Your First Tattoo: What to Expect

Nerves before a first tattoo are completely normal. It would be strange if you weren't a bit anxious about something permanent. The good news: the experience is almost always much better than the anticipation.

Here's exactly what happens, so nothing catches you off guard.

The Conversation

Every tattoo I do starts with a chat. Not a sales pitch — a genuine conversation about what you want and whether I'm the right person to do it.

You don't need a finished design. Most people show up with something vague — a theme, a few reference photos on their phone, a feeling they want the piece to capture. "Something botanical but not too delicate." "A wave, but stylised, not realistic." That's plenty for me to work with.

We'll work through:

• What the tattoo is — subject, style, the story behind it
• Where it goes — placement matters more than most people think
• How big — I'll tell you honestly if a design needs more space than you're imagining
• Budget and timing — what's realistic for what you're after

This usually takes 20–30 minutes. Sometimes we do it in person at Memento, sometimes over a call. By the end, I have a clear picture of what to create.

Seeing the Design

I'll send you the design a few days before the appointment. This gives you time to sit with it — show a trusted friend, sleep on it, think about whether anything feels off.

Most designs need one or two small tweaks. Some land perfectly on the first go. We don't book the session until you're properly excited about it.

The Day Of

What to Bring

• A full stomach. Eat a real meal — not a flat white and a banana. Eggs, toast, avo. Your body needs fuel.
• Water. Big bottle. You'll want it.
• Snacks for longer sessions — muesli bars, nuts, lollies.
• Headphones and something to listen to. Podcasts, playlists, audiobooks. This is the number one thing that helps people relax.
• Comfortable clothes that give easy access to the tattoo area. Loose, dark colours.

Arriving at Memento

The studio is at 292 King Street in Newtown. Buzz "Memento Tattoo" at the entrance, take the elevator to Level 5, and it's on your left. You'll fill out a consent form (standard health stuff), and then I'll apply the stencil.

The stencil is a temporary transfer of the design onto your skin. This is when you see exactly where the tattoo will sit on your body. Take your time with this.

Stand up, move around, check it in the mirror from the angles you actually see yourself from. Don't just glance and say "yep" — live with it for a minute.

You can ask me to reposition it as many times as you need. Once you're genuinely happy with the placement, we start.

What It Feels Like

Here's the honest truth: the first line is the sharpest part. Your body hasn't adjusted yet and your nervous system is on alert. Give it a few minutes. Almost everyone finds it settles into something manageable — uncomfortable, but very tolerable.

People usually describe it as:

• A hot scratching feeling (that's the linework)
• A dull vibration (that's shading)
• A sharper sting near bone or thin skin

I check in with you regularly. If you need a break — water, a stretch, just a moment to breathe — say the word. Nobody expects you to sit perfectly still for three hours without moving. We're not in the army.

How Long?

The time required for a tattoo can vary depending on size, placement, and level of detail. Everyone also has a different tolerance for sitting, which can influence how long a session lasts. During your consultation, you will receive an honest estimate of the time required along with a clear breakdown of the expected cost. This ensures you have a realistic understanding of the process before we begin.

After It's Done

I'll clean the area, wrap it with second skin film, and walk you through aftercare. I also send you the instructions in writing because I know you're not absorbing information right now — you're buzzing.

Your tattoo will look its absolute best at this exact moment. Over the next couple of weeks it'll go through a healing phase that looks a bit rough. Don't panic. It settles beautifully.

The Questions Everyone Asks

"Will I faint?" Rare, but it happens — usually from nerves or low blood sugar, not the pain itself. Eat well, stay hydrated, and tell me if you feel lightheaded. There's zero shame in needing a moment.

"What if I don't like it?" This is why the consultation and approval process exists. By the time needle meets skin, you've already seen the exact design in the exact placement and said yes. But I understand the fear. Trust the process.

"Can I bring someone?" No — I don't allow guests during sessions. It's strictly enforced to maintain a calm, focused, and hygienic environment. It helps me do my best work and keeps the experience comfortable for everyone. Your mates can meet you at the pub after.

"Do I tip?" Not expected in Australia. If you're happy, a Google review or telling a friend means more to me than anything.

The Part Nobody Talks About

Getting a tattoo can be emotional. It's a deliberate, permanent choice about your body. Some people feel a quiet satisfaction when they see the finished piece. Others are surprised to find themselves tearing up — not from pain, but from the weight of the meaning behind it.

Whatever you feel, it's valid. Your first tattoo is a milestone. Show up, trust yourself, and enjoy it.