How I did it: The first one was scary. I did it the wrong way, in a hotel room at 17. But the others have been better. I started small, 30-40 min worth of work, and my most recent tats have taken between 2.5-3.5 hours. Im terrified of needles, but its mind over matter. Just commit to the experience.

Lessons & tips: First, decide what you want. Never - NEVER pick something off of the wall of a tatoo shop. Give yourself some time to make sure that you dont change your mind. Also, be careful with the location. Some professions dont take kindly to "body art". Also, dont just go to the shop on the day of. Go a few days before with pictures of what you'd like your piece to look like. Even if you dont have an exact image, have some tangible images of the overall concept. A good tattoo artist will be willing to draw your peice to your specifications. This allows you to get to know the artist and they you. Discuss what you want and make an appointment. Morning appointments are great. You dont feel like youre being rushed, and the artist is prob at his best. Also, in the spirit of true tattoo-ing, dont be drunk, high, or drugged - i think that tattoos are earned, not just given. Man up, accept the pain, and enjoy!

Resources: If you live in or around the orlando area, Incredible Ink is THE place to go, esp the I-Drive location. Also, for healing i prefer liquid dial to wash and aveeno to moisturize.

Apr 23, 01:13PM PDT | 0 comments | 1 cheer