YOUR FIRST
TATTOO.
EVERYTHING
YOU NEED
TO KNOW.

CHOOSING YOUR DESIGN

The most important thing about your first tattoo is that you love it. That sounds obvious, but first-timers often rush this part — then spend years wishing they'd thought longer. You don't have to have a deep meaning behind it. "I just think it looks cool" is a completely valid reason to get a tattoo.

Bring reference images — photos, drawings, screenshots, anything that gets at the feeling or style you want. The more reference the better. Don't worry if your references are wildly different from each other; that's actually useful information for your artist.

• Size: small tattoos age differently than large ones — fine detail in a small space can blur over time. Your artist will advise on what works at what size.
• Placement: some spots hurt more than others. Some placements age better. Talk to your artist before committing to a location.
• Style: different artists specialize in different styles. Match your design to an artist who does that style well — check their portfolio.

PICKING THE RIGHT ARTIST

Your tattoo is permanent. Your artist should not be chosen by price. Look at portfolios — not just one or two pieces, but lots of them. Do they have work in the style you want? Is the linework clean? Do the healed pieces (tattoos that are months or years old) still look sharp?

At Iron & Ink, we have three artists with different specialties. If you're not sure who's right for your design, contact us and we'll point you in the right direction.

BOOKING YOUR APPOINTMENT

Once you've chosen your artist, you'll book a consultation (free at Iron & Ink) to discuss the design, size, placement, and get a quote. After the consultation, you'll book your tattoo appointment and pay a deposit to hold your spot.

• It takes 15–30 minutes
• Bring all your reference images
• We'll discuss size, placement, style, and modifications
• You'll get a quote and timeline
• No pressure to book on the spot

THE NIGHT BEFORE

How you prepare matters more than most people think. A well-prepared body is easier to tattoo, heals faster, and produces better results.

THE DAY OF YOUR APPOINTMENT

When you arrive, you'll check in, fill out a consent form, and your artist will walk you through the stencil placement. This is your last chance to adjust size and exact placement — speak up if anything feels off. Once you're happy with the placement, tattooing begins.

• The sensation varies by location — most people describe it as a scratching or burning feeling, not sharp pain
• The first few minutes are usually the most intense — your body adjusts
• It's okay to ask for a break if you need one
• Most small-to-medium tattoos take 1–3 hours
• Bring headphones, a snack for after, and something to do if it's a longer session

• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy? Tell your artist immediately — we'll stop, get you water and sugar, and take a break
• This is more common than people think and nothing to be embarrassed about

WHAT IT ACTUALLY FEELS LIKE BY PLACEMENT

Pain is subjective and varies by person. But placement matters. Here's a general guide:

RIGHT AFTER: WHAT YOUR ARTIST WILL DO

When your tattoo is done, your artist will clean the area, apply a protective wrap or bandage, and walk you through initial care instructions. Listen carefully — what you do in the first 24 hours has a significant impact on how your tattoo heals.

• A bandage or wrap (Saniderm/second-skin wrap is common)
• Instructions on when and how to remove it
• Aftercare product recommendations
• A reminder about your free touch-up within 90 days