First Tattoo Advice
So you've decided to take the plunge. Welcome to one of the best decisions you'll ever make.
Getting your first tattoo is exciting, but it's completely normal to have a million questions running through your head. What will it feel like? How do I choose a design? Will I regret it? At Okey Dokey Tattoo on Bread Street, we've helped hundreds of first timers go from nervous to absolutely buzzing, and we're here to walk you through everything.
Start with the right design
This is the big one. Take your time. Browse styles, save references, and think about what genuinely means something to you. You don't need to arrive with a fully formed idea either. Our artists love working with clients to develop something from scratch, so even a rough concept or a feeling is a great starting point. What we will say is don't rush it. A tattoo is for life, and the best ones are the ones you've thought about properly.
Choose your placement wisely
Think about visibility, pain tolerance, and how the design will sit on the body. Some placements age better than others, and certain spots are more sensitive than others. Our artists will always give you honest advice on what works best for your specific design. It's part of what we do.
On the day
Eat a proper meal, get a good night's sleep, wear something comfortable that gives easy access to the area being tattooed, and bring your ID. You'll fill in a consent form when you arrive, meet your artist, and go through the design together before anything happens. There's no rush and no pressure. We want you to feel completely confident before we start.
What does it actually feel like?
Honestly? Most people are surprised by how manageable it is. It varies depending on placement and individual pain tolerance, but the vast majority of first timers tell us it was nowhere near as bad as they expected. The excitement tends to take over pretty quickly.
After your tattoo
Your artist will go through aftercare with you before you leave. Follow the instructions, keep it moisturised, stay out of the sun, and resist the urge to pick at it. Take care of it and it'll look incredible for years to come.
Ready to book your first tattoo in Edinburgh? Hit the button below and let's get started.