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Not sure where to start?

Read on to learn more about your color options and which is best for you.

woman’s arm

Stocksy / Design by Camden Dechert

Set on color for your new ink?

Also consider the size of your piece.

Don’t be afraid to speak up!

closeup of legs with tattoos

Eldad Carin / Stocksy

“Tattoo shops can be an intimidating placebut its best for everyone if you express your feelings.”

Black and gray tattoos might just be what you’re looking for.

But waitthere are variations of monochromatic tattoos.

closeup of young qpoc hugging

We Are / Getty Images

“There are three types of black and gray tattoos,” says Nick.

“First is blackwork, which is only black ink andskin tone, with no gradation.

Peruse examples of these three categories to determine which will be the best fit for you.

closeup of handshake

Westend61 / Getty Images

“With black and gray, the most important consideration is value.

Light vs. dark tones.

This lends itself to readability, even on a small scale.”

portrait of young person with blue hair

Adolescent Content/Brandon Stanciell/ Getty Images

“A general rule of thumb is scale and intricacy increase time,” says Forte.

Eat a healthy breakfast before you head out to get inked.

You might consider bringing some snacks with you if you’ve got a long session planned.

Tattooaftercareregardless of if you choose a full rainbow palette or more film noiris crucial.

Washing your ink frequently with gentle soap keeps it clean during thehealing process.

Keeping the skin moisturized will help take the edge off the extreme itching as your tattoo heals.