Getting your first tattoo can be really exciting, but just wait a minute before making that appointment. Follow these tips so you don't end up regretting your first tattoo!
1. Think about it.
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Coming from someone who spontaneously got their first tattoo, please think about what you're getting. Lucky for me, I got a half inch outline of a heart for my first tattoo. It's a little uneven but it's small and can easily be covered. Really though, put some thought into this tattoo. After all, it will be on your body forever!
2. Don't copy whatever you find on the internet.
I understand there are a lot of cool tattoos out there. Maybe you think that's exactly what you want on your body. But don't copy someone else's exact tattoo. Also, your tattoo artist will not appreciate copying other artist's work and many won't do it. Your tattoo artist is an artist for a reason. If you have an idea, tell them and they can draw something original.
3. Think about placement.
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Placement is key. This can make or break a tattoo. Skin is different all over the body. Some places will hurt like hell to get tatted and other places will be a breeze. If it's your first tattoo, I recommend getting tatted in an area that isn't as sensitive. Also, placement can make a tattoo look amazing or make it look horrible. Think about the general shape of your desired tattoo then think about where it would look best. If you need help with this, your tattoo artist will be a great adviser.
4. Scheduling an appointment.
Depending on where you go and what you want, you probably will have to schedule an appointment. Most places don't allow walk ins. That being said, I do know a few places that are known for their walk ins. Is the work as good as something that was done by appointment? Maybe, but most likely not. Big pieces, especially, need to have an appointment. This is because it could take all day to do the tattoo! Keep that in mind when your scheduling.
5. Money
GiphyI can honestly say when I scheduled my first big piece, I did not think about money. I knew I had to cough up a few hundred but it didn't really hit me till after. Most places require at least a $50 deposit when you make the appointment. Not everyone accepts checks and cards so I always have cash when I schedule. My piece took about 7-8 hours. I did 5 hours the first day and about 2 hours a month later. The artist I had charged $120 an hour. Luckily, she gave me a nice discount. Also, don't forget to tip your artist. Most of the money goes towards the shop and materials.
6. Don't go in under the influence.
If you think it's a good idea to get inked while you're under the influence, it's probably not. Alcohol thins blood and that won't be a fun time when you're getting tatted. Going on drugs isn't much better either. Drugs can alter your senses and some can make you hallucinate. A tattoo artist won't be happy if you start tripping out. Plus, most artists won't ink you up if you're drunk or on drugs anyways.
7. Before you go to your appointment.
GiphyBefore you go to your appointment, make sure you eat and stay hydrated. If you're getting a big tattoo, you may bleed a lot. So make sure you at least have some water with you to keep you hydrated. There have been cases of people passing out when getting tatted. When I had my appointment, I brought snacks and water. After my appointment, I was starving and exhausted!
Keep these things in mind when you are considering to get a tattoo. It will help you and your artist in the long run. Oh and remember... no ragrets!
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