My story as a LBS of a MLCer

[AndrewP]

Westo - I have 3 myself. Small and generally easily covered ones that in some ways mark important phases in my life.

I have one I designed myself based on a nautical knot called the "true love" knot around my right wrist that I got about 4 years ago.

My STBX - who used to hate her sister for her anger, lies and infidelity got a "sisters" tattoo on her ankle about a year and a half ago when they became bestest of friends. She used to swear that she never would get one and that if she did that she would get one based on a sketch that D24 did many years ago. She never did. I found the sketch when I was cleaning out stuff, scanned it and sent it to D24 to keep safe.

I occasionally wonder if I should get my true love knot removed which is expensive, painful and not always successful. I tell myself though that it is a reminder that I can love truly regardless of whether it is my old W or not.

Sorry - a bit of a downer there.

I don't know how much you know about them but a couple of hints. Don't drink or take aspirin before - that thins your blood and can make things messy. The first step is usually an outline which hurts a fair bit. Colour and fill aren't too bad. Deal with it like a bad sunburn - keep it covered and moisturized while it heals. Also remember that these places often charge by the minute so if they ask you if you want to take a break remember that the clock may still be running They will use a stencil to mark where they are doing it and make absolutely sure you are happy with the placement etc. Perhaps even get up and see what it looks like at different angles. Once it is on don't turn back.

And the MOST IMPORTANT thing - double check the spelling. It's amazing how many poorly spelled tattoos there are out there.

You'll also find it surprising the number of times that you bump it when you are healing.

Good luck! You'll have some strong memories when you look at it.