Tattooing yourself for the first time is an exciting milestone and should resonate with you. Before entering a studio, however, you should take a few steps to select an appropriate design and prepare accordingly.
Choose the Right Design
At first, choosing your tattoo design should be your top priority; otherwise, if it turns out that something is not what you hoped it would be, it will stay with you for life. Deliberating over which part of your body to ink can also be critical – avoid areas with lots of nerve endings that become exposed during regular movement, as these could aggravate it further. As an educator, you should avoid getting Tattoos that require covering up in their professional environment, such as skull tattoos. Ask the artist for recommendations if you need assistance selecting your tattoo design. They have an expert understanding of what works and doesn’t, which can guide you towards the ideal plan for yourself. They may also recommend an artist who could make the process smoother to ensure that your first tattoo comes out exactly how you envision it.
Find an Artist You Like
After you’ve prepared, it’s time to find an artist. Make sure they understand precisely what you want; Tattoos are permanent! Consult their experience and portfolios to understand which styles they specialize in. Be as specific as possible when discussing size and placement. Wei suggests explaining exactly how large you’d like your tattoo instead of simply saying, “Small.” She claims this simplifies the artist’s job while potentially saving both parties time in the long run. Before your tattoo appointment, it is advisable to avoid alcohol and drugs; they can dull the pain, thin your blood, and increase the risk of complications. Also, be wary when moisturizing areas where Tattoos will be applied and makeup/fake tan sprays used during this process, as these could obstruct needles or create issues with ink distribution.
Get Preparation Done
Your tattoo requires a blank slate, so you must take proper precautions before getting inked. Cuts, scars, and peeling skin may create uneven surfaces, potentially creating complications as it heals. Get plenty of rest the night before your appointment, and maintain a regular sleeping schedule to help your body function at its best. Resting can reduce tension, making things less painful for all involved parties. On the day of your appointment, avoiding strenuous activities like working out, hiking, or other vigorous sports could strain your muscles and make remaining still for tattooing more challenging. Hydrating before arriving for your appointment by drinking lots of water and packing snacks and beverages will help keep you awake during the tattooing process and avoid any squirming or discomfort.
Schedule Your Appointment
Once you’ve decided on your design and chosen an artist, the next step is scheduling your appointment. While it is understandable to feel nervous before starting a tattoo session, please avoid alcohol or drugs before showing up, as they can thin your blood and lead to complications during tattooing. Always wear loose, comfortable clothes to give yourself easy access to the area you would like tattooed. Bring something along that may help distract you, such as books or your favorite movie or television series. Make sure you have cash available, as many tattoo artists do not accept credit cards due to the fees associated with using credit cards. Although some studios may take digital payment options like Apple Pay, ask which method they prefer! Having cash will also prevent additional charges for tips.
