7 Mistakes To Avoid When Getting A Tattoo

It took me seven years to build up the courage to get my first tattoo. I knew I wanted one, but I agonized over where to put it, what design would look best, and which artist to go with. I spent years doodling designs on my wrists in permanent marker, building Pinterest pages of minimalist tattoos, and saying I was going to do it — only to back out at the last minute every single time.

Let's face it: Getting a tattoo can be scary! It's not exactly a life-changing choice (as long as it's done safely), but it is one that's painful and very difficult and time-consuming to remove if you ever change your mind. So, I wanted to be sure I was doing absolutely everything by the book. When I finally decided to go for it a few months ago, I reached out to three of the best tattoo artists I know for what not to do when getting your first tattoo. With their help, I finally did it — and I'm so glad I did!

Picking The Wrong Studio

“Most tattoo shops that are operating publicly at this point are really good about being clean,” says tattoo artist Scott Campbell. “That really hasn’t been a problem since the 90’s, where people were reusing needles and not sterilizing properly.” Still, safety is by far the most important thing when it comes to doing anything to your body. Plus, ensuring safety can help calm your pre-tattoo nerves.”Just make sure you’re getting it with obviously new needles in a clean environment where you don’t have to worry about any cooties or hepatitis or anything,” suggests Campbell.

Skimping On Artist Research

Research is key in finding a tattoo artist. “Find somebody that you like their work, look at the work they’ve done in the past, and talk to them,” says Campbell. “Have a conversation with them, either in person or via phone to the point where you basically get to know them as much as you need to trust them.” Do your homework, stalk them on Instagram, Yelp, and Facebook, ask all the questions you need to ask. Once they pass your test, artist Daniel Winter says to make the final select based on their artistry.

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