Tattoo artists in Texas say they have seen a rise in booking requests for custom bluebonnet designs and Texas-themed art since Tuesday's election.
In Irving, Cary Adams, a Dallas-area tattoo artist who works at Iron Ink Tattoo, said she started bluebonnet specials after the results were announced. She said she booked three appointments almost right away. "Texas finally bloomed blue, just wanted to offer something to commemorate the moment," Adams said. She added that she feels the mood is optimistic. "Honestly, it just feels like hope," she said.
In Lubbock, tattoo artist Sam Gaitan, who works under the name Raicodoll Ink at The Brand Tattoo Studio, said her bluebonnet flash sheet drew a fast response after it was posted online hours after the polls closed. She said the shop owner has also received many messages and calls, and that staff are helping with bookings. Gaitan said the shop has heard from clients across the state, including some planning long drives from Austin and Houston.
Gaitan said tattoos are a luxury service and that demand often falls when money is tight. "But everyone we've talked to has a fire lit in them and is ready for things to get shaken up," she said.