Cody Wiley, ‘Doah Contributing Writer
February 26, 2014

‘Doah photo by Shelby DeHaven

What does a tattoo mean to you? Many students on the S.U. campus have tattoos each with a different meaning, design and placement, including myself. It is important to know each and every aspect before getting a tattoo.

First the meaning:  a tattoo is unique and personal. People have a different story to tell through their tattoo. Make sure the story you want to tell with your tattoo is something you are willing and ready to share for the rest of your life. The number one question all people with tattoos are asked is what does it mean and did it hurt.

The second aspect is design. This is the creative part of the process where a person can feel free to do whatever they like; it just depends on your personal taste but this is also what can make the tattoo expensive.  Colors automatically increase the price as well as the size of the piece.

The final point to consider is the placement.  This can be the trickiest part. I know when I got my tattoo I wanted people to be able to see it because I was proud of it. This is where you have to be careful. Tattoos still carry a social stigma. Many people who “get tatted” are viewed as thugs, druggies, careless or irresponsible. In some cases, people with tattoos are not held to the same standards as a person without tattoos. When you walk into an interview or making introductions, the first impression of appearance is the biggest. If an employer sees numerous visible tattoos, you are less likely to be hired. When figuring out placements of a tattoo, try to stay within the confines of a t-shirt. As popular as wrist tattoos are, when shaking an employers hand you do not want a tattoo to be the first thing they notice about you.

The process of getting a tattoo is not easy or comfortable. Just think a person is paying hundreds of dollars to have a needle repeatedly dragged across their skin for hours and ink injected into their skin. Also to keep in mind is the permanency of the tattoo. Tattoos can be removed but the removal process can be as painful as getting one. The tattoo process does not sound glamorous but the end result is well worth it.

Other than the placement of your tattoo, finding the right tattoo shop is another difficult aspect. I recommend asking your friends and family or anyone who already has a tattoo who they would recommend and look at their work. Always check the cleanliness of the shop. If you have any doubts at all leave, it only takes one dirty needle to infect you and cause problems for the rest of your life. While price is a factor, cheap tattoos are not good and good tattoos are not cheap. Many different factors depend on the price. Decide on a price range and most artists are willing to work with you.

If you are thinking about getting a tattoo in Winchester, I would recommend Sakura Tattoo Shop located on S. Cameron St. The shop is clean, the artists are friendly and making an appointment is easy. Many of my friends have received tattoos from Sakura and each tattoo came out looking incredible. Now that you are aware of the process, it is time for you to get your tattoo. Good luck and be proud of your tattoo…You have worked hard to create! Tattoos are your personal statement.