tattoos can be a great way to express your style, from school emblems to Celtic designs to photo- realistic portraits.If you've never gotten a tattoo before, you don't have to walk into the tattoo shop blindly.To get your first tattoo, you'll need to plan the right design, choose and schedule an appointment with a tattoo shop, and prepare prior to your appointment.Getting your first tattoo is a great experience with proper planning.
Step 1: Pick up.
There is a decision to be made on a first tattoo.You can find inspiration from pictures of tattoos online, symbols with personal meaning, or designs that are beautiful.Before you get a tattoo, it's a good idea to think about the design for a while.If you don't know if you're ready for a tattoo, take your time.You can get the tattoo later if you're ready.Pick a small, simple tattoo if you're worried about the pain.If you don't find a design you like, you can design your own and bring it in for the tattoo artist.
Step 2: If you're scared, choose a part of your body that is less painful to have tattooed.
Picking a less painful place to get tattooed is a good idea if you've never gotten one before.You will be able to gauge your pain tolerance for tattoos without experiencing more pain than you can tolerate.You can always get a more sensitive tattoo for your second or third tattoo.The most pain-free places to get a tattoo are your thighs, calves, and biceps.You don't want to get tattooed on your genitals for the first time.You don't have to be afraid.Don't be afraid to get the design you want, just for it.
Step 3: Don't forget to put your tattoo on clear, healthy skin.
If you want to cover scars or patches of skin with a tattoo, the image will be clearer on clear skin.To make it easier for your tattoo artist to work with, choose an area that doesn't have a lot of markings on it.It is possible to make the skin smooth and supple by using shea butter or cocoa butter for 1-2 weeks before your tattoo appointment.If you want to improve the appearance of your skin, you can take a supplement like biotin.Don't get a tattoo on your skin.This will hurt more than a regular tattoo and can increase your risk of infections and scarring.
Step 4: There are reviews of local tattoo shops.
Check out the online reviews and ratings of tattoo shops in your area.Ask your friends where they got their tattoos and if they would recommend it.Portfolios and reviews can be found on social media as well.If the tattoo shop is new and doesn't have a lot of reviews, ask for testimonials.Unless you like the quality, don't choose the cheapest tattoo shop.If they have better reviews, choosing a more expensive tattoo shop may be worth it.
Step 5: There are portfolios from the shop's tattoo artists.
In person or by request, most shops offer photos of their work on their website.Choose the tattoo artist that best matches your personal style by comparing each shop's work to your vision.There are different art styles among tattoo artists.If you see a tattoo that reflects your own style, schedule an appointment with the artist who made it.
Step 6: There is a tattoo shop that you can visit in person.
Once you've found a tattoo shop with good reviews and a portfolio you like, visit the shop and meet the artists before you schedule an appointment.You can ask the tattoo artist questions, schedule an appointment with a specific artist, and get a sense for the store's atmosphere before making a decision.Pay attention to the tattoo shop's appearance, and ask about any training or certifications the artists have completed.Make sure the shop you choose is in compliance with the laws in your area.Ask an employee if the tattoo shops use disposable tools or use an sterilizing device.
Step 7: An appointment is necessary with the tattoo artist.
After you've visited several tattoo shops, choose the artist and shop you like the most (factoring in quality, safety, and personal style among other things).You can schedule an appointment over the phone or in person with the tattoo artist.If you want to avoid impulse decisions, schedule your appointment at least a week in advance.If you chance your mind, you can always cancel it.If you schedule in advance, you are more likely to get a tattoo you're satisfied with.The artist has more time to draw or design the tattoo.
Step 8: Discuss your designs with the tattoo artist in advance.
Most tattoo artists need a few days to get your tattoo done.Before your appointment, talk to your tattoo artist about your design plans in person, by email or phone.Bring in any image references or designs you've based your tattoo inspiration on for the tattoo artist to study.
Step 9: You need to eat before your appointment.
Before you go to the tattoo parlor, have a small meal.You have enough energy to make it through your appointment if you eat.Choose a meal with a lot of calories.It's a good idea to avoid refined sugars.
Step 10: Arrive at least 15-20 minutes before your appointment.
You might need to fill out paperwork before the appointment.If you want to talk with the tattoo artist, give yourself at least 15 minutes to complete that process.If you need to verify your age, bring a state-issued ID.If you arrive early, you will have time to calm down and adjust to the store environment.
Step 11: Discuss your medical condition with the tattoo artist.
Ask your doctor if it's safe for you to get a tattoo if you have any medical conditions.Let your tattoo artist know about your medical history.This will make your tattoo artist aware of the risks and precautions they need to take.If you have a chronic medical condition, you should bring a doctor's note.A note is required by some tattoo artists.
Step 12: Wait while the tattoo artists shave and clean your skin.
When the tattoo artist is ready to begin, they will clean the area you want to be tattooed with rubbing alcohol and shave it with a disposable razor.If you have to sneeze or make a sudden movement, warn the tattoo artist first.Let the artist know if you have sensitive skin so they can shave and clean it.The tattooing process may hurt more on sensitive skin.
Step 13: The artist applies the stencil on your skin.
After cleaning your skin, the tattoo artist will likely use soap or stick deodorant to transfer the stencil on your body, or draw it on you with a special marker.Before the artist starts tattooing on your skin, make sure to check the stencil for any concerns or mistakes.The artist will tattoo a clean, mistake-free image on your skin.Some artists don't use a stencil and instead trace the image on your skin.Before the artist tattoos the traced image on your skin, inspect it.
Step 14: During the appointment, take steps to manage pain.
Depending on where you're getting tattooed, you may feel mild to moderate pain.Breathing exercises, talking to the tattoo artist, and listening to music can help dull the pain.These can act as blood thinners and make you bleed more, so don't take them before your appointment.
Step 15: Tell the tattoo artist if you're going to move.
Staying still for the entire appointment is difficult because tattoos can irritate your skin.Let your tattoo artist know before you move that you want to prevent mistakes.If you're getting a large or complex tattoo, your tattoo artist may suggest multiple appointments.You can always ask the tattoo artist for a break if you feel like it.It's normal to take a few breaks if the tattoo is large.
Step 16: The tattoo artist should get a tip.
Give the artist a tip if you're happy with your tattoo.The artist's hard work is appreciated by tipping at tattoo shops.If you're not happy with the design, let your artist know.Depending on the issue, they may be able to add or remove areas.It's a good idea to tip 20% in cash for your tattoo artist.
Step 17: Follow your tattoo artist's aftercare instructions.
While your tattoo heals, the artist will give you care instructions.This may include covering the tattoo with a bandage, washing it regularly, or applying antibacterial creams.Failure to follow the instructions can cause infections.Follow the instructions carefully to help heal your tattoo quickly.