The Tattooing Process

Choosing a Design

The first step in the tattooing process is the selection of a design. Most tattoo shops will have pre-drawn pictures, also called "flash," that you can choose, if you don't mind having a design that you'll also see on other people. You can also find "flash," online. Some pictures are available for free download. Many more are for sale.

If you want something original, talk to the tattoo artist about creating a unique image. This can be based on something you or a friend has drawn or on a favorite poster or painting. You can also ask the artist to create something, incorporating images that reflect your interests and personality. You may need to shop around a little. Not all tattoo artists will be able to do an original design. Of the many who can, not all will share your vision or have a style you like. Try visiting local shops' web sites, or ask people with tats you admire where they got them done.

Checking Out the Shop

Before you allow anyone to touch your skin with a needle, make sure you're in a safe, clean place. The shop should be equipped with sterilization equipment, including an autoclave. The artist should use new needles and fresh inks for each customer and should wear gloves, again using a new pair for each new person. If the shop doesn't seem clean or the staff won't tell you what they do to keep customers safe, go elsewhere.

Getting the Tattoo

Once you've chosen your design, the artist will prepare your skin. The area will need to be cleaned and, if the area is hairy, it may need to be shaved. When the skin is ready, the tattooist will place an outline of the picture on your skin. This is usually done using special papers and inks that work sort of like temporary tattoos. You'll have the chance to approve the placement of the design before any permanent work is done.

When you're comfortable with how the tattoo is placed, the tattooist will begin inking the design into your skin. A tattoo machine uses tiny needles to place the ink just below the skin's surface. The needles move rapidly up and down, a little like a sewing machine. The artist guides the needles to create fine or bold lines, shadows, and/or blocks of color. Usually, he/she will begin by outlining the picture in black ink, and then will fill in the outline with colors and/or shading. The artist may switch needle types during the tattooing process, depending on the need for fine lines, fill, or shading. Inking takes anywhere from a couple of hours to several days of sessions, depending on the size and complexity of the design.

Pain During the Tatooing Process

Tattoos hurt. There's no getting around it: the tattooing process involves needles which prick the skin hundreds of times as the ink is placed. But some people find tattooing just a little uncomfortable, while others have to grit their teeth against the pain. It depends on your own personal pain threshold, on the location of the tattoo, and on the style. Some people say the outline hurts the most; others find that the pain builds over time, so that the coloring is the hardest part.

It's okay to ask for a break any time during the tattooing process. Your artist would rather give you a chance to rest than have to pick you up off the floor after you faint! A good artist will be used to different people's reactions and should be patient with you.

When the Tattoo Is Done

It's normal for the area around the tattoo to look a little red when the tattooing process is done. It's also okay to see a little bit of blood, although bleeding should stop fairly quickly. Your tattooist should clean the area gently and then place a bandage over your new tattoo. He/she will probably instruct you to use ointment on the area for a few days and then switch to lotion, to stay out of the sun, and to be alert for signs of infection. Some artists prefer certain products or have personalized regimens for aftercare.

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