If you’re getting your first tattoo, let me start by saying this: it’s normal to be excited, nervous, and full of questions all at the same time.
I’ve been tattooing since the late ’90s, and I can tell you firsthand that almost everyone walking in for their first piece asks the same core questions. That’s not a bad thing — it just means you care about doing it right.
This post is here to walk you through what you actually need to know before getting tattooed for the first time, without hype, scare tactics, or nonsense.
Do Tattoos Hurt?
Yes. Tattoos hurt. Anyone who tells you otherwise is lying to you.
That said, the pain is usually not what people imagine. Most describe it as a consistent scratching, burning, or vibration feeling rather than sharp pain. Pain also depends heavily on placement, your personal tolerance, and how well you prepare.
Areas with more muscle and padding generally feel easier. Areas closer to bone or with thin skin tend to be more intense. But here’s the truth most people learn after their first tattoo: you can handle it. Millions of people do — every day.
How Should I Prepare for My First Tattoo?
Preparation matters more than people think.m Watch the video to learn how to be prepare for that all important first ink.
Before your appointment, make sure to:
- Get a full night of sleep
- Eat a solid meal
- Stay hydrated for at least a day or two beforehand
- Avoid alcohol the night before and the day of
Think of it like prepping for a long flight: you wouldn’t show up exhausted, starving, and half-dried-out, then expect to feel amazing in the air. Same idea here. Showing up tired, hungry, or dehydrated makes the experience harder than it needs to be. Your body handles tattooing better when it’s taken care of.
Wear comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area being tattooed. If we’re working on your arm, don’t show up in your tightest, least-stretchy long-sleeve. You’re going to be sitting or laying still for a while — comfort beats fashion every single time.
If you’re a research-first kind of person, search for things like “first tattoo checklist,” “what to expect during your first tattoo,” or “tattoo aftercare guide” on YouTube or reputable tattoo studio blogs. Pair that with the instructions your artist gives you, and you’ll walk in (and heal up) a lot more confidently.
How Do I Choose the Right Tattoo?
This is where I slow people down. Your first tattoo doesn’t need to be massive or overly complicated. What it does need to be is something you’re confident about long-term. Trends fade. Flashy ideas cool off. Your tattoo stays. Think about these things:
- Why you want the tattoo
- Where you want it on your body
- How it will age over time
A good artist will help refine your idea so it works with your body and holds up years down the road. Trust that process — it exists for a reason.
What Happens During the Appointment?
When you arrive, you’ll fill out paperwork and we’ll go over the design and placement together. This is your last chance to make adjustments — and you should take it seriously. Don’t rush this part.
Once the stencil is placed, I’ll make sure you’re comfortable before starting. The tattoo begins with outlining, followed by shading or color depending on the design. You’ll hear the machine, feel the vibration, and settle into the rhythm pretty quickly.
If you need a break, say something. You’re not being tough by suffering in silence — communication makes the session better for everyone.
How Long Does a Tattoo Take?
That depends entirely on the size, detail, and placement of the tattoo.
Small pieces can take under an hour. Larger or more detailed work can take multiple hours or multiple sessions. Anyone promising exact times without seeing the design is guessing. I’ll always give you a realistic estimate and talk through what to expect before we start.
How Much Does a Tattoo Cost?
Quality tattoos are priced based on time, experience, and skill — not just size. Cheapest is rarely best when it comes to permanent art on your body. A good tattoo is an investment, and most people who try to cut corners end up paying more later to fix or cover up bad work.
If price is a concern, talk to your artist honestly. There are often ways to adjust size or detail without sacrificing quality.
What Is Tattoo Aftercare Really Like?
Aftercare is not optional — it’s part of the tattoo. You’ll leave with instructions, and you need to follow them:
- Keep it clean
- Don’t over-moisturize
- Don’t pick or scratch
- Avoid sun and soaking while it heals
Your tattoo will peel, itch, and look strange for a bit. That’s normal. Healing takes patience. Most tattoos settle in after a few weeks, but full healing happens over months. How you treat your tattoo after the session directly affects how it looks long-term.
What Questions Should I Ask My Tattoo Artist?
If you’re unsure about something, ask. Period. Good questions include: things that help you understand the process, feel safer, and feel confident about what’s going on your body. You’re not being annoying or “high maintenance” by wanting clarity — you’re being responsible. Good questions include:
- How will this design age?
- Is this placement a good choice?
- How should I prepare before the session?
- What aftercare do you recommend for this tattoo?
A solid artist welcomes questions. If someone rushes you, dismisses concerns, or makes you feel uncomfortable, that’s a sign to slow down or walk away.
Enjoy the Moment
Your first tattoo is a big moment — and it should be a positive one. The goal isn’t to “tough it out” or rush the process. The goal is to walk away with a tattoo you’re proud of, done safely, by someone you trust.Do your homework. Ask questions. Take your time. When you’re ready, the tattoo will be too. And, when you and your tattoo are ready, feel free to schedule a free consultation with me.
