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Losing my virginity!December 2003
If you have simply been thinking about getting it done, I really do recommend taking the plunge and getting your first tattoo. You can finally say you've done it and feel for yourself the amazing experience. I'm really happy with my tattoo and I don't think there's a much better feeling because it's a really exciting rush. and it's for life!  |
I had always wanted to have a tattoo, but for some reason the whole idea seemed quite unreal. Although I knew many people who had them and had read up about it and asked questions until I was blue in the face, I knew I would never really know what having a tattoo is all about until I plucked up the courage to get one done myself. 
For me, it's all about a personal journey to customise your body with the artwork of a tattoo. Many people can only think of the pain, but for me it hardly enters into the equation. Ok, yes, it is sore, but it's just one small part of the process. If the only reason why you aren't getting a tattoo done is because of the pain, rethink why you want a tattoo. When it's something so special that will be with you for the rest of your life, you'll realise that it's hardly worth worrying about a little bit of pain! 
To be honest, I thought it would be a lot more painful than it was and I was really nervous, but I found that, if I just relaxed, the pain was very manageable and almost enjoyable. Just so you know, the outlining is the worst and quickest part and it's much easier from that stage because more needles are used for the filling in - so it's less concentrated. 
For a tattoo virgin, it's really important to find a tattoo studio where you feel comfortable. Luckily I know someone who works at Mantra Studio, which is where I got mine done, so it was easy to feel relaxed. I thought I would feel really intimidated, especially being a girl in a very male dominated environment, but everyone was really friendly which helped with the nerves of getting my first tattoo! So, if you are a bit concerned, get to know the guys at the parlour or bring a friend with you because you don't want to have to worry about feeling uneasy when you get your first tat done! 
I found the healing of my tattoo a bit uncomfortable, but that is just like any minor wound. This is when you have to treat your new tat with respect because it will affect the outcome of the artwork and you don't want to bugger it up! It's really important to keep it moist with an antiseptic cream. And for heaven's sake, don't pick at the scabs! That will only make it look patchy and ugly, so have some respect for it, your body and your tattoo artist who I'm sure put a lot talent and effort into making your skin look beautiful.