Common Tattoo Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Each day, thousands of tattoos go from thought to reality. This is really cool, when you think about it. Unfortunately, though, there are many individuals who end up unhappy with their ink. Most of the time, the reason is related to the tattoo choice and maybe the way that the tattoo was done. What makes things worse is that tattoos are more or less permanent. If you really want to remove one…it’s gonna cost you. So, how do you avoid the regret, pain, or shame? See below!
Number 1 – Mindset
Don’t get a tattoo when you are not in a good frame of mind.
- Don’t get a tattoo on a whim.
- Don’t get a tattoo when you’ve been drinking, etc.
- Don’t get a tattoo when you’re depressed.
- Don’t get a tattoo when you’ve eaten too much, or too little.
- Don’t get a tattoo after a first date (or the second, or the third…).
There’s nothing wrong with getting a tattoo to remind you of a person or difficult situation (most of us do that!). But, a tattoo is a piece of art and is a serious and long-term decision. When you walk into a tattoo shop, you should be confident about your decision.
Number 2 – Design
It is best to at least have a vague idea of the the design that you want. If you’re not sure, solicit the help of friends, the internet, or an artist. Print pictures, cut out designs from magazines, save cool ideas on your phone, or sketch something out yourself. You should never compromise to please anyone, but don’t ask your artist to just copy something. Remember, this is art, and they are artists!
Are you especially nervous or indecisive? You may want to consider finding a shop that will help you with a test drive. You can have your design printed onto temporary tattoo paper, so you can get a feel for the size, colors, etc.
Number 3 – Artist
OK, so you have an idea of your design, and you’re feeling pretty zen. If you don’t already have a shop or artist in mind, you’ll have to find one (our top lists are a good place to start, depending on your location). Tattoo artists have a wide range of background and experience, and, as artists, they also work in a wide range of styles. An artist who specializes in zombie art may not be the best person to do your puppy and butterfly tattoo, although a zombie butterfly would be pretty cool.
Number 4 – Expense
Finding the best shop/artist is not like shopping to get the best deal on a new outfit. If you can’t afford to get the work you want done well, you’re not ready. This means you have to do your homework. Talk to your artist about cost before you get into the chair, so he or she can give you a quote. And, please, folks, do not haggle with the artist.
Number 5 – Aftercare
So, you’ve done everything else right, and you love your new tattoo. You’re not done yet! Depending on the size, location, your body, etc., your tattoo will take a few weeks to heal. The first five days will be the most uncomfortable, and you may experience slight swelling, itching, and irritation. Follow your tattoo artists’ instructions for care and seek professional medical help if you see or feel anything excessive.
Summer 2015
June 30, 2015
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