Advice re first tattoo please?

[TheadReaper]

I've been thinking about getting a tattoo on my forearm for a long time as I have some self harm scars that I'd like to camouflage. The thing is I don't have much inspiration. I don't particularly want anything too bold but I realise it's quite a large area so could anyone help me find a little inspiration for a large tattoo that will cover scars. Has anyone had a cover up tattoo, and were you happy with it?

Anyone?

In my experience, most tattoo artists have their own particular type of tattoo that they are skilled in. I’m not an expert but have just planned my second tattoo. I would suggest going to 2/3 places or checking them out online & seeing what their styles are. From that you will establish the types of things you do and don’t like. A good place will ask you to talk to them about what you want & do a design. Also if you have scarring they need to cover that may effect what they can do. My main advice is don’t rush it especially if it’s likely to be a large piece. Look on instagram & speak to lots of people.

The first thing id do would be to have a look online for cover up tattoos and see if there’s anything you like so you have an idea

I have a cover up that covers old tattoos and a scar but the scar wasn’t very big I had to go quite dark to cover the tattoos though

Another thing would be to have a look at tattoo artists in your area and there work, most are on fb and insta these days. You could go for a consultation with one and they will be able to tell you what type of thing /colour you would need to go for

Thank you both so much. I had no idea where to start so I appreciate your advice!

My only advice is don't rush into it. I had one at 18 and didn't put much thought into it. It is a bit shit!

@hidinginthenightgarden my first one is too but it’s only a small heart & doesn’t offend me so I’ve put it down to life experience as I can’t face the faff or expense of removal 🤣. Much more care & thought going into my second one.

There is a tattooist in Brighton (not sure where you are and can't remember what she is called) but she specialises in tattoos for people who have had surgery or self harm scars etc. Might be worth looking into it and speaking to her. She did a documentary on BBC 3 (I think) and it was called the tattoo changed my life (or something similar). I know this is a bit vague but it might help x

Yes to not rushing. Also set up a Pinterest board for ideas.

I had a large self harm scar on my left wrist. I got a Mandela style tattoo to cover it and you can’t see it at all anymore. I love my tattoo and see it as a sign of how well I have done to overcome my mental health difficulties.

Water colour tattoos are always nice, and with muted pastel colours won't be too bright

I asked DD to set the image she wanted as her phone wallpaper, and, if she was still happy to be looking at it every day a year later then get it tattooed with my blessing.

I agree with PP don't rush it . Any tattooist that say something like get it done within x time for a discount run from them .

Once you know what you like stick a picture up on your main mirror / back of front door / centre of steering wheel etc. Get use to living with it.
Make sure you are comfortable with the artist , go to see them several times, some will let you watch them working on other people.

@hidinginthenightgarden that’s why I’m having cover ups at the age of 41 😂 although they didn’t really bother me as such

Op, if you google tattoos to cover self harm scars it might give you more ideas

Water colour tattoos are beautiful but may not cover so well. Artists who do tattoo cover ups are often good at self harm cover ups too.

My tattooist has lots of self harm cover ups