Properly preparing for tattoos matters a lot, or else you might be in for a worse session than you wanted. There are a few rules to follow when you are going to get a tattoo, and this involves the day before, and during the tattoo itself.

Get a good night's sleep. Your body needs to be well-rested and calm–it’s also best not to drink the night before, or right before you get tattooed. There is a misappropriated stereotype of people getting drunk walk-ins or partying the night before and getting tattooed the next day. If you can–do not do this. Drinking thins out your blood and will make you bleed more during the tattoo, which can affect the design and clarity of the work. Good sleep is paramount to feeling alright before you get tattooed.
Drink water. Drink it before you go to bed, drink it when you wake up, and drink it when you are getting tattooed. Being properly hydrated is key for proper recovery and pain tolerance while you are getting tattooed. If you just wake up and walk in with no fluids in your body, we promise it will be more uncomfortable.
Eat a nutrient-rich meal before you come in. Do not get tattooed on an empty stomach, as your nerve endings will not appreciate that when the needle meets skin–however, this does not mean eat an XL Pizza to yourself. Eat something clean, but carb-rich, to keep your body working and full of fuel, but not heavy enough to weigh you down.
Bring or wear comfortable clothing for the area you’re getting tattooed. If you’re getting your calf done, wear basketball shorts. You do not want to put jeans back on, over a 3-hour session on your leg, we promise.
Respect and tip your artist.
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