You've decided to get your first tattoo, and you've picked out the shop and artist you want to work with. After you finalize your design, you're ready to go, right? Actually, you will want to make sure you prepare for your tattoo session by resting up, taking a shower, and drinking plenty of water. Then you'll want to pack a small tattoo kit to take with you to the studio. Here are some things you should bring.
A Bottle of Water
Hydration is key to great tattoo placement. It keeps your skin supple so it accepts the ink well. It also helps you handle the pain better, and reduces your stress during the tattooing process. Especially if you are getting a large tattoo, you should bring a bottle of water.
Something to Cover Yourself With
While getting a tattoo, you will have to expose certain areas of skin. Often, it may be easier to go topless or take off your pants to allow your artist to get the appropriate angle and give you the best tattoo. Bring a light scarf or small blanket to cover up key areas and make sure you don't get cold.
Your Fully Charged Phone
To give you something to concentrate on during the session, you may want a book or your smart phone. If you're bringing your smart phone, make sure it is fully charged. You will likely be unable to charge it while you are getting your tattoo placed.
A Little Snack
Because of the extended period of low-level pain involved in getting a tattoo, your blood sugar will likely drop. It is a good idea to bring a small snack to eat during a break. This is especially important if you are diabetic.
Proof of Age
You have to be 18 or have parental consent to get a tattoo. Make sure you bring your driver's license or another photo ID that proves your age.
Cash
Many tattoo studios still prefer to work with cash payments as opposed to credit card payments. Make sure you bring enough cash to cover the cost of your appointment and any tip you want to give. Do not assume that your studio will be able to accept a card as payment.
Preparing for your tattoo appointment will help you have a more relaxing, comfortable experience. It will also ensure that you are able to get as much work done as possible during your initial session.
Even as a child, I was always fascinated by clothing and design. My outfits always matched, and I begged my parents to buy me the latest season's fashions as soon as they hit the store. I took some art classes to learn how to do my own design. I learned how to sew, and started making my own clothes to experiment with different fashion ideas. I decided to take all of the things that I've learned about beauty and fashion and create this blog. My hope is to inspire creativity and personal expression in others just like I've had for most of my life.