So your going to get a tattoo? That's great but have you really thought about why you want one? People get inked for many different reasons, be it to remember a family member or a loved one, to represent their beliefs, opinions or just because they look 'cool'. Some of the reasons can seem contradictory to others but many people fail to understand that they are personal to the person bearing the art.
Tattoos are a way of showing ones individuality. In the past, those who wore tattoos might have been considered renegades in one way or another. Today you can find tattoos on housewives, teenagers, teachers, office workers, builders and even doctors; it all depends on an individual's background, taste and purpose and purpose in choosing to have a tattoo drawn on their body.
Like the hundreds of thousands of people out there I get asked all the time "What does it mean?", "What does it represent?" and "Why did you get them?" To explain to another person who dislikes tattoos or put no thought into their design is extremely difficult, so I will try to explain a bit about how I feel about them.
I believe every tattoo should have a meaning or represent a belief to whoever bears its mark. Rather than going into a studio and selecting a rose that possibly hundreds of other people have, choose the rose but why not add a twist to it? Why not change the design in some way and make it look totally different. Make your rose unique and special, represent how you feel, this is something I have done myself and I dont regret it for a second. It shows creativity and artists love to redesign and customise any image you bring them, this is one of the things they enjoy the most about their work.
Remember, tattoos are a lifelong commitment
There is no simple tattoo eraser. Although laser removal is available, it is painful and expensive. Because no one cares more about your tattoo than you, the responsibility is yours to get the results you desire. Being educated on all phases of the tattoo process will put you in control. You will know the right questions to ask and be clear on exactly what you want. Do your homework and join the thousands that have taken the right steps towards the perfect tattoo!
Frame of Mind (Never get tattooed under pressure)
Modern techniques have brought tattooing to incredible levels. There is no good reason for anyone to get a bad tattoo. However, unsatisfied customers occur everyday. One reason for this is customers getting tattooed under pressure. Sometimes It's great to be impulsive, but tattoos are permanent. Avoid the "spur-of-the-moment tattoo." Quick decisions often lead to a lifetime of regret. Step one is simple. Make sure you are emotionally ready to get tattooed.
Selecting Your Design
The first decision you will make is selecting a design. Make sure this is your choice and not that of a friend, spouse or tattooist. Never compromise on your tattoo design. It should be something you absolutely love. Some customers feel they must select a design from the tattoo studio. This is not true. Professional tattooists will appreciate you being prepared with a quality design. Selecting a tattoo from Tattoo Johnny, in the privacy of your own home, will free you from any outside pressure. Once you have selected the color reference and stencil for your design, you can download them to your computer. You will need to print both of these images to take to your tattooist.
Finding The Right Artist
Most of today's tattoo professionals are far more skilled and highly trained then ever. It is your responsibility to make sure you are working with one of these quality professionals. Getting tattooed is intimate and personal. So how do you know who is right for you? There are three basic elements to consider when choosing: Experience, portfolio and attitude. It's always good to find an artist who has a few years of experience and is seasoned with the style of artwork you have chosen. Ask to see their portfolio of finished tattoos. Reputable tattoo artists will have a portfolio. If portfolios are not available, this is a bad sign. Look carefully at the pictures. Check for the quality of the black outlines. Are these lines clean and crisp, or are they shaky and irregular? Also, look at the color or shading. Are the colors bright and solid or are they dull, with missing patches? Do the colors blend smoothly? Is the image easy to understand? Do the tattoos contour properly to the body? If the portfolio meets your requirements, you will want to get to know the artist. Because tattoos are personal and somewhat painful, it is good to work with someone who's chair-side manner gives you great confidence. The artists should be open to answering your questions. They should share in your ideas and enthusiasm for your tattoo. If the artist does not like your ideas or tries to steer you into something you are not looking for, then you might be in the wrong place. Find an artist whom will to give you what you want. Stay true to your instincts. Not all tattoo artists are the same and it might take several trips to different tattoo studios before you find the right one. No tattoo artist is perfect, but there is a tattoo artist PERFECT for you!
Appointment Day (The better you sit, the better your tattoo.)
The big day has arrived. it's important to show up rested and well nourished. Don't go out late the night before your tattoo. You want to be well rested so you can relax and sit still. It's also helpful to have eaten a good breakfast or lunch. Getting tattooed on an empty stomach can be difficult and lead to problems. When you sit quietly and relaxed, your tattoo artist can concentrate on doing a good job. It has been said that there are two kinds of tattoos, one for people who sit still and one for people who don't. An edgy or restless tattoo customer takes valuable time and energy away from their own tattoo. Make sure you help your tattooist by being still and relaxed. Tensing up and complaining does not make the tattoo hurt any less, and is likely to have a negative effect on your tattoo. If you sit still and cooperate with your tattooist, you will be proud to know you did your part to make your tattoo come out perfect!
Tip: Never get tattooed while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
How much pain should I expect?
Tattoos can be painful, but not so painful that it stops people from happily coming back to get tattooed again. It helps to get your tattoo while you are well rested and nourished. Everyone has a different tolerance for pain. Most people say that getting tattooed is no big deal at all. Some can find it more difficult. Despite the discomfort, most people who are happy with their first tattoo usually get tattooed again. Some spots are more sensitive than others. Despite the pain, it's important not to let this affect your decision. Because you will have your tattoo for the rest of your life, it is best to get exactly what you want, exactly where you want it. Long after the pain is gone, you might wish your tattoo was in a better spot. If you get your tattoo in just the right place, for years to come you'll be proud you made the right decision.
Tip - Some spots are more sensitive than others. Despite the pain, it's important not to let this affect your decision. Because you will have your tattoo for the rest of your life, it is best to get exactly what you want, exactly where you want it. Long after the pain is gone, you might wish your tattoo was in a better spot. If you get your tattoo in just the right place, for years to come you'll be proud you made the right decision.
Is it best to start with a small tattoo?
Only if you really want a small tattoo. For some people small tattoos can be a good first step. Don't get a small tattoo because you are scared of the commitment. A small tattoo is the same lifelong commitment as a larger tattoo. Larger tattoos can allow for a greater degree of artistry and detail. They can be more exciting and dynamic. Sometimes people get a small tattoo only to realize how much they like it. Their only regret can be that they did not get it bigger. Think carefully about just how big you really want your tattoo to be. Often a small tattoo is a perfect choice, but sometimes going larger can make for a great first tattoo and a very happy customer.
Are tattoos really addictive?
You bet they are. It feels great to get a tattoo. Beautiful tattoos attract a lot of attention and can really reinforce your desire to get tattooed again. While you are getting tattooed, the body releases endorphins to help the you deal with the discomfort. This is similar to the "high" feeling that you can get from vigorous exercise. For some people, tattoos are adventurous. For some they are sexy. For others they can be very personal. Whatever your reasons, be prepared to want more than one. (personal note from me here, they are damn addictive!)
How do I know a studio is safe?
Is the studio listed somewhere? How many years have they been in business? Do you know anyone who has gotten tattooed there? Any tattoo studio that has built a legitimate business is more likely to practice modern sterilization methods. Make sure the studio is neat and clean. What you see when you first enter is a pretty good indication of what you will see elsewhere in the studio. Ask questions about the studio's safety procedures. What are they doing to ensure your health and well-being? The personnel should be willing and able to answer all of your questions. If the tattooist brushes your concerns aside, or avoids your questions, leave and seek out a "professional" studio.
Safety Tip - Feel free to question the tattooist about his or her sterilization procedures and isolation techniques. Take time to observe the tattooist at work and don't hesitate to inquire about his or her experience and qualifications.
If the tattooist is qualified professional, he or she will have no problem complying with standards and guidelines mentioned above. If the tattoo artist or studio does not measure up to these standards, or if the artist becomes evasive when questioned, seek out a professional studio and tattooist.
What is single service equipment?
All equipment should be single service. This means that each needle and tube set is individually packaged, dated, sealed and autoclaved. The artist should open a fresh set of needles and tubes in front of you. Any ointments, pigments, needles, gloves, razors, plastic trays or containers used in applying your new tattoo are discarded after use. After the tattoo application, the artist will disinfect the work area with an EPA approved virucidal that will kill any surface bacteria or viruses.
What is an autoclave?
An autoclave is the only acceptable means of equipment sterilization in the tattoo studio. It is a machine that uses a combination of heat, steam and pressure to kill all pathogenic microorganisms known to man. If the studio does not use an autoclave, do not get tattooed there. Studios should keep regular records of their autoclave use and testing. Ask to see them if you feel uncertain.
Will there be blood?
There will be some blood. The amount varies from person to person. To help avoid excessive bleeding, avoid alcohol 24 hours before getting tattooed.
Safety Tip - If you start to feel faint or a little "green," tell your artist right away instead of "toughing it out." There is absolutely nothing wrong with taking a break. Your artist is prepared for this sort of thing and knows how to handle it.
Safety Tip - Your artist should be wearing rubber gloves any time they are touching broken skin and should change their gloves regularly. This protects both you and the artist from any blood borne pathogens that may be present.