Think Before You Ink!
This sums up the experience of many who wish to express love for their Celtic heritage, but have no idea – not only what to say – but how to say it correctly. What’s the difference between Irish Gaelic and Scottish Gaelic? How does that phrase go in Welsh again? And the ever popular, “You are writing this right, aren’t you?” as your tattoo artist nods and smiles.
Tattoos can be a way to connect to your heritage, to remember family or friends, to connect to an important moment. In some cases, they’re just fun or interesting. But where language is involved, you usually want to get the words just right. So when a tattoo is in another language? It’s daunting. How can you be sure you’re getting it right?
To quote Bradan Press, publisher of The Irish Tattoo Handbook, the Scottish Tattoo Handbook and The Welsh Tattoo Handbook, does “An bhfuil cead agam dul go dtí an leithreas” mean “Always in my heart” or “May I go to the toilet?”
Well, now you can look it up!
The Irish Gaelic Tattoo Handbook by Audrey Nickel
This handy book features over 400 words, phrases and sayings in Irish Gaelic. It also has illustrations of tattoos that have gone terribly wrong and tips on how to use the internet when researching your Irish tattoo. It is also a handy guide for artisans, crafters and jewelry designers who wish to incorporate Irish Gaelic into their creations.
The Scottish Gaelic Tattoo Handbook by Emily McEwan
The great handbook was written by a Gaelic language expert in Nova Scotia, and is perfect for anyone who proudly displays their Scottish roots. It too has illustrations of tattoos that have gone way, way wrong, as well as tips on how best to incorporate Scottish culture into your Celtic ink.
“[An] informative, succinct, and incredibly useful little volume for all with the desire to Gaelicise their skin.”
-Àdhamh Ó Broin, Gaelic consultant to the “Outlander” television series
The Welsh Tattoo Handbook by Robert Davis and Meagan Davis
Anyone wishing to add Welsh language words, phrases and saying to tattoos, crafts, and jewelry will be very glad to have a copy of this book. Featuring a brief history and description of the Welsh language, illustrations of Welsh “tattoo nightmares” and, tips on how to incorporate the Welsh language into different designs, this handbook honors and supports Welsh culture.
Connecting readers with Gaelic languages and cultures
Bradan Press carries on an 180-year-old tradition of Scottish Gaelic publishing in Nova Scotia, Canada. They publish books related to Scottish Gaelic language and culture in multiple genres, in both Gaelic and English.
Bradan means salmon in Scottish Gaelic, and represents the salmon of wisdom in the Gaelic folklore traditions of Nova Scotia, Scotland, Ireland, and the Isle of Man.
The Irish Tattoo Handbook, the Scottish Tattoo Handbook and The Welsh Tattoo Handbook are each available Amazon and Barnes & Noble. $11.99 US
Randi Thorneau loves to write product reviews. Reach out to her through the main submissions email for Celtic Nations Magazine – celticnationsmagazine@gmail.com
