Tatt Tips continued #6-10

6. Being spontanious is a fun quality, but being too impulsive in this area can cause stress for everyone. If you've worked up the courage to get a tattoo but have to get it right that day before you lose your nerve, there is a possibility of being let down. The artist you want may be booked up for that day or they may need extra time to complete the drawing for you. If you can be taken that day but haven't really considered a specific design, it's possible that you'll become overwhelmed and frustrated with a glut of choices. Plan ahead by having design references and calling your artist to check availability. Consultation sessions are always a good idea.

7. Take two advils and eat a good meal about 40 minutes before your appointment. The advil will help with pain and swelling while the food will up your body sugar and prevent queasy or faint feelings. Bring a bottled drink if you know that you're going to be there for awhile.

8. Discuss cost before the appointment starts. Also check available methods of payment. Some shops are not able to take credit cards and/or debit and/or cards from another country. If you have forign currency, check the exchange or swap for local tender at a bank. Most shops charge after service is rendered. Being unable to pay is uncomfortable to say the least. A polite artist might make you leave your ipod for colateral. One that's a bit gruffer is likely to make you leave everything including your shoes while you wander around to find a cash machine to garuntee your return.

9. Freshly damaged skin can not be tattooed. If you have a a rash, sunburn, cuts or scrapes, on the place you plan to be inked, you'll have to wait for it to heal first. This goes the same for touchups on work you've recently had done. You generally will have to wait a month before you can get it worked on again...longer if you've had complications with it.

10. It's not a spectator sport. If you need support or just want to share your experience, bring a friend. Maybe two. Chances are they'll have to wait in the loby most of the time anyhow.