First Tattoo Tips: A Simple guide to getting your first tattoo
You’re thinking about getting your first tattoo. It’s an amazing step into the world of self expression. But it can be daunting to start. So many designs, styles, ideas, placements. It can be overwhelming for a first timer. So let’s make it easier with a simple guide to follow.
1.Choosing an idea you like
This step can be skipped quickly if you already have an idea you really like. You may have a lot of things you like. Although keep in mind it has to be something visual. A character, person, object, symbol. Think about why you like that idea. Maybe it’s a character from your favorite show. Maybe that flower you like has a meaning that relates to you. A symbol that is very significant or meaningful to you. On the other hand, you enjoy the aesthetic of geometric designs, and want them tattooed. Maybe you enjoy the aesthetic of a full colored cartoon piece. But if you’re stuck on what to choose here’s an easy way to narrow things down are with simple questions:
Do I really like looking at this?
Does it have any meaning for me?
Is it something I want to keep with me forever?
Do I care about it enough to get it tattooed on me?
The first two questions are fairly straight forward. Your tattoo has something you like to see all the time. Your tattoo can have meaning and will be a better long term choice. Getting a design or style to follow a trend may seem cool at the time. But trends change, so avoid doing that. The last two questions are especially important to consider. Tattoos will last a lifetime, unless you choose to go for tattoo removal. But it would be wiser to be sure before you even start. The second question is just as important but, in a different way. Because it is a tattoo on your body, you will be the one having it. Others can comment for sure, but at the end of the day. It’s your body and your decision. Get what you want.
2.Decide on how it looks
The visual style of your tattoo is something that you will need to decide on as well. There’s so many styles of tattooing that you can be overwhelmed with choices. Avoid this with a simple question.
What style will fit with my idea?
If you’re looking for something horror themed, going with black and grey realism will be a suitable choice. If you like the look of a certain flower, you can go with fine lines, or realism. This step is open to a lot of expression, and has room for you to really personalize yourself.
If you’re unsure, looking up examples of tattoos that have a similar style will help you get an idea of what styles can work for your idea. Even better if you can find an artist that has the style you’re looking for. As they can work off of your idea and make something unique for you.
3.Choose the placement and size
Placement and size both go hand in hand. While our body is a canvas, we are limited by the physical space on our skin. Start with the size of the tattoo first. If you’re aiming to make a larger piece, you’d be looking for a larger area such as a full back, out arm, legs. If you’re looking to make a smaller piece. Spots such as the ankles, wrist, forearm, and above the elbow are nice places. Although keep in mind future placement for tattoos (if you plan on getting more later). Getting a small tattoo in the middle of a large space, can mess things up down the line.
4.Consider how long it will take
Small tattoos are fairly quick to complete, some of them will take longer to set up than actually get tattooed on you! On the other hand, larger pieces can take multiple sessions to complete. Especially pieces that have more detail and use color. How long are you willing to sit/lay down for your first tattoo? That answer will completely depend on you. Although there’s another thing to consider when getting your first tattoo.
5.How’s your pain tolerance?
You’ve probably heard that tattoos hurt. Yes, they do. But if you ask people how it feels, you’ll get a wide range of answers from person to person. Someone might say that their small tattoo on the back of their ear hurts more than the large piece on their forearm. Another person might say the arm hurts more than the legs. Keep in mind, everyone’s pain tolerance and sensitive spots are different. If you have a great pain tolerance, going for a large piece first might not be such a bad idea. Although if you are sensitive to pain, or unsure about your own pain tolerance. There’s no shame in starting for a smaller piece. Most artists would recommend starting small for your first piece. That way, you know what to expect for larger pieces.
6.Find an artist and schedule a consultation.
The next step when you’re sure about all the points above is to find an artist. Social media such as Instagram is the best way to find an artist. Look at their work, and see if it’s in line with the idea and style you like. All you have to do next is message the artist about your idea and ask about their availability. Asking for a quote is completely fine as well. If you’re still unsure about what to get, you can schedule a consultation with the artist. Talking about your idea face to face, is the best way to make your ideas into a real tattoo design.
Conclusion
That’s your easy guide to getting your first tattoo. Don’t worry if you don’t get anything right away. Tattoos are a personal experience, and getting started is part of the process. If you’re looking to get your first tattoo, or your next one. Send us a message! We’d love to have you in for a tattoo and guide you through the process!
