First Tattoo Help!

[Bornreply]

Hello!

Thank you in advance if you took the time to read this! (It is important to note that my appointment is booked 2 weeks out from today)

I had my tattoo consultation today for my first tattoo. My tattoo artist and I discussed a drawing about the size of a palm that would go on my rib cage (about 3-4 hours of work). I’ve wanted this particular idea tattoo’d for a few months now.

Now that all is said and done I’m feeling unsure (call it commitment issues if you want) about having this done right now. I still want it but I’m thinking that I want to ease myself into the whole process before just fully taking a plunge (which a side tattoo the size of my Palm is a HUGE plunge for me). 

I still want to get a tattoo. One that I’ve wanted for a few years now is just a single word written in script (even thinking about this permanently inked on me makes me feel a lot less apprehensive/anxious). 

My issue comes from what do I message my artist? I’m not sure if they’ve had the time to work on the concept as I was the last person they saw for the day (today). Is this extremely rude to COMPLETELY change the concept and ask them to hold onto the other for a later date (if they’ve started). I’ve already paid my deposit and don’t want to forfeit it, is this grounds for it to be forfeited? Should I offer to pay more because of time/money lost? Do you think my artist will be understanding about this?

Thanks! I’m not really sure what the proper protocol/etiquette is on this.

[Dan]

[Hogrider]

Don’t be a puss, get the tattoo.

[Virtualanimegf]

My very first tattoo was 5 hours worth of script spanning the left side of my calf. I know it’s a different spot and I’ve heard it can be sensitive, but in my opinion you’d  be surprised what you can handle unless you already know your pain tolerance is pretty low. If that’s not the issue, if the issue is commitment, I really wouldn’t get anything at all unless you’re committed to it. 
 

and just ask. I was over thinking asking about a change when really the only way to get an answer is to actually ask your artist. I think most will at least discuss options w you. As for what they will or won’t perceive as rude, that’s for them to decide for themselves. The most I’ve really come across etiquette wise is that most would agree repeatedly asking for changes and redraws is annoying. 

[Phebe]

If pain is what you are worried about I would suggest using numbing creams you can buy on amazon. They do work greatly. 
 

but if you want to change the design, call or stop by at the stop and talk to them. I’m sure you’re not the only one changed their mind. 2 weeks is more than enough time for them to work with you on a new design. My tattoo artists only drew up what I wanted the day that I was there to be tattooed. 
 

you wanna be sure of what you want before it’s on you. Or you can just keep getting more and more like I have. Good luck. 

[Sarrod♀️]

Hi, I got my first tattoo on my ribs actually twice cause it had to get touched up and he went over the whole thing. It doesn’t hurt that bad really only feel it in a few spots. Also I would just make sure you are in a comfortable position mine kinda wasn’t just let him put me how he wanted...was hard to keep balance. 
 

Another good thing about ribs is it’s almost always covered. Gives you time to warm up to the idea you are tatted and become comfortable with showing it as you please. You should definitely go for it 

[Hogrider]

On 3/4/2020 at 6:57 PM, Virtualanimegf said:

My very first tattoo was 5 hours worth of script spanning the left side of my calf. I know it’s a different spot and I’ve heard it can be sensitive, but in my opinion you’d  be surprised what you can handle unless you already know your pain tolerance is pretty low. If that’s not the issue, if the issue is commitment, I really wouldn’t get anything at all unless you’re committed to it. 
 

and just ask. I was over thinking asking about a change when really the only way to get an answer is to actually ask your artist. I think most will at least discuss options w you. As for what they will or won’t perceive as rude, that’s for them to decide for themselves. The most I’ve really come across etiquette wise is that most would agree repeatedly asking for changes and redraws is annoying. 

Comparing the ribs to the calf is like comparing getting beaten by a professional boxer to getting a massage from a porn star.

And to OP - don't use numbing cream - earn your tattoo; respect tradition.