Setting an appointment for a Tattoo can be exciting, but it can also leave you with a lot of questions. Here is a short guide for being prepared for your tattoo appointment.
-Make sure you eat before! Many people can have a drop in their blood sugar after a few minutes of tattooing causing them pass out. It can be from the nerves, or an adrenaline dump. In either case having a good meal can help.
-Numbing Creams.... I am totally ok with clients using numbing creams. My recommendation is to be sure to follow the instructions on the cream's label. Also, purchase a derma roller and roll the skin prior to applying the cream. Breaking the skin with the roller will allow for the creams to absorb. Also, please inform me if you have used a numbing cream.
- What to wear?... This can be a challenging question depending on the tattoo placement. First and foremost for a tattoo with any placement you will want to wear clothes you don't mind ruining. Tattooing is a messy process and ink gets everywhere. I cannot guarantee your clothes will not get splashed with ink, so wear something you can live without if it comes down to it! Also, be sure to remove any jewelry or accessories that may be in the area you want tattooed.
My number one concern is your comfort level, so if at anytime if you feel too exposed or are uncomfortable being touched in an area, please, please ... please just let me know. I will not be offended in any way. As an artist it can be easy to get into the zone of making art, and sometimes I can even forgot I'm working on a person! My studio is a private studio so it will only be you and your party in the studio at any given time and we do have shades for windows, auto locks on every door and a partition to separate the working area from the waiting area if you do bring people with you and still want privacy.
Some Tips on Clothing
Tattoos on Arms and Legs
Generally, when it comes to getting your limbs tattooed, opt for tank tops, t-shirts, shorts or skirts in summer, and loose tops and trousers that can easily be rolled up and out of the way of the artist and the placement of your new tattoo. I don’t mind you bringing anything that makes you more comfortable, like slippers, blankets, pillows, or towels and also taking off your shoes for long sittings is completely fine.
Hand and Foot Tattoos
Just be sure any and all jewelry is removed and sleeves or pant legs are out of the way.
When you’re getting your feet tattooed, your main concern should be with what shoes to wear after, when you’re on your way home. Chances are, the area will be tender and swollen, so you don’t want to squeeze into a tight pair of boots or trainers. Wide and roomy shoes are best, or sandals that won’t rub and aggravate the affected area.
Neck Tattoos
A tank top or vest is best, and a blanket in case you get cold. Also if you have long hair, bring clips and hair ties. That’s not just helpful when you’re getting a neck tattoo, but also if you get tattooed anywhere near your hair, such as upper arms, shoulders, chest, back, and ears.
Full Back Tattoo
A button-up shirt worn backward is ideal, or if the back piece incorporates the bum, then a dressing gown worn the same way is a suitable choice. If dressing gowns outside your home aren’t your thing, then wearing joggers or bottoms with loose, stretchy waistbands will also work. They can be easily pulled down to give the artist plenty of space.
Breast and Chest Tattoo
Here, a button-up shirt worn the traditional way is ideal, and you may want to combine it with nipple covers or pasties. Those pasties are adhesive stickers you can place over your nipples; we have those available for you. In addition, think about bringing a big scarf or pashmina. If you get chilly, you can wrap it around your shoulders, or stomach area while getting your upper chest piece. Just keep in mind anything you bring can get ink on it!
Bottom
Bring your dressing gown or a kimono to be worn back to front. You should also make sure you wear stretchy underwear that can be pulled aside if the artist is only working on one cheek. If your whole bottom is to be tattooed, then thongs and g-strings are best, so both sides of your derriere are visible to the artist. If you think you’ll feel uncomfortable or any areas may be exposed, bring a large scarf so the artist can drape it across those body parts.
Private parts, Hips and Upper Thighs
If your tattoo is close to your nether regions, tighty-whities are not going to make for a comfortable experience. Stretchy underwear or tie-side bikini bottoms will ensure there are no awkward conversations about the artist being able to do their work. The advantage of tie-side pants: your artist can tape them in place to make sure they don’t fall down when you have to move.
Other Things to Remember
Steer clear of anything white, brand new, expensive designer gear, and precious clothes and shoes. Although tattoo artists are meticulous and conscious people, at times, ink can transfer to your clothing and it will be difficult to wash out. Leave anything uncomfortable or super-tight at home. You can wear that again when your tattoo is fully healed and ready to be admired in all its glory.
