There are a lot of things to consider before youget a tattoo.
The first time I got a tattoo, I was almost 16 and crossed state lines with my mom.
We got ourselves some cool lower-back tattoos and made the trek back.
It was the best bonding experience ever, and I don’t regret it one bit.
Since then, I’ve gotten six more tattoos and plan to get more.
It’s true what they say about ink being addicting; I love every single one of mine.
Still, you shouldn’t take getting a tattoo lightly.
If you’re thinking about getting inked, there are a few things you should consider first.
If you’re not prepared to give it some thought, a tattoomay not be rightfor you.
Tattoos are permanent
This one seems obvious, right?
But seriously, tattoos are very permanent and you should consider what that really means before you get one.
You might realize that you don’t actually want ink.
Even if you do want ink, you may change your mind aboutwhatyou want.
And I have friends who have silly, on-a-whim pieces that they’ll never get removed.
But where you get a tattoo can be just as important as what you get.
Some locations on the body can be more painful than others.
You also might want to consider placement based on your workplace.
I’m fortunate I work in a creative industry where tattoos are welcomed and displayed proudly.
I recommend spending time researching tattoo shops and artists in your area.
Read the reviews thoroughly.
Ask your tattooed friends where they got their ink and if they have a recommendation.
Most of my tattoos have been done at shops I was referred to.
If you get bad vibes when you walk into a place, then leave.
If it looks dirty, keep searching.
Tattoo parlors should smell super clean, like a sterile hospital.
I mean, you’re literally getting ink injected into your skin.
The place needs to be spotless.
And don’t forget to make an appointment when it’s time for your ink!
Many places accept walk-ins, but many are by appointment only.
This gives you time to speak with the artist and a little more time to think about it.
I’ve never cried while getting a tattoo, but a lot of people I know have.
It really can depend on your pain tolerance and where you get your tattoo.
My most painful was one on my shoulder because I’m particularly bony.
Softer, more plush areas with thick skin may not hurt as much.
You may also be sore afterwards, similar to when you get a flu shot.
If you’re not prepared to deal with caring for your tattoo, you probably shouldn’t get one.
You’ll repeat the process for 5-7 days.
Be warned: your tattoo will likely flake and peel.
This is totally normal.
For professional care advice, ensure to go over this with your tattoo artist and shop.
But when you get your tattoo can also be very important.
I was super sore and in a lot of pain.
It’s important to keep things like that in mind when you’re deciding when to get your ink.
Be prepared for the cost
Tattoos aren’t often cheap, nor should they be.
Many shops have aminimum price, which covers opening a new needle, ink, and labor.
The larger the tattoo, the higher the price it will most likely be.
Many shops charge a certain rate per hour.
Don’t just walk into a tattoo shop and start describing what you want.
Bring photos, examples, and other tattoos you like.
Your artist needs to have an idea of what you want.
I have a detailed bunch of cherry blossoms on my foot.
The result was perfect and exactly what I was looking for.
I drew another one of mine and just asked that the artist clean up the lines.
That, I guarantee, you will regret.
