Tattoo First Timer

Tattoos and body art are both beautiful forms of self expression. At times they can be a permanent outward statement of your inward emotion. They can help you remember something special or important, have a meaning you want to share with the world, or just be a decoration to the already wonderful skin you're in.

If you've been thinking about getting a tattoo then you obviously know that a tattoo is forever! So tip one:

1) Be sure of what you want before you get to the tattoo parlor. Have an idea previously thought out including the placement,size,color or black and white, etc. The tattoo artist will possibly look down on indecisiveness so have an outline of a plan before you ever set foot in a shop.

Also know that your artist, for whatever reason, has the right to refuse to give you certain tattoos if they feel uncomfortable. Don't take it personally!

Good tattoos are NOT cheap! So tip two:

2) Have money saved for the tattoo you want. Normally the tattoo shop will have a minimum down payment and add on for color and size of the tattoo. Other shops have an hourly rate. Shop minimums range anywhere from 50-100. It is best to call the shop or visit the shop's website to set up a consultation for a price quote and to make an appointment. Remember- You get what you pay for so to speak. If you pay for a $20 tattoo as opposed to a $60 one beware the $20 tattoo's quality.

Don't stress the pain

3) If the pain of a tattoo is your main concern just remember: If they really hurt that badly no one would bother. Research the area you would like to have the tattoo and find charts and graphs showing you the most and least painful areas. This being said do not compromise the area or placement of your tattoo due to pain because as you know this form of body art is forever!

Also everyone's body and pain tolerance is different. If you ask a friend or acquaintance about their pain level be aware that what is a "searing pain" to them could be pinches and pinpricks to your own body.

Know your comfort zone and don't let anyone take you out of it.

4) Being comfortable during your tattooing session is also important to keeping down pain levels. Take a friend but Do Not bring a crowd or large group. This could distract the artist and crowd their work-space. Another no-no is using alcohol to ebb the pain. Using alcohol thins the blood which means you will bleed more than normal during your session and no one wants that. To keep distracted bring some earbuds (because sometimes the buzz of the needle can be the scariest part) and relax. It is Okay to ask for breaks during the session as you need them so make sure to speak up.

Follow the rules

5) Your tattoo artist or parlor receptionist will give you a pamphlet or guide of aftercare for your tattoo. Follow it to the letter! Not following the advise of aftercare could result in the tattoo fading quicker than normal, loss of pigment in areas, or damage to the skin

First off, think about whether your tattoo has a meaning or if you simply like the design and artistic quality (which is also totally fine).

For a first timer its best to start off small or even get a piece that you plan on adding to later.

Popular tattoo ideas for girls

• anchors
• minimalist lines
• animals
• infinity symbols
• love symbols and hearts
• feathers and dream catchers
• fandom art

Popular tattoo ideas for guys

• animals
• tribal theme
• religious
• abstract
• fandom art