Friday, November 06, 2009

Midlife Crisis, Continued

So I think this overwhelming desire I have to pull in to the parking lot every time I pass a tattoo place is part of my midlife crisis. I never thought about getting a tattoo before, and I probably won't do it now. Maybe. Perhaps.

But if I did, what should I get, and where should I get it? I'm afraid to have something really big or really visibile, but if it is going to be completely hidden, what is the point?

I can't believe I'm contemplating this.

1 comment:

LutherPunk said...

Rules for your first tattoo (from a guy who has a BUNCH):

1. Never walk into a studio (studio, not parlor) and point at a piece of flash on the wall and say, "How much for that." Know what you want ahead of time.

2. Do our homework. If you decide you want a butterfly, go get some books from the library with all sort of butterfly pictures. Mark the ones you like. Bring it to the artist you select and have them draw a CUSTOM piece for you. There may be a few days of turn around time depending on the size and intricacy of the piece.

3.. As far as placement goes, your first should probably be somewhere not directly visible unless you choose for it to be visible. It gives you a chance to show it when you want and cover it when you need too. I didn't get tattooed below the elbows for a few years. It is lifestyle commitment at that point.

4. Further on placement for women: just say no to the small of the back. These tattoos are generally referred to as a tramp stamp or ass antlers. No ankle or arm bands either. Talk about no imagination. The shoulder tends to be a nice starting point.

5. Look at an artist's portfolio either online or at the studio. If you know tattooed people in the area, ask for references. I have total strangers ask me where I get tattooed, and I am always happy to refer them to my guy.

6. Yes, it is going to hurt. You are going to be stabbed by needles thousands of times over again. Don't be a cry baby.

7. ALWAYS TIP YOUR ARTIST! This is a person you will be building a business relationship with. I generally tip 20%.