Just grit your teeth and bear it man. You don’t want to be that guy who groans and whimpers and grunts throughout the process. Try talking to your artist while he works, or if you’re into reading and can hold a book one handed, just read your way through. Lord knows when I had a six hour sitting for my back piece I spent the lion’s share of it nose deep in a Terry Pratchett novel.

And honestly, yes, tattooing hurts, but it ain’t as bad as most people say, and honestly, it’s half the fun. It’s the price we pay to get into the club, and without it, tattoos would lose much of their mystic.

Also, punctuation is our friend, not our enemy.

Love. Peace. Metallica.

Hi

From what I have been told the ribs and shins are about the most painful parts to get done as so close to the bone.

You will cope with the pain – much of it is in the mind. I won’t lie it does hurt but starts at a cat scratch upwards. You will not be laughing but doubt you will be flowing tears either.

Besides even if you do cry – no matter as long as you sit still. 😀

I would suggest that if it is your first one 3-4 hrs is more than enough. You can always go back for more. I always try and take a book or listen to some music.

Don’t be tempted with any aspirins, alcohol, or marijuana. The first 2 will make you bleed out more as they thin the blood. The smoke can also increase blood flow but you really need to be mentally focussed whilst having a tattoo done.

Good Luck

Matthew