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I'd pass on this artist. First, there are only a few tattoos that show their delicate line work and if you look closely, some of that line work is really wonky. What you want to look for is someone that has examples of delicate line work on thin skin, just exactly like what you are looking to have done. Look for someone that does what you want done. It doesn't matter if someone does the best traditional Japanese if you are looking for a portrait and it doesn't matter if someone can do big, bold colorful tattoos if you are looking for small, delicate line work.

Done by Mike Perfetto, Brooklyn NY in 1997

LOL who cares ?!?!? it's going to look like a nicely settled 20 yo tattoo. maybe you shouldn't be getting tattoos if that is a serious concern of yours. here is one of my 24 yo tattoos (never touched up)

Thank you so much! Like I said, I definitely don’t know what I’m doing or what to look for. I appreciate you pointing this out

Don't get a sleeve. Thanks in advance.

Wow, you view tattooing as scarring yourself?

Well, these are opinions, so I don't have a problem with people who disagree with me. However, you point out a good exception to the numbing cream rule, for me anyway. I'm really talking about someone that comes in for their first dime size tattoo on their bicep and cries like a baby. To me it's the difference between some dilettante getting a tattoo because it's trendy, but doesn't want any discomfort and someone who respects the tradition. With 150+ hours in the chair, you've certainly proved that you respect the tradition, although the only one anyone needs to prove or justify anything to is themselves.

I'm an adult, not a child. When making a 4 figure investment in art and body modification, I like to do extensive research on artists, and I want to know how it will age. Simple responsible pragmatism. I do not scar myself on a whim. If I decide I want it, I'll get it. Otherwise, I will not get it. I asked a question about aged art.

Don't rush into anything!

@Hogrider This is where we disagree. You are way more tattooed than me but I still have 150+ hours of needle time, so I feel like my perspective is at least educated. I think there is a time and place for numbing creams. If tattoos always hurt you and you can't stand it, then maybe tattoos aren't for you. If you always rely on something to kill the pain, that's not what I am saying is a use case, IMO. However, in situations where someone has traveled to get a tattoo in a multi-hour session, and the pain becomes unbearable, then why not? What if the artist suggests it? Some tattoos just hurt more than others, too. If the artist is okay with it, numbing allows him to do his work, and the client is obviously in extreme pain, why not?

You can come up with another way to honor your kids. Have them provide input on your next tattoo idea or something . . .

I can finally contribute to this thread :) Got tattooed by Bob Roberts today! Picture will follow soon.

I've only been tattooed by one old timer, Eric Inksmith. I'm certainly open to getting more work from the old timey set, but I don't have any plans at the moment.

Nobody is gonna top Bunny in this thread As far as myself; deVita Tux Higgs Sonny Tufts

Ha ha ha.......well this is truly what I have focused my "collecting" on! Can I ask why pick the year 1985? I am just curious...... - - - Updated - - - Here are a few off the top of my head..... There are probably several more but I am not sure they have made it to the 28-30 year mark just yet so i didn't include them...... Debra Yarian Debbie Lenz Gale Watkins (my mentor) Tony Polito Mike Perfetto Steve Delgatto Jerry "Reds" Donohoe Ronnie Dell'Aquila Richard Stell John Black Tom Beasley Ritchie Montgomery Dana Brunson Jennie Peace LeDan Peace Stan Moskowitz Marvin Moskowitz Ernie Carafa Jerry Swallow Juli Moon George Benjamin Mike Skiver