YOUR FIRST TATTOO?
HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT
So, you’ve booked your first tattoo — step one is complete, v exciting! But it’s normal to feel a mix of nerves, curiosity, and “wait… what did I just sign up for?” Don’t worry — here’s a little advice from ur Well Good Mate to calm any fears. This post will walk you through everything from arrival to aftercare, so you know exactly what to expect when you sit in the chair.
Before You Arrive
Even before you step into the studio, there are a few things that make the day smoother:
Sleep well: A well-rested body handles tattooing better.
Eat properly: Avoid showing up on an empty stomach. Carbs and protein are your friends.
Hydrate: Water keeps your skin happy and your body comfortable during the session.
Dress comfortably: Loose clothing and easy access to the area being tattooed will save you and the artist a lot of awkward adjustments.
Pro tip: Treat the day like an event for yourself, not a chore. A little prep goes a long way in making your first tattoo a positive experience.
When You Arrive at the Studio
Image suggestion: Your studio entrance or a welcoming seating area.
Alt text: “Client arriving at Well Good Mate tattoo studio in London.”
When ur working with ur Well Good Mate, whether you’re visiting Soteria Studios in East London or Blank Collective in South East London, we always ensure the vibe is relaxed and welcoming. Here’s what usually happens:
Check-in: You’ll be greeted by myself or one of my lovely colleagues, you’ll have a chance to settle in - have a drink, use the bathroom - and get your consent form filled out. Make sure to have your id!
Consultation: We’ll go over the design, stencil placement, sizing, and tweaks you want. This is your chance to speak up — it’s your body, your tattoo.
Prep: The area will be cleaned and shaved if needed, and the stencil applied. This can be done as many times as needed so don’t stress - we’ll get it just right!
During the Tattoo
Here’s what you can expect in the chair:
Pain: Everyone experiences it differently. Some spots are more sensitive than others. I’ll always work with your pace — breaks are fine.
Time: Sessions vary depending on size and complexity. A small piece might take under an hour; larger pieces take longer.
Movement: Try to stay as still as possible while we’re creating the lines — it helps me work accurately and keeps your tattoo looking its best. There will be natural breaks as I top up my ink or change position or needles, but if you need a moment to pause or take a breath, that’s absolutely fine.
💡 Collaborative process: Getting tattooed is a team effort. Both prior and during the actual tattooing! If you want to make small amendments on the day, to move the placement slightly, or give feedback, that is all valid and will help you get the best out of the appointment. I’ll also offer my experienced guidance on sizing, placement, and flow to make sure the tattoo works beautifully on your body.
Remember, it’s okay to be nervous, giggle, zone out, swear, sweat or chat — ur reactions are part of the experience, and we’ll work together to make sure you leave happy.
After the Tattoo
Once your first tattoo is done, you’ll get instructions for proper aftercare. These are crucial to ensure your piece heals well and looks its best. Key points usually include:
Keep it clean and moisturised
Avoid direct sunlight and swimming for a couple of weeks
No picking or itching!
And yes, you can absolutely marvel at your new artwork — first-tattoo pride is real.
Final Tips for First-Timers
Bring snacks and water, just in case
Listen to your body — if you need a break, speak up
Keep an open mind — the experience is as much about the journey as the final piece and any advice regarding size and placement comes from years of experience
Don’t panic if you feel nervous — that’s normal and everyone goes through it
Next Steps
Excited for your first tattoo? Check out my previous post: Preparing for Your Tattoo for a full pre-session guide.
Ready to book? Head to the enquiry form to schedule your appointment. Let’s make your first tattoo an experience you actually enjoy.