Tattoos are a very tribal and culturalism movement.

People want to be unique and one of the most popular ways to achieve that is thru tattoo. Its not easy to know what you want, where you want it or how much you're willing to spend. These questions get asked all the time where I work and its my job to be honest, direct and patient with you thru this process. However, If youre new to tattoos then there is hope for you in learning about how handle being in a tattoo shop environment and what kind of behavior is expected from you in that environment. Its important to not only educate yourself and be prepared but, its easier on the artist as well.

Some Easy Steps:

1. Do not freak out when the pain starts.

It might be hard, but try your best to bite your tongue and keep your emotions in check. Getting a tattoo involves a needle rapidly penetrating your skin at dozens of pinches per second. It is not a walk in the park, and it will serve you well to remember this before arriving at the parlor. If you already know you have a low tolerance for pain, a tattoo might not be for you. I

The Tattoo Artist Isn't Laughing

2. Do not leave without tipping.

Tattooists do not get paid a set hourly wage. They earn a small percentage of the total cost of the tattoo but otherwise rely on tips to support themselves. Just like in a restaurant, 10% is the absolute minimum you should leave. 15% or even 20% is better and is usually the standard. Hand the tip to your artist at the end of the procedure. Let them know you appreciate the work you did with the tip. It will play to your benefit down the road when you decide to come back to that artist

3. Do not enter the shop while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Not only will you probably end up making a fool out of yourself, but it will be a fruitless endeavor as tattoo shops reserve the right to refuse service to you if you're messed up. If for some reason they do not notice your inebriated state, you are still likely to make a bad decision and choose to get a tattoo you'll later regret. Besides, alcohol in the system will cause you to bleed profusely, which will affect the coloring of the ink. You wont heal properly and then you might also get an infection because of you and not the tattoo artist. Most professional establishments wont tattoo you heavily under the influence, its illegal.

Getting tattooed while drunk could lead to a decision you'll regret when sober

4. Be Polite.

If you've brought along a friend with you, ask the tattoo artist if it's alright for her to come back to the chair with you, whether it's to hold your hand or take pictures. Not all shops will allow either. If it's the latter, ask permission to do this as well. Some places will not allow photography whereas others will as long as there is no flash, or if you notify the artist before the flash goes off. Some places dont allow video either. Do not bring children with you!! Children should not be in a tattoo shop in any case. Most tattoo shops forbid this, leave your kiddies at home.

I hope this helps anyone that is wanting to understand some basic etiquette in the tattoo shop environment. If you have any questions feel free to ask in the comment section below.

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