You, yes you, now that you have bookmarked many tattoo designs and are finally getting ready to get your first tattoo, I say stop! Ok, Just stop! Read this blog before getting inked to prepare you for permanently adding art to your skin. Here, is a comprehensive guide to getting your first tattoo. Because your first tattoo has a story to narrate. So, what is important is that you should walk away from your session happy with your art which is permanently etched into your skin.
So, read this blog and make your experience as easy, regret-free, and as painless as possible.
1.) When you are picking an artist:
So, in case you have not selected the exact tattoo artist to do the honors of giving you your first tattoo, I recommend you to go pick one who is trustworthy. Follow them online and gather a sense of who they are as a person. Having an experience of getting a tattoo done has a huge effect on how a person feels about the tattoo on their body. So, make sure that you check out pictures of healed work too. Tattoos fresh versus healed are different. So, get a full understanding of how your desired tattoo artist’s work ages with time.
2.) Getting an appointment:
So, depending on which tattoo artist you prefer, make an appointment. A few artists have links on their Instagram or have a website that showcases their work. Also, they do have an online form for you to fill in with the exact information they need at the time of booking. So, include all the necessary information and get an appointment.
3.) Preparing for an appointment:
Sometimes you might need to go to the studio for a quick, in-person consultation before scheduling your appointment. You can then describe the kind of tattoo you want. It also helps the artists to generate an image from our words. Most tattoo artists compared preparations for the actual tattoo appointment to that of a medical procedure. Also, be sure to have a good night’s sleep. Don’t drink the night before, and stay hydrated. Also, have your meal 30 minutes before getting your tattoo.
4.) After arriving:
So, when you first arrive at the tattoo studio, make sure that you start by washing your hands. Arrive at the scheduled time and carry your photo ID.
5.) Finalising your placement and your design:
The first thing your tattoo artist will do is show you designs they have mocked up for you. If you want to make adjustments to it, talk to the tattoo artist directly. Never be afraid to speak up. Communicate politely, without insulting and showing mistrust.
Also, keep in mind that not all tattoos can be as tiny as you want them to be embossed. Some lettering may need to be enlarged, so they can be legible over time. Also, the size of the tattoo is not going to decrease the amount of pain. Next, a stencil is made and placed onto your body where you want the tattoo to be. Yes, the placement can be changed-just inform your artist.
6.) The Tattoo sitting:
So, when it is the time for actual tattooing, your artist will take the time to set up his supplies. They do this for their clients to see that everything is sterile, clean, and comes out of new packages. Ok, once the tattooist turns on their machine, try to stay still. If you start feeling lightheaded or need a break to stretch, tell them. The first few moments of getting a tattoo can be painful. But once you get used to the situation, you can gauge whether your artist is into chatting.
7.) Tipping and wrapping things:
So, once your tattoo is complete, your artist will bandage it up by either taping plastic wrap around it or by putting a medical-grade bandage. Post this, it is time to settle your bill. So, your artist will probably tell you the expected price of the tattoo. Then do the needful. A standard price for a tattoo does not exist. Every artist has a different rate, which depends on the shop’s hourly rate.
Aftercare:
Before leaving, just make sure that you listen to your artist. He will give you a few aftercare instructions.
I hope, this guide helps you get your first tattoo stress-free. So, enjoy getting your new body art.
