prettykat

Yh you’re right!

Wow, you’re an artist too?? Cool 👌👌

I love that perspective. It’s funny how different our jobs are, but the root of the anxiety is identical, wanting to do right by the person in front of you. I think you're right; if I didn't care about the outcome, I probably wouldn't be nervous. It’s comforting to know that even after years of interviewing, that human element still stays with you!

That 'urge to burn' feeling is so real! It’s definitely harder to 'burn the canvas' when it’s someone’s actual leg, though😅. I think that’s where my nerves come from, knowing there’s no 'undo' button or fresh canvas if I’m not feeling it immediately. It’s comforting to know even someone sketching for pro athletes still gets that start-of-project jitters!

And also, for what it’s worth, since you don’t have tattoos yet, the best way to avoid that 'how do I tell them' situation is to spend a ton of time on the stencil phase. I’m always telling my clients to be as picky as they want before the needle touches skin! But yeah, even for me, that fear of the unknown is always there.

That is such a sharp observation! You might actually be right, as an artist, I definitely have a specific vision in my head, and there’s always that tiny bit of 'creative anxiety' about it not matching up. It’s a lot of trust to put in someone else’s hands, even when you know they’re talented. It’s definitely a mix of physical nerves and that perfectionist brain kicking in!

Haha, I can see how it sounded like that! I actually meant being the one in the chair getting poked, I still get those 'first-timer' jitters even though I do this for a living. But you’re right, having a crowd watch you work is a whole different kind of pressure!

I love this! The 'tattoo drunk' feeling from endorphins is 100% real, and honestly, it’s one of the best ways to handle a long session. I never find it disrespectful when a client zones out or naps, it actually helps me stay 'zoned in' on the work. It’s definitely a shared moment, even if it’s a quiet one.. i also kinda wanna see your tats lol

Haha, art is definitely subjective! One person’s 'clipart' is another person’s meaningful symbol or aesthetic choice. As an artist, I just love that people use their skin to express themselves, whether it’s a tiny simple design or a massive custom piece. To each their own!

I promise he was just worried you’d passed out! It’s funny because being that relaxed is actually the best-case scenario for us, it means your body isn't fighting the process. Next time, maybe just tell your artist, 'Hey, I’m probably going to doze off, don't panic if I close my eyes!

Tell em!