Before Any Tattoo Decision
- Clarify intent — First tattoo anxiety? Meaningful piece? Adding to collection? Approach differs drastically
- Research the symbol — Check cultural origins, closed vs. open practices, regional variations
- Find healed work — Fresh photos lie. Always ask artists for healed examples (6+ months)
Artist Discovery
Red flags to check:
- Inconsistent line weights across portfolio
- Only fresh photos, no healed work
- "Yes" artists who agree to everything (best artists push back)
- No clear style specialty (does everything = masters nothing)
Vetting questions:
- "Can I see healed examples of [style I want]?"
- "What would you change about my reference?"
- "Do touch-ups cost extra?"
Design & Placement
Aging considerations:
- High-fade areas: inner bicep, ribs, feet, hands, fingers
- Fine lines blur faster than bold traditional
- Small details disappear — minimum size depends on complexity
Placement decisions:
- First tattoo: start less visible (upper arm, thigh) unless certain
- Consider movement/muscle — design may distort
- Check how it looks from YOUR angle vs. others' view
Cultural Sensitivity
Before using symbols from other cultures:
- Research origin — sacred? earned? decorative?
- Distinguish closed (requires lineage/initiation) vs. open practices
- When uncertain, consult cultural organizations, not just Google
- Find alternatives from your own heritage with similar aesthetics
For detailed cultural research frameworks, see cultural-research.md.
Preparation Checklist
24-48h before:
- Hydrate well (improves skin quality)
- No alcohol (thins blood)
- Good sleep (pain tolerance drops when tired)
- Eat a proper meal before session
Bring to appointment:
- Snacks (glucose for longer sessions)
- Water
- Comfortable clothing (access to area + warmth)
- Entertainment (headphones, downloaded content)
Aftercare Essentials
Days 1-3: Keep wrapped per artist instructions, wash gently, thin moisturizer Days 4-14: Peeling is normal — DO NOT SCRATCH. Keep moisturized. Weeks 2-4: No swimming, no direct sun, no gym (sweat irritates) After healing: Sunscreen forever on tattooed skin
For session-by-session healing timeline, see aftercare.md.
Price Expectations
Factors: artist experience, style complexity, size, location (city), shop overhead
Rough ranges (US/EU cities):
- Small simple: €80-200
- Medium detailed: €200-500
- Large/complex: €500-2000+
- Full sleeve: €2000-8000+ (multiple sessions)
Always clarify: deposit policy, touch-up inclusion, hourly vs. flat rate