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Section 1 – Preplanning Advice

Never been tattooed before? Here are some things you need to know!

Communication.

As with literally every aspect of your life, communication is key. Don’t assume anything. Do some research or ask direct- ly if you can’t find the information you need. While I would like to say there are no stupid questions, there are plenty which have a really easy-to-find answer that won’t endear you to your tattoo artist if you are the 100th person that week to ask that question. Not everyone is as patient or good at com- municating as they ought to be. This is one of the reasons for this book! I hope to answer as many of those questions, help you troubleshoot, and point you in the right direction if I can.

There should be respect on both sides. The tattoo artist you pick for your design should respect your body, your choices, and try to coach you and explain if they aren’t will- ing to do something or have a different suggestion. Similarly, respect your tattoo artist. Respect our time. Respect that we are experts and do this for a living, like your doctor or a mechanic. Respect us by contacting us in the way we have asked, by showing up early or on time for your appointment (or contacting us the second you know you will be late so we don’t automatically assume that you aren’t coming! We understand that traffic and life happen), and by communicating every step of the way. Sometimes a tattoo just requires a leap of faith. But I aim to make it an informed decision so that you are comfortable taking that leap.