A Tattoo Called Terrance

I was planning my own tat for about two years before I got it, as I didn't want to make a mistake and besides, I was designing it myself and I wanted no slipups or design flaws. Finally, when I turned eighteen and had been happy with my quite intricate design I sidled over to the tattoo place and in I went. I was never really worried about the pain, and I was the youngest there, a female, and getting a rather large tat all down my back (an ornate tribal dragon), so of course the regulars - big, hulking guys; stereotypical tat parlor people, were intrigued and Matt (my tattoo guy) let them crowd to see with my permission.

It took two people to get my drawing onto the transfer exactly and to make sure no details were lost- as I said, the tat is intricate. After some careful planning and placing the design was on and the ink ready.

It rather felt as though someone had sharpened a pencil and was drawing really hard on my back- during the process I was moved to ask, "That's IT?" Matt said yes and the men laughed. I think they were just curious to see whether or not I would be able to handle the pain. I must say I came through with flying colors (so to speak).

And so did Matt! By the time it was done, three and a half hours later, the design was on and more beautiful on my skin than I could have ever expected. Everyone was impressed, and as Matt cleaned up everyone who walked in the door came round to have a look. I felt very proud, and had enjoyed the experience, for what minimal pain there was only reassured me that my long-awaited prize was at hand, and there was nothing that could be done to stop it now. The only pain that bordered on irksome was when the detail needles were being used. I had heard they hurt more and understood this fully when they were being used.

So, yes, it was worth it, and no, it wasn't intolerably painful, even though it was a very large tat for my first one (or for any matter!). Don't ever let the fear of pain keep you out of the special seat: when you finally do get it done you'll laugh at yourself for having balked at such a trivial matter.

As for me, I plan to elaborate on the dragon, whom I have named Terrance as I grew tired of saying "my tattoo" all the time. It will be twin half-suns on either side of his head, and a double star above, designed by me and done, of course, by Matt. We've spoken often outside the parlor and have become friends. He was glad to accept my proposal to continue with Terrance.

I rather think he's grown as protective of Terrance as I am. And he says the men are waiting for when I finally do come in again. I'll be there.

-Spike

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