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Four Less-Talked-About Things You Need to Know Before Getting a Tattoo
My experiences after getting my first large, visible tattoo.
I remember the moment the needle touched my skin for the first time. I was bare-chested, reclined on an uncomfortable leather chair. Even though my eyes were closed, I could feel the artist’s face getting closer to my body. My palms were sweating, and I clenched my jaw as I braced for impact. Then it happened. I felt the needle graze the skin on my chest. And just like that, I lost my tattoo virginity.
My first tattoo was my late grandfather’s name written in Kanji over my heart. It was a small piece, about three square inches. You wouldn’t know it was there unless I took my shirt off. However, my most recent tattoo was a half-sleeve — a large, visible piece covering my entire upper arm.
I noticed a few things after getting this larger piece. They’re not necessarily good or bad — they’re merely my observations. But I think they deserve a discussion, especially as it pertains to the decision-making process of getting a tattoo. These are the less-talked-about considerations you need to think about before getting your first big tattoo.
