How long have you been debating whether or not to get inked? What’s been keeping you from taking the leap? While some tattoo virgins have stayed away due to their fear of needles, there are several who constantly postpone their session because they just don’t know what to expect. Will they still like their design after a few days? Will they change their minds? What if it doesn’t look good? What if they have to get expensive laser tattoo removal?
The truth is that if you’re looking for excuses to deter you from getting a tattoo, then maybe you should wait it out. However, if it’s uncertainty that’s keeping you from going for the studio, there a few designs that can help you get your first taste of ink without giving you regret anxiety.
Going for a simple and small design that will probably be done in under an hour is a good way for you to actually experience the whole process. Instead of quantifying whether or not it will be painful, based on what other people tell you, you can actually see what your reaction is. It’s best to go for a small design because if you’re fifteen minutes into a session and realize you can’t take more pain, you’ll be glad it’s almost over.
It’s also important to keep in mind the studio as well as the artist. Do your research into their methods and esthetic. If you want a single line tattoo, find an artist who specializes in that style. If you want a colorful Kawaii design, don’t go with someone who does monochrome.
Once you make an appointment, remember to keep it and be on time. There’s this bizarre assumption that tattoo studios are very casual. And they are, but not with the artist’s time. Pay attention to what your artist recommends for after care. How you treat your new ink will have an impact on how it looks after it heals.
This next point might seem a little old fashioned, but I’ll say it anyway. Find a design that means something to you. It doesn’t have to be a big deal, but you should go for something you have a connection to. If your first tattoo is something you picked five minutes earlier, you might really regret it.
You might want to consider placement as well. If you want a hand tattoo, just be aware that you’ll probably need a touch up in a couple years to keep it looking pretty. If you want a rib design, be aware that tattoos done close to the bone sting more than those in fleshier areas. If your lifestyle has you in the sun a lot, think about placing it somewhere you won’t get too sunburned. Otherwise your ink will also start washing out.
Finally, it’s important to enjoy and not think too much. You’ve already looked up the artist and made the appointment. You’ve found a design you’re happy with. Now you just need to let things flow and experience your first ink.
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