What Does It Take To Get A Body Tattoo?

The process in getting a tattoo can be daunting, especially for the person who's considering his or her first tattoo. The best thing to do is educate yourself with the body tattoo process and what it takes to get tattos. The more you know how it works, the more comfortable you can be when finally getting the tattoo of your dreams.

Body Tattoos - Getting Started...

First off, choose your body tattoo design and artist. Once you've got that out the way, show up for your appointment with some valid ID to show you're of legal age. The shop might ask for your address or contact numbers in case they need you later on. You also might have to pay before you get a tattoo; whether you pay in advance or after the tattoo, make sure you get a receipt.

Next you'll be seated. The tattoo artist will make you as comfortable as possible. If you're getting a tattoo in an area you don't want others to see, you can request for a private room. It might be a good idea to settle this in advance.

The artist will then proceed to clean the area of skin where you will get your tattoo (usually with rubbing alcohol). He might shave it too, making it as smooth and clean as possible.

Next is the stencil transfer. Many artists have a cool machine that makes stencils out of your design that can be put on your skin in seconds. Or he may choose to manually outline the design, but this can take a while. Once that's done the artist will get his gear ready – inks will be set out in ink caps, needles and tubes will be set up from their sterile pouches, the tattoo machine will be readied. Everything should be clean and ready in a few minutes.

Then it's time to start! The line work will be first and the artist will trace the line to the best of his abilities. The pain will be tough at first but don’t worry, after a few minutes your skin will get used to it and the process will get easier.

After that it's the shading and coloring. The line work will eliminate the need for the stencil transfer and the artist can relax and be creative in filling in the tattoo. Once that's done the artist may want to get a photo of it for his portfolio – it's up to you to allow him. You might want your own picture too!

Ointment will then be applied to the tattoo as well as a bandage. Remember, it's like any other wound and should be taken care of appropriately. The last thing you want is an infection.

After that, your tattoo should be cared for according to the instructions from your tattoo artist. There are a few good steps to remember and many resources here will show you how to best take care of your new tattoo.

Tattoo Websites and Tattoo Artists by California County