You finally picked your design and booked your artist, but now the nerves are setting in. It's common to worry about how much it'll hurt or what you're supposed to do before you show up.

You don't need to stress. Use this step-by-step guide to help you get through your first session easily.

Step 1: Start Preparing a Few Days Early

Getting ready for your tattoo starts days before you even set foot in the shop. The better shape your skin and body are in, the smoother your session—and your healing—will go.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Start upping your water intake a few days before your appointment. Hydrated skin is way easier for your artist to work with, and it’ll help you heal faster, too. When you’re well-hydrated, your skin is more flexible and takes ink like a dream.

Avoid the Sun

Keep your skin out of the sun—no sunburns on the area you want tattooed! Artists can’t work on skin that’s burned, red, or peeling. If you show up with a sunburn, there’s a good chance you’ll need to reschedule and wait even longer for your new ink.

Avoid Alcohol

Skip the drinks for at least 24 hours before your session. Alcohol thins your blood, which means you’ll bleed more while the artist works. Too much bleeding makes it harder for the ink to stay put and can mess with your final result.

Check Your Medications

Steer clear of blood thinners like aspirin, naproxen, or ibuprofen—these can make you bleed more, just like alcohol. If you’re taking prescription meds, check with your doctor and your artist before your appointment.

Step 2: Get Ready on the Day of Your Appointment

The morning of your session is all about making sure you’re comfortable and ready to go. You want to show up feeling your best before you settle into that chair. Because, let’s get real, you’re gonna need energy and strength to sit in that chair and take the needle.

Eat a Full Meal

Don’t head to your appointment on an empty stomach. Grab a balanced meal with some protein and healthy carbs—it’ll keep your blood sugar steady, so you won’t feel dizzy or faint. A full belly makes it way easier for your body to handle the stress of your session.

Shower and Clean Up

Make sure the area you’re getting tattooed is clean. Take a shower before you go—your artist needs a clean surface to keep things safe. Skip heavy lotions, oils, or perfumes on the tattoo spot after you wash up.

Dress for Comfort

You could be sitting for a few hours, so dress for comfort. Loose, breathable clothes are your best bet. Skip your favorite shirt or pricey pants, because ink can get on your clothes. And make sure the artist can easily reach the spot. If you’re getting a leg tattoo, tight jeans are a no-go.

Step 3: Pack Your Tattoo Day Essentials

Treat your tattoo session like a mini day trip! Bring whatever you need to stay comfy, especially if you’ll be there for a few hours.

Valid Photo ID

This one’s non-negotiable. No photo ID, no tattoo.The shop can’t let you sign release forms without it. Double-check that it’s current and has your picture.

Snacks and Drinks

Toss a water bottle and some easy snacks in your bag—granola bars, crackers, or fruit work great. Long sessions can wear you out, so a quick snack keeps your energy up.

Entertainment

Don’t forget your headphones, a tablet, or a handheld game. Music, movies, or games help the time fly by and keep your mind off the needle.

Comfort Items

Tattoo shops can be chilly, so if you get cold easily, pack a hoodie or a clean blanket. You’ll sit still longer when you’re warm and relaxed.

Step 4: Check the Stencil and Start the Session

When you get to the shop, your artist will put a stencil on your skin—a blue or purple outline that shows exactly where your tattoo will go.

Take Your Time

Don’t rush this step! It’s your last chance to see the art before it’s permanent. Take a few minutes to check out the stencil in the mirror from every angle. Make sure the size feels right and the placement is exactly what you want.

Speak Up

If the placement feels off or you want it moved, speak up! It’s way easier to wipe off a stencil and fix it now than to change a permanent tattoo later. Your artist wants you to love your tattoo, so don’t be shy—this is your body, and they’re here to help you get it just right.

Step 5: Understand Tipping Etiquette

Getting a tattoo is just like any other professional service—think getting a haircut, hitting the spa, or dining out at a nice restaurant.

The 20% Rule

If you’re happy with your new ink, tipping your artist is the norm. Most people leave around 20% of the total cost as a tip—it’s a solid way to say thanks for all their hard work. If your artist really went the extra mile, you can always tip a little more.

Plan Ahead

It’s smart to plan for the tip when you’re budgeting for your tattoo. You don’t want to get caught off guard when it’s time to pay. Have the cash or extra room on your card ready, so you can head out feeling good about the whole experience. Planning ahead shows you respect your artist’s time and talent.

Getting Ready for the Big Day

By following these steps, you're setting yourself up for success. You'll feel more relaxed, and your skin will be ready for the ink.

Don't wait until the last minute to get your supplies. Make sure you have the right skin prep products ready before you go to the shop.

Once you're done with your session, you'll need to know how to keep your new art clean. Read our guide on showering with a new tattoo to stay prepared for the healing process.