A Malta-based entrepreneur is hoping to find up to two local tattoo artists to create designs for innovative underwear and swimwear that will be launched internationally within a year. The clothing will feature designs printed on a transparent fabric triangle on the back of a normal G-string, which will look like a tattoo on bare skin.

Terry Bird, whose family were involved with textiles in Malta in the 1980s and 1990s, said the designs were ideal for women who wanted a back tattoo but were put off by its permanence.

The potential success of the “tattoo string” rests on the fabric, which is seamless and clear.

The market is huge, he said, especially in Brazil and eastern European countries, where G-strings are most common.

“We are talking to major brands at the moment, offering them a concept based on high-end packaging, with price tags that compare very favourably with other underwear and bikinis on the market. We are targeting sales of five million and 2.3 million pieces annually,” he said.

“Unfortunately, the production cannot be done in Malta for technical and economic  reasons.

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