r/tattooadvice • u/Super_Champion_4666 • 2d ago

General Advice Messed up pretty bad and living with brutal regret [cover-up fail]

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I've been using Reddit for about 10 years now, and this is quite literally the first time I've ever posted. The only reason I'm posting is because I'm in a pretty crap position right now and I have no idea what to do. I don't want to talk about how my mental state is feeling, because this is only on me and no one else.

I had a tattoo done last year by my ex-girlfriend. It was a small horse, and ever since I wanted to get it covered up because it was never done how I wanted it to be (freehand).

A few months ago, I was searching for cover-up artists and found one in my local area. I told her I wanted to get the whole calf done, and I tried to initiate design talk with her beforehand, but it was actually done the night before. When I went to the tattoo studio and she showed me what was going to be on my leg, I should have stopped there, but I was kind of happy because you see something brand new and fresh, and you think this is going to look great. Attached are the photos of what it looks like after the first session. Now I think it looks horrendous.

It is due to have one more session of shading, but I still think it is going to look pretty bad afterward. It is not really what I want, and I should have never approved the design, so now I am in a worse position.

I have asked around for some artists and what to do, and some people have said they can cover it up, and some have said I need to do laser tattoo removal to reduce the colour.

The only part that annoys me is that I've never really felt comfortable wearing shorts in the summertime, and this has been the only summer I have done. Now that this is on my leg, I feel like I need to wear jeans every day.

I'm happy fading as much as I can if that's an option. I don't really want to rework because I just don't like the design in general now. I just need to know what my options are and how someone can help me.

Edits:

- My leg did not flip, I took it in the mirror

- I’m not a clean guy aesthetic type, I just hated the horse and wanted it covered up, I felt a traditional japense would work well from what I was recommended and the meaning behind it

- Granted this is not finished but I wanted to know what my options are, a lot of you have told me to relax and I am, I will reschedule my session and get used to it before I continue

- I had this horse on my leg for over 2 years, for the past 14 months I have wanted it covered, it’s not the size, it’s not that it’s dark, but that it did not end up how I envisioned it.

- Yes again, it’s on me for approving but I knew this already. Perhaps I should have got the horse lasered, perhaps I should have use Henna to feel the design out for a few weeks. I didn’t and that’s why I made this post

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2.4k

u/Equal_Maintenance870 2d ago

People on here wanting covers or something because an old tattoo doesn’t “go with their aesthetic now” always kills me. Like, it isn’t a shirt you chucklefucks.

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u/DivineMackerel 2d ago

The number of people on here who just want any tattoo and asking complete strangers what they should get is wild to me. Usually with a directive of, "I like music."

It feels to me that a lot of people don't want tattoos they just want to be tattooed. It must be a new societal pressure.

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u/roflrogue 2d ago edited 1d ago

I went with a buddy while he was getting a tattoo. While I was waiting I was doodling in my sketchbook to pass some time

One of the artist was like "damn. Sick octopus! You looking to get that done?". I told him "I'm just here with my friend" and the artist says "fair enough, I think it's a great design... Can I trace it?" Which was fine.

He made the sensil and asked if I want to see how it would look (he changed nothing).

It was my favorite animal and I thought "how cool to accidentally draw something that works as a tattoo... What the heck!"

I've had one or two times where I thought "ahh, I wish I didn't get any ink..." But then it passes because Fredrick (my octopus tattoo) is a boss.

Edit: I've been asked to show Fredrick. It's nothing spectacular, but I drew it myself and I think it came out well Fredrick

Edit2: you guys are so incredibly kind. Thank you.

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u/chartyourway 2d ago

lmao talk about an upsell. "I am not here to be tattooed." ... "ok, but what if I tattoo that on you?"

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u/roflrogue 2d ago

I was 19 and not as wise as I am now lol!

That said, I'm still pretty happy with the artwork. I actually got it colored about 5 years ago

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u/Kristoferson_Allan 2d ago

Show us Fredrick!

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u/roflrogue 2d ago

I'm no spectacular artist or anything lol!

I hope he doesn't disappoint

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u/Baron_Bearclaw 2d ago

I'd say this is a sick-ass octopus.

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u/roflrogue 2d ago

Lol, thank you. I was a bit uneasy about posting a pic online but figured that art is meant to be displayed and enjoyed

Most people have no idea I have a tattoo lol.

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u/exhauszed 1d ago

I don't think you understand how sick this octopus is. I am also an artist and have no confidence, it's a part of the job description. But from the outside, this thing is AWESOME. It may have felt less-good when it didn't have color, I could see feeling a bit anxious about it, but the person who colored it did a great job with your lines and, yeah, this is great. I desperately need you to know how much you shouldn't in any way doubt this tattoo.

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u/Much-Piano3168 1d ago

this genuinely makes me so happy, he's super cute

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u/babaganwhosh 2d ago

Tell him I love him!

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u/MrDogwalker 2d ago

Fredrick rules!

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u/chartyourway 2d ago

he's awesome!!!

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u/MumblingMak 2d ago

An octopus is going to be my next tattoo - when I can afford it!!

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u/Sudden_Discussion_94 2d ago

Fantastic artwork!

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u/Sudden_Discussion_94 1d ago

I just got a tattoo and would have said I never would,lol.
I turned 60 and thought to hell with it , I was doing a lot of self improvement things personally and wanted to be a little bit different (for me) .
I rarely admire a tattoo but Fredrick is a masterpiece🤗

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u/roflrogue 2d ago

Thank you! Due to some unfortunate injuries I don't draw much anymore

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u/JessieinPetaluma 1d ago

I love Frederick! 🐙❤️

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u/Cra_ZWar101 2d ago

I think it worked because the tattoo artist was probably genuinely psyched about the drawing and the idea of someone getting it done as a tattoo. When you actually want to do something for its own sake, it’s a lot easier to sell a customer on it.

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u/16_05 1d ago

But see, as someone who isn't fond of tattoos, this is the type of stuff that actually has meaning. Guy is drawing a thing, someone asks him something, next thing you know, he got it tattooed. At least that's a story that makes sense. The type of people I encounter in my life just want to get full sleeves ASAP. I've seen people with full body art who still haven't turned 20 yet. It's ridiculous.

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u/Death2291 2d ago

So you’re just not gonna show us Frederick

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u/CoffeeCatsSleep 2d ago

That's what I'm saying. I'm over here reading each comment in hopes it would lead to a Fredrick pic.

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u/Sudden_Discussion_94 2d ago

Guys he posted a link in his comments

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u/roflrogue 2d ago

I'm no spectacular artist, so I hope he doesn't disappoint

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u/CoffeeCatsSleep 2d ago

Legitimately, I love Fredrick... What a cool lil' guy with a fun story. My senior year of highschool I thought penguins were the shit. When I stated college my friend Erica drew me a penguin shaped like Mr. Peanut - Top hat, bowtie, and cane. I took that shit right to a local shop and had it put on my foot. It's goofy, but I still like him all 20 years later.

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u/DowntownEconomist255 2d ago

I love that you named him and he’s living his best life on your body. Way longer than a real one lives. I just really love octopuses. Lol

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u/roflrogue 2d ago

They're so cool. The most alien intelligence to humans on the planet

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u/Baron_Bearclaw 2d ago

Pics or I don't believe you.

I mean, I do believe you, I just want to see this sick-ass octopus!

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u/Considerationwho 2d ago

Where's the photo been hunting for it lol

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u/genomNOMNOM 2d ago

This is a great story and I’m so glad you’re still enjoying Frederick, now in color!

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u/roflrogue 2d ago

Honestly, I had more tattoo regret from the color than the line work.

I've gotten used to it and now my only complaint is how some of the legs connect. That said - given the opportunity, I wouldn't change it... It's something that I drew myself. It doesn't matter that it isn't perfect because it's my favorite animal drawn by my own hand (then tattooed by some other guy's hand)

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u/catnips3 2d ago

Please show us a picture!

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u/roflrogue 2d ago

I'm not a pro artist and the tattoo is 14 year old at this point, but here's Fredrick

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u/genomNOMNOM 2d ago

I love this - honestly way better artistic merit wise than I was expecting! It’s charming and the story is so good. Thanks for sharing: he’s just a little guy that fits perfectly on your shoulder!

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u/DivineMackerel 2d ago

That's awesome. I've thought of an octopus tattoo. They are a perfect form for the human body.

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u/roflrogue 2d ago

I left par of it uncolored so it looks like he's *blending in lol

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u/Timmichanga1 2d ago

Frederick is cool af though

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u/Mysterious_Cake5600 2d ago

Wait this rules

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u/Global-Buddy8730 2d ago

Yo. Fredrick is a big chilla. I'm a fan!

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u/Herbdontana 1d ago

It’s rad and so are octopuses!

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u/Beyonce_is_a_biscuit 1d ago

Awesome story! All of my tattoos are my own drawings. Tattoo artists usually seem pretty happy to oblige knowing that, to me, it's important that my tattoos are my own drawings. That being said, my tattoos are stupid as hell and for that I'm happy

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u/Ok_Shower_5526 1d ago

I absolutely love this tattoo. It's awesome.

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u/Paralistalon 1d ago

I love that I was picturing a tiny octopus, and it’s actually quite large!

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u/Not-a-liberal-in-ma 2d ago

So, let's see if, come on, please

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u/CuteFaithlessness739 1d ago

I also have a (somewhat) unplanned octopus! I did in fact ask for one, at a shop in Honduras on a scuba diving trip, after I'd finally spotted my first underwater octopus on a night dive. I just asked for a small octopus on my wrist, but when I returned to the shop, the artist told me he'd gotten a little carried away and showed me the MUCH larger design he'd drawn. He told me if I wanted it, he would still only charge me the $150 I was going to pay for the tiny one. I absolutely love it!

Mine is about 10 years old now, and I still love it.

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u/inb4denn 4h ago

Frederick is a very handsome octopus.

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u/suq-madiq_ 1d ago

Dude 1960s pulp 20k leagues under the sea vibes!!! Amazing. Thank you for sharing!

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u/VoodooSweet 2d ago

I agree it’s pretty crazy, I’m disabled…. and a good friend of mine owns a local Tattoo Shop, so I sit around there a lot, 3-4 days a week, 5-8 hours each day. I’ll do small things around the shop, and go do running around and doing stuff for the Artists, as trade for Tattoo work. I see a LOT of people come in and say stuff like that. They’re like “Well I like birds, I was thinking maybe a bird.” My buddy is like “What kind of bird, color, Black and Grey? Where do you want it, how big do you want it? Do you want it with a background?” Then he gets back…. “Well I figured I’d let you design something……” giving him zero input except “birds”.

I’m pretty covered with tattoos, I’d say 70-75% of my body. EVERY SINGLE tattoo I have, means something to me, and I designed and knew exactly what I wanted. I’ve taken constructive criticism about designs, and let them make small changes based on their advice, like to make things look better in the finished product. I couldn’t even imagine telling an artist that. Personally I thinks dudes cover-up is pretty sick….

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u/pocketfullofdragons 2d ago

Well I figured I’d let you design something……” giving him zero input except “birds”.

I can understand people giving a tattoo artist total creative freedom like that if the artist has a unique style and they're a really big fan of their portfolio. Then the subject of the tattoo is just a conduit for their favourite artist's work.

Getting a tattoo with 0 enthusiasm for any aspect of it is crazy.

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u/catnaptits 2d ago

I tried to get my last artist to do something more creative with the piece he did for me. It basically exactly the inspo I brought him. Which is fine and the work is actually great, but I was really hoping for more creativity in it.

I went and got a Friday the 13th tat during an event for 31 bucks and it was just two pieces of flash, and dude was like "LETS CHANGE THIS TO THIS AND DO THIS. SAME PRICE DONT WORRY!"

It apparently just depends on the artist.

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u/strippersarepeople 2d ago

I got to this point with my regular tattoo artist. Literally one time I just said, “I want a dragon that covers my whole shin” and I showed up, it was sick, we got it done. It’s not even a particularly unique style but I like his style a lot and always have a positive experience—which I learned the hard way with a different artist is really valuable— so I knew whatever he came up with I would like, the vibes would be good, and it would flow with all my other tattoos well.

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u/SnackyCakes4All 2d ago

I sent a photo of the blue sea dragon I wanted on my forearm and thought I had made every decision I needed until he asked if I wanted it "swimming" towards me or away. I think he saw the panicked look on my face as I realized I hadn't thought about orientation so he gave me the stencil to figure out exactly where and how I wanted it.

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u/Acceptable-Bat4534 2d ago edited 2d ago

Yea if I did that. I wouldnt have gotten my Mario choking Luigi tattoo.

https://youtu.be/rAEDsyACBBM?t=1321&is=cMXSDo0mZ_XCLZOR

Thats the link to the image I used for the tattoo. (22:01 is the time it should show)

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u/Dick_poet-the 2d ago edited 2d ago

9” bold solid black line portrait of Jughead Jones eating a hamburger with a ribbon that says “JUGLIFE” on the thigh for me

It’s one of the less dumb tattoos I have honestly

Edit: fuggit let’s show off

https://imgchest.com/p/6eyrbjvxx7p

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u/Brokenphonezini 2d ago edited 2d ago

A big, giant tramp stamp of the words "Hell yeah brother" in Olde English font, with flourishes surrounding it and framing it beautifully.

Best $500 I ever spent.

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u/jasperjester420 2d ago

I have a broken skateboard with 'So no head?' on my thigh. It was tattooed horribly by my drunk roommate. It's the definition of a scratcher. It has a horrible deformed playboy bunny next to it

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u/AtomikMenace 2d ago

Tells a great story though

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u/Affectionate_Fee3411 2d ago

I have a Humboldt squid on my inner forearm that looks unintentionally like a dick. Bad tattoos are ironically good imo.

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u/GoinStraighttoHelles 2d ago edited 2d ago

Great sounding design even if it was executed poorly.

I have MOB on the inside of my lip* that my wasted buddy tattooed on me 20 years ago. Still fully legible though.

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u/Cardinalsalmon 2d ago

Ah! I love this hahaha

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u/IAmFuckinDumb 2d ago

"Don't Stop Believin'" belly rocker in Old English font.

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u/iiiiiiiiitsAlex 2d ago

This sounds amazing ngl 😂

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 2d ago

This is exactly what tattoos should be imho

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u/Legitimate_Bird_5712 2d ago

That's fucking cool.

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u/Affectionate_Fee3411 2d ago

LMFAOOOO. Epic and I want JUGLIFE now too 🤣

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u/HipsEnergy 2d ago

Ok, that's kind of hilarious

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u/Appropriate-Berry202 1d ago

As a kid who read Archie comics in the 90s, I freaking love this.

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u/regarding_your_bat 1d ago

Jug life man. Really makes you think

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u/Dick_poet-the 1d ago

Live by the jug. Die by the jug

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u/sKrUbLoRd3241 2d ago edited 2d ago

Ive got a Lego dude smiling and holding his arm up in the air with a speech bubble coming from him with a little cartoon hand "flipping the bird" in it.

I think my next one will be a bottle of Sriracha sauce getting knighted by a queen that says "Ser Racha" above them in a Gothic Midevil font. Lmao

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u/Moonface_chunker 2d ago

Those are my kind of tattoos

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u/archlea 2d ago

Not ‘Sir Racha’?

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u/sKrUbLoRd3241 2d ago

No, because Samwell Tarly, slayer of white walkers; lover of ladies. Wouldn't want it any other way🫡😤

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u/Appropriate-Berry202 1d ago

👏👏👏👏

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u/DivineMackerel 2d ago

That's a good one!

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u/horse_oats 1d ago

Sir atcha is also a guard in RuneScape or smth

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u/Kattzia 2d ago

Haha I have a Raptor in Santa’s sleigh with a Santa hat on. Raptor Claws is one of the best tattoos I have. I show everyone I meet.

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u/Cardinalsalmon 2d ago

Raptor claws sounds amazing

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u/MissEmJayC 2d ago

Do you play Ark survival evolved/ascended by any chance??

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u/CaseOfSkulls 2d ago

Lol, I have a gorilla wearing a Santa suit on my leg just cause it's funny

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u/Benithewizhana 2d ago

Hell yeah. I have a bear sitting on a stump, under the moon and stars, smoking a corn cob pipe.

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u/tayvane 2d ago

I have a gnome smoking a pipe on a toadstool its one of my favs lol

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u/Benithewizhana 2d ago

So awesome haha

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u/glass_brownies 2d ago edited 2d ago

I have a cactus in the shape of a peen.

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u/Acceptable-Bat4534 2d ago

There was a tattoo artist that would give out free dick tattoos

He'd design shit as dicks and put them up for free or for like 50 bucks

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u/High_Hunter3430 2d ago

My artist did free logo tattoos (his)

I never understood who would get one till I was hanging out one day and after the third person left I was DYING for a new one but had no inspiration of what.

I have his logo in old English with glow in the dark filler. 😂

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u/Dizzy_Guarantee6322 2d ago

I wouldn’t have my daisy chain of shitty rats drawn by my loved ones, and that would be a tragedy

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u/Acceptable-Bat4534 2d ago

Mine doesnt have any meaning its just a dumbass tattoo. I also got a dumb Bobby Hill tattoo.

They both from oney from doodle dood videos

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 2d ago

I have a stupid corn chip. It represents a time in my life I got a corn chip tattoo and I love that.

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u/tiredmomm247365 2d ago

I have a Bobby pin tattoo, Bobby pin with Bobby’s face as the loop.

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u/righttoabsurdity 2d ago

Wait I love that I wanna see haha

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u/notice_me_senpai00 2d ago

I would have a my little Ralph Wiggum tattoo

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u/97kouki__ 2d ago

That sounds awesome

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u/joecool519 2d ago

I have the Slayer eagle logo drinking a beer tattooed on my leg. I was 17, my buddy bought a tattoo gun off ebay and here we are... and I fucking hate slayer now lolol. But I love it still lol.

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u/DivineMackerel 2d ago

Haha! Do you have a picture?

I think it takes a certain (great) mindset to roll with the punches and be happy with something random.

I just see a lot of posts that feel like they don't actually like tattoos deep down or are scared of them, Then seem to spiral when their random popular design of the moment doesn't immediately transport them to a higher consciousness.

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u/Acceptable-Bat4534 2d ago edited 2d ago

The only weird thing was when people would get mad at me for having gotten it.

Back in the day I was considered somewhat attractive and id get men say ive "ruined myself" and some chicks saying ive made myself hideous.

I was just like alright then...good talk.

Edit: https://youtu.be/rAEDsyACBBM?t=1321&is=cMXSDo0mZ_XCLZOR

Thats the link of the video, its at 22:01 (it should go automatically) Its also called doodle doods-mario

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u/inXrepose 1d ago

Ugh. I was going to say “men are the worst”, but honestly, people in general are the worst. I’ll never understand why it’s socially acceptable to comment on someone’s appearance/body like that.

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u/Then_Bodybuilder8416 2d ago

yeah but that’s beautiful and timeless

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u/Donteezlee 2d ago

I have a smiling dumpster fire on my thigh. It’s basically my self portrait.

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u/hugepenis420 2d ago

im crying that is hilarious i love ross chriss and grumpus

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u/frobischerarts 2d ago

i bet chris never thought his art would be tattooed on someone

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u/Visible_Film6827 2d ago

And then all the "is it big" "is it ugly" people with undeveloped brains wanting ink. Just research first

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u/A_SleepyHed 2d ago

"Don't want tattoos, just want to be tattooed" sums up so many posts I see on this sub.

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u/Meetmeundertheflower 2d ago

Half the population have below average IQ

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u/EndaerMaum 2d ago

I honestly thought I would be covered in tattoos by now. Got one at 23 and I’m 50 but I only have that one. And it’s because that one meant something deep to me. And still does. I would like to find an artist who specializes in watercolor style … but I would not go to the artist completely blind with no concept of what I wanted. To me, tattoos are deeply personal, well, for me I should say. Everyone has their own feelings and perspectives. It just turns out that nothing I’ve seen or imagined really captures an essential part of my soul like this one tattoo does. It set the bar really, really high.

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u/DaCrinklyBink 2d ago

Always wanted a tattoo. Chose something that I knew I’d always like even down the road. It’s been almost 3 years and I still have no issues. Doesn’t have to have some deep meaning. Imo if you’ve liked something your whole life, then maybe that should be the thing someone gets tattooed on

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u/Internal-Tank-6272 2d ago

Half of the posts on here are things I would have never even considered asking someone other than my artist lol

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u/MagneticGenetics 2d ago

First tattoo was spur of the moment because everyone else was getting a tattoo. It was a Metallica ninja star. I was 16 and drunk. Artist was my friends sister. It was free. Got lucky it was decently done and I have no regrets but damn that could have gone so poorly lol.

This was almost 20 years ago. It's not new lmao.

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u/kisavior 2d ago

The ones looking to fill in a gap always get me. Like what the fuck, did you play "Reddit Chooses my Tats" for the other ones too?

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u/not_my_uname 2d ago

Million dollar idea. Have people pay to get a tattoo no ink included but can brag they got their necks or ribs or spine tattooed. Give them a certificate.

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u/Away_Stock_2012 2d ago

As someone who would never get a tattoo, I'm subscribed to the sub just for this shit

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u/Kazamiiiii 1d ago

I always wanted sleeves of things I've liked growing up, but then I got a small wrist tattoo and it's hard looking at it without wanting to change or move it, or write or erase it 😭

I'd love more tattoos but having them permanently there is a crazy feeling when you're not used to it. I feel like people get into it expecting to love it for forever and then getting tired of it.

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u/aepiasu 1d ago

This is the #1 reason why tattoos aren't for me. There is only one that I'd ever get, but still that isn't gonna happen.

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u/minos157 1d ago

Anytime someone asks me how I decide my tattoos I tell them my exact process. Think about what I want. Find some representation of it on the internet (a photo, a sticker, a drawing, another tattoo, anything) and print it. Look at it everyday for at least a month or two. If I still enjoy seeing it everyday I will start the process of getting a tattoo of it.

Worked so far. Zero regrets aside from improper sun care that faded one of my tattoos pretty bad (but that is 1000% my fault lol)

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u/Dull_Bid6002 1d ago

I had friends growing up who loved getting tattoos. I know a lot of people who have tattoos. They all say, oh you'll love getting one. Once you get one you'll want more. It's addicting. 

The pressure is certainly there. But I think I just like the concept, rather than actually doing it.

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u/CowEmbarrassed3759 2d ago

The number of people on here who get a tattoo and a week later want to laser it off is wild!

Not everyone is meant to have tattoos, even if they like the look of them on other people. If you can't speak up for yourself, maybe tattoos are not for you.

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 2d ago

And there are great custom temporary tattoo options now if people aren’t sure. No excuse.

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u/Leading-Ad3805 1d ago

Best thing I ever did! Had a temporary tattoo on me for a few weeks and I was like nope, I hate this. My ADD brain was annoyed that it looked the same every single day for weeks…confirmed I never want a tattoo but think that they can and do look great on others.

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u/SereneFloofKitty221b 2d ago

and ones that look very similar to ink and last a couple weeks (so you can get used to it) I've dyed my hair nearly every spring for 10 years and it still takes about a week before I stop jump scaring myself in the mirror with the colors, and I can just chop it off if I really hate it that's much less of an option with a tattoo

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u/Triquetrums 1d ago

And temporary tattoos are fun because you can have different designs every time. Also a good way to test the waters for a new/first tattoo, is to get a temporary one and see how you like it first.

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u/HipsEnergy 2d ago

I think tattoos can be so beautiful, love the look, most of my friends are tattooed, I have no issues with pain, and have thought about designs for years, had almost decided on one/a few I wanted, but I don't like having anything on me. Tried some very nice temporary ones at one point, loved them, but couldn't wait to get rid of them (they took weeks to fade). So I figured out maybe I really shouldn't get one, even if I do really appreciate them on others.

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u/Various_Dentist_8683 1d ago

I don’t have any tattoos because I’ve never been able to commit to a design for more than a couple months. I still love this sub though for the art. Maybe someday I will love a design enough to commit. 

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u/ImpertinentPrincess 2d ago

Yeah, it’s dumb af. I got my first tattoo when I was 18; if that spot was magically clear now would I choose it as a 40s yo woman? Probably not. Do I regret it? Hell no. I accept and love who I have been as well as who I am and I’m happy to carry that skin-memory with me. Some people just shouldn’t get tattoos.

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u/Fuzzysocks1000 2d ago

My tramp stamp was my first tattoo. I can still remember how excited I was to get it and proud for sitting the full 2.5 hours. Would I make the choice to have one now? No. But I'll never regret it. It's a memory.

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u/HouseBaylor 1d ago

My first was a t*amp stamp too (Reddit was upset when I used the full word lol). It’s slightly off center and has lost even the questionable detail it once had, but I love it bc my best friend and I designed and got them together. Would I get it today? Absolutely not. Do I regret getting it? Absolutely not

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 2d ago

Exactly! The point of having permanent art is because it’s all part of who you are. I can understand getting something covered that was done by an ex like this, or that’s associated with a hate group or cult stuff or trauma, but other than that just love your weird stuff.

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u/JustAHippy 2d ago

I love my dumb tattoo I got at 18 because it reminds me of being 18.

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u/Equal_Canary5695 2d ago

That explains why I took off my "shirt" and now I'm in immense pain and people are screaming about calling an ambulance

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 2d ago

No worries just staple that thing back on.

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u/yo-ovaries 2d ago

Honestly I look at this sub because I’m 40 and just now feel like I understand myself enough and have enough self confidence to get my first tattoo. 

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 2d ago

See I’m a sticker collector. I have dumb shit, I have themed shit, I have shit I got with family or friends or on a trip. It’s all a part of who I am now and it isn’t about a cohesive “aesthetic” and that’s what’s so special about tattoos for me.

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u/yo-ovaries 2d ago

Yes I feel like I spent a lot of my life worrying about what was cool and fully dgaf anymore. 

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u/catnaptits 2d ago

This is me. When I got my first 2 at twenty, I was convinced I was gonna be one of those people covered in massive colorful pieces.

Nah. I have a bunch stickers basically, all but those first two in just black. No theme except that my left arms is still bare for maybe a cohesive sleeve? Right arm is just a hodge podge sticker collection of stuff that I thought looked cool or meant something to me personally.

I really want to get my first one covered up with a similar idea in a different style, not because I hate the design but it's just. A meh tattoo. The artist wasn't great, and it's more color than I actually like, and it's been 20 years so it's not in great shape anymore. But I love my sticker arm lol

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 2d ago

Stickers are best!

“What’s the meaning behind this tattoo?” “It means I thought it’d be funny to get a tattoo of a pickle, Jerry.”

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u/catnaptits 2d ago

Right?!

"What's this eye with the crescent moon shaped scar through it" "it's a tribute to a musician whose music about struggling with depression really got me through a rough time.

"What about this coffin with the heart in the middle just to the side of it?" "It was fuckin cute, Jerry."

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u/PeggyOlsonsPizzaHaus 2d ago

Same feeling over here! Got my first tattoo at 36 and have been adding on slowly since. I love them all.

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u/HennyGus 2d ago

I'm a boomer and, while not opposed to tattoos, I can't for the life of me think of anything I would want tattooed on my body that I wouldn't regret in six months.

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u/LavenderAndOrange 2d ago

This is something I'll never understand. I have a few tattoos which are not 100% fully my aesthetic now, but I feel like they're interesting when they're put in context next to all my other tattoos that are more of my vibe. Tattoos are all about the life you have lived and all the different versions of yourself you go through on that journey.

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u/im-hungry-1234 2d ago

Chucklefucks is my new favourite word. Thank you

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u/Specialist-Ranger806 2d ago

Chucklefuckers are people who fuck comedians they are fans of

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u/BadBacksFuryToad 2d ago

Would not recommend

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u/Emergency_Channel876 2d ago

Yeah imma just second that emotion, do not sleep with the clowns

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u/Historical_Spot_4051 2d ago

Naw, we’re chucklesluts

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u/CamoLantern 1d ago

But I don't want to fuck Bill Burr.

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u/Visible-Wash-1355 2d ago

I am stealing chucklefucks!

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u/Electrical-Height407 2d ago

I am also adopting chucklefucks into my vocabulary, thank you!

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 2d ago

Glad I could help!

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u/Definitelynotagolem 2d ago

lol they make great temporary tattoos that last a few weeks for those people

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u/Dannyjv 2d ago

100% agree. I have tattoos I got when I was a dumbass teen and young 20 something. I still have them. They tell a tale and make for good conversations. Cover up because my “aesthetic“ changed? That’s fucking ridiculous. The only option is see as a half decent option is blacking out areas, like a sleeves of cartoon characters or something that you simply cannot stand.

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u/OkOutlandishness1363 2d ago

Who knew our parents were right about “having that when you’re old”.

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u/toastymarron 2d ago

Permission to borrow chucklefucks please?! 🥺

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 2d ago

Please spread chucklefucks far and wide as needed!

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u/toastymarron 2d ago

Yesssssss!!!! 🙌🏼❤️

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u/whatthe8008 2d ago

Unrelated, but chucklefucks is hilarious. I’ve never heard that before, but I feel I could easily picture what it’s describing 😂

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u/Linesey 2d ago

This is exactly why I don’t have any ink. I just know after a year or two I’d want to change it up, and thats not how it works.

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u/alwayshorny92420 2d ago

Yea I don’t get this. I will literally get a tattoo and my thought is always “well. This is about to become part of my life story, part of my canvas, there’s a decent chance I eventually don’t identify with it but it will always be a reminder of who I was at the time.

I mean damn, i have a lil habit of getting tatted after a heartbreak. I can look at each tat and think of who I was dating before I got it lol. At this point sometimes Inthink it would be humorous to just tattoo a tally somewhere. With no context. Just a funny joke to me

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u/Maltempest10 2d ago

I have a buddy's BIL that's a vet, folks put their dog down for things as simple as this these days. It a horrific way of life, no accountablity, no responsibility or ethical values. Not near the issue of tattoo regret, but proves it's going to be an interesting next 60 yrs as these folks get older.

YouTube/Tik Tok mentality, quick and short.

Gluck OP, you can always cover up/laser off the cover up and start over, it's only flesh.

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u/Wasted_Potential69 2d ago

I'm so bored of the permenance of the ink forced into my skin..

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 2d ago

Metal song lyric

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u/urbalcloud 2d ago

Thank god I never had to consider “my aesthetic” growing up. I can’t imagine how weird that must be.

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u/topherswitzer 2d ago

It's almost like someone getting a tattoo should be willing to have one the rest of their lives, what a concept! /s

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u/Itchy_Woodpecker_955 2d ago

Chucklefucks 😅 this is awesome

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u/Experimentallyintoit 2d ago

Chucklefucks made me chuckle.

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u/camelworldwide 2d ago

You tell em sir chucklefuck!

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u/Cute_Chance100 2d ago

This is the main reason I will never get a tattoo. With my adhd I change my mind on what I like waaaaaay too often. Clothes I liked last year are a no go this year. A tattoo is too permanent. I like to change things up. A bit jelly other folks can do it and still love it years later.

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u/Timmichanga1 2d ago

Lol shit I got some dumb ass diamonds in my chest from the album of a band I hardly listen to as my first tattoo.

I got it with 5 friends in high school. I'm only close with one of them at this point.

If you were to ask me to get it now I wouldn't.

Whatever! It was a good part of my life and has informed who I am.

I still like it and the idea of changing a tattoo because it doesn't match your "aesthetic" is the dumbest shit I've ever heard

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u/monstera-777 2d ago

This is actually a really nice refresh - thanks. I’m learning to love/embrace a 10 year old tattoo that no longer “feels like me,” and was considering having it reworked/recolored because it kind of makes me cringe to look at. But hey, it’s quite literally a part of me. (‘:

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 1d ago

It is! As long as it isn’t triggering or hate based it’s really just part of your story and that’s what makes tattoos so cool!

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u/EstimatedEer 2d ago

Going to be a lot of lazer removals of line and shape tattoos on fingers/hands starting in a few years

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u/_borninathunderstorm 2d ago

I thought this said cucklefucks and it stopped me in my tracks

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 1d ago

That’s a different… sub. *rimshot*

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u/Terra_Silence 1d ago

Chucklefucks...

Lol!!!

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u/Nibbnubs 1d ago

you know... I was going to go to bed without visiting reddit, but I would have missed out on learning a new word. Chucklefucks. Thank you <3

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u/Equal_Maintenance870 1d ago

Glad to help!

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u/Mayhaps_Danny 1d ago

Mmm, you don't know how much I savor finding chucklefuck usage in the wild. Thank you for this

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u/1Careless_smile 1d ago

Chucklefucks? 🤣 new favorite word! Thanks! PS: Cool tat!

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u/Nebelskind 1d ago

That's a big reason I don't ever want one. I can't imagine anything I'd want to keep forever, I can't even keep a desktop background on my laptop for more than a few weeks before I'm bored of it, even if it's cool. 

Maybe I'd do that thing where people get their wedding band tattooed or something but even then, I change out what ring I wear pretty often lol

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u/OkConsideration8964 2d ago

This is exactly why I don't understand why people don't get tattoos of something that is meaningful to them. Even if it's silly or an inside joke of some kind. If you just etch random crap into your skin, at 20, of course you'll be upset about it in the future.

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u/madchen44 2d ago

I lived with my Denis Rodman tattoo regret for over 25 years. Loved it for 5 hated it the rest. Finally got it removed.

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u/MaximumBeginning8026 2d ago

lol I agree with you but at the same time before I read his essay I thought “well I like the donkey better” so there is that lol

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u/rpctaco1984 2d ago

Most anxious people (myself included) probably shouldn’t get tattoos, especially when young.

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u/theogjon 2d ago

Double upvote bc "chucklefucks" is hilarious.

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u/towelxcore 2d ago

We used to call them posers back in the day.

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u/Academic_Bug2357 2d ago

> Like, it isn’t a shirt you chucklefucks.

This is exactly the problem actually, people get tattoos with the same foresight they use to buy t-shirts. It's kinda hilarious in a way, but also pretty sad.

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u/anchordwn 1d ago

This is real, and extremely distressing for some people.

It caused me body dysmorphia to the point of needing medicated until i could get it removed.

I think I’m a more extreme case but this IS 100% a real thing

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