Original Chilled

I used to tattoo on skin, before the plague, and now I engrave on metal.  

For Valentine's Day 2021 I was trying to figure out what gift I could make for my husband.  We had purchased a pair of large stainless steel tankards.  They had tall straight sides and seemed perfect for personalization.  So I got out the rotary tool and did some research and voila, figured out how to hand engrave art.  I enjoyed the process so much I invested my stimulus check into product and supplies and started Original Chilled.  It satisfies my love of creating art by hand, allows me to practice my tattoo skills until I can get back in a shop, gives me motivation to get out and vend at local events (outdoors for now), and adds a personal touch to a practical item everyone uses. 

Before tattooing I worked in screenprinting, specifically in commercial embroidery production.  I have completed orders of hundreds of mass manufactured items.  Hats, polo shirts, beanies, you name it.  I've experienced firsthand the harsh reality facing US businesses competing with large oversees manufacturers.  Customers have been trained to look for the lowest price and not at who and what their purchase supports.  Covid has made the dangers of outsourcing obvious.  I think it is time for a handcrafted renaissance, where people look to buy locally and support their neighbors.  I think it's time to be more aware of where our money goes and who/what it feeds.  

Since I've worked in production I am heartily sick of making the same design over and over.  Original Chilled has "original" in the title because I do not duplicate pieces.  Each is one of a kind.  I make what I enjoy, and as a tattoo artist I enjoy a lot of tattoo themed art.  Expect the dark and weird.  

I am selective about the companies I source product from.  I want quality product for my "canvases".  I support US businesses.  My prices would be lower with generic product but I choose to buy premium goods from a family owned business, or an employee owned business, or a green business going the extra mile to make sure their product is environmentally sound.  I think it's worth it.  

You can catch me at events in the DC, Maryland, Virginia area.  Look for the small grey striped tent.  My website has my event schedule: originalchilled.art