In this section we will provide you with step-by-step information to help you avoid some common mistakes. Remember, tattoos are a lifelong commitment. There is no simple tattoo eraser. Although laser removal is available, it is painful and expensive.

Because no one cares more about your tattoo than you, the responsibility is yours to get the results you desire. Being educated on all phases of the tattoo process will put you in control. You will know the right questions to ask and be clear on exactly what you want.

Do your homework and join the thousands that have taken the right steps towards The Best Possible Tattoo!

Modern technology and inks have brought tattoo art to new levels of excellence. There is no reason for anyone to get a bad tattoo, but sometimes customers are ultimately dissatisfied with the end result. The number one reason for this is customers getting tattooed on impulse or under pressure. Sometimes it's ok to be impulsive, but tattoos are permanent. Avoid the spur-of-the-moment decision, as they can lead to a lifetime of regret.

Step 1 is simple. Make sure you are emotionally ready to get tattooed. Give the matter plenty of thought before booking and appointment or arriving at the tattoo studio.

Now that you have decided to get a tattoo, the next step is selecting a design. Make sure this is your choice and not that of a friend, spouse or the tattoo artist. Never compromise on your tattoo design. It should be something you absolutely love.

Some customers feel they have to pick a design from the tattoo studio, but that's not true. You can look through the designs on this web site to get ideas, or select a pattern from almost any source. Because Warren is a true artist, he can adapt an image to create a custom design made specifically for you.

Creating a custom tattoo design will take a little longer than selecting a standard image from a book, but the end result is a unique work of art that's truly yours. Warren's ability to create, adapt and resize patterns will give a better result than using the "paint-by-numbers" stencils that other shops use.

It's always best to have a definite idea of the tattoo design in mind before proceeding. Pick the category, type and color of design you want. Bring a drawing or photo with you.

As much thought should go into placement of the tattoo as the design itself. Here are three factors to consider when choosing the location.

1. Visibility - Who will be able to see your tattoo, and when will it be visible. If you prefer to keep your tattoo out of sight then placement should be in an inconspicuous spot such as the shoulder or upper arm above short-sleeve level, hip or inner ankle, or chest/breast.
2. Longevity - Certain areas of your body will shed and replenish the skin more rapidly. This shedding and replenishing tend to fade out a tattoo more rapidly. These areas include the hands and feet, elbows and knees, and the outsides of the lower arms and wrists.

   There are also certain areas where the skin stretches so much that a tattoo there will tend to move or distort. This includes the inner part of the elbow, the neck and backs of knees.

3. The fit. Make sure the design will fit comfortably into the area you have chosen. Although the patterns can be resized, if an image is reduced in size too much it may loose some of the fine details.

When the big day arrives it's important to show up rested and well nourished. Don't go out late the night before your tattoo. You want to be well rested so you can relax and sit still. It's also helpful to have eaten a light meal beforehand. Getting tattooed on an empty stomach can be troublesome.

When you can sit quietly and be relaxed, your tattoo artist can concentrate on doing a good job. Tensing up and complaining doesn't make the tattoo hurt any less, and might actually make the process take longer.

Tip: Never get tattooed while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The most common side effects are excessive bleeding, longer healing time, and regret!

The tattoo isn't finished until the healing is complete. After the tattoo artist has finished the job of applying the design, its time for you to do your job of caring for the tattoo.

The average tattoo will take almost 4 weeks before it is completely healed. During the first stage of healing (approximately 4 to 5 days), you might experience soreness, discomfort, swelling, irritation and redness.

If you follow the instructions in the care section, your tattoo should heal promptly and fully, leaving you with the beautiful and meaningful body art you wanted.

If you take the time to be absolutely sure about getting a tattoo, choosing the design and location, and caring for it afterward, you should be delighted with the end result.

However, nobody else can assume responsibility for your choices. Please be absolutely sure you are making the right decision before getting a tattoo.