You've decided to get your first tattoo, but where do you start? As an artist dedicated to create unique and meaningful designs, I understand that the experience can be both exhilarating and somewhat nerve-wracking. Whether you’re opting for a watercolour tattoo, a fine-line piece, or abstract artwork, preparation is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
I want to help you feel confident and prepared for your first tattoo. Here’s everything you need to know before entering the studio.
1. Choose the Right Tattoo Design and Artist
Your tattoo is a permanent piece of art, so choosing the right tattoo artist and design is crucial.
✔ Do Your Research – Browse through various portfolios and explore social media platforms to discover an artist whose unique style truly resonates with your personal aesthetic and vision. It is essential to find an artist whose work aligns with your preferences, as this will ensure that the final tattoo reflects your individuality and artistic desires.
Once you've identified an artist you admire, remember that they are professionals, so their guidance is trustworthy and valuable. It's important to listen to and follow their advice, it might not align with your initial thoughts but could be the most effective approach. Remember why you chose them in the first place.
My work specialises in a variety of techniques and styles, particularly focusing on watercolour tattoos, abstract designs, and fine-line tattoos. Watercolour tattoos are characterised by their vibrant, fluid colours that mimic the appearance of a watercolour painting, offering a dreamy and ethereal quality.
Abstract designs, on the other hand, allow for a more interpretive approach, blending shapes, lines, and colours in a way that can convey deep personal meaning or simply serve as a striking piece of art.
Fine-line tattoos are known for their delicate and intricate details, often featuring thin lines that create elegant and subtle imagery.
Feel free to reach out here. to discuss your vision and explore the possibilities.
✔ Think About Placement – Certain body areas, such as the ribs, sternum and feet, are known to be particularly sensitive due to the proximity of bone and nerve endings, which can lead to a more intense pain experience during the tattooing process. If you are new to tattoos and may be apprehensive about the pain involved, it is advisable to steer clear of these more sensitive areas.
On the other hand, placements like the upper arms, thighs and forearms are generally more tolerable for beginners. These areas tend to have more muscle and fat, which can act as a cushion, reducing the overall discomfort felt during the tattooing.
The visibility of the tattoo can also play a significant role in your decision. If you prefer a tattoo that can be easily shown off or one that can be discreetly covered, your choice of placement will greatly influence that aspect. It is worth considering how the tattoo will fit into your lifestyle and daily routine.
Ultimately, the placement of your tattoo is a personal decision that should reflect both your pain tolerance and your personal style. Take time to visualise how the tattoo will look in different settings and how it might evolve with your body over time, as factors such as aging and weight changes can affect the appearance of tattoos in the long run. By thoughtfully considering these aspects, you can ensure that your tattoo placement aligns with your vision and comfort level, leading to a more satisfying and fulfilling tattoo experience.
✔ Personal Connection – Your tattoo should be meaningful to you. Whether it’s an abstract expression of emotion a delicate fine-line design, or simply an image that makes you happy, choose something you’ll love forever.
Understand that once the tattoo heals, it becomes a part of your body. What feels like a tough decision now might not matter as much later, so try not to worry too much about minor details and focus on the overall design.
2. Take Care of Your Skin Before Your Tattoo Appointment
Healthy skin helps create sharp lines, vibrant colours, and better healing. Here’s how to prep:
✔ Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session. Hydrated skin absorbs ink better and heals faster.
✔ Moisturise – Keep your skin moisturised, apply body lotion every day before your appointment.
✔ Avoid Sunburn & Cuts – Sunburned skin is harder to tattoo and can cause unnecessary pain and healing issues. If your skin is tanned, the ink's appearance under the skin might differ once the tan fades. Apply SPF to protect your skin in the days before your appointment and avoid using self-tanning lotions.
✔ Skip the Razor (If Unsure) – If your tattoo placement requires shaving, let me handle it in the studio to avoid cuts or irritation.
3. What to Do (and Not to Do) Before Your Tattoo
A few simple steps will help you have a smooth tattoo experience:
✔ Get a Good Night’s Sleep – Being well-rested reduces pain sensitivity and helps you stay relaxed during your session.
✔ Eat a Healthy Meal – Arrive with a full stomach to avoid feeling lightheaded. A mix of protein and carbs works best.
✔ Avoid Alcohol – It can thin your blood, making it harder for the ink to settle properly.
✔ Wear Comfortable Clothes – Choose loose clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area and won’t rub against fresh ink.
✔ Bring Snacks & Water – If you’re having a longer session, staying hydrated and keeping your energy up will make the experience more comfortable.
4. Managing Tattoo Pain: What to Expect
Pain levels vary depending on placement, size, and personal tolerance, but here are some tips to handle it:
✔ Breathe & Relax – Tensing up can make it worse. Deep breathing helps ease discomfort.
✔ Take Breaks If Needed – I always ensure my clients feel comfortable, so if you need a short break, just let me know.
✔ Avoid Numbing Cream – If you experience increased sensitivity, we can talk about options before your appointment. Please avoid using products on your own that might disrupt the process.
5. Aftercare: The Key to a Beautiful Tattoo
Once your tattoo is done, proper aftercare ensures it heals beautifully.
✔ Keep It Clean – Wash gently with fragrance-free, antibacterial soap and pat dry.
✔ Moisturise – Use tattoo aftercare products to keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores.
✔ Avoid Swimming & Sun Exposure – Stay away from pools, saunas, and direct sunlight for at least two weeks.
✔ No Scratching or Picking – As your tattoo heals, it may itch, but resist the urge to scratch to prevent scarring.
I prefer using tattoo 'second skin' as my aftercare method. To learn more, check out my blog post on the topic.
Ready for Your First Tattoo?
📍 Book your tattoo consultation and let’s bring your tattoo ideas to life!
Lavale