There really are conventions for every interest! Whether you are into tattoos or trains or comics, there is an event for you and if you are heading to your first tattoo convention this year, here are a few tips to help you through the day.
Tattoos and by extension, Tattoo Conventions are becoming ever more popular, you’ll find towns and cities all over the country hosting their own tattoo conventions, inviting artists from across the world to gather together and celebrate the art of tattooing. Some of these conventions will be bigger and busier than others and are perfect for those who are already covered or those who just want to find out more about the world of tattooing. But if you’ve never been before, what can you expect to see?
People getting tattoo’d
One of the big draws of tattoo conventions is that artists you might not usually get the chance to book appointments with are invited and often advertise convention slots to anyone who wants a tattoo. These will usually be flash that has been specially designed for the event and attract large crowds. If you’ve never been tattoo’d before and are interested in seeing what it is like to make up your mind as to whether you’d like to go through it, these events are a good opportunity to do so. If you want to be one of the people being tattoo’d make sure to turn up early and if there is an artist you know is attending that you specifically want to be tattoo’d by, see if they are taking bookings before the event. Some artists do accept slots during the day, so you never know, you might get lucky!
Competitions and interactive events
During the convention, there is likely to be contests, either between artists or between tattoo’d people that can be anything from best portrait to most tattoos. These are often fun to watch, even if you aren’t taking part.
Stalls
Like every other con, there will be stalls selling a whole range of products, from skin treatments designed to make tattoos last longer or heal faster to piercing accessories and art work or flash in forms of posters and prints. Make sure to take enough money with you for these products and also make sure you have enough cash to pay your artist if you are getting inked and to get food and drink. No one wants to be tattood on an empty stomach.
Body Modification
It isn’t just the art of tattooing that is celebrated at these events, you’ll find that those specialising in body mods and scarification are also present and will be offering advice, demonstrations and slots for certain procedures. Again, if you want to get pierced or speak to someone about a body modification, this is a good chance to meet people who can help with that.
Laser Tattoo Removal
While you might think this is kind of against the point of a tattoo convention, many studios now also offer tattoo removal so conventions are a good place for them to advertise this service and have technicians on hand to demonstrate or give out consultations to anyone who is interested to find out more.
Entertainment/ panels
It isn’t just about watching or getting tattoo’d, you’ll also find that many conventions have music performances, dancers, circus acts and panels where you can talk about different issues facing the community or find out more about the traditions of tattoos and the meanings behind certain images. Some of these entertainment and panel sections are even family friendly, so you can bring the kids along.
Remember, if you are attending any kind of convention, make sure to take money, food and drink with you, wear comfortable shoes and clothes and don’t be afraid to make friends and take everything in. Most importantly, have fun!
