Tattoo Prep and Procedure (short version)

I thought about this last night and I thought it could be informative for people that are getting their first tattoo or for people that are seasoned, yet may never have paid attention to the tattoo set up process.
Here is what you can expect when getting a tattoo:
Once you have decided to work at a specific shop and you have done the work communicating with the artist the next step is to jump in the chair! Woo hoo!
1. You will be asked to fill out a release form to consent tattoo and may be asked for your ID. Shops need to photo copy this- it is required by most insurance companies and the health dept. requires it now for records. By law you must be 18 to get a tattoo so be prepared to bring your ID with you upon going to the tattoo parlor.
2. Normally when the client is filling out paper work- I start setting up my machines. I like to multi-task. So, you may or may not see the artist un-package the sterile tubes and needles. This is when you will see a table cloth like a dental bib or saran wrap cover the surface with the machines, tubes and needles etc. Everything should be covered with plastic as a barrier film.
3. Placing the stencil; the area where the tattoo is going to be placed will be shaved. This is standard protocol. You can not tattoo with a whole bunch of hairiness in the way. After shaving the stencil will be placed and if you approve the location the tattoo can begin!

It's pretty basic but there is a lot of behind the scenes stuff that takes place in order for tattoo shops to function. A lot of time goes in to cleaning instruments, sterilizing and following all the required steps that are appropriate and the law to ensure that you are safe while getting a tattoo. If you ever feel that things are off in any way at a shop from an artist or the environment the best thing is for you to leave and go somewhere else.