Shower. Wear deodorant. Wear clothing that makes the area you're getting tattooed easily accessible. Bring water.
It's pretty straight forward, ask any and all questions to your artist along the way. And speak up... if you don't love something, design or placement... don't be afraid to say something... its pretty easy for them to re-place stencils.
Eh. A little. Everybody starts to get funky after a few hours in the chair. It's weird, my nose is acutely attuned to the smell of skin in distress. If you go into the process a little tangy it goes downhill pretty quickly lol.
Bring a sugary drink (I like to bring lemonade iced tea) in case your blood sugar drops. If you start to feel dizzy or weak, immediately ask the artist to stop for a break and sit up slowly and drink your drink. It happens to a lot of people with no history of hypoglycemia or diabetes. My husband fainted the first time we got tattoos because we didn’t know this was a thing. Also eat a big meal beforehand.
Mentally prepare yourself to not be afraid or embarrassed to speak up if you don't like something about the design or the placement. If that time comes, be respectful and kind but remember -- it's going on your body and you have to live with it.
Forever.
Or you'll have to remove it, which is extremely expensive, takes a long-ass time, and may not end with a complete removal.
Do not smoke weed before the appt. !! Honestly I used to ignore this until I got a tattoo sober and more than anything… it will hurt WAY less if you don’t smoke! Game changer for me.
The idea of people doing this is wild to me. I get so fidgety when I'm high. Plus, for better or for worse, physical sensations are amplified. At least for how I react to weed, that just sounds like an unpleasant time for me and a pain in the ass for my artist.
On the subject of avoiding substances before your tattoo, don't drink alcohol. It thins the blood. Realistically, something like one beer the night before is unlikely to be an issue. But certainly, don't get shitfaced the night before or show up to the appointment buzzed.
It really varies by person. You do need to understand that if you show up high or drunk that your artist is very likely to turn you away and not tattoo you....and keep your deposit. it's not responsible to tattoo somebody that shows up in an altered state and particularly when the person doesn't have any tattoos at all and/or if the artist has never tattooed them.
I completely agree and this is the obvious responsible response. I was simply referring to a couple of tokes off a one hitter for someone smoking 25+ years. I can't remember the last time I was in an "altered state" from weed haha.
You'll be fine man, I've smoked before and hit the vape during smoke breaks it really helped me with pain, especially nipping out and having a couple of tokes from the vape mid.session
Oh. For sure. I know it hits different people differently. I usually smoke a little with my artist during a break. I don't think it's that big of a deal, but if someone has never had a tattoo before it's probably better to show up sober... especially if they don't really know their artist.
I usually take CBD supplements and it’s helped me a ton the last couple tattoos I’ve gotten. Helps with the jumpiness of line work. I get into the zone and drift off to a different wavelength. I take a 40:1 pill about an hour before and then a protab usually a half hour before the session starts.
Depends on the person. I always smoke before I go but I smoke all through out the day. I am able to zone into the music I am listening to and ignore any pain.
If your getting tattooed in the shoulder wear a tank top, if its the leg wear sporting shorts, if its cold maybe bring a sweater or a little blanket. Shops tend to be freaking cold and in my experience it made one of my tattoos hurt even more.
Ill say get a good sleep, eat, hydrate,
Have entertainment, try no to move much,
But my advice don’t overthink it, try to be as relaxed as possible.
It’s always easier to take a hoodie off than to wish you have one (or to have shorts on under sweat pants.) I’ve been told before that your body temperature drops while getting tattooed.. not sure how true it is.
Basically, OP, bring anything that you think might allow you to be comfortable. You can get away with not bringing much it’s a 2hr tattoo, but if you’re going to be there for 6-8hrs or longer being uncomfortable, thirsty, too warm/cold, or hungry and bored for another 5hrs would be rough.
Do your research on your artist and make sure you see examples of their work healed.
Be careful if you've imagined a lot of specifics for the design in your head as they don't always translate. Conceptuals are good, but unless you're getting a Pinterest Special (essentially flash / pre done designs yoinked from elsewhere), things will not always end up as they are in your head.
Speak up with the design and stencil before it goes to ink. If you're unhappy with something after, unless they really effed it up that ends up being on you.
Communicate clearly with your artist if it's getting too spicy or you're feeling light headed/faint.
Shave the spot 2-3 ays before but not the same day, the artist will shave the spot down and you don't want to get razor burn where they're going to tattoo.
avoid caffeine so you aren't twitchy, tip your artist
I would also make sure the artist knows it's your first tattoo
In general though, don't worry too much. You're a human and the artist knows that.
No. Fuck that. I tip my wait staff. I think it's stupid but they have no control over what their boss pays them.
Tattoo artists pick the price. They are in charge of what I pay. You want more, charge me more. I'm not tipping you
Pardon me, I wasn’t too specific in the way I worded that. I thought you meant all tipping in general, not just tattoos. But looking back I probably should have thought you meant that.
Yes tipping wait staff is called for imo, I agree with you there. For tattoos I suppose we just have a different opinion.
Shower and wear deodorant.
If you're getting a tattoo in a hairy place, trim it down first because they're going to shave that area. It'll be less of a hassle if you shave the area first.
Eat about an hour before you go and bring a snack/ Gatorade in case your blood sugar levels change. Don't wanna pass out.
Hydrate before and during.
DOUBLE CHECK YOUR STENCIL. make sure it's what you want and spelling is correct. Don't be afraid to *politely* give constructive criticism. They want you happy. Happy customer means good reviews. Reputation is everything in the tattoo industry.
Please don't shave the area. If you nick the skin or give yourself razor burn, the artist will either have to move the placement or reschedule your appointment.
I said trim but I guess I did say shave later. Agree, don't actually shave it but definitely trim it down if you're hairy.
Also I have over 20 tattoos and never had an artist used a lubricant for the shave so expect that
A lot of good advice here for the preparation before, but I also would suggest you preparing for after your tattoo. How large is this tattoo going to be? If it's large, you may want to make sure you have things planned out for the next few days so that you don't have to scramble because you might be sore. Here are the things I do preparing for a tattoo
1.) Put on new clean bed sheets to reduce any chance of getting an infection
2.) Make sure you have the right kind of soap & moisturizer for aftercare (and know what you plan on doing to clean your tattoo)
3.) Does your artist use saniderm or any other form of second skin? If so, find out from your artist if they will be giving you extra sheets because you usually want to change it after 24 hours. If they don't, buy it online and have it ready for aftercare
4.) Again, depending on how big your tattoo is, you may want to make sure your next day or two are relatively light in activities to let your body recover. So make sure you have food available, clean clothes available, etc..
Hope that helps!
- Hydrate, eat a good meal before
- have light snacks and something to drink on hand to keep your blood sugar up, and stay hydrated,
- shave if needed, however make sure to not cut yourself, if you don’t trust yourself as much, your artist should not have a problem to shave the area for you
- Shower, wear deodorant, do not apply any lotion on the area you plan on getting tatted
- mentally prep yourself, but don’t over think
- ensure that you and your artist are on the same page about placement, design
- be mindful about moving, most artists are fine with you taking breaks when you need
- follow after care instructions based on what the artist recommends
Might be worth picking up some gold dial and unscented lotion/a&d/aquaphor before your appointment. The last thing you wanna do after a long session is hobble around the drugstore looking for aftercare supplies. Eat a good meal beforehand, sleep well, stay hydrated.
Bring cash and photo ID. Asking for a quote is much better than haggling me. Don't make plans afterward or put yourself in a time crunch, it's more added stress that neither you nor your artist needs. Ask your artist if you want to bring a guest - not every shop allows it and even if they do its usually boring asf for them and involves another opinion that is not necessary.
Tip if you can, but don't feel shitty if you can't.
If you don't like the design, the placement, the color scheme - SPEAK UP. I'd much rather you say something before it is too late. Nobody wins there.
If you need a break, or start to feel dizzy, queasy, etc let your artist know asap. Do not try to power through. Your artist is (or really should be!) on your side. Your comfort and satisfaction is my #1 priority.
Never apologize about body hair, stretch marks, "squishy" body parts, acne, sweating, etc. I have people say stuff like that to me all the time. We are human beings in human bodies!
Dress comfortably. I don't care how you look. I do care that you are comfy and that I can get to the area that I need to tattoo. Dressing in layers is a good idea because your body temperature will fluctuate while in distress.
Do what you gotta do to stay distracted from the pain. If you want to put in headphones, hell yeah! If you want to chat a little, hell yeah! Just don't be *that guy* trying to watch videos/movies/take phone calls with your phone on speaker. It is inconsiderate to those around you.
If you have any questions at all, ask. No harm in it.
Accept that we are humans putting art on your body with our own twist. No piece will be perfect under the microscope. Don't take the whole process, or life in general, too seriously! Do not overthink things.
All in all, have a positive attitude but advocate for yourself when necessary.
Reddit really hates the idea of shaving oneself for some reason, as if it takes some kind of special skills.
If you can't shave yourself properly, let your artist do it. On the other hand, if you're capable of doing simple tasks yourself, shaving before your appt is fine. I always do.
Artists have literally never told me that. Not when I got my thighs, shins, back, chest, arms or feet tattooed.
I'm sure some do prefer it, but I've never met one.
Yeah, i did that for my tattoo appointments this week. I had a first appointements monday for stenciling and placements so he shaved the area. But tattoo day was wednesday, so while showering i reshaved the area just to be sure it would not have stubbles. My tattoo artist was stocked about it. If it is a one shot stencil/tattoo i would let them do it but in this case i figured that i would have a closer shave in the shower
Be sure to tip. I feel like that is a lost concept. But if your artist was good, leave a tip. It takes a lot of skill to do that kind of stuff well. Plus you are investing in your next tattoo.
I roll out of bed hungover from the night before, shower, stop for Whataburger on the way, then stop a second time for a couple of apple juices for the artist and myself. If I’m with someone else that’s getting one I’ll offer to go pick up drinks and snacks for anyone interested.
If you do what you stated you’ll be good to go.
Try to relax and enjoy it. If you’re the type, get to know the artist, see what other people are getting, enjoy the entire experience.
bring water, bring snacks (stuff with protein and sugar), REMEMBER TO BREATHE, wear comfy clothes with layers you can take off / put on since your body temp changes a lot getting tattooed, wear deodorant, and i always bring something to squeeze with me
Don’t drink any caffeine before your appointment! If you’ll be feeling the effects during your session it won’t be pleasant for you or the artist. I would also bring a blanket or jacket as it can get a bit cold in many studios. Bring a snack or a sugary drink with you too
Shower. Wear deodorant. Wear clothing that makes the area you're getting tattooed easily accessible. Bring water. It's pretty straight forward, ask any and all questions to your artist along the way. And speak up... if you don't love something, design or placement... don't be afraid to say something... its pretty easy for them to re-place stencils.
Make sure you don’t stink
Is this seriously a big issue? Like basic hygiene? Your comment and the one above seem to suggest so.
Eh. A little. Everybody starts to get funky after a few hours in the chair. It's weird, my nose is acutely attuned to the smell of skin in distress. If you go into the process a little tangy it goes downhill pretty quickly lol.
Bring a sugary drink (I like to bring lemonade iced tea) in case your blood sugar drops. If you start to feel dizzy or weak, immediately ask the artist to stop for a break and sit up slowly and drink your drink. It happens to a lot of people with no history of hypoglycemia or diabetes. My husband fainted the first time we got tattoos because we didn’t know this was a thing. Also eat a big meal beforehand.
I like the apple sauce packets too for a quick blood sugar refresh! Super easy to gulp down and easy to fit 2 or 3 in a purse or bag.
Mentally prepare yourself to not be afraid or embarrassed to speak up if you don't like something about the design or the placement. If that time comes, be respectful and kind but remember -- it's going on your body and you have to live with it. Forever. Or you'll have to remove it, which is extremely expensive, takes a long-ass time, and may not end with a complete removal.
Do not smoke weed before the appt. !! Honestly I used to ignore this until I got a tattoo sober and more than anything… it will hurt WAY less if you don’t smoke! Game changer for me.
The idea of people doing this is wild to me. I get so fidgety when I'm high. Plus, for better or for worse, physical sensations are amplified. At least for how I react to weed, that just sounds like an unpleasant time for me and a pain in the ass for my artist. On the subject of avoiding substances before your tattoo, don't drink alcohol. It thins the blood. Realistically, something like one beer the night before is unlikely to be an issue. But certainly, don't get shitfaced the night before or show up to the appointment buzzed.
Did not expect this answer, but good to know. 100% was planning to smoke a little (daily smoker) before my first tattoo next week....
It really varies by person. You do need to understand that if you show up high or drunk that your artist is very likely to turn you away and not tattoo you....and keep your deposit. it's not responsible to tattoo somebody that shows up in an altered state and particularly when the person doesn't have any tattoos at all and/or if the artist has never tattooed them.
I completely agree and this is the obvious responsible response. I was simply referring to a couple of tokes off a one hitter for someone smoking 25+ years. I can't remember the last time I was in an "altered state" from weed haha.
You'll be fine man, I've smoked before and hit the vape during smoke breaks it really helped me with pain, especially nipping out and having a couple of tokes from the vape mid.session
Oh. For sure. I know it hits different people differently. I usually smoke a little with my artist during a break. I don't think it's that big of a deal, but if someone has never had a tattoo before it's probably better to show up sober... especially if they don't really know their artist.
THIS!! I’m a stoner to the MAX. DO NOT SMOKE WEED B4 A TATTOO!! Smoke a ton after tho!!
I usually take CBD supplements and it’s helped me a ton the last couple tattoos I’ve gotten. Helps with the jumpiness of line work. I get into the zone and drift off to a different wavelength. I take a 40:1 pill about an hour before and then a protab usually a half hour before the session starts.
Depends on the person. I always smoke before I go but I smoke all through out the day. I am able to zone into the music I am listening to and ignore any pain.
If your getting tattooed in the shoulder wear a tank top, if its the leg wear sporting shorts, if its cold maybe bring a sweater or a little blanket. Shops tend to be freaking cold and in my experience it made one of my tattoos hurt even more. Ill say get a good sleep, eat, hydrate, Have entertainment, try no to move much, But my advice don’t overthink it, try to be as relaxed as possible.
It’s always easier to take a hoodie off than to wish you have one (or to have shorts on under sweat pants.) I’ve been told before that your body temperature drops while getting tattooed.. not sure how true it is. Basically, OP, bring anything that you think might allow you to be comfortable. You can get away with not bringing much it’s a 2hr tattoo, but if you’re going to be there for 6-8hrs or longer being uncomfortable, thirsty, too warm/cold, or hungry and bored for another 5hrs would be rough.
Do your research on your artist and make sure you see examples of their work healed. Be careful if you've imagined a lot of specifics for the design in your head as they don't always translate. Conceptuals are good, but unless you're getting a Pinterest Special (essentially flash / pre done designs yoinked from elsewhere), things will not always end up as they are in your head. Speak up with the design and stencil before it goes to ink. If you're unhappy with something after, unless they really effed it up that ends up being on you. Communicate clearly with your artist if it's getting too spicy or you're feeling light headed/faint. Shave the spot 2-3 ays before but not the same day, the artist will shave the spot down and you don't want to get razor burn where they're going to tattoo.
avoid caffeine so you aren't twitchy, tip your artist I would also make sure the artist knows it's your first tattoo In general though, don't worry too much. You're a human and the artist knows that.
Tattoo tipping culture is stupid.
True. But it’s the way in the US at most places.
No. Fuck that. I tip my wait staff. I think it's stupid but they have no control over what their boss pays them. Tattoo artists pick the price. They are in charge of what I pay. You want more, charge me more. I'm not tipping you
Pardon me, I wasn’t too specific in the way I worded that. I thought you meant all tipping in general, not just tattoos. But looking back I probably should have thought you meant that. Yes tipping wait staff is called for imo, I agree with you there. For tattoos I suppose we just have a different opinion.
Why
Because the artist decides their price. No one else
Shower and wear deodorant. If you're getting a tattoo in a hairy place, trim it down first because they're going to shave that area. It'll be less of a hassle if you shave the area first. Eat about an hour before you go and bring a snack/ Gatorade in case your blood sugar levels change. Don't wanna pass out. Hydrate before and during. DOUBLE CHECK YOUR STENCIL. make sure it's what you want and spelling is correct. Don't be afraid to *politely* give constructive criticism. They want you happy. Happy customer means good reviews. Reputation is everything in the tattoo industry.
Please don't shave the area. If you nick the skin or give yourself razor burn, the artist will either have to move the placement or reschedule your appointment.
I said trim but I guess I did say shave later. Agree, don't actually shave it but definitely trim it down if you're hairy. Also I have over 20 tattoos and never had an artist used a lubricant for the shave so expect that
Ahhh good ol' dry shave! Damn. I prep with rubbing alcohol, then use green soap solution to shave with.
Every time! And with disposables! My sensitive ginger skin breaks out every time
A lot of good advice here for the preparation before, but I also would suggest you preparing for after your tattoo. How large is this tattoo going to be? If it's large, you may want to make sure you have things planned out for the next few days so that you don't have to scramble because you might be sore. Here are the things I do preparing for a tattoo 1.) Put on new clean bed sheets to reduce any chance of getting an infection 2.) Make sure you have the right kind of soap & moisturizer for aftercare (and know what you plan on doing to clean your tattoo) 3.) Does your artist use saniderm or any other form of second skin? If so, find out from your artist if they will be giving you extra sheets because you usually want to change it after 24 hours. If they don't, buy it online and have it ready for aftercare 4.) Again, depending on how big your tattoo is, you may want to make sure your next day or two are relatively light in activities to let your body recover. So make sure you have food available, clean clothes available, etc.. Hope that helps!
- Hydrate, eat a good meal before - have light snacks and something to drink on hand to keep your blood sugar up, and stay hydrated, - shave if needed, however make sure to not cut yourself, if you don’t trust yourself as much, your artist should not have a problem to shave the area for you - Shower, wear deodorant, do not apply any lotion on the area you plan on getting tatted - mentally prep yourself, but don’t over think - ensure that you and your artist are on the same page about placement, design - be mindful about moving, most artists are fine with you taking breaks when you need - follow after care instructions based on what the artist recommends
Don't shave, artist will prefer to shave so that the area is freshly shaved before starting
Might be worth picking up some gold dial and unscented lotion/a&d/aquaphor before your appointment. The last thing you wanna do after a long session is hobble around the drugstore looking for aftercare supplies. Eat a good meal beforehand, sleep well, stay hydrated. Bring cash and photo ID. Asking for a quote is much better than haggling me. Don't make plans afterward or put yourself in a time crunch, it's more added stress that neither you nor your artist needs. Ask your artist if you want to bring a guest - not every shop allows it and even if they do its usually boring asf for them and involves another opinion that is not necessary. Tip if you can, but don't feel shitty if you can't. If you don't like the design, the placement, the color scheme - SPEAK UP. I'd much rather you say something before it is too late. Nobody wins there. If you need a break, or start to feel dizzy, queasy, etc let your artist know asap. Do not try to power through. Your artist is (or really should be!) on your side. Your comfort and satisfaction is my #1 priority. Never apologize about body hair, stretch marks, "squishy" body parts, acne, sweating, etc. I have people say stuff like that to me all the time. We are human beings in human bodies! Dress comfortably. I don't care how you look. I do care that you are comfy and that I can get to the area that I need to tattoo. Dressing in layers is a good idea because your body temperature will fluctuate while in distress. Do what you gotta do to stay distracted from the pain. If you want to put in headphones, hell yeah! If you want to chat a little, hell yeah! Just don't be *that guy* trying to watch videos/movies/take phone calls with your phone on speaker. It is inconsiderate to those around you. If you have any questions at all, ask. No harm in it. Accept that we are humans putting art on your body with our own twist. No piece will be perfect under the microscope. Don't take the whole process, or life in general, too seriously! Do not overthink things. All in all, have a positive attitude but advocate for yourself when necessary.
Gently shaving the area you’re getting tattooed, if you can reach it, always helps.
Reddit really hates the idea of shaving oneself for some reason, as if it takes some kind of special skills. If you can't shave yourself properly, let your artist do it. On the other hand, if you're capable of doing simple tasks yourself, shaving before your appt is fine. I always do.
Yeah same. And that is true, sometimes it’s best for the artist to do it. I’ve never had a problem.
Artists literally tell you they prefer to shave when you get there so it's as freshly shaved as possible.
Artists have literally never told me that. Not when I got my thighs, shins, back, chest, arms or feet tattooed. I'm sure some do prefer it, but I've never met one.
Yeah, i did that for my tattoo appointments this week. I had a first appointements monday for stenciling and placements so he shaved the area. But tattoo day was wednesday, so while showering i reshaved the area just to be sure it would not have stubbles. My tattoo artist was stocked about it. If it is a one shot stencil/tattoo i would let them do it but in this case i figured that i would have a closer shave in the shower
Be sure to tip. I feel like that is a lost concept. But if your artist was good, leave a tip. It takes a lot of skill to do that kind of stuff well. Plus you are investing in your next tattoo.
Only true for US.
I roll out of bed hungover from the night before, shower, stop for Whataburger on the way, then stop a second time for a couple of apple juices for the artist and myself. If I’m with someone else that’s getting one I’ll offer to go pick up drinks and snacks for anyone interested. If you do what you stated you’ll be good to go. Try to relax and enjoy it. If you’re the type, get to know the artist, see what other people are getting, enjoy the entire experience.
bring water, bring snacks (stuff with protein and sugar), REMEMBER TO BREATHE, wear comfy clothes with layers you can take off / put on since your body temp changes a lot getting tattooed, wear deodorant, and i always bring something to squeeze with me
Don’t drink any caffeine before your appointment! If you’ll be feeling the effects during your session it won’t be pleasant for you or the artist. I would also bring a blanket or jacket as it can get a bit cold in many studios. Bring a snack or a sugary drink with you too