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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at DESU chapter.

My tattoo experience

Last weekend I recently got a new tattoo! I already had one tattoo prior to this experience, but it was so small and only took the artist two minutes to complete. My first tattoo artist was good, but for my next tattoo, I wanted something larger and really well done. I wanted to get script lettering done on my inner arm that way I could always cover it up so, on the tattoo search I went. I went on Instagram looked at some inspiration and came across an artist who specialized in fine line lettering from Philadelphia. I looked for weeks at his work and all his work was extremely good, even non-lettering work. I researched the tattoo shop and looked at many reviews about the artist and shop and was convinced I want this artist named Justin to do my next tattoo. I scheduled an appointment, made a deposit online and sent him my idea. I, unfortunately, had to cancel a couple times due to things popping up, but he was very understanding and agreed to reschedule me. So last week I took a trip to Philly and the time came to finally get my new tattoo! I was a little nervous of course but was excited as well. When I got there Justin and I had a consultation and he showed me two sketches he came up with. One was more simple and the other was a bit more detailed. Of course, I chose the more detailed sketch because why not lol!? Justin then set up his station and printed out a temporary tattoo so I could see the placement. It took a couple tries to get it in the exact spot but there were no major changes. After we looked at the placement it was go time! He started the lettering and honestly did not hurt at all! That took about a half hour next up was the shading. Now, this part did hurt a little I can not even lie but it was not a crazy amount of pain. I do have a high pain tolerance, so it may just depend on the person. After that was all done he cleaned my tattoo, took some pictures, and wrapped the tattoo up. Justin went over tattoo aftercare with me and even gave me a card with written instructions. Overall I really love my new tattoo and the experience was super easy. If you are thinking about getting a tattoo I say go for it! Be smart about it though! If you want good quality prepare to pay a price! Also, remember it’s going to be on your body forever so make sure you research shops and artists before you decide. Please do not let your friend tattoo you in their basement because it’s cheap….Clean equipment is vital! You could contract diseases or infections from not properly sterilized equipment. Remember this process is fun! Do not stress about the pain!

 

IG: @candiiecane

Twitter: Cal_11

Born and raised in sunny California but am currently attending DESU. Studying mass communications & theatre. Hopefully you'll see me on TV some day but for now, you can read some of my articles!