Being the neophyte and protagonist that I am for amazing body art, like the full sleeve tattoos that I enjoy brandishing on both of my arms, I always get asked many questions about my tattoos by numerous people that approach me who have never gotten one. This has prompted me, after quite literally being asked hundreds of questions regarding the subject matter, to write an article about tattoos and just what you can expect when you are getting one. Some things to keep in mind here—stuff that you more than likely already know—are that tattoos are not only art, they are a permanent fixture upon your body. So having a great tattoo and knowing what to expect and where to get one is pivotal to you being satisfied with your ink, and knowing that you are getting tatted in a safe, clean and legal environment. Perhaps these few tips can greatly aid you if you decide to get under the ink gun and add a crazy-cool tattoo to your body!
1. It usually is going to be painful. There are some places of your body that you will never feel any pain, and there are others that will seem like a hot knife is scraping across your body; like the inside of the arm, or the ditch of the arm. So to easily answer this question: be prepared for pain. But no pain means no gain! That’s the price you pay for a great tattoo!
2. Look around at tattoo parlors before you get inked. I am unable to emphasize or stress this point enough. Take your time when you are selecting a tattoo parlor, and the artist for that matter. Look around the shop: is it clean and nice, or grungy and scary? Check out their portfolio of tattoos as well; do they really appeal to you, or do you think you could find better work?
3. You get what you pay for. Some places may charge less for tattoos than others, but in the end you get what you pay for. The key is in finding an artist and tattoo parlor that you like, that charges a decently fair price, and that offers first rate work. This way you can keep going back there once you get hooked on the body inking process!