Your First Tattoo
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Your First Tattoo: What to Expect
Getting your first tattoo can feel exciting and a little nerve-racking. This guide explains what to expect before, during and after your appointment, helping you feel confident and prepared for your first tattoo experience.
Everyone has questions before their first tattoo, and that’s completely normal. This guide answers the most common concerns, explains what to expect throughout the process and points you towards more detailed guides where you need them.
What Should I Know Before Getting My First Tattoo?
Getting your first tattoo is exciting, but doing a little research beforehand can make the whole experience much more enjoyable. Choosing an artist whose work you genuinely like, understanding that tattoos need to be designed for your body, and going in with realistic expectations are all important first steps.
Take your time looking through healed work, read reviews and don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good tattoo artist will always be happy to explain the process, offer honest advice and help you make informed decisions.
If you’re still planning your design, size or placement, our Planning Your Tattoo guide covers everything you need to know before sending your enquiry.
Does Getting a Tattoo Hurt?
It’s probably the question we’re asked most often, and the honest answer is yes, tattoos can be uncomfortable, but they’re rarely as bad as people imagine. Most people describe the feeling as a scratching, burning or vibrating sensation rather than a sharp pain.
After the first few minutes, many people find they settle into the feeling. Your body naturally begins to release endorphins, which can help you relax and make the tattoo feel more manageable as the session continues.
Everyone experiences pain differently, and the placement of your tattoo will make a difference. While some areas are more sensitive than others, don’t let the fear of pain stop you from getting a tattoo you’ve always wanted. For most people, the temporary discomfort is a small part of an experience they’ll remember for all the right reasons.
Which Areas Hurt the Most?
Some parts of the body are naturally more sensitive than others. Areas with thinner skin, more nerve endings or less padding over the bone tend to feel more uncomfortable during the tattoo process.
Places such as the ribs, sternum, feet, hands and knees are often considered more sensitive, while areas like the outer upper arm, forearm, thigh and calf are generally a little more comfortable. That said, everyone’s pain tolerance is different, so two people can have completely different experiences in the same area.
If you’re feeling nervous about your first tattoo, choosing a less sensitive placement can be a great way to build confidence before moving on to larger or more challenging areas in the future.
How Should I Prepare for My Appointment?
Getting yourself ready for your appointment is simple, but a little preparation can make a big difference to how comfortable you feel throughout the day.
Make sure you’ve had a good night’s sleep, eaten a proper meal beforehand and stayed well hydrated. Wearing comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area being tattooed will also help make the appointment run more smoothly.
If you’re feeling nervous, that’s completely normal. Let your artist know how you’re feeling, ask as many questions as you need and remember that breaks can always be taken during the session if needed.
If you’d like a complete checklist of how to prepare, what to bring and what to avoid before your appointment, take a look at our Before Your Tattoo Appointment guide.
What Happens During My Appointment?
When you arrive, we’ll go through your design together, discuss the size and placement, and make any final adjustments before anything begins. Once you’re completely happy, we’ll prepare the area, apply the stencil and give you a chance to check everything in the mirror.
During the tattoo, we’ll make sure you’re comfortable throughout the session. If you need a break for a drink, snack or just a few minutes to stretch, simply let us know. There’s no rush, and we’d much rather you felt relaxed than tried to push through.
If you’d like a more detailed breakdown of each stage, take a look at our Your Tattoo Journey guide, which explains the entire process from your first enquiry through to aftercare.
How Important Is Aftercare?
Aftercare plays a huge role in how your tattoo heals and how it looks once it’s fully settled. Looking after your tattoo properly helps reduce the risk of irritation, protects the quality of the artwork and gives it the best chance to heal as intended.
Before you leave your appointment, I’ll talk you through exactly how to care for your tattoo and answer any questions you may have. Every tattoo is different, so aftercare advice can vary depending on the size, placement and type of work you’ve had done.
You’ll also receive a copy of your aftercare instructions by email, so you can refer back to them whenever you need to during the healing process.
If you’d like to learn more about tattoo healing and aftercare, you can also read our dedicated Tattoo Aftercare Guide.
What If I'm Feeling Nervous?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous before your first tattoo, even if you’ve wanted one for years. In fact, it’s one of the most common things first-time clients tell me.
Don’t ever feel embarrassed to ask questions, take a break or let me know how you’re feeling. My job isn’t just to create a great tattoo—it’s to make sure you feel comfortable and confident throughout the experience.
Remember, nothing starts until you’re happy with the design, size and placement. There’s no pressure, no rushing, and we’ll take everything at a pace that feels right for you.
Once you’re happy with everything, we’ll get started.
We’ll make sure you’re comfortable throughout your appointment, and you’re always welcome to take breaks whenever you need them.
Still Have Questions?
Hopefully this guide has helped you understand what to expect from your first tattoo and answered some of the questions you may have had. If there’s anything you’re still unsure about, don’t hesitate to get in touch. No question is too small, and I’d much rather you ask beforehand than feel unsure on the day.
You can also browse our Frequently Asked Questions or get in touch if you’d like personalised advice before booking your first tattoo.
Custom tattoos designed around you.
Creating meaningful artwork with honesty,
creativity and attention to detail.
Contact Us
Last Horizon Tattoo
85 High Street
Polegate
BN26 6AE
Phone 01323 301411
Email lasthorizontattoo@gmail.com
Studio Hours
Tuesday – Saturday
9:00am – 4:00pm
Quick Links
- Home
- Tattoos
- Artist
- Knowledge Hub
- Contact
- Privacy
- Terms & Conditions
© 2026 Last Horizon Tattoo. All Rights Reserved.
planning your tattoo
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Planning Your Tattoo
Everything you need to plan your tattoo, from developing your idea and gathering reference images to choosing the right size and placement before you enquire.
A great tattoo starts with good planning. Whether you’ve got a finished design in mind or just a rough idea, taking a little time to think about your style, size, placement and reference images will help us create something you’ll love for years to come.
Step 1: What You Want to Get Done
Every great tattoo starts with an idea. Whether you’ve got a finished concept or just a rough theme, tell us as much as you can about what you’re looking for.
Reference images are incredibly helpful, and they don’t all have to be tattoos. Photos, artwork, colours, textures or anything that captures the look you’re aiming for can all help us understand your vision.
AI-generated images can also be a useful source of inspiration, but it’s worth remembering that they often create designs that aren’t possible to tattoo exactly as shown. Tiny details, impossible shading and unrealistic placements may need adapting so your tattoo works well on real skin and still looks great for years to come.
The more information you can provide, the easier it is to create a design that’s truly yours.
Step 2: Preferred Size
You don’t need exact measurements, but having a rough idea of the size helps us give accurate advice and pricing.
Rather than saying “small” or “medium”, try using measurements like 15–20cm, compare it to an A4 sheet, or take a photo of the area and mark roughly where you’d like the tattoo.
A little extra detail at this stage makes planning much easier.
Step 3: Preferred Placement
Placement is just as important as the design itself. Not every tattoo works well everywhere, and our bodies aren’t flat like a piece of paper.
If you’re considering a few different locations, let us know. We’ll happily explain the pros and cons of each area and help you choose a placement that complements both the design and the way your body moves.
Sometimes a small adjustment in placement can make a huge difference to the finished tattoo.
Step 4: Timeline Expectations
If you’re hoping to have your tattoo finished before a holiday, wedding, event or another important date, let us know as early as possible.
Larger pieces often require multiple sessions with healing time in between, so planning ahead helps make sure everything is completed comfortably and without unnecessary rushing.
Step 5: Style You Like
You don’t need to know the name of every tattoo style.
If you’ve saved tattoos you love on Instagram or Pinterest, send them over. Even if they’re by different artists, they’ll help build a picture of the style, mood and details you’re drawn to.
From there, we can take inspiration from what you like while creating something completely original that’s designed specifically for you.
Step 6: Ready to Enquire?
Once you’ve got your ideas together, you’re ready to send your enquiry.
Don’t worry if every detail isn’t completely final—that’s what the consultation process is for. The more information you can provide now, the smoother everything will be, and the sooner we can start creating a tattoo that’s uniquely yours.
We can’t wait to hear your ideas and help bring them to life.
Still Have Questions?
Hopefully this guide has helped you plan your tattoo and given you a better idea of the information that will help us create the best possible design. Remember, you don’t need to have every detail figured out before getting in touch – we’re always happy to offer advice and help refine your ideas.
You can also browse our Frequently Asked Questions or get in touch if you’d like personalised advice before starting your tattoo journey.
Custom tattoos designed around you.
Creating meaningful artwork with honesty,
creativity and attention to detail.
Contact Us
Last Horizon Tattoo
85 High Street
Polegate
BN26 6AE
Phone 01323 301411
Email lasthorizontattoo@gmail.com
Studio Hours
Tuesday – Saturday
9:00am – 4:00pm
Quick Links
- Home
- Tattoos
- Artist
- Knowledge Hub
- Contact
- Privacy
- Terms & Conditions
© 2026 Last Horizon Tattoo. All Rights Reserved.
your tattoo journey
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Your Tattoo Journey
A step-by-step guide to what happens from your first enquiry through to your finished tattoo.
From your first enquiry to your finished tattoo, we aim to make the entire process straightforward and stress-free. Whether it’s your first tattoo or you’re adding to an existing collection, here’s exactly what you can expect when booking with Last Horizon Tattoo.
Step 1: Get in Touch
Start by contacting us through our website enquiry form or by sending us a message on social media.
To help us understand your idea, include:
Your tattoo idea
Preferred placement
Approximate size
Any reference images
Any questions you may have
The more information you provide, the easier it is for us to give accurate advice and pricing.
Step 2: Consultation (If Needed)
Some tattoos particularly larger projects, cover-ups or more complex designs may require a consultation before booking.
This gives us the opportunity to discuss your ideas in more detail, answer any questions and make sure we’re creating the best possible design for you.
Step 3: Booking Your Appointment
Once we’ve agreed on the design direction, placement and approximate size, we’ll help you choose a suitable date for your appointment.
We’ll also explain how long to allow for your session and answer any final booking questions.
Step 4: Paying Your Deposit
To secure your appointment, a deposit is required.
Deposit amounts typically range from £40–£200, depending on the length and complexity of your session.
Your deposit secures your appointment and is deducted from the final cost of your tattoo.
Step 5: Your Design
You’ll normally see your final design on the day of your appointment.
Every tattoo is created using everything we’ve discussed beforehand, along with your reference images and our own artistic experience.
Small adjustments can always be made on the day to make sure you’re completely happy before tattooing begins.
Step 6: Skin Preparation & Stencil
Before we start, we’ll prepare your skin and apply the stencil.
You’ll have plenty of time to check the placement in the mirror, and we’ll happily make adjustments until you’re confident it’s exactly where you want it.
Step 7: Freehand (When Needed)
Some tattoos or certain elements within a design are drawn directly onto the skin.
This allows us to create artwork that flows naturally with your body and complements your individual anatomy.
You’ll always see the freehand design before tattooing begins and can request any changes you’d like.
Step 8: Tattoo Time
Once everything has been approved, it’s time to start your tattoo.
We’ll make sure you’re comfortable throughout your appointment, and you’re always welcome to take breaks whenever you need them.
Step 9: Aftercare
When your tattoo is finished, we’ll explain exactly how to look after it from day one through to full healing.
You’ll also receive our aftercare instructions by email, so you can refer back to them whenever you need to.
Step 10: Follow-Up Support
A few days after your appointment, we’ll send you a follow-up email to check how your tattoo is healing.
If you have any questions or concerns during the healing process, we’re always happy to help. We’d much rather answer a question early than have you worry about it.
Still Have Questions?
Hopefully this guide has given you a clear understanding of what to expect from your first enquiry through to your finished tattoo. If you still have questions about the booking process, deposits, consultations or your appointment, we’re always happy to help.
You can also browse our Frequently Asked Questions or get in touch if you’d like personalised advice before booking your tattoo.
Custom tattoos designed around you.
Creating meaningful artwork with honesty,
creativity and attention to detail.
Contact Us
Last Horizon Tattoo
85 High Street
Polegate
BN26 6AE
Phone 01323 301411
Email lasthorizontattoo@gmail.com
Studio Hours
Tuesday – Saturday
9:00am – 4:00pm
Quick Links
- Home
- Tattoos
- Artist
- Knowledge Hub
- Contact
- Privacy
- Terms & Conditions
© 2026 Last Horizon Tattoo. All Rights Reserved.
before your tattoo appointment
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Before Your Tattoo Appointment
A guide to help you arrive prepared, feel confident and make your session as smooth as possible.
Getting a tattoo is exciting, but a little preparation can make a big difference to your experience. Whether it’s your first tattoo or you’ve been tattooed many times before, arriving well prepared will help you feel more comfortable, allow your tattoo to heal better, and make your appointment run as smoothly as possible.
This guide covers everything you should know before your session at Last Horizon Tattoo, from what to wear and eat to what to bring with you on the day.
Get a Good Night's Sleep
A good night’s sleep is one of the easiest ways to prepare for your appointment. Being well rested helps improve your pain tolerance, keeps you feeling more relaxed throughout the session and makes it easier to sit comfortably for longer periods.
If you’re coming in for a full-day session, this becomes even more important.
Eat Before You Arrive
Never come to your tattoo appointment on an empty stomach.
Eating a proper meal beforehand helps keep your blood sugar stable, reducing the chance of feeling light-headed or unwell during the tattoo. Staying hydrated is just as important, so make sure you’ve had plenty of water before your appointment.
For longer sessions, bringing snacks or a sugary drink can really help
keep your energy levels up.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Choose clothing that’s comfortable and gives easy access to the area being tattooed.
It’s also worth wearing darker colours whenever possible. Tattooing can be messy, particularly during larger sessions, and although we do everything we can to keep things clean, it’s always best to avoid wearing white or anything you’d be upset about getting marked.
Bring Something to Keep You Entertained
Long tattoo sessions can fly by with the right entertainment.
You’re welcome to bring headphones, a tablet, a book or anything else that helps you relax. We also have phone chargers available, so you won’t need to worry about running out of battery halfway through your Netflix binge.
Lunch Breaks
For larger tattoos or full-day appointments, we’ll usually stop for a lunch break.
The studio is located on the high street, so there are plenty of places nearby to grab something to eat. You’re also welcome to bring your own lunch—just please eat it outside the tattooing area.
Bring Physical ID
If you’re asked to provide identification, it must be the original physical document.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept photographs, screenshots or digital copies.
Planning to Use Numbing Cream?
If you’re considering using numbing cream, please get in touch before your appointment.
Not every product works well for tattooing, and some can affect the skin if they’re applied incorrectly. We’re happy to recommend suitable products and explain how to use them safely.
Changed Your Mind About the Design?
If you’d like to make changes to your design, please let us know as early as possible.
Every tattoo is prepared before your appointment, and significant last-minute changes may require additional drawing time or even rescheduling to make sure we can create the best possible design without rushing.
Before You Leave Home
A quick checklist before setting off:
✔ Get a good night’s sleep.
✔ Eat a proper meal.
✔ Stay hydrated.
✔ Avoid alcohol or blood-thinning medication (unless prescribed by your doctor).
✔ Wear comfortable clothing that gives access to the tattoo area.
✔ Bring physical ID if required.
✔ Avoid fake tan and don’t arrive with sunburn.
✔ Bring snacks and water for longer sessions.
✔ Arrive on time—not too early and not late.
Final Thoughts
Preparing properly only takes a few minutes, but it can make a huge difference to your overall tattoo experience. If you’re ever unsure about anything before your appointment, just get in touch. We’d much rather answer a question beforehand than have you worrying about it on the day.
Still Have Questions?
Hopefully this guide has answered most of your questions. If you’re unsure about anything before your appointment, we’re always happy to help.
You can also browse our Frequently Asked Questions or get in touch if you’d like personalised advice before your appointment.
Custom tattoos designed around you.
Creating meaningful artwork with honesty,
creativity and attention to detail.
Contact Us
Last Horizon Tattoo
85 High Street
Polegate
BN26 6AE
Phone 01323 301411
Email lasthorizontattoo@gmail.com
Studio Hours
Tuesday – Saturday
9:00am – 4:00pm
Quick Links
- Home
- Tattoos
- Artist
- Knowledge Hub
- Contact
- Privacy
- Terms & Conditions