Tattoo & Body Piercing Checklist

To help make your tattoo/body piercing experience the best it can be, here are a few tips on what to be prepared for before, during and after the process.  These tips will not only make the experience better for you, but will help your artist/piercer also.  Keep in mind that each artist/piercer may have their own recommendations, so if you aren't getting your procedure done at Ink Jammers, make sure to ask the artist of your choice if there is anything you need to be prepared for before hand.

There is nothing worse for an artist than a client that does not follow proper hygiene regimens.  While getting a tattoo or piercing, your artist/piercer might have to get up close and personal to work on you.  So please be kind and make sure you are clean.  It is sad that some people even have to be told this, but it is very true at times.

Also, some clients believe that being under the influence will make the procedure less painful.  Although you might not feel the procedure as much, being under the influence can make the whole process worse for you and the artist/piercer.  Some of the ill effects are vomiting, loss of consciousness, restlessness, constant bathroom breaks, and a very pissed off artist. Keep in mind that if you come in under the influence at Ink Jammers, you will be refused service.  So don't even bother.  Man up and take the pain!

2)Dress for the procedure.

When getting dressed to come to the tattoo shop, keep in mind what you are planning to have done.  Clothes that are going to be comfortable, loose fitting, and will keep you as private as possible are best.  Also, if you are getting a tattoo, don't wear your best clothes...sometimes ink gets on other things than just skin.  The artist will not be held responsible if ink gets on your favorite kix. 

3) Eat before hand.

One of the most common reasons for people fainting while getting tattooed or pierced is because they did not eat before hand.  You definitely want to have something on your stomach to keep you from passing out. 

4) Have an idea of what you want.

Please at least have an idea of what you want when you walk in the shop.  Don't leave it up to your artist/piercer to make the decision for you.  Especially for tattoos.  Tattoos are for life, so it should not be left up to your artist to make that decision.  As long as you have an idea, then your artist should be able to help you with the design. Don't just settle, but make sure it is something you can live with.  As for piercings, make sure you have done your research.  Getting the piercing is only part of the procedure.  Most piercings can have a lengthy healing time that you will need to follow through with.  Any qualified piercer should be able to give you information on healing times, as well as what to expect during the life of your piercing.

5) Aftercare Products

Paying for the tattoo/piercing is only part of the expense.  Be prepared to have to purchase aftercare products to care for your tattoo/piercing.  Each shop will have a different aftercare regimen, so make sure to ask your artist/piercer what they recommend.  It would even be best to ask before your appointment what they recommend so that you can have the products as soon as you are done.

6) Be mentally prepared.

Make sure you are mentally prepared for the body mod you have chosen to receive.  Nothing you get will be completely painless.  Some people handle procedures better than others.  Everyone will have their own story as to how it feels.  Keep an open mind.  More often than not, people are surprised at how a tattoo/piercing was less painful than they had imagined it to be. 

When getting your tattoo/piercing, you will be expected to sit still and allow the artist/piercer to do the work you are paying them to do.  They are not being paid to constantly tell you to stop moving or sit through your numerous breaks.  This will only agitate your artist/piercer.  Constant breaks will only prolong the inevitable and moving will result in a poorly executed tattoo/piercing.  Your artist/piercer is not paying you to do the tattoo/piercing, it is the other way around.  So be courteous and let your artist/piercer do the work. Their work will have to speak for them when one of your friends/family sees it.

7) Don't forget to tip.

Most people do not realize that it is appropriate to tip your artist/piercer. They are performing a service for you just as a waitress would do.  So tips are not expected, but appreciated.  Keep that in mind next time you are getting a tattoo/piercing.  If you are really satisfied with your new body mod and the service you received, then show your appreciation.  Your artist/piercer will thank you for it.