First Time Tattoo Tips From a Pro

Tattoos are one of the oldest art forms, dating back to the Neolithic period. In ancient history, tattoos served various purposes. Tattoos were symbols of tribal identity, community status, and beauty. They were also used as a form of memory preservation and for medicinal purposes.

Even today, tattoos tell a story. You may get a tattoo as an artistic expression, to preserve a memory, to cover an imperfection, or to express something you believe in. No matter your reasons, getting your first tattoo is a huge deal, and you want to be prepared for the experience.

Below are tips from tattoo pros to keep in mind when you go to get your first tattoo.

A tattoo is an expression of who you are. So take time while you decide on the design. First, think about why you want to get a tattoo. Choose a design you have a personal connection with. That way, you will be unlikely to regret getting the tattoo several years later.

Do not see a tattoo design somewhere and get it the next day. Wait for some months, and if you still want the design, get it then. Ensure you pick a design that also suits your environment. For example, getting a skull tattoo would be a bad idea if you are a nurse.

If you have more than one design option, consult your friends on which design fits your personality most.

Where you get your tattoo matters, so choose well. Research local tattoo parlors and visit each one of them. Ask to see each tattoo artist's portfolio and check if they have done similar designs to what you want.

If you have friends or family who have tattoos, ask them to recommend tattoo artists who can do your design. Some tattoo artists place designs that are not theirs in their portfolios. So, ask the artist for reference images of customers who got the design you like. Getting references saves you from false advertising.

Inquiring about a tattoo artist's experience before hiring them is also important. A good artist should have been in the business for some years.

Avoid going for a bargain when you get your first tattoo. Tattoo parlors have varying minimums on tattoos, depending on the tattoo's size and the artist's experience. A tiny tattoo won’t break the bank. The price goes up as tattoo sizes increase.

Beware of any tattoo artist that offers to tattoo you for a lower than average price. You risk infection by getting a tattoo at a shoddy parlor. So, instead of bargaining, get a quote from a reputable tattoo parlor and save up to get your tattoo.

Visibility is the most obvious consideration when it comes to tattoo placement. If you don't like people looking at you, consider getting your tattoo in a discrete area, like the inside of your arm.

You should also think about pain tolerance. Tattoos in fleshy areas are less painful than tattoos placed over bony areas. So, if you have low pain tolerance, get your tattoo on your thigh or shoulder.

Your tattoo ages with you, so depending on where you place it, the tattoo may stretch out with time and start looking distorted. Your tattoo artist can advise you on the best place to get a tattoo so it ages well.

After you get your tattoo, always keep the site clean, and do not touch it if you want to avoid infection. As your tattoo heals, the site may have a mild itch. Do not scratch the tattoo, as your fingernails may peel off the ink and distort the design.

If you want to get a tattoo in New York, there is no better place than Studio 28. Our artists are the best in the city, and we commit to doing art that clients will be proud to show off.  Contact us today  to book an appointment with our artists.