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There comes a time in many people’s lives when they decide to get their first tattoo.
You may be in your teens, an adolescent, or even middle-aged - but it’s always a monumental moment. Sometimes it’s a spontaneous, spur-of-the moment decision, other times it’s a well-thought out, contemplative choice, but the outcome (and the memory attached to it) will always last a lifetime.
If you’ve been thinking about getting inked, here are a few things you should know:
It’s important to pick an artist you trust, and whose work you gravitate towards. Do research online by following a few artists on Instagram and becoming familiar with their work. Also try to gather a sense of who they are as a person. “Having a great experience actually getting the tattoo often has a huge effect on how a person feels about the tattoo on their body. Love your artist and you'll love the artwork even more," says tattoo artist Brit Abad.
In addition, you may also want to check pictures of their healed work too. Fresh tattoos often look very different when healed. Colours fade and the lines become less distinct, so this type of research will allow you to get a full sense of what the artists work looks like overtime.
Once you’ve chosen an artist, you may have to fill out an online form or send an email to make a booking. When sending an email, it’s important to be as specific as possible about what you want.
Design: Conveying your design is extremely important. Be specific as possible about the details, colour, and size. Attach reference images to help the artist understand your vision. Just be sure to understand that your tattoo will not be an exact replica of what you show them.
Size and placement: Tattoo artist Ariel Wei says instead of requesting a small, medium or large sized tattoo, she prefers her clients to provide dimensions. Give an estimate of the width and breadth in centimeters, as well as where on your body you’d like to get it.
Skin tone: You may want to describe your skin tone to the artist, so they can prepare accordingly. However, tattoo artists should be accommodating and inclusive, and be able to work on all skin tones.
As certain colours look different on various skin tones, you can also request a consultation to do a colour test. This is where the artist will tattoo small lines or dots of colours you’re interested in to see how they heal on your skin before making a final decision.
Remember, although it’s important to be specific, nothing stated in the initial email or form is final. You can always change the details about the design, colour or placement when you chat in person with the artist and decide what’s best.
Once you’ve confirmed the design of the tattoo, chatted to the artist and been for the consultation (if necessary), you should also prepare mentally and physically for the appointment.
Get a good night’s rest, stay hydrated and don’t drink the night before. It is also recommended to have a meal at least 30 minutes before your appointment. If you have any skin conditions like eczema on the area you’re hoping to get tattooed, let your a tattoo artists know ahead of time. Also try to avoid tanning before your appointment.
Getting your first tattoo can be pretty intimidating, and the first moments of getting tatted will probably be the most painful. However, this feeling won’t be as intense the entire time. As your body builds up natural adrenaline, the pain begins to subside on its own. You can also watch something on your phone or listen to music to keep yourself distracted. Some artists also like to chat to their clients (while others may find it distracting), which can be a great comfort and makes the process go by faster.
Once your tattoo is complete, the artist will wrap it up either in clear plastic wrap with a transparent, medical-grade bandage.
When settling the bill, every artist will have a different pricing system depending on the size and complexity of your design. Some may charge an hourly rate of a fee based on the minimum rate of their parlour. It is customary to also pay a tip - around 20 to 30 percent is the standard rate. This helps the artist cover the cost of their supplies, travel or any other additional costs.
Lastly, before leaving, ensure you obtain thorough aftercare instructions from your artist. Ask the recommended timeframe for taking the bandage or wrapping off, as well how to wash and care for the tattoo once it has been removed.
It’s also a good idea to keep open communication with your artist in case any future issues may arise.
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