Getting your first tattoo is kind of a big deal. I mean it’s much easier today than it was even a few years back but there’s still a lot of thought, time and effort that should go into the process. Without wasting too much time, let’s get into my top 5 tips that are worth considering when you’re about to make the decision to go under the needle!

1. Research your artist

If you want to get the best tattoo you can, then it makes sense to go to the best tattooist you can. With things like Instagram, it’s never been easier to find killer artists throughout the US and around the world. There will probably be a few decent artists at your local studio so feel free to pop by but if you do a bit of research, you’ll soon find who the big names are in the style you’re looking for. Most artists are really friendly, drop them an email, explain what you’re looking for and take it from there!

2. Know your styles

As I mentioned above, it’s usually a good idea to find a tattoo artist that specializes in the style of tattoo you are looking for. Most will be able to do a bit of everything but their work really comes to life when they’re tattooing what they love! So whether you’re looking for black and grey religious work or super cool old school tats it’s important to understand the background and difference in how your tattoo will look once it’s done.

3. Save up

A good tattoo won’t be cheap and a cheap tattoo won’t be good. Getting tattooed is an expensive hobby, with most good artists starting at around $70 per hour outside of London so it’s important to make sure you’re getting the best work for your money. Before you start to resent your artist though, know that most studios take anywhere up to 60% from them for providing the equipment and inks etc. so while you’re saving the pennies to get your next tattoo, your tattoo artist is probably sitting at home drawing rather than planning a pool party.

4. Be prepared

It’s important to be ready when it comes to getting your first tattoo. You’re about the change the way you look forever, I think a lot of us forget about that. Your artist might not have the drawing ready until the day of your appointment so if you’re not completely satisfied with what they’ve come up with, make sure you tell them. It’s never too late to change your mind, most artists will take a deposit up front and if you do cancel, this will usually be non-refundable but making sure you’re ready to get tattooed is far more important.

5. Enjoy the process

Getting a new tattoo can be equal parts scary and exciting. If you’re in the pro-tattoo camp with me then nothing compares to getting a new tattoo and watching art come to life on your body. Yes it’ll hurt and yes it’ll cost a fair bit too but you’ll be the proud new owner of an awesome tattoo and probably the envy of your friends too!

There’s plenty of ground I’ve not covered and you could write a book about getting a tattoo but if these few tips go at least some of the way to helping you out when getting something new, then I’m a happy man!