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Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but if it’s your first time, you may be unsure about what to expect. At Old Sarum Tattoo, we want you to feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire process. This guide will walk you through every step during your tattoo, from the moment you arrive at our studio to the final aftercare instructions.
When you arrive at Old Sarum Tattoo, the first step is completing the necessary paperwork. This includes a consent form confirming that you understand the process, the risks, and aftercare requirements. If you’re under 25, please bring a valid ID, as proof of age is required before we can proceed with the tattoo.
This is also the time to discuss any final details about your tattoo. Whether it’s a small tweak to the placement or a question about the design, your artist will be happy to make any last-minute adjustments before starting.
At Old Sarum Tattoo, we maintain the highest hygiene standards to ensure a safe and clean tattooing experience. All equipment is sterilised before use, and we always use single-use needles, which are properly disposed of after each session.
Before starting your tattoo, your artist will clean and prepare the tattoo area. If necessary, the area will be shaved to remove any fine hairs that could interfere with the design. This ensures the tattoo sits smoothly on the skin and reduces the risk of irritation.
Once the skin is prepped, your artist will apply a stencil of your design to check the placement. This gives you a final opportunity to make sure you’re happy with the size and positioning.
If anything doesn’t feel quite right, don’t hesitate to speak up. Adjustments can be made at this stage, but once the tattooing begins, changes will no longer be possible.
With the stencil in place, it’s time for the actual tattooing to begin. The process usually follows these steps:
Once your tattoo is finished, your artist will clean the area, apply a healing ointment, and wrap it in protective film. This helps protect the fresh tattoo from bacteria and irritation.
Before you leave, your artist will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure your tattoo heals properly. It’s important to follow these guidelines carefully to prevent infection and maintain the quality of your ink.
Pain is one of the most common concerns for first-time tattoo clients. While pain tolerance varies from person to person, certain areas of the body are naturally more sensitive than others.
Pain Level | Body Areas |
🟢 Low Pain | Forearm, Upper Arm, Calves, Thighs |
🟡 Moderate Pain | Shoulder, Chest, Back, Lower Leg |
🔴 High Pain | Ribs, Feet, Hands, Knees, Neck, Spine, Stomach |
Areas with more muscle and fat tend to be less painful, while areas with thin skin, bones or nerve endings (such as ribs and hands) can be more intense.
If you’re worried about pain, talk to your artist. They can offer breathing techniques, pacing adjustments and numbing options to help manage discomfort.
The length of your tattoo session will depend on the size, detail and complexity of the design. Some tattoos take just 15 minutes, while larger, more intricate pieces may require several hours or multiple sessions.
Breaks are allowed, especially for longer tattoos, but frequent stopping can make the process take longer. It’s best to relax and stay as still as possible to help your artist work efficiently.
It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous before your tattoo, and in some cases, people may feel lightheaded or faint – especially if it’s their first time. If this happens, don’t worry.
At Old Sarum Tattoo, we prioritise your comfort and well-being. If you start feeling unwell, let your artist know immediately. We’ll pause the session, offer you water and allow you to rest until you feel ready to continue.
To reduce the risk of feeling faint, we recommend:
✔ Eating a good meal before your appointment.
✔ Staying hydrated throughout the day.
✔ Avoiding alcohol or drugs, as they can thin your blood and make you feel worse
Getting a tattoo is an exciting and memorable experience. By knowing what to expect, you can approach your session with confidence and ease. Whether you’re getting your first tattoo or adding to your collection, the team at Old Sarum Tattoo is here to make the process smooth, safe, and enjoyable.
If you have any questions before your appointment, feel free to contact us—we’re happy to help!
