Before Any Tattoo Decision

1. Clarify intent — First tattoo anxiety? Meaningful piece? Adding to collection? Approach differs drastically
2. Research the symbol — Check cultural origins, closed vs. open practices, regional variations
3. 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:

1. Research origin — sacred? earned? decorative?
2. Distinguish closed (requires lineage/initiation) vs. open practices
3. When uncertain, consult cultural organizations, not just Google
4. 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