Perhaps you are intrigued by the prospect of using your skin as a canvas to showcase beautiful artistry with pieces that hold meaning for you. Or maybe it’s not your first time? Perhaps you already have a few tattoos and want to add to your collection? Well, no matter your reasons for getting a tattoo, there are a few considerations you must account for before you get on a chair.
The following questions are important guides in your foray into getting a tattoo:
What Do I Want to Get?
While getting a tattoo means having a piece of art inked to your skin, not all art types make good tattoos. Despite the seemingly endless possibilities inherent in the practice, tattooing still has some limitations that you cannot ignore.
Note that some art styles don’t translate well as tattoos. However, it may take an expert eye to identify them; therefore, in this case, you will have to trust your artist’s guidance.
In other cases, some art styles may only work on specific areas of your body. For example, those that are highly detailed and look realistic look better on larger areas like the forearm, bicep or calf. So, if you are set on getting the tattoo in a specific area, mention it to your artist, but remember that they have a better idea of what will work in that area.
How Visible Do I Want It to Be?
Tattoo size and visibility are significant considerations for what you will get. Some people get smaller, less visible ones for various reasons (like the meaning behind it or simply dipping your toes in the water). Others get inked as a form of self-expression, to celebrate a milestone, achievement or express pride. Yet others consider their tattoos a fashion statement. Tattoo visibility is a preference rather than a hindrance for all these. Therefore, their size, placement and scope differ accordingly.
Despite the freedom to choose how visible your tattoo is, it is still important to consider your work environment. There are still numerous workplaces and industries where tattoos are considered unprofessional, thus prohibiting visible tattoos. So, check if your artist or studio abides by a “No Hands, No face” policy.
How Much Does It Hurt?
This is a ubiquitous question. And while people have different pain tolerances and perceptions, the hurt is still just that; temporary. So don’t be scared off by stories of people passing out or getting sick during the process. While these instances are common, they have an underlying cause- the clients’ lack of adequate preparation or too much anticipation. However, the overall process elicits more manageable pain levels.
It is entirely possible to work through the pain using simple, proven coping techniques, including reading a book, listening to music, participating in some conversation or taking deep breaths. And remember: your artist likely has some tattoos of their own, so they know what you are going through. Therefore, you only need to request some assistance in coping, and they will be willing to guide you the whole time.
Where abouts Should I Get My Tattoo Done?
Tattooing has become so popular that there is no shortage of studios. But, despite this availability, don’t forget that the choice remains with you. So, to select the right studio and artist, you have to do some legwork. Start with an internet search of the studios and artists in your area. Then determine their viability by browsing through their portfolios and noting the reviews of their work. Once you have whittled your list down, you can schedule a consult with them to evaluate how you feel after a face-to-face meeting.
