab and not putting any ointment on it. I also have spoke with a few friends that have advised not to cover the piece. I did try putting my shirt back on and it was very irritable and uncomfortable. Sleeping on my chest did not exist. That was more painful than a tattoo.
As to what I prefer? I honestly do not know yet. I think the more primitive scarring feature has both disadvantages and advantages. To our culture it is a bit different than getting some ink. Anyone can decide to get a Mickey Mouse or Taz tattoo, but I believe a brand takes more thought and more dedication especially when you perform the art yourself.
Reflecting on the experience I would not do anything differently.
I do have a few tips for those working with a pen:
1. It is well worth depressing the button and waiting until maximum heat is achieved before working.
2. Take time to wipe the pen off and let it recover.
3. Shave the area before you work.
4. Enjoy every second of it.
I would be more than happy to answer any questions from fellow BME enthusiasts. I do, however, wish to make it clear that I do not condone doing this yourself, and that this experience can and does go bad. I have seen people that do designs that are too intricate for the method (usually striking) that have turned out horrible. It seems, to me anyway, that a pen is far less forgiving and offers more control. Some consider using a pen to be more of a scarring than a brand and I can see their point. The pen, rather than burning, seems to cut into the skin ala an "electric scalpel". The other positive that I see is that one has more control. I would rather have a light brand that can be touched up at will rather than a horribly mess that has no chance in hell of being fixed. Be warned, a friend of mine (stupid ass) attempted this with a hanger and a blow torch. The result he procured didn't even resemble a brand, and now he has been left with a lump of scar tissue that even most Tattoo artists will not touch.
Please see my Iam page for pictures, ect. Username: WIKD