I can’t recall the first time I saw the “tattoo lady,” but do remember how fascinated I was with her. It was sometime around the late 80’s or early 90’s, before tattoos were mainstream, and she was hard to miss. At the time, I was just a kid. My mom had a horse, and we’d cross paths with the tattoo lady at various horse shows.
For years I goofed around with temporary tattoos – you know like those Marvin the Martian ones in the quarter machine? Okay now I’ve really aged myself! In my early teens I’d eagerly look for the latest issues of all the tattoo magazines, sit in the Barnes & Noble Cafe and dream up what I’d get (or avoid). Finally in the late 90’s, my mom agreed to take me to get a permanent one. Not quite a tramp stamp, but it was on my mid-lower back.
My next one would come during college at 19 years-old after my on again, off again boyfriend broke my heart. It was just one of many poor decisions to come, but I’ll save that for another blog. Other than a touch up, I wouldn’t get another until my late 30’s.
Fast forward to my mid-30’s. I broke off a 7-year relationship, which nearly broke me. My mental health and my tattoos were deteriorating, so I sought to fix what I could first – the ink.
Shows like Miami Ink, Tattoo Nightmares, and Ink Masters gave me deeper insight into what goes into a “good” tattoo, what to look for, and what to avoid. I’ve traveled all over the U.S. to get work down by multiple artists. My first two tattoos have been covered and I’ve got a full sleeve on my left arm, partial on my right, half my back, and started my leg sleeve.
If you’re contemplating a tattoo, or know someone who is, here are some things I’ve learned in my journey:
- Many tattoo artists are versatile, but it helps to find one that specializes in the style or theme that you’re looking for, e.g. portraits, black and gray, free-hand, color, script. Instagram is a great resource for seeking out local and global talent.
- Similarly, if you want a cover-up, find an artist who is comfortable and experienced. Otherwise a bad cover-up just leaves you with two permanent reminders that mistakes were made.
- Consultations are clutch, especially if it’s the first time you’re working with an artist. During the consultation, they’ll typically ask questions, share any concerns about the design, and finalize next steps.
- Be open to their feedback on your request. Many people don’t realize that artists have to contend with a lot of different variables such as placement, skin type, and how the design will age.
- As with everything, you get what you pay for.
- Along those lines, high-demand artists typically have wait lists. Could be a few months, could be a few years. Some receive so many requests, they can hand-pick the projects they want to take on. Don’t take it personal or get too discouraged if they don’t pick you. I’ve run into that a couple of times, but eventually found another route and it worked out beautifully.
- The level of discomfort depends on a multitude of factors: style of tattoo, location, technique, machine… If you’re worried, do some research and consider areas that are less painful. Don’t be afraid to talk to your artist about your concerns. If you’re getting a larger piece, consider breaking it up into multiple shorter sessions.
kpfled: 