How to Gift Mom, Dad, or Grad a Tattoo
Tips from downtown Akron's tattoo artists on how to gift a tattoo.
By Israel Polk
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In recent years, the idea of gifting a tattoo has gained popularity, especially as a meaningful and lasting gift for loved ones.
For those considering gifting a tattoo, I spoke with two Akron-based tattoo artists: Andy Brugge of Odd Fellows Tattoo and India Rush of India Ink Tattoo, to gather expert advice on how to make the experience smooth and memorable.
Before step one, make sure that your recipient is open to getting a tattoo. Sometimes it will be obvious that a person is open to more tattoos, but sometimes you may not be sure. Before you go down the road of arranging the gift, see if you can find out from the person directly, or if it’s a surprise, from someone close to them, whether or not they would like to get a tattoo.
Step One: Do Your Research
Andy Brugge emphasizes the importance of selecting the right artist. The first step toward that end is to find out what kind of tattoo the person you are gifting is interested in. Then, find an artist who can create it. “Do your research on your artist, kind of what pertains to you. Do you like their work, or does somebody else suit you better?” Brugge said. “When you find an artist, look at how they run things. Different shops have different policies, some collect deposits for appointments. Overall, you just have to reach out to the artist, discuss your piece, and work within your budget,” he said.
Step Two: Understand the Specialties
At Odd Fellows Tattoo, Andy and his team are versatile. “We are well-rounded with everything. A lot of people here are more on the traditional aspects, but we do everything from realism to traditional and biomechanical styles. It’s kind of a one-for-all thing here.”
India Rush, who specializes in portraits and realism at India Ink Tattoo, adds that understanding the artist’s style is crucial. “Not everybody who does realism also does portraits, and not everybody who does portraits does a little bit of everything. My primary focus is portrait work, but I do a bit of everything.”
Step Three: Purchase a Gift Card
If you’re unsure of the exact design mom would want, a gift card is a great option. India notes that gift cards are popular, especially around the holidays. “I sell a lot of gift cards, and people who receive them tend to come in a few weeks after Christmas to get their tattoo. It allows them to choose what they want, whether it's a portrait or something more simple.”
Step Four: Plan the Design and Placement
This might be a little bit more geared toward your recipient, but ensuring that they know what they want is key. “Knowing what design you want is key,” says Andy. “Placement is very important too.” Whether it’s a small, delicate piece or a larger, more intricate design, having clarity on these details will make the process smoother.
Step Five: Address Common Concerns
Is your recipient nervous about getting a tattoo? India explains that first-time clients often worry about pain and cost. “The biggest questions are: Is it going to hurt? How much will it cost? How long will it take? I always tell clients to eat and drink beforehand because there’s a lot happening inside your body during a tattoo.” Andy adds that aftercare is a common concern. “Clients often ask about healing time and what activities to avoid, like swimming, until the tattoo heals.”
Step Six: Embrace the Meaning
For both artists, meaningful tattoos hold special significance. Andy finds memorial tattoos especially powerful. “It’s so deep and meaningful when people get something to honor a loved one. They’re trusting me with something so personal, and that’s where the art really sets in.”
By following these expert tips, you can give mom (or anyone really) a tattoo gift that fits their aesthetic and needs, and is not only unique but also deeply personal and lasting.
To reach content author Israel Polk, email them here.
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