The Day of Your Tattoo: What to Know About Getting a Tattoo and How to Prepare

When you show up for your tattoo appointment, here are some things you should bring and may want to consider:

- Your I.D. You will need to fill out paperwork and show proof that you are 18 years or older. We do tattoo and pierce minors -- but we don't perform all kinds of piercings and tattoos on minors of all ages. A lobe piercing on a child with a parent present? Sure; we want to keep kids safe from gross mall piercings. A face tattoo on a 10-year-old? That's obviously a no, my dawg. In addition, some artists do not work on minors at all. Please read more about underage piercings and tattoos here.

- If necessary and convenient for you, shave the area where you are getting tattooed. This will save us both time (and save you the fun experience of getting shaved by another adult). - Bring some music that you want to listen to or something to watch on your phone. We may be able to even throw your selection into the shop’s line-up. However, in case we can't, bring something to entertain you. We will do all we can to make you comfortable, and you should, too. - Make sure to eat before you come, or come a little early and grab a sandwich from the nearby sandwich shop. There are a ton of great restaurants in Campus West. Getting tattooed can be exhausting, and you will need your energy. Here are some food suggestions literally right in our shared parking lot:

• Jaws Sushi. Try the chum bucket (and not just because it's fun to say)!

• Rush Bowls. Great option if you're vegan, dairy-free, wheat-free, and healthy-full.

• Rocky Mountain Bagel Works. Only open until 3 but who doesn't love a good bagel sandy?

• Jim's Wings. The best wings in Fort Collins (not just our opinion,).

• Butters. Only open until 2 p.m. but fill up on creative breakfast foods (Cap'n Crunch French Toast, Loaded Hash Browns, Hangover Burger, Pancake Roll stuffed with bananas) before your appointment.

• Waltzing Kangaroo. How lucky to have access to Australian-style meat pies right in Fort Collins? If you haven't tried, go. Go now.

• Lima Coffee Roasters. Your new favorite coffee shop in Fort Collins. Don't miss the homemade Pop Tart equivalents.

• Subway. You know. The sandwiches.

- A tip: Tipping; it’s not just for cows. Take care of your artist and they will take care of you. - Bring a calm mind and good spirits. Don’t worry, this won’t hurt your artist a bit. … Seriously though, the calmer and more relaxed you are, the easier the process will be for everyone. Your artist will make it as painless and fun as possible, but a good attitude always helps.