Tips Before Getting a Tattoo

Life/Recreation - People

By: NicoleMN     09-Aug-2012

Investigate

Check that your local tattoo artist is a licensed professional and if you have to, ask them if you could see proof. Professional tattooing establishments showcase their licenses on the walls so they are within view of the patrons. They also display business cards and portfolios of their artists. However, just because someone has a business card, it doesn't mean that they are a professional. Do your homework if not referred to the artist via a friend or family member.

Choose a Piece

Once you've chosen what you want, look through the artists' portfolio. If you're looking to get a tattoo of some sort of cartoon, a tattoo artist who specializes in dark or gothic imagery is not your best bet. Most artists who have been in the business for many years specialize in a wide variety of art and will be able to do any piece that you may want.

Ask Questions

Ask the artist if they sterilize their equipment with what is called an Autoclave. An Autoclave is the only machine that is capable of heating tattooing equipment with a high temperature for sterilization. Ask if you can watch the sanitizing process to ensure that their tools are clean. Most artists will allow you to watch in order to put you at ease.

Do Your Research

Look around and do your research when considering what shop to visit. If the atmosphere does not appear clean, well-lit and safe, it is best not to get your tattoo done there. If there is an "artist" who runs his business out of a dirty basement and its appearance does not sit right with you- regardless of the price- it is your best bet to go to a professional looking place.

Prep Yourself

Be prepared for the pain. Anyone who has tattoos (like myself) will tell you that they hurt; because they do. However, everyone experiences pain much differently than others. Find out beforehand how long the procedure will be so you can pace yourself (or chicken out). The pain scale also varies depending on which part of your body where you get your tattoo.





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Comments

  • hummingbirdee 8/10/2012

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    Just remember, when you get old it can be interesting. My father in law's anchor looked like it sunk the ship.

  • dptstretch 8/10/2012

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    Good list...I've had mine for more than thirty years and I think the list is pretty much the same and stands the test of time :) H5


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