Your First Tattoo: What to Expect
Published · Updated
Getting your first tattoo is a decision that deserves more preparation than most people give it. This guide covers everything from choosing your design to walking out of the studio with fresh ink.
Step 1: The Idea
Start with intent, not detail. Know what you want to express before worrying about the exact design. Bring reference images (5-10 from Instagram, Pinterest, or Google), your preferred placement on the body, and approximate size.
Step 2: The Consultation
At HeadRush Whitby, every tattoo starts with a free 30-minute consultation. Your artist reviews your references, confirms placement on your body, discusses pricing openly, and estimates the timeline. A deposit then secures your session — typically $200 + HST ($226 CAD), or as little as $100 for smaller pieces.
Does It Hurt?
Yes, but probably not as much as you think. Most clients describe the sensation as a persistent scratching — uncomfortable but manageable. Lower pain areas: upper arm, shoulder, thigh, calf. Higher pain areas: ribs, spine, neck, hands, feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do I have to be to get a tattoo in Ontario?+
You must be 18 with valid government photo ID. HeadRush Whitby does not tattoo anyone under 18, with or without parental consent. This is a hard studio policy that matches Ontario Public Health guidance.
How long does a first tattoo session take?+
Anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on size and detail. A small wrist or behind-the-ear piece can be done in 30–45 minutes start to finish; a small forearm or shoulder piece is closer to 1–2 hours; a medium-sized first tattoo with shading or fine detail can take a full 3 hours. Plan for an extra 30 minutes at the studio for stencil and placement before the actual tattooing starts.
What should I wear to my first tattoo?+
Loose, comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area being tattooed. For an upper arm: a tank top or loose t-shirt. For a thigh: shorts. For a back piece: a button-up shirt that opens fully. Skip anything you'd be upset about getting ink on — first cleanup wipes can stain.
Can I bring someone with me?+
One support person is welcome at the consultation and the session. We do recommend leaving kids at home if you can — tattoo sessions can stretch a couple of hours, kids get bored fast, and the movement and noise pulls the artist's focus off your piece.
Should I drink alcohol or take painkillers before my appointment?+
No. Alcohol thins your blood, makes you bleed more during the tattoo, and pushes ink out of the skin — leading to a patchy heal. Aspirin and ibuprofen do the same thing. Stick to water and a real meal beforehand. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is fine if you want something mild for nerves.
What does the deposit cover?+
The deposit reserves your artist's time and is applied to your final price, not added on top. It also covers the design work your artist does before the session — drawing, revising, building the stencil. You only pay the remainder on the day of the appointment.