PLANNING YOUR TATTOO
Draw ideas and inspiration from fine art, photography, and other areas; not just tattooing
Research your artists style and past work
Be open to professional advice on making your design effective
Do not come to your artist with an exact design you want, but instead a concept to inspire them
Do not hesitate to communicate a concern, desire, or idea to your artist
PREPARING FOR A TATTOO SESSION
Prioritize rest the night before
Moisturize the area 1-2 times a day, starting a week before
Eat a hearty breakfast and bring drinks/snacks for during
Wear comfortable, warm clothes that you won’t mind getting ink on
Come hydrated and bring water to stay hydrated! Avoid caffeine
CARING FOR YOUR MASTERPIECE
Follow your artists aftercare instructions, asking questions for clarification
Apply very thin layers of moisturizer 1-3 times a day as needed while healing
Avoid extended sun exposure during the lifetime of the tattoo using sunscreen when needed
Do not fully submerge in any water (rivers, hot tub, shower, pools, etc.) for 3-4 weeks after receiving your new tattoo