Getting a Tattoo

Today I went to some tattoo place in Garapan to watch my friend, Amanda, get a tattoo. I was curious about how they did it, so I asked her if I could come and watch. It was interesting to see. First the tattoo artist draws the design in permanent marker where the tattoo will go. This allows the customer to see how the tattoo will appear before it is actually inked on.


When the customer is satisfied with how it looks, then the process of inking begins. Depending on where the tattoo is going, this process can be painless or painful. Amanda chose to have this tattoo placed on the inside of her left foot. Judging by how hard she was gripping her right toe as the tattoo artist was inking, I'd say this tattoo was painful. From my perspective,though, it looked flawless. I was fascinated.

Amanda tried to read a book to distract her, but I don't think she read too many pages.

After watching for about 30 minutes, I told Amanda good bye and good luck. I don't know if she wanted me to stay or leave, but I had seen enough to know that it was pretty cool....and I wanted one of my own!

But tattoos are permanent and I am not sure that I want something etched on my skin permanantly. Luckily for me I found a great alternative.

Outside the JoeTen store in Garapan, there is a small booth manned by a Chinese guy who will give you a "tattoo" for as low as $3.00. Curious, I walked over to his booth and asked him, "How long will this take? How much will it be? And, can you make it look real?" He said, "For this design I will charge you $5.00. It will take just three minutes, and Yes, I can make it look real." Alright then, let's do it.





This is my tattoo.






This is Amanda's tattoo. Isn't it beautiful?