Maybe bad artists but even that shouldn’t be the case. We have available to us the largest portfolio of flash, the web, and the largest database of artists, also the web. So a bad tattoo just shouldn’t exist anymore. But we do need to do a little ink research.
My personal opinion is if you are going to get something tattooed on your body, inked up permanently, find something with a little meaning or at least really cool. I would try to draw something up yourself or get an idea of what you want and find an artist that could bring it to life. Search the internet and don’t just rip off other’s ideas but expand on them and make them your own.
Take multiple drawings and use the ideas to come up with something new. Go into the parlor prepared. Color or just black? My arm or back? Remember you can bring in anything you want. Pictures, photos, even tattoo drawings from the internet. If you find a great artist they can do just about anything these days.
Don’t go in under the influence. This is just my personal opinion. If you are drinking your blood is thin and it gets messy. Also you tend to make decisions that you normally wouldn’t if sober. At least I do. Plus why not experience this sober so you can remember the pain!
So what to expect if this is your first tattoo. Well it hurts. I don’t care what anyone says, or how tough you are, it hurts. You have needles stabbing you rapidly while being dragged across your skin. It’s like a burning cigarette dragged across your arm. But it is bearable, not comfortable, but bearable. The outline needle hurts more than the filler needles and it will definitely hurt more or less depending on where on your body you get tattooed.
If this is your first time be ready for some after care. This is extremely important if you want your tattoo to keep its vibrance and detail. Follow the instructions that they give you at the parlor to the letter. Don’t stop with the care early because everything is healing nicely. Make sure to clean it and keep it moist. Do not pick at the scabs. Please follow your parlors aftercare instructions.
Getting a tattoo is a wonderful experience and can capture a memory or time in your life forever. It is a wonderful conversation starter, a wonderful declaration of life and individuality. Just please do some research and check out all the tattoo flash and tattoo drawings that you can. Be prepared with something, don’t just go in and pick something off the wall. There should be no excuses for a mistake tattoo or a bad decision anymore. Now let’s get inked!
