Claim your ink

 I have probably discussed this topic in several different ways, but it bears repeating. I also recently did a tattoo consultation so it is fresh in my mind?

 Don’t know what a tattoo consultation is? You need a better tattooer.

 So, you are thinking about getting a tattoo, but you are not certain what you want. You have a concept, but that is about it. How does one get from a fuzzy idea in their head to the actual tattoo? Talking to a tattooer is a great start, but there is a lot you can do before you have that conversation.

 1. Determine what the tattoo means to you. If you want a military tattoo to honor a family member, you may want other items as filler related to that person. If a military tattoo is meant to be a reflection of your own service, then filler could be other aspects of that service. The meaning of the tattoo could take your concept in different directions.

 2. Once you have an idea, start looking for references. Collect images of things related to your concept, even if they are just things that could be part of your tattoo.

 3. Add to these concept references tattoo references; images of tattoos that you like. This serves two purposes; it will help to define the style of tattoo you want, and it will also indicate the limitations of tattoo design relative to your other reference material.

 What I mean by that is you will develop an understanding that the three-dimensional CGI image you have as a reference will look different when rendered as a tattoo. It may sound obvious, but people often seem to think anything can be rendered as a tattoo in the skin.

4. Identify your tattoo style. As you are collecting references of tattoos you like (related to your concept or not), a stylistic theme may emerge. You need not know that you are looking at American Traditional designs, but recognizing that you like this type of tattoo more than another, and being able to provide your tattooer examples, will help bring your design to life.

5. Determine where on your body you will get your tattoo. Location will impact both the size of the tattoo and how the design is organized. A design created for a forearm is often not the same as one created for a shoulder.

6. Be realistic about the limitations of the tattoo design and the style you want. More often than not, images rendered as a tattoo are simplified. Location on your body and size limitations also impact the amount of detail that can be reasonably included.

7. Be aware that you concept may be interpreted in multiple ways, and be prepared to allow the tattooer some creative input on the design. Your tattooer will have more experience with design as it is applied to tattoos; how certain elements should be arranged given the location of the tattoo and the style, what colors will work best and in what combinations, and so on.

8. The flipside of the same coin is being certain that the design is what you really want. If you feel pressured to depart from your ideas in a way that you do not like, or that the rendering is not living-up to your expectations, then don’t get the tattoo. The design should be something you are excited about getting, and your tattoo should be flexible enough to get it to where you want (within reason).

9. Decide if this will be your only tattoo for a while, or if it will be the first of many in the same location on your body. If your tattoo plan includes additional tattoo building on or being near the current tattoo, those future plans need to be taken into account in the design.

10. Be responsible for your tattoo and take your time. Do your research, look at portfolios, and talk to a number of tattooers. Ideally, you want an experienced tattooer who works in your chosen style and who is excited about the project. A tattoo is an investment, so take you time with it.

 Jason Sorrell is a writer, tattoo artist, satirist, artist, and generally nice guy living in Austin, TX.  He loves answering questions about tattoos.  Shoot him an email at https://www.facebook.com/tattoonerdz/

Tips for Getting Your Next Tattoo

 Getting a tattoo is not a common experience for most people.  You walk into a studio wanting a tattoo, there's art an the walls, tattooed people behind the counter, and no clear instructions on how to proceed.  Professional tattooers will happily walk you through the process, answer your questions, and make the experience a positive one for you.  However, with a little forethought and planning, you can make that experience a great one.

1. Know what you want (at least in general).

 Walking into a tattoo studio just to get a tattoo is rarely a good idea and leads more often to tattoo regret, especially since those that do are often looking for what they can get within their budget rather than a great tattoo.  Have a tattoo concept in mind before you go to a studio.  Know where you want it on your body.  Bring reference material to help your tattooer understand what you want, as well as offer some inspiration for your tattoo design.

2. Do some research.

 Once you have your tattoo concept and know where you want it on your body, it is time to start looking for a tattooer and tattoo studio.  Talk to a few studios in your area and find out about their rates to establish an average price per hour.  Keep in mind that some tattooers price their work by the piece, but most have a general hourly rate they can offer as a guide.  Knowing the local average tells you what you would pay for an average tattoo... And, no one should want an average tattoo!  This will help you gauge your price when you find a tattooer and shop that suits your needs.  Keep in mind that good tattoos are not cheap, and cheap tattoos are not good.  Check online reviews, ask others about their tattoos and their experiences with local studios, and get a feel for what to expect as you shop.

 3. Select a tattooer based on their style.

 Every tattooer develops a particular style that they specialize in, a style that will be apparent in their tattoo portfolio.  A tattooer may be willing to work outside their style, but you may be happier with a tattooer who works in the style you want (as well as get a better price getting a tattoo in the style the tattooer is familiar with). Look for a style that you find aesthetically pleasing, one that you would like your concept translated into.  Be open to your tattooers ideas and suggestions.  As a tattoo-professional, they will have an understanding of tattoo design and placement on your body that will provide a more pleasing result.  Tattooers are artists, and always tend to work better when unfettered.

4. Express all your concerns about the tattoo while it is being designed.

 Tattoos should be a unique expression of your concept by your tattooer.  While you should listen to their suggestions about your tattoo, you should also be confident in discussing what it is you want. Don't settle for a design that you think is "alright", point out the areas you have concern about!  Once you are in the tattoo chair and the needle is in your skin, it is typically too late to bring-up concerns about the design.  Ultimately, it is your tattoo, and if you and your tattooer cannot agree on a design that excites you, you may want look for a different tattooer.

5. A tattoo is an investment.

 Be prepared to pay for the work you want.  If you find a tattooer and a studio you like, then accept the price-point being quoted.  Knowing the average price in your area, you should be prepared to pay an additional 50-100% of that rate, based on the quality of work you seek.  Haggling for a better price is a delicate matter, as trying to low-ball your tattooer or bringing-up the prices offered at other shops almost always leads to a negative situation.  If the price is more than you can afford, tell your tattooer and see what they may be able to do for you.  Your tattooer may be willing to work in sessions, allowing you to pay for the work in installments, or may be willing to come down on their initial quote slightly. Ultimately. however, a good tattoo in the style you like is worth the price your tattooer quotes.

6. Plan ahead for your tattoo appointment.

 Usually, you are welcome to bring a friend, but don't bring your whole crew.  If you have children, make arrangements for childcare. Don't bring your kids to the studio, even if you have a friend to watch them for you (your kids will want your attention).  Plan to allow for as much time as necessary for your tattooer.  A good rule of thumb is to double whatever your tattooer estimated time is (if your tattooer says the tattoo will take two hours, be prepared to spend four).  Have a snack an hour or two prior to your appointment, but bring yourself something to drink during your session.  Let your friends and family know you are getting a tattoo and not to call you on your cellphone unless it is an emergency.

7. Practice some basic etiquette.  

 Arrive for your appointment at least 15 minutes in advance, and be prepared to wait while the tattooer's station is set for your tattoo (calling your tattooer in advance to tell him or her you are on your way can help reduce the wait).  Arrive sober to your appointment.  Do your tattooer a favor and also make certain your have showered recently and brushed your teeth.  They try to smell good for you, do the same for them. Plan on not eating while you are at the studio, or if it is going to be a long session on eating during a meal-break.  Try to keep your breaks to no more than once every hour or two.

8. Be prepared to tip.

 While tipping your tattooer is not necessary, it is greatly appreciated.  10-20% is a fair tip.

9. Pay attention to the after-care instructions.

 The vast majority of problems with a tattoo are the result of the customer not taking care of it while it heals.  Listen to the instructions given by your tattooer.  Do some research about tattoo care prior to your appointment, and ask any questions you may have about what you need to do.  Put clean sheets on your bed before going to sleep.  You've spent some serious money on your art, do what you can to protect it.

10. Celebrate your tattoo and tattooer.

 Your solicitation of a tattooer for a tattoo is a compliment. Your tipping the tattooer after the tattoo is appreciated.  Celebrating your tattoo and your tattooer takes it to a whole new level. Grab a stack of business cards from your tattooer and the tattoo studio on the way out the door, and pass them our to your friends.  Tell people on social media about your experience, befriend your tattooer, like their tattoo pages, and post your tattoo.  Your advertising their work will mean the world to them.

Jason Sorrell is a writer, tattoo artist, satirist, artist, and generally nice guy living in Austin, TX.  He loves answering questions about tattoos.  Shoot him an email at https://www.facebook.com/tattoonerdz/