So you're getting a tattoo? Make sure you're prepared before your appointment with Hannah Aitchison's advice!
Hannah says, "I believe any good idea can be represented in some way on skin in a manner that looks beautiful and fits the body well."
Read on for Hannah's five things you should know before you get inked.
1. Work With Your Artist
Most people have a good sense of what they want, but the right artist will bring their own elements to the piece that you may not even have thought of. Don't be afraid to suggest changes but be open to any changes the artist might suggest. The end result will be even better!
2. No Alcohol
Don't drink heavily the night before or at all on the day you get tattooed.
3. Good Mentality
Make sure you are in a good physical and emotional place when you come in for your tattoo. Stay relaxed and get into the zone - that'll help make the experience a good one!
4. Snacks and Water
Be sure to eat a good meal before you come in. I usually recommend bringing in lots of water and some snacks if you need them.
5. Sanitary Work Environment
The artist wearing gloves isn't all that constitutes a clean tattoo experience. Your artist should exercise Universal Precautions by OSHA. This means barrier protection over every object or surface that could come in contact with either their hands or the tattoo. Everything should be disposable.
They should have bags over their wash bottles, machines, clip cords, and plastic over the work surface in the immediate tattooing area. Needles and ink should be disposable as well. Tubes should be sterilized in a medical-grade autoclave.