The Not-Just-Skin-Deep Guide to Getting a Tattoo
Paperback
Overview
Ink is an approachable, well-organized handbook that demystifies the tattoo processfrom conception to aftercare. Its written with clarity and packed with useful insights for anyone considering or preparing for a tattoo
🎯 Key Topics Covered
Is a Tattoo Right for You?
Expect guidance on whether and why you might want a tattoo, reflections on motivation, permanence, and risk.
Choosing a Design & Placement
Advice on how to pick imagery that reflects personal meaning, and considerations about placement, scale, and visibility.
Selecting a Tattoo Artist & Studio
Details on evaluating an artists portfolio, understanding hygiene standards, and what to expect during a consultation.
The Tattoo Experience: Before, During & After
Stepbystep descriptions of how a typical session unfoldsfrom prep to pain management, hygiene protocols, pain expectations, and cost.
Health, Safety & LongTerm Issues
Covers sanitation, infection prevention, allergic reactions, healing timelines, and later risks (like fading, removal, or coverage)
Cultural & Historical Context
Includes short digressions into tattoo traditions across cultures and iconic figures in tattoo history, enhancing perspective
Extras: Trivia, Tips, & Resources
The book includes engaging sidebars, historical tidbits, checklists, and a bibliography for further reading and reputable websites
.
📘 Tone & Style
The writing is personable and conversationalideal for both tattoo newbies and more experienced enthusiasts who want a clear, practical primer. While visuals are mostly black-and-white, many readers find the content exceptionally informative and comforting
Whos It For?
A perfect choice if you want:
A smoother path into getting your first tattoo, or
An informative refresher before adding more ink, even if you already have tattoos.
Readers praise it for taking much of the guessworkand anxietyout of the process