Ramsey badge/coat of arms tattoo

[oohie]

I am designing a tattoo for myself and I thought of something that I would like an answer to before I go any further...

I consider myself more than just a Ramsey. My Dad's parents are Ramsey and Little and my Mom's parents are Levingston (Livingstone) and Wright. What I want to do is combine a piece of all of these badges and/or coat of arms to form my own - along with some celtic braids.

My question..... Is this a faux pas to "deface" a badge or coat of arms?

If I do this - should I registar it with someone??

Thanks for your help,
OOHIE

[Polwarth]

Hello there.

I am assuming that you are not a native born Scot - so basically, you can do what you like!

However, Arms are only granted to one person - just because you share a name does not mean you are entitled to use that family's arms. The arms can be handed down to the children of the original 'armiger' and they are granted what is called 'differenced' arms.

The clan members are able to display the Chief's arms - surrounded by a leather belt or circlet - which shows allegiance.

So......... you can play with heraldry to your heart's content

Arms are 'matriculated' by the Lord Lyon's Court in Scotland. But you have to show that you are a lineal descendant of someone who bore Scottish arms in the past.

[oohie]

Thanks for your help!!

And no - I am not a native. Born and bred in Ohio, USA. I did not realize there was a proper protocol to follow. =) This will be useful information in the future.

I do have the paper work that supports my lineage back to the First Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire - but that is on my Father's Father's Mother's (my great grandmother) side through the Robinsons'. Now you have me curious about which Ramsey!! =) I will have to look this weekend.

Thanks bunches,
OOHIE