At Bootlegger Tattoo, we not only want to give you the best tattoo, we also want to inform you and educate you on the entire tattoo process. Here are some easy tips and information to help you avoid some common mistakes. Tattoos are a lifelong commitment. There is no simple tattoo eraser. Although laser removal is available, it is painful and expensive. While we care a great deal about your tattoo, the simple truth is no one cares more about your tattoo than you and it's up to you to get the results you desire. Being educated on all phases of the tattoo process will put you in control. You will know the right questions to ask and be clear on exactly what you want. Do your homework and join the thousands that have taken the correct steps toward the tattoo they've always dreamed of!

STEP 1: Frame of Mind. (Never get tattooed under pressure)
Technology has brought tattooing to incredible levels and there are few reasons for anyone to get a bad tattoo. However, in shops across the nation, unsatisfied customers occur everyday. One reason for this is customers getting tattooed under pressure. Sometimes it's great to be impulsive, but getting a tattoo is not one of those moments. Avoid the "spur-of-the-moment tattoo." Quick decisions often lead to a lifetime of regret. Step one is simple. Make sure you are ready to get tattooed.

Step 2: Selecting a Design. The first decision you will make is selecting a design. Make sure this is your choice and not that of your friend, spouse or tattooist. Never compromise on your tattoo design. It should be something you absolutely love. Sometimes people think they must select a design from the tattoo studio. This is untrue. Professional tattooists will appreciate you being prepared with a quality design. Selecting a tattoo design ahead of time, in the privacy of your own home, will free you from any outside pressure. If your tattooist is skilled, they will be able to render your examples and ideas into a quality tattoo. If they are unable to do this, and they are professional, they will tell you. If your choice of artists is limited, or you just must have a tattoo performed by a particular artist, let them help you make your idea into a tattoo they can apply skillfully.

Step 3: Finding The Right Artist. Tattooing professionals have the opportunity to be more skilled and highly trained then ever before. With that being said, the operative word is " opportunity ". It is up to you to make sure you are working with one of these professionals. Getting tattooed is a very intimate and personal experience. So who's right for you? Well, there are three things to consider when deciding about your artisit: their experience, portfolio and attitude. It's good to find an artist who has a few years of experience and is experienced with the style of artwork you have chosen. Ask to see an artist's portfolio. A reputable tattoo artists will have a portfolio. If portfolios are not available, this is a bad sign. Look carefully at the pictures. Check for the quality of the tattoo. Are these lines clean and crisp, or are they shaky and irregular? Also, look at the color or shading. Are the colors bright and solid or are they dull, with missing patches? Do the colors blend smoothly? Is the image easy to understand? Do the tattoos contour properly to the body? If the portfolio meets your requirements, you will want to get to know the artist. Because tattoos are personal and somewhat painful, it is good to work with someone who's chair-side manner gives you great confidence. The artists should be open to answering your questions. They should share in your ideas and excitement for your tattoo. If the artist does not like your ideas or tries to steer you into something you are not looking for, then you might be in the wrong place. Find an artist whom will to give you what you want. Stay true to your instincts. Not all tattoo artists are the same and it might take several trips to different tattoo studios before you find the right one. No tattoo artist is perfect, but there is a tattoo artist perfect for you!

Step 4: Appointment Day. (The better you sit, the better your tattoo.) When your big day finally arrives, it's important to show up rested and well nourished. Don't go out late the night before your tattoo. You want to be well rested so you can relax and sit still. It's also helpful to have eaten a good breakfast or lunch. Getting tattooed on an empty stomach can be difficult and lead to problems. When you sit quietly and relaxed, your tattoo artist can concentrate on doing a good job. It has been said that there are two kinds of tattoos, one for people who sit still and one for people who don't. An edgy or restless tattoo customer takes valuable time and energy away from their own tattoo. Make sure you help your tattooist by being still and relaxed. Tensing up and complaining does not make the tattoo hurt any less, and is likely to have a negative effect on your tattoo. If you sit still and cooperate with your tattooist, you will be proud to know you did your part to make your tattoo come out PERFECT! Never get tattooed while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Step 5: Caring For Your New Tattoo. No tattoo is finished until the healing is complete. After the tattooist has done his or her job, it's time for you to do yours. Your tattoo will take close to a month before it is completely healed. During the first stage of healing (approximately 4 to 5 days), you might experience soreness, discomfort, swelling, irritation and redness. During this time, it's important to keep your tattoo clean. Most tattoo artists will agree that you should wash your new tattoo at least 2 or 3 times a day with a mild or antibacterial soap. Gently pat your tattoo dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. It is often recommended that you apply a very thin layer of antibiotic ointment after each wash. (Ask your tattooist to demonstrate). The second and final stage (3 - 4 weeks) will have a large effect on the rest of your tattoo's life. A healing tattoo tends to dry out. At this point it's important to keep your tattoo moist. A good after care product will help prevent excess scabbing and infection, which can leave your tattoo blemished or scarred. Although some tattooists will recommend different approaches to healing, most will agree on three basic things: keep your tattoo clean, moist and protected from direct sunlight. A professional tattooist should always provide a set of after care instructions for their clients. If your artist doesn't have this information for you, you may be in the wrong place. Tip: Avoid creams and lotions that contain fragrances, artificial colors and other unnecessary ingredients that can irritate a healing tattoo.

DISCLAIMER - Bootlegger Tattoo assumes no responsibility for your choice to get a tattoo, your choice of design or your choice of tattooist. Even if you follow all five steps above, there is no guarantee you will be satisfied. The ideas presented in the perfect tattoo are opinion and are not published, certified, or approved by any governing body as fact.