Tattoos - Lots of questions!

So I have a lot of questions about tattoos that i hope you can answer....

* How did you know you wouldn't regret it?

* Does anyone regret theirs?

For instance, in my early 20s i wanted to get a tattoo of a bass clef because of the music i was in to at the time... now i shudder at the thought and am so glad i didn't! With what i currently want to get, i'm wondering if in 10 years i'll feel the way i feel now about the bass clef, you know?

* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job?

I'm wanting to get my tattoo on the inside of my forearm, so it would be mostly visible unless i'm wearing a jumper which would only be in winter. My dh doesn't think its a good idea because although i'll be a SAHM for the next 10 years at least, what if after that i end up wanting to work somewhere its not appropriate. For instance he works for one of the big 4 accounting firms and although they would never admit that's the reason why, no one would get hired with a tattoo that visible (stupid i know).

* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio?

Can't help thinking of Pamela Anderson claiming she caught Hep C from tattoo needles.

* How does weight gain & weight loss affect it?

Like when you gain weigh, does it stretch, and then look wrinkled when you lose the weight? I'm just thinking of my tummy. I had belly button bar in, and at 10 weeks pregnant with DS1 had to take it out because the skin streching was really painful. The hole just continued to stretch, then when i lost all the weight i now have this weird extra hangover peice of skin at the top of my belly button. I can't put another bar back in it because it just hangs over. Anyway long story short, looks terrible. Might look better if i toned up, but hey maybe one day! Just wondering how that kind of think would affect a tattoo.

* Where can i find inspiration for designs?

Basically i want a sun with a quote somehow around it. I've been looking at google images for ages and all the sun designs either have stupid faces or are kind of abstract and celtic looking. I actually want a realistic looking sun, but an open to ideas.

* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin?

So they obviously look really good on tanned skin, but i'm very fair skinned. Just not sure how good it will look. I was thinking of my ankle, but from far away it would probably look like a bruise....

* Pain factor - how much did it hurt?

Okay, so i have a low pain threshold. I got through 2 births with morphine, but it honestly wasn't enough. If i ever have another child i want the works, epidural etc LOL. Do you take pain relief in advance? I have a friend who had a couple small ones done and said it wasn't too bad at all. Another example, the first time i had a brazillian wax it was so painful she got through half and i said i couldn't take it anymore! she said it looked so silly she just couldn't let me leave the salon with half my "area" done (literally one side), so i had to breath through it. It was agony.

* So its a pretty permanent thing, is there anything else i need to consider?

WOW!
Ok.....

I have 'Annabelle Marie' on my foot, very big. Will never regret it as its beautiful and my childs name:)
I have 'dad' not to big on the inside of my rist will never regret this as my dad was my best friend:)
Next Ill get 'Lucy Jeanne' my other childs name;)


Hun if its something you love, believe in or belong to ie:family etc. You'll never regret it.
If you get a good artisit he/she will discuss the best place and size for you.
I would always go with someone that my family or friends have been to and are happy with years later;)
Someone with a waiting list is usually the way to go, they know what they're doing to have a waiting list;)

Pain......I nearly fell asleep in my 1st one. I got very 'into' it;) Plus you've had children NOTHING like it, c/s or natural. Itsa very strange feeling, more of an annoyance

Good luck, they're works of art and a way of expressing yourself:) Work with your artisit and it'll be fine!:)

I'm subscribing, because once I have some cash, I'll be getting that tattoo that I've had planned for over 2 years - just with added extras ;)

* How did you know you wouldn't regret it?

have no idea i just did it
PIC

* Does anyone regret theirs?
i know ppl that do but i dont i still like it even though its a tad stretched but only on one side hopefully after this bub i can get back into shape


* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job?
mine isnt that visible so i cant comment



* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio?

i found a place my friends got done and was done by the best tattooist there and he was a spunk so that helped lol

* How does weight gain & weight loss affect it?
i dont know about weight loss but it stretched a little on one side but it doesnt look bad


* Where can i find inspiration for designs?

Basically i want a sun with a quote somehow around it. I've been looking at google images for ages and all the sun designs either have stupid faces or are kind of abstract and celtic looking. I actually want a realistic looking sun, but an open to ideas. u can draw it urself or get the tattooist to do it =]

* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin?

So they obviously look really good on tanned skin, but i'm very fair skinned. Just not sure how good it will look. I was thinking of my ankle, but from far away it would probably look like a bruise....
im like white as just look at the pic it might give u an idea

* Pain factor - how much did it hurt?

didnt hurt much i sorta passed out a tad but that was at the start its sorta like a bad sunburn

* So its a pretty permanent thing, is there anything else i need to consider?
i dunno i just did it lol im getting a new one with my babies names on it =]

* How did you know you wouldn't regret it?
Um I didn't. I always wanted one so got one for my 19th birthday.

* Does anyone regret theirs?
Nope.

* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job?
Dunno, mine isn't visible unless I wear a sheer kind of shirt.

* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio?
Didn't think about it. Went to one that my then DP went to and got all of his done. He had never had any reactions or infections.

* How does weight gain & weight loss affect it?
Mine isn't in a place that is affected by weight loss or gain.

* Where can i find inspiration for designs?
I just went in and picked one off the wall. Thought it looked awesome and its good enough for me. However, my next one is going to be the logo of the band Godsmack - cos I luuurve the way it looks - and my kids names around it.

* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin?
I have pale skin so I think they look freakin awesome ;)

* Pain factor - how much did it hurt?
At the time I thought it reallllly hurt, but mine is on a bone, which I've heard is more painful. Plus mine has yellow in it, which I've heard (dunno how true it is) is the most painful colour to do because its so light, it has to be thicker or something? Dunno, I remember nearly vomiting and getting like I was going to pass out cos he kept on touching the bone with the needles.

* So its a pretty permanent thing, is there anything else i need to consider?
Can't think of anything. Maybe get one done in a place that isn't very obvious to see how you feel about it first.

OK I have 5...
My first horses name in chinese donw my spine - I had my horse for 15 yrs
Stars and spots on my ankle - for DH and my 1st wedding anniversary
Isabella on my foot - i love my baby girl
My star sign on my hip
a celtic symbol on my lower back or my "tramp stamp" as they are called - my dad comes from Irland

Do I regret any - nope!

Do they hurt - YEP! down spine and foot hurt the most - more bone more pain

Never hurt my job prospects - I can hide all of mine

I got all mine done at the same place in my local town - best place and very clean!

The start sign on my hip has been totally destroyed by a dirty great stretch mark from Bella - but ya get that!

I thought about all mine for a long while and they all mean something to me!

Enjoy the whole proccess!!

Kate

* How did you know you wouldn't regret it?
I didn't. My advice is always if this is a concern for you, then don't do it.

* Does anyone regret theirs?
No

* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job?
I have one on my inner wrist which when I add my last child's initial will pretty much be up to my forearm. I was working in a law firm when I had it done, no one ever mentioned it to me. I believe tattoos are much more socially accepted these days, but you will always find people who don't like them and will make judgments.

* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio?
Recommendations from people who've been there. Go in and have a good look around. Ask them about their hygeine practices etc. The place I went to last time smelt like a hospital, I figured that was a good stat ;)

* How does weight gain & weight loss affect it?
I don't really have any in an area that would be seriously affected. I think the main area for this for women is around your tummy, hips and breasts. I think you're safe if you're planning on getting it on your arm.

* Where can i find inspiration for designs?
Tattoo magazines and websites help. When you find a good artist, talk to them about what you want. If they are any good, they should be able to come up with something for you.

* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin?
I have very pale skin so I hope so!

* Pain factor - how much did it hurt?
I had my first one done well before I had kids and it is in the small of my back. It didn't tickle and I had to go to my 'quiet place' to get through it :lol: My last one I had done after I'd had two children and it was a walk in the park!

* So its a pretty permanent thing, is there anything else i need to consider?
Make sure it's something that has meaning for you. I don't think you'll ever regret it that way. Make sure you are happy with your artist, have seen lots of their work (and not just the stuff they show you in the shop) and that you are satisfied with the design.

* How did you know you wouldn't regret it?
I just did. i fell in love with each of my 12 tattoos when i saw them

* Does anyone regret theirs?
Nope, not at all.

* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job?
No hasnt stopped me from getting a job, but ive had to cover up the one on my wrist with a bracelet/watch etc.

* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio?
By talking to people who have tattoos in your area :)

* How does weight gain & weight loss affect it?
Not sure, all of mine are in 'non-fat' areas

* Where can i find inspiration for designs?
Tattoo Books, Internet, other peoples tattoos and also pics in tattoo shops.

* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin?
Fine, just the same as anyone else.

* Pain factor - how much did it hurt?
Yep it hurts, just depends on where you get it!! my most painful was the one down my spine *shudder*
But its a bearable pain.

* So its a pretty permanent thing, is there anything else i need to consider?
Dont get anything you are half hearted about.. they will be the ones you will most likely regret :)
HTH!

Ok, so I have from my elbow to my wrist down on one arm (on the inside) I have words on my other wrist, I have one on my shoulder and I have a huge one on my back that is in the middle and goes right over to either side of my back. and more to come :lol:


How did you know you wouldn't regret it?

For me the most important thing is doing somethign that means something to you. All my tattooes have been designed by me and have significant meaning to them.


* Does anyone regret theirs?

Lol no, funnily enough the tattoo on my wrist says " No Regrets" which is the motto that I live by


* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job?
Well, I wont lie here there are alot of people who simply dont like them. Especially women with very visible large tattoos. There have been rental properties that i haven't gone and looked at with my hubby because I know the looks I get and i know it wouldn't exactly help in alot of cases. But in saying that one of my best freinds is completely covered from head to toe in ink and piercings, she's actually running out of room to tattoo lol and she works quite high up in medicare


* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio?
I guess it all comes down to trust. I've been to dodgy places, but no days they really have alot of guidelines to run by. At the moment im getting my ink done by a friend of mine who is a backyard tattoist and i've had no problems. They' re disposable needles so they're fresh and go in me, then thrown in the bin. And its a very clean environemnt. My only suggestion if your going to a shop is go to one that you've heard good things about and not like a 'no name' one kwim? And you can go in there and explain your concerns and they are quite happy to put your mind at ease. You've gotta trust the person doing it babe. And they want you to trust them

* How does weight gain & weight loss affect it?
Unless your getting it on your stomach and getting pregnant not really


* Where can i find inspiration for designs?
Signs, symbols, words that mean something. If you can't draw then give your ideas to someone who can. If you have an idea, you can go to the tattoist and show him your ideas and they can design it for you. You can have designing sessions where they will sit down and draw with you there.



* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin?
IM a red head with blue eyes lol so im pretty pale and they look just like they would on olive skin, if not stand out more :D



* Pain factor - how much did it hurt?

Again, depends where you get it. I have a fairly high pain tolerance. WIth my arm, i was in the chair for 3 hours and I fell asleep. With my back I was sitting there for 2.5 hours and it was just complete outline (which does hurt cause its really gotta go in your skin) and after about 2 hours my body just gave up and couldn't take anymore, suprised i lasted an extra half hour after that. It just depends. On bone, with lots of outline does hurt. Its no excrutiating, more annoying and it really doesnt last. Feels like sunburn. But when its digging into your shoulder blade or something it hurts. Just flesh and no bone, really like mild sunburn. Feet & Backs are probably some of the most painful cause they're so boney. But my only suggestion is to get a small one first. Cause you get stenciled up for a 3 hour job and get 15 mintes into it and its too much well.. yeah its there for life kwim


* So its a pretty permanent thing, is there anything else i need to consider?

That its something you really really want i guess. Other than wanting it, looking after it is really really important. You want to avoid touch ups lol The thing that works really well is after its done they will put sorblene oon it and cover it. After an hour, take off the dressing and wash it in warm soapy water and pat it dry. Leave it to air out. Before going to bed rub really well, some Alpha Kerri into it. You can buy it at the chemist its great. ANd just put that on it generously but really rubbing it in about 2-3 times a day for 3 days. Then get yourself some paw paw ointment and keep putting that on until its healed. ANd dont for the love of god scratch it or pick the scabs. It will get bloody itchy but dont scratch lol Hpe that helps. if you need anymore advice just ask :)

* How did you know you wouldn't regret it?
Nope - DH and I chose the design, waited a year and then had it done, if we changed our mind, we waited another year.


* Does anyone regret theirs?
All our tats (dh has 2 I have 1) have special meaning and so will never be regretted.

* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job?
I'm a teacher so I can't have visible tats so mine is on my butt, DH's is on his upper arms, so they wont be seen in normal work attire. My GF has her one on her inner wrist (cross) and the other arm has it all the way around her forarm (a flower) and doesn't have any issues getting jobs

* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio?
recommendations & go check them out like the others said

* How does weight gain & weight loss affect it?
mine are in places weight gain doesn't affect it. however one of my friends had a dolphin just under her belly button. By the end of her pregnancy it looked like a whale :o

* Where can i find inspiration for designs?
search the web, tattoo websites and magazines and pretty much everywhere. I found mine in a japanese text book, DH found his latest one in a gardening text book


* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin?
beautiful :)

* Pain factor - how much did it hurt?
I feel asleep getting mine done, but DH cried :lol: over bone it hurts more I'm told

* So its a pretty permanent thing, is there anything else i need to consider?
if you aren't sure, don't get it done, wait a while longer til you find the right place and design. I know what I want - a cross made with my girls names in cursive writing - and the place - my back - but I haven't got the exact design so I'm not getting it done yet. I can always get it done later, but it is much harder to take it off later IYKWIM

* How did you know you wouldn't regret it?
Faith in myself.

* Does anyone regret theirs?
I regret getting my second one - it's ugly and in such a high-visibility spot. My first I love, but wish it was a touch bigger and easier to show off. My third is my favourite - Ianto's name & birthdate in a rainbow :)

* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job?
I can't comment here, I already had a job when I got my second (the only one that can't be covered)

* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio?
Shop around a little if you must, but most tattoo parlours won't employ someone who will break rules or do a bad tattoo. Talk to the artist that will be doing it, so you feel comfortable with them.

*How does weight gain & weight loss affect it?
My first, on my thigh, has stretched just a touch, but all that's done is make the black ink seem a little lighter, like a really dark grey.

* Where can I find inspiration for designs?
Online is good. My memorial tatt for Ianto, I got the rainbow from clip art. If you can draw, then drawing it yourself is great, it gives it that personal touch. If not, bring some ideas in to the artist, and they can work with you to create something.

* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin?
I think coloured tatts look so much better on pale skin than tanned. It's like a white canvas to paint on :lol: Greyscale or black ones do well on any colour skin.

* Pain factor - how much did it hurt?
My first (20 mins, thigh) and third (4 hours, back) were alright - it really just felt like someone was scraping the side of a fingernail across my skin. My second (10 mins, wrist) was very painful - I'm not sure if it was because it was on my wrist or because the "artist" didn't know what she was doing.

* So its a pretty permanent thing, is there anything else I need to consider?
Just make sure that you think through what you want to get. My second is the only one I didn't think through, and it's the only one I regret/hate.

Wow this is advice is better than i could have hoped for! so thank you and keep it coming. It's really got me thinking.

I have another question:

*How do the colours last over time? and with black, does it stay black?

because i've seen a lot of people where it looks dark green, but i think its meant to be black, and it looks like an old tattoo. Is that what happens over time? do you know what i mean?

My tattoo idea:

The quote is basically an affirmation that is helping me greatly through my PND, but its also just something general to live by. Something that i can see my self still appreciating in 10 years time. Its actually a maori saying, but i'd have it written in english because it translates well and i want it as a visual reminder for down times. The reason i wanted to include the sun, is because the sun is the key to the affirmation, its symbolic too. I also like symmetry and think the words around the sun would be nice and symmetrical. I'd like to get it in the middle of my back, so its symmetrical but i need it to be somewhere that i can see it, and i can't think of anywhere on my front that would be in the middle and not stretch (ie, tummy) or chest too painful.

So overall its not sentimental, i want it more as a reminder about being positive, looking ever forward.... I have another idea about tattoos representing my children which i'm sure i won't regret but thats something i want to do later on. The sun thing i'm thinking about seriously now.

It all depends on the tattoist babe. And the ink they use. Some tattoists dont push the outline in hard enough so it doesnt last/needs touchups etc. Mine still look like i had them done a couple of weeks ago. But thats just cause the tattoist is excellent and i looked after them. most of it comes down to caring for them. Its not only just while it's healing. Keep them out of the sun, or if you are going in the sun plaster it with sunscreen. But like i said, you can discuss all you things with your tattoist. I love the idea by the way

=)
I was just going to say pretty much what everyone else has said..
except I do know something about the colours, namely red. Colours are the colours they are because of what light they absorb/reflect. The colour red is red cause it absorbs every other colour but reflects off 'red' and something about the blue? wave length...but long story stort, red fades the quickest. My dad has a tattoo on his upper arm that was red yellow and blue, and now 30 years later is only yellow and blue, the red is completly gone.
in saying that...it has been 30 years.

if its something you believe in, and pull the meaning from, chances are you will get strength from that thing for life, and thus not regret it...obviously not the same for everyone.
One thing you can try is getting someone to draw (even getting the tattooist to use a transfer) of what you want where you want it, and test drive it for a week or so. as it will only be a transfer you can get rid of it or decide you want it in another place etc.
or you can love it and get it done!!!
good luck with it!! they are adictive =D

* How did you know you wouldn't regret it?
Truly, I don't think you can ever really say FOR SURE that you never will. I'm a 'go with the flow' kinda girl so I figured provided it wasn't in a spot that might get damaged by weight gain/stretchmarks, or hinder me getting a job, I just went with it :)

* Does anyone regret theirs?
Honestly, sometimes, yes. Regret about not choosing the right artist (needs touch-ups and it shouldn't), regret about where I put it (as I now have ideas about a better tatt that would go in that spot), regret about the design and WHY I got it (there are days when I look at it and go, 'Umm, just wtf were you THINKING?!' lol)... but I still love each and every one of my tattoos for their own reasons and despite the regrets. They tell a story and even when I think 'Yeah that was a dumb idea', I still adore my ink and enjoy remembering just what I *was* thinking when I decided to get it :)

* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job?
I've thought about investing in a full sleeve because I'm planning on being a SAHM for a few more years yet. But then I do think about future career options and I know it's not the smartest idea. I also really want to get a tattoo on the inside of my forearm, just below the crease of my elbow, but I worry about, eg, what it's going to look like at my 20-year high school reunion, or my daughter's spring wedding, when I want to wear a glamorous dress or short sleeves and it's just BANG like an ugly mark in full view. That concerns me more than any job prospects, tbh ;) So far I've been quite careful with my ink placement and the only one I have a bit of trouble keeping covered (especially in QLD where it's HOT all year round) is the one on my leg (just below the knee, on the outside of my leg) - I prefer to wear shorter skirts or shorts, so I attempt to cover it with stockings. That doesn't cover it completely but it does make it a bit less in-your-face, kwim?

* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio?
Visit the studio several times to get a 'feel' for the place. Your gut is the best indicator. Ask the staff about their practices, read up a bit about what they SHOULD be doing (there are a few sites out there that give you all the right questions to ask). Ask to see each artists' portfolio if they have one, talk to friends, family and anybody you see with a tatt and ask them where they got it and which artist did the job. Just because a particular STUDIO comes highly recommended, does not mean the artist you make an appt with is. I'm spewing because I have found an amazing artist but he's recently moved back to the Gold Coast, and I won't go back to the studio now because the other two artists aren't that great and were pretty much riding his coattails.
Also, different artists have different styles they are comfy with, so by looking at their portfolio you can determine who will best suit the artwork you have in mind - eg, some artists are great with Japanese-style art, others are amazing at doing portrait work, there are some who are great at drawing flowers/nature-themed stuff. Keep that in mind when you start shopping around :)

* How does weight gain & weight loss affect it?
This is the reason why I have chosen to put my tattoos where they are - to avoid areas that are prone to weight gain. I will say that my chest piece has been slightly affected by the skin sagging/stretching, the butts of the pistols appear to have slightly lengthened, but only I would notice that because I spend so much time inspecting my ink ;) It's not noticeable and easily fixed (wear a push-up bra lol so everything sits where it's meant to!) but it is something to keep in mind.

* Where can i find inspiration for designs?
Google, check out tattoo/body mod ezines/sites with pictures, get a talented friend onside to help out or talk to a tattoo artist you're thinking about seeing. They should be able to help take your ideas and turn it into something you love :)

* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin?
AMAZING! I have milky, milky skin on my body (face, not so much, it's exposed to the sun too much) and black tattoos. They look great! The lines are clean and crisp, the colour stands out really well against pale skin and it's a lot clearer than on darker skin. Coloured tattoos look best on pale skin, as they 'pop' more and are sharper. Just make sure to take good care of your ink and either keep it covered or slathered in sunscreen - they don't like being exposed to too much sun ;)

* Pain factor - how much did it hurt?
They say it depends on where you get it. I've had a few supposedly really painful spots tattooed (wrists, near the knee, chest - places where the skin is thinner are apparently notorious for being more painful), and it hasn't bothered me much. Your endorphins recognise an 'injury' and pump you up so that the area goes numb after about 15 minutes and you don't feel it so much any more. To me, getting a tattoo feels a bit like scraping yourself with a pin, then sunburn later on. I don't need to use pain relief before, during or after but I have a pretty high pain threshold.


HTH :) Good luck with it! I hope you get something you love!

oh im subscribing to this i want a few tatts but have been too chicken :redface:

Thanks heaps for the feedback!

What i've decided to do is try it out in Henna (roughly) in a couple of places so i can get a feel for what it would be like having something roughly that size and shape there. I had one done in henna on my pregnant belly and loved it:

IMG_1397 on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

You can actually just buy tubes of henna and draw it on yourself, some come with stencils though. My friend did my belly one freehand though.

I guess that's the best way for me to see how i go?

But i'm getting pretty excited, i really want to do this. I think i can psyche myself up for the pain too. I just need to start researching tattoists in my state, tiny city so there should only be a few good ones. Plus people talk here so i'll be able to find out who to avoid.

* How did you know you wouldn't regret it? Wouldn't have got one if I thought I'd regret it in 10, 20 or 50 years.

* Does anyone regret theirs? 13 years on and not for one second.

* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job? Nope, it's on my shoulder. It occasionally gets revealed if we have a casual day at work in summer and the cut of the top I'm wearing is right. My tat isn't huge - about 5cm x 10cm.

* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio? I asked around my local area and visited the guy (home studio). It all looked pretty clean to me!

*How does weight gain & weight loss affect it? Not an issue where my tat is located.

* Where can I find inspiration for designs? I got mine off a CD cover - my tat is a nod to my Irish heritage. It's a celtic symbol that's reasonably intricate. The tattoo dude took a sketch off the cd cover and transferred the outline to my shoulder before doing the tat. Hmm, I may actually owe some poor artist copyright!!

* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin? No idea really - shouldn't look any different from any other skin type in my book. I'm not being politically correct, I just think it's a non issue (my opinion, of course ;)).

* Pain factor - how much did it hurt? For the most part, none. I only really felt those lines drawn directly on bone (ie, my shoulder blade). Based on this theory, I really should get a tattoo on my backside ...

* So its a pretty permanent thing, is there anything else I need to consider?
Get a tatt that resonates with you - when you find a design that's the right fit for you, then that's the time to get inked.

Tattoos are no longer a big deal - so many people have them, but if you're worried about job prospects etc, then to start with maybe put your tat somewhere that you can cover and uncover easily, if you know what I mean ;)

I'm really eager to get this tattoo but i've looked through hundreds of sun pictures/tattoos and i don't like any of them. They are all either tribal, celtic or cheesy! with faces and flamelike bits coming off them. It's not what i want, but i can't really describe what i want. I want a realistic looking sun, so pretty much just the circle in like a white gold with the text around it. But i can't visualise it as a tattoo.

So i was thinking of just getting the quote, but if you're just getting wording WHERE is the best place to put it, and it has to be somewhere i can read it???

I thought the inside of my forearm, but i looked at some pics and it kind of looks like you scrawled a reminder note on yourself rather than a stylish tattoo if you know what i mean??

I was thinking of having the text as a ring around my upper arm, but my dh said he doesn't really like those ring style tattoos...

I can't think where else to put it, any ideas?

And any ideas how i can find a good pic of a sun? have even tried looking up sun drawings but not much luck!

Ideally i would love to get it on my side, but its a weight loss/gain area and i know i won't be this size forever. I've gone up and down so much over the years. I don't think its a safe place to put it.

Anyway let me know if you have any ideas. :)

I have mine on my ankle. I'll post in your blog about it ...

Hun, what sort of sun are you looking at getting? If you give me some ideas I can try and draw one up for you?

I was going to suggest down your side - are you planning on having any more babies? If not, I don't think this will be a big problem for weight loss/gain. A friend of mine has a dragon down her side. The tip of it's tail stretched a little when she was pregnant (she gained 30kg), but still looks OK now. Her weight has fluctuated up and down probably as much as 15kg since she's had it and it hasn't affected it at all. Depending on the text, I doubt your tattoo would be anywhere near as big as hers so you could put it up higher, closer to the breast than the belly?

I also think around your arm would be cool. I know you said your DH doesn't like that but I guess you need to decide how much you need him to like it as opposed to how much you need to like it iykwim?

Have you spoken to any tattoo artists yet? That's a great place to start and you can talk to them about designing the sun you want. They should be able to draw something up for you.

Kirsty that would be fantastic! my description is vague i know, but i want the sun to look as natural as possible. Here we have blue skies most days, so the sun just looks like a big whitish/gold/glowing circle, with tiny thin rays... i don't know how you can draw a natural sun but thats kind of what i was wanting but i'm open to other ideas you know?

I'm thinking twice about the ring of words around my upper arm... i like it, and i think in a cursive font it would look feminine... i could probably change his mind, he isn't visual so he cant imagine it and i think he's thinking of those big celtic ones. I would like mine around my arm no bigger than say 1.5 cm... hmmmm this is growing on me.

I don't think i'd ever get tired of the quote, but maybe the picture of the sun? i dunno.

Willow, no more babies for me. But the problem is that last year i was on a medication that in 3 months i put on 15kg and had extreme swelling, it was so bad that i have stretch marks all over my side, thighs, tummy, 10x worse than in my pregnancies! I've been off the medication for about 3 months, and all the swelling has gone down , so i have that post baby loose skin there, and the stretch marks are in the red stage still.... i'm too unfit to do anything other than light walking so its going to take me ages to lose this. For my height, i'm probably 20 kg over weight. It's not really a priority at the moment because i'm trying to get on top of my other health issues, but i just have a feeling its not a good idea to put it there. Because i'm about 160cm, and over the years i've weighed as little as 50kg and as much as 85kg! And where i gain weight is my mid section. My arms always stay pretty toned, probably because i'm always using them!

Hmmmm i'm really thinking about this ring of words idea now!!!

I just thought incorporating the sun would help as a visual reminder.... Oh i haven't mentioned the quote.... so this all doesn't make sense probably but its:
Turn your face to the sun and the shadows fall behind you (Maori proverb)

What do you all think?

hmm yeah I get what you mean hun. Might be a bit hard to tattoo that kwim? Without it looking like just a circle of skin with no ink it yeah?

ETA; if it's something you really really want though, maybe it would pay to go talk to a tattoist babe? Then they will be able to say yeah its doable and even do up a sketch for you?

Tan :hug: I know the issues you've had with the medication and weight recently, it must be very hard and I understand why you want to avoid that area.

I'm loving the quote around the arm idea. And I agree, if it's in a cursive font, it will look really feminine I think.

With the sun you are describing - my brother has a full sleeve on one arm which is a native american theme. The first part of this he had done on his 18th bday (we're kinda keen on tattoos in my family, we all have at least one! But my parents asked us all to wait until we were at least 18) and the top part of it is a wolf howling at the moon. The moon was done the same way you describe your idea of the sun. Very real/natural looking. But the guy who did it stuffed it up and it didn't look quite right. It was done in mainly white ink and shadowing and it just had no definition. A few years later he had it re-done and it looks much better. But yeah, I think it would be tricky to achieve what you are looking for. You'd have to find someone pretty good ;)

* How did you know you wouldn't regret it?

I was 18, I didn't think about the future and I wanted a tattoo, so I got one LOL

* Does anyone regret theirs?

Actually no, not at all, it is a symbol of myself at a certain point in my life. Like a piece of artwork that represented me and everything I was into at the time. I have an RMW Longhorn - definately not something I would choose now, but it's a reminder of the past, a visual diary of my past tattooed on my butt!

* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job?

Mine's not visible unless my shirt comes up! However I want a few more, one on the inside of my wrist and one on my foot. I would also love one at the base of my neck on my back. :) I'm hoping to be self employed (Beauty Therapist) so it shouldn't matter, but I think alot of workplaces are reasonable, society isn't as crotchety as it used to be as long as it's not huge and in your face I guess!

* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio?

Make sure you look at a portfolio of their work and when you go in there you can usually tell how clean they are.

* How does weight gain & weight loss affect it?

I'm probably 30kg heavier now than when I got it and it hasn't changed a bit. It's even got a few stretchmarks in it and it's still good!

* Where can i find inspiration for designs?

Internet and mags. Once you find your artist most of them can design one for you if you have something in mind!

* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin?

I think they look great on pale skin!

* Pain factor - how much did it hurt?

The cliche is childbirth is worse... tattoos are an odd kind of pain but probably more uncomfortable than painful...

* So its a pretty permanent thing, is there anything else i need to consider?

I get told by older ppl (conservatives in their 50s) that my tattoos are going to look so unattractive when I'm old and what are the people in the nursing home going to think while they are giving me a sponge bath (seriously LMAO)... 1) I am going to be old so who cares really! 2) If ppl are wondering about my tattoos then I have a story for everyone and a meaning behind everyone. I wouldn't get one for the sake of it, it has to mean something. I also want people to think I've had a fulfilling life one that involves not worrying about what society thought of me! 3) They used to be a sign of a rebel, but now they are fashionable and there will probably be more ppl in the cemetery with tats than without.

I say go for it! Why spend your life worrying. I'm hoping to get more but like you I am yet to find a design that I am sold on (OK I have one that I will get... I want the pink ribbons that P!nk has on the backs of her thighs on the inside of my wrist) but the one on my foot I want a vine with a ladybug (DD2) and a butterfly (DD1) and then it needs to have room for baby#3 when he/she is born and also room for my angel baby (I'm thinking footprints)...

* How did you know you wouldn't regret it?

it rand true at the time (each time) and i like to think of them not only as a statement for the present, but a reminder of the past in years to come

* Does anyone regret theirs?

i find myself regretting some of them (i have 8 so far) but they still ring true, i would still have the same 'ideas' or words but maybe drawn/worded differently iykwim

* Visible tattoos & job prospects - does anyone feel its prevented you from getting a job?

ive worked retail and they dont seem to mind, ive never applied for an office/corporate job so they may be stricter with that sort of thing. personally ive just covered up at interviews, asked what thier policy is on tattoos and go with it. i dont think ive ever missed out on a job caus of my tatts

* How do you find a reputable artist? Clean equipment etc. What to look for in a studio?

im lucky i know alot of tattooists in perth (if your gonna come up i can recoimmend a couple of places) but 'generally' all places these days are clean/sterile, but the quality of the actual work differs greatly....i know some who are great at script but bad at portraits, etc. if you have any friends with tattoos you consider good quality, ask where they went

* How does weight gain & weight loss affect it?
unless you get it in a spot that will stretch easily e.g. belly if you get pg, thighs etc you should be ok. my weights fluctuated 10kg either side of 60kg and mine are all fine


* Pain factor - how much did it hurt?

depends on the spot, how much sleep youve had, id say get a good sleep and eat well, drink lots of water and you should be fine. lack of sleep makes a huge difference to the pain, and painkillers arent suggested caus they thin your blood.... ive found 'exposed' spots such as outer arm, lower back, are easier to handle, tender spots such as inner thigh, inner arm etc are quite painful!! a technique i use is amp my self up to think its gonna absolutely kill, so then it doesnt seem as bad when it starts...im a wuss though haha
* Where can i find inspiration for designs?

internet, songs, daily life...tattoo mags are ok but always looks like the same old stuf to me...

* How do you think tattoos look on pale skin?

the best i reckon...the colours come out really vividly....i get called a 'goth' if that proves how pale i am (lol) and mine look great


* So its a pretty permanent thing, is there anything else i need to consider?

ask around to friends, friends of friends, remember that not all 'pictures' or images can be translated well into tattoos, each artist has a different flair and will maybe suggest putting a different spin on your tattoo...they are the artist but never agree to something your not 110% on...unlike a bad haircut, it wont grow out!!! GL (oh and PM me if you want to add me on Fb so u can check out my tatts :P

I have 3 tatts. the one on my ankle, it didnt come out very well. Its a cherry blossom flower. The tattoo place was in Newtown, Sydney and its fading (got it done maybe 7 yrs ago). was a bikie place.

My butterfly on shoulder is a strange looking one. So I added flowers. I think I need to color in the butterfly.

I wud love to have my son's names Dylan and Seb. Wud love to have on wrists, or add to my lower back which is a crappy tribal sun.