20 Tattooing Tips to getting your first tattoo
So you're thinking about getting a tattoo...
Found this
wonderful article from the net and since it ties up very closely with our
ongoing Tattoo Extravaganza, we're re-blogging this for you guys! Credits go
to hubpages and http://www.first-tattoo-designs.com
1. A
tattoo lasts forever. Don't rush into your design decision and end up with a
design you will regret. Join some online tattoo galleries to get ideas, and
don't make an impulse decision. When in doubt, just slow down a little before
you get the actual ink.
2. If this
is going to be your first tattoo, don't go big. Small tattoos can hold just as
much personal expression as a large piece. Also, with only a little 'skin in
the game', small tattoos are easier to work around later if you have a change
of heart and need a cover-up.
3. If you
are underage, or not ready to make the permanent commitment, consider a
temporary tattoo. Henna tattoos can give you an idea of how you will feel about
your design and will wash off in a month or so. When you join a tattoo design
gallery, you can even print out the designs and have them converted to a
temporary tattoo to try out.
4. If any
of your friends have tattoos, talk to them to get an idea of how getting a
tattoo was for them. Ask them questions... How much did it hurt? Who did your
tattoo? Was the tattoo shop professional and clean? It's always best to talk to
someone you know and trust.
5. There
are some consequences of tattos you may not have known: In some states, to
control the spread of hepatitis you cannot donate blood for at least a year
after getting a tattoo. There are exceptions to this rule in states that have
certain hygyine regulations for the tattoo industry. If you think you may
donate blood in the next year, do some homework.
6. YES,it's
going to hurt. And, yes you will also bleed some. (It's worth it though trust
me. ;-)) OK, the truth is, most locations aren't really that bad, especially if
you're getting a small tattoo. It's also somethin'good pain'. That is to say,
you're enduring it for a special reason.
7. If you are religious, is getting a tattoo going to be
a problem for your faith? For example, tattoos are forbidden for Jews. In fact,
if someone with a tattoo converts to Judaism, they can not be buried in a
Jewish cemetery unless the tattoo is removed. Some Christians, belive that
getting a tattoo is contrary to God's call to honor our bodies, and are against
the idea. Again, since tattoos are permanent, think about if there will be
religous impacts for you.
8. Tatoos last longer than most relationships, so be wary of
putting someone's name in your tattoo. You don't want your tattoo to be a
constant reminder and source of heartache if your relationship doesn't last.
9. Most people, and especially people new to tattoos, should avoid getting tattoos, on their hands, neck, or head and face. In fact, most shops will refuse to do the work unless it is obvious you are already ‘in the tattoo game'. The artist knows the possible negative reaction people may have to tattoos, and placing them in a highly visible spot only increases the possibility.
The other
concern with getting a hand or foot tattoo is the wear and contact that these
areas of your body endure. For example, if you work with your hands, that would
make a hand tattoo a poor choice. The tattoo will get distorted and would also
be highly noticeable. For your feet, make sure you can commit to proper healing
processes; eg. a 2-3 month process of being barefoot as much as possible and
truly pampering your skin.
10. Talk with your artist about proper tattoo aftercare. Generally you
should keep the tattoo bandaged overnight. Then, gently wash the area the next
day. Do not scratch or rub your new tattoo. Once healed, you must use sun
protection as much as possible, as the UV light will fade the colors. (This is
another important consideration when determining the location of your tattoo.)
11. Relax! Worrying about picking the right design, the
unknown level of pain, and whether you will enjoy your tattoo, will only make
these negative things come true for you. If you have done your research
(reading this page!), then you will know what to expect, and you should be able
to relax and enjoy the process.
12. Take
something to distract you or keep you entertained. Books, magazines, iPod, and
something to drink are all good ideas. Getting a tattoo can take some time, so
you want to be comfortable while you are getting inked.
Bringing a
snack can also be a good idea to settle your stomach if you get queazy at the
thought of needles. If you decide to get a large tattoo, you may also want to
take a break and have something to eat.
Finally,
bring a friend you supports your decision to get a tattoo. They can help you
through the emotions of getting tattooed.
13. If
your potential artist is evasive about answering questions, find another
artist. As far as it relates to tattoos, a good tattooist will be able to
answer any questions you have. They should also be polite and professional.
14. If
your bandage is too sticky to remove the next day, soak it off in warm water. Don't
try and rip off a stuck bandage - it might damage the skin, and it will hurt!
15. NEW, NEW, NEW - Cleanliness
is next to godliness when it comes to tattoos. Your shop should be using new
pots of ink and new needles (make sure they open the packets in front of you)
for every customer. The tattoo instruments themselfes should come straight from
the autoclave. Anything less is risking infection.
16. CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN. This means you, the artist, the
shop - everything. Make sure you're not sick, and don't skip your morning
shower. The artist will be working closely, and you don't want to smell spicy! The
artist should also wash his hands, wear gloves, and wipe down the area to be
used before you sit down. Make sure the autoclave is working, and that in
general, the shop looks clean. While your tattoo is healing, if you must touch
it, wash your hands first.
17.
Comparison shop. No, not for price (like most things in life, you will get what
you pay for...) But, just to get a vibe or feeling from a couple artists and
shops. You should feel comfortable with your artist, afterall, you are going to
have your tattoo forever.
18. Wear
comfy clothes. You might need to sit down or lay in the same spot for a couple
hours. If you will need to partially undress to expose the area you are getting
worked on, wear clothes that make this easy for you and the artist. If you
don't want to undress, you can usually lift your shirt or pants partially to
reveal the needed area. In general though, tattoo artists work on half naked
people everyday, so it's not a gawk fest for them.
19. Don't
drink beforehand. Not only will you regret getting a drunken tattoo, but
alcohol acts as a blood thinner, which means you will bleed more than normal,
and this will make the artist's job harder.
20. Think.
Think about the design, style, color of your tattoo. Think about the the
placement, the artist, and the shop. Do some homework, join a tattoo
gallery...but once your are certain, don't second guess yourself.
With the
steps outlined above, you should be on your way to getting your first tattoo right the first time. Now do your tattoo artist a favor and let them know about Livshop's Tattoo Extravaganza sale. You can rest
assured they get only the best and the safest tattoo supplies at competitive
prices. Believe me, they'll be glad you did.
0 comments