Getting a tattoo is not as radical a move as it once seemed, as it has become fairly common for people from all walks of life to get a permanent image in their skin. That’s good news for those who fear the social stigma, but there is still some natural nervousness for those who are getting their first tattoo. Knowing the stages of the process can be enormously helpful in easing any fear or worry, so you can know that it’s all moving along just as it should.
The first steps, or preparations, are very simple. You select a tattoo parlor, or a particular artist, based on their reputation. Usually it’s best to have a good recommendation from a friend, so you can be sure the parlor has a good profile for courtesy and cleanliness. You can have a design selected ahead of time, or go in and look through their albums to find something you’ll want on your body. Next, you’ll fill out some paperwork, which is basically a release form, and decide on the price.
When these preparations are complete, it’s time for the big moment. You’ll be seated in the chair, usually one specially designed for your comfort, but also to allow easy access for the tattoo artist. The spot for the design will be cleaned, and often shaved, so that the artist can work cleanly on a blank canvas. If you know the spot ahead of time, you can do the shaving ahead of time. The artist will certainly appreciate it! Then they’ll start the work. They will transfer the design via thermal fax, and place in on your skin, so that they have a perfect template to work from. The artist will prepare the needles and the colors, so everything is ready and there won’t be any unnecessary pauses in the work. They start by tattooing the outline first, and then get to coloring it in. This can take awhile on larger, elaborate designs, and even with smaller ones it can seem pretty long. Understand, however, that the pain at first will eventually get easier, as you get used to the feeling, and the endorphins in the body kick in.
Last, the artist will clean the area, and place a protective bandage over it, to soak up the minor bleeding, and to insure that the colors stay bright and sharp. They will give you any special instructions on how to take care of it for the first few weeks. Before you leave, and after you pay, make sure to tip. 20% is generally a generous amount for good work.