So you decided you want to get a tattoo, now you're just
itching to run to your local tattoo shop and imprint that design in to your
skin. There are many important things you need to consider before taking that
final step onto the tattoo chair.
If you are like most people, once you have decided upon the
fact that you are going to get "inked" you want to get it done
immediately to see the results. It is important to remember that acting quickly
can lead to undesired results. As I'm sure you have already heard countless
times, a tattoo will likely be with you for life. The design will be a constant
reminder of your diligence in thinking your idea through thoroughly - or an
unfortunate reminder of the spontaneous mistake you made.
So, what types of things must you consider and think through
thoroughly before taking that final step?
1. Be SURE of your design:
I highly suggest getting a design that is meaningful to you
and not just a popular fad of the times. Fads fade and your tattoo will remain.
Many people regret getting tattoos of band names, friend's names or names of a
person they are dating. No matter how much we think our opinion is solid, as
time goes on, our view changes.
How do you get a design you want that is meaningful to you?
One way, is to find one. There are many sites all over the
internet hosting artwork from tattoo and other artists. Chances are likely you
will find a design you like, though it may take some time and patience to find
it. Also, while there are some decent free sites hosting tattoo designs, many
sites require you to subscribe or pay a small fee to access their services. If
finding the perfect tattoo is important to you, then it may be worth the money
to pay for the design itself.
Another way is to look through the designs at tattoo
parlors. Most, if not all tattoo parlors will have many books full of tattoo
designs that might interest you. If you go this route, be sure not to get one
right then and there. Take some time to think about it, considering the rest of
the steps in this article.
A third way is to draw the design, or have a friend draw the
design for you. Many tattoo artists will work with you to edit a drawing you
have done to make it more appealing to you, so in most cases even a rough
sketch will work fine.
2. Know exactly where you want to get your tattoo.
Keep in mind that some areas of the body will hurt more
during the tattoo process than others. If you are sensitive, or if this is your
first tattoo and you are scared of the pain, get a tattoo in an area you will
be happy with, that will hurt less.
Tattoo's over bony areas of your body hurt more than tattoos
over fleshy areas. So, tattoos on your ankle, spine, hands, neck, and shoulders
can hurt more. Tattoos in areas such as your upper arm, your stomach, thighs
and buttocks will hurt less as the needle will not be directly above bone.
3. Take your tattoo for a test drive.
Before committing to the permanence of a tattoo, get a henna
design of your future tattoo in the area you would like. This will allow you to
wear the design as if it were a tattoo for 1-2 weeks and see what it looks like
on your body. Getting the Henna design will also prepare you for sitting still
during the tattoo process.
4. Get other peoples opinions.
Getting the opinion of your friends and family can be
important in the decision process. However, it is important to remember that
this design will end up on your body so the final decision should be up to you
and you alone.
5. Know what to expect when getting your tattoo
Many people say tattoos are uncomfortable but not very painful.
Know what level and type of pain you should expect from the tattoo and what
steps you can take to minimize that pain. For instance, many people think that
getting drunk and/or drinking alcohol prior to getting their tat would numb the
pain. This is a bad idea and can result in the tattoo artist refusing to work
on you. Alcohol thins your blood, which will make you bleed more, making the
tattoo process harder for the artist and worse for you. Motrin or other over
the counter pain relievers may help slightly and are generally allowed. If you
are considering this step, speak with your tattoo artist before taking any
medications.
6. Tattoo Etiquette:
In addition to knowing how much and what kind of pain to
expect, it is also important to be up to date on your tattoo etiquette. Yes,
there is such a thing and in order to make your tattoo experience the best one
for both you and the artist you should brush up on these tattoo etiquette tips.
Are you a tenderfoot? Knowing tattoo slang isn't exactly a
must before getting your tattoo, but it may help you be less confused when
listening to the talk around the shop during the process.
7. Know your after-care procedures.
After your tattoo has been finished, the tattoo artist
should give you some instructions on taking care of your tattoo. These
instructions are important to follow to make sure your tattoo doesn't scar or
wear off in parts.
Long term after care is important as well as this will keep
your tattoo from fading too much over time and looking less than appealing. If
it does end up fading over the next few years, you can always get a touch up.
But why waste the money, pain and time on a tattoo you already have instead of
avoiding it all together?
With these simple steps, you will be more satisfied with
your tattoo and more comfortable with the overall tattoo process. Spending a
little time thinking over your decision will save you time, pain and possible
embarrassment later.
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