The Benefits of Getting a Sleeve Tattoo as Your First Tattoo
There may be a belief that getting a sleeve tattoo as your first tattoo is somehow wrong or misplaced. However, as a tattoo artist, I can tell you that the decision to opt for a sleeve is not only entirely valid but can be significantly more rewarding in the long run. This article explores the reasons behind this choice and why it can be the perfect fit for many tattoo enthusiasts.
Your Artistic Vision
One of the most compelling reasons to choose a sleeve as your first tattoo is the opportunity to establish a cohesive and meaningful tattoo collection. My first tattoo was a sleeve, and looking back, I am thrilled with how this series has developed.
Many individuals worry about their tattoos looking scattered or disorganized. A sleeve tattoo, with its unbroken line of artwork extending across a large portion of the body, offers a more flowing and unified appearance. This approach allows the artist to create a continuous narrative or theme without the jarring transitions often seen in collections of smaller tattoos. It's a testament to the timeless beauty and artistic potential of body art, offering a sense of craftsmanship that is often not possible with single, smaller pieces.
Conclusion and Control
Some argue that getting a sleeve tattoo is a sign of weakness or fear, particularly when compared to starting with a smaller, less demanding tattoo. However, I would argue that true confidence and commitment should be the guiding factors when choosing your first tattoo. It is your body, and you should have full control over how you express yourself through it. If a sleeve tattoo holds significant meaning to you, it is perfectly reasonable to follow through with it.
According to bad form, the concern lies not with the tattoo artist or the decision itself, but rather with the tattooer who, due to a change of heart, cancels the appointment. Leaving your artist hanging for a full day is indeed a form of bad form, both for them and for you. On the other hand, respecting the time and skill of the artist by committing to your tattoo is a sign of respect and a positive start to your tattoo journey.
My Personal Experience
To illustrate the point, my first tattoo was a half-chest, half-sleeve design. It took 8 hours to lay the lines and an additional 10 hours to complete the color and shading. Despite being a first-time client, the artist made sure the initial line was placed in a non-sensitive area, providing a taste of what the overall process would feel like.
Having a sleeve tattoo as your first piece means you are committed and can sit through the entire process. If a sleeve tattoo means a lot to you, you will end up wearing it for the rest of your life with pride. Don't let societal norms dictate what your first tattoo should be; follow your instincts and trust in your choice.
Planning and Coordination
While a sleeve tattoo does require significant time and multiple sessions, it is far from a "walk in and pick a piece of flash and be done in half an hour" scenario. It often involves a lengthy planning and booking process. As with my experience, getting a sleeve requires scheduling sessions well in advance, with deposits and other ensure that you are fully committed to this significant investment in time and emotion.
Contrary to what some may believe, many tattoo artists would encourage a sleeve as a first tattoo due to its comprehensive nature. However, they would also advise against attempting a complete sleeve in one sitting due to the potential for discomfort and the time required. To this end, starting with a section of the sleeve as a standalone piece can be a practical approach if you find the idea of a full sleeve too daunting. The main focus should be on ensuring that you understand the process and are prepared for the entire journey.
Conclusion
In summary, getting a sleeve tattoo as your first tattoo is a bold and rewarding decision that can provide a strong foundation for your tattoo collection. It is a testament to your commitment and a statement of your artistic vision.