I just had my first tattoo done yesterday and it was quite an experience. Now, I don't mean to imply anything about people with tattoos or enforce any stereotypes, but honestly, growing up, I was alwa... Read More
I just had my first tattoo done yesterday and it was quite an experience. Now, I don't mean to imply anything about people with tattoos or enforce any stereotypes, but honestly, growing up, I was always a little intimidated by people with tattoos. I've always wanted one myself, but I grew up around a very straight edge, conservative crowd. The idea of walking into a tattoo shop scared me alone. I assumed I'd be surrounded by a biker gang of sorts eyeing me and wondering what a scrawny little momma's boy was doing around a tattoo parlor. But, to my surprise, my experience was very pleasant.I grew up in the area so I was familiar with Red Parlour's existence. But the exterior of their shop had a very traditional hardcore feel to it as you can see from their photos. So, I was always a bit afraid. I sure as hell did not think I'd one day walk in to the place. But, despise their intimidating look, when i walked in, I was greeted by Red who is by far one of the kindest, sweetest man I've ever come across in NYC. He was very informative and assuring when discussing my plans with him. He was understanding of what kind of tattoo I wanted and setting up appointments. He was also very understanding of the fact that it was my first time and I didn't get the slightest feeling that I was being judged for not looking like the type to have a tattoo. Prior to visiting Red Parlour, I did visit another tattoo shop in Queens with high ratings, but the woman I was greeted with there did not seem at all knowledgeable or caring. I don't think she took me seriously or she thought that every question I had about getting a tattoo was a joke. You were able to tell that Red cared about his customers. He didn't treat it as if it was a literal shop where you're just a random person who comes, buys something and leaves. In a field such as this, a level of trust and bond is required and it's not just about what you get. It's also about the experience you have there and Red Parlour really outdoes other shops in that part. Not to mention, Red was able to quote me a solid price after discussing my tattoo design whereas the other shop could only give me a range - and the solid price from Red was still way more affordable! They have excellent prices here.After payment, Tim ran a sketch, placed it on my arm, etc - normal tattoo stuff. I feel very fortunate of having Tim as my artist as well because he was very patient and informative with me. Again, this was my first time and I knew nothing about tattoos. My friends don't really have tattoos so this is an entire new world for me. But, Tim explained everything and really took his time in making sure that I was comfortable rather than getting it over with - even if it meant him just sitting around for a bit. For those who are considering first time tattoos as well, just know that single needles are more painful than the multiple needles that are used for shading/coloring. Single needles are used more for outlining. During the first 10 minutes of my session, where he was using the single needle, I blacked out. I didn't pass out. I was fully awake, but slowly, I was having tunnel vision. Everything was fading and my hearing muffled. At first, I thought it was my LASIK, but I realized I was fading. I tried to fight it, but it was no good. I was awake and my eyes were open, but I couldn't see at all - pitch black. I could barely hear because it was so muffled. I told Tim I was about to pass out, he stopped, and got me a cold towel. My friend got me some orange juice which helped in time. He explained it may have been anxiety, low blood sugar, or both. I recently started the Insanity workout program and diet so it does make sense for me to have low blood sugar. But, again, Tim was very patient with me and made sure I was ready to go again regardless of how long it meant him waiting. Word of advice though, if you don't feel well, make sure to tell your artist. They will be too busy inking you up to look up at your face or notice any change. They will not know how you are feeling unless you say something. Oh, and Tim is a very talented artist! I had a realistic fox portrait done and it was spot on. The tattoo took about about 2 hours. It was painful. I guess i have low tolerance for pain. I didn't tear up or make any noises, but I certainly did make ridiculous faces at certain points. Let's just say I've always wanted a sleeve, but after actually feeling it, I reconsidered it a few times back and forth. Red even remembered I was leaving on vacation in two weeks so he told me to pop in before I left if I wanted to so they can take a look at the healing progress.The main thing I want to reiterate is how welcoming and patient these guys were. Customer service is key in all businesses and they are excellent in that degree. If you're like me and don't think you're the traditional "tattoo guy/girl" type and are afraid of being judged, go here. They are skilled, affordable, patient, and respectful. Read Less