Your First Tattoo: What to Expect

So you've decided to get your first tattoo. Maybe you've been thinking about it for years, or maybe the idea hit you last week. Either way, you've got questions. After 25 years of tattooing first-timers, I know exactly what's running through your head, and I want to give you straight answers.

Before Your Appointment

The Consultation

Everything starts with a conversation. You can reach out by phone (519-870-8878), email (info@natetattoos.com), or DM on Instagram (@nate_tattoos). Tell me what you're thinking — the subject, the size, the placement, the style. You don't need to have every detail figured out. That's what the consultation is for.

I design every tattoo custom. If you have reference images, mood boards, or rough sketches, bring them. I'll use those as a starting point and create something original that works for your body and the placement you want.

The Deposit

A $100 deposit is required to book your session. This reserves your time slot and goes toward the cost of your tattoo. The deposit is non-refundable if you cancel without reasonable notice — my time spent designing your piece is real work that starts before you sit in the chair.

The Day Before

• Get a good night's sleep. Seriously. Being well-rested makes a noticeable difference in how you handle the session.
• Eat a proper meal before you come in. Don't show up on an empty stomach. Low blood sugar makes everything harder.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water the day before and the morning of.
• Skip the alcohol. Don't drink the night before. Alcohol thins your blood, which means more bleeding and harder healing.
• Moisturize the area in the days leading up to your appointment. Hydrated skin takes pigment better.

At the Studio

When You Arrive

Village Tattoo Company is at 898 Dundas St. in London. When you get here, we'll go over the design together. I'll show you the custom piece I've created, and this is your chance to request any adjustments. I want you to be genuinely excited about what's going on your body, so speak up if something feels off.

Once you approve the design, I'll create a stencil and we'll figure out placement. I'll position the stencil on your skin and you'll check it in the mirror. We can adjust the size, angle, and exact position as many times as needed. This is the last step before we start — take your time with it.

The Setup

You'll see me set up everything in front of you. Fresh needles, new gloves, disposable ink caps, sterilized equipment. Everything that touches your skin is either brand new or has been through an autoclave. A clean, professional setup isn't optional — it's the bare minimum.

Does It Hurt?

Yes. I'm not going to tell you it doesn't. But the pain is manageable for the vast majority of people, and it's not the kind of pain you might be imagining.

Most people describe it as a persistent scratching or burning sensation. The first few minutes are usually the worst because your body hasn't adjusted yet. After 10–15 minutes, most people settle in. Your body releases endorphins, and while it's never comfortable, it becomes something you can work through.

A few honest notes on pain:

• Fleshy areas (outer arm, thigh, calf) tend to be easier
• Bony areas (ribs, elbows, knees, hands, feet) are more intense
• Thin skin areas (inner arm, neck, stomach) can be sensitive
• Everyone's tolerance is different — don't compare yourself to someone else
• It's temporary. Every session ends.

How Long Will It Take?

That depends entirely on the size and complexity of the piece. A small, simple design might take an hour. A detailed half-sleeve could take multiple sessions of 3–5 hours each.

My rate is $200 per hour with a $150 minimum. I'll give you a time estimate during the consultation so you know what to expect financially before you commit.

During the Session

You're welcome to bring headphones, music, a podcast, or whatever helps you relax. We can talk or not talk — whatever you're comfortable with. If you need a break at any point, just say so. There's no toughness test here. Breaks are normal and I'd rather you take one than push through and have a bad experience.

Stay off your phone if it requires you to move the area I'm working on. Otherwise, do whatever helps you stay relaxed and still.

After Your Session

I'll clean you up, apply either a second skin film or a traditional bandage (we'll discuss which one is right for your tattoo), and walk you through the aftercare instructions in person. I also have a full aftercare guide on this site that covers both methods in detail.

Your tattoo will be red, slightly swollen, and sensitive for the first day or two. That's completely normal. Follow the aftercare instructions and it will heal clean.

The Healing Timeline

• Days 1–3: Red, tender, some oozing (normal)
• Days 4–7: Starts to feel tight and dry
• Days 7–14: Peeling and flaking (don't pick at it)
• Weeks 3–4: Most tattoos are fully healed
• Month 2–3: Skin fully settles, colours brighten back up

Common First-Timer Questions

Can I bring a friend? One friend is fine for moral support. Please don't bring a group — space is limited and I need to focus.

Should I tip? Tips are appreciated but never expected. If you're happy with the experience and the work, a tip is a kind way to show it.

What if I need to reschedule? Life happens. Just give me as much notice as possible. Last-minute cancellations without a good reason may forfeit your deposit.

Will you copy an image I found online? No. I don't copy other artists' work. But I'm happy to use reference images as a starting point and create something original in that style or with those elements.

What if I don't like the design? We'll discuss the design before anything touches your skin. Adjustments are part of the process. I won't tattoo you until you're happy with what you're getting.

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Your first tattoo should be an experience you remember for the right reasons. If you've been thinking about it, reach out. Let's talk about what you want and make it happen.