Okay, so I’ve been thinking about getting a tattoo for a while now, and I finally decided to take the plunge. I’ve always been fascinated by swords, not in a violent way, but more like the symbolism they carry. Strength, courage, that kind of stuff. So I thought, why not get a sword tattoo? But before doing it, I had to really know the meaning behind it, so here is the story of how I got my first tattoo with a sword on my back.
First thing I did was hit up the internet, just typing in “sword tattoo meaning” and all that jazz. I spent hours just reading articles, forum posts, you name it. I found out that sword tattoos can represent a bunch of different things. They are about power and protection, for sure. I also learned they are also linked to justice and fighting for what’s right. Some people even get them to symbolize overcoming a tough time in their life, like a battle they’ve won. The details really matter, I discovered, the way the sword is positioned, whether it’s broken or has any other objects around it, all of these change the meaning a bit.
After getting a better idea of what I wanted my tattoo to represent, I started looking for artists. I found an awesome artist in my area and booked a consultation. I was a bit nervous but also excited at this point. I went in, and we chatted for a while about my ideas. I showed him some pictures I’d saved, and he started sketching. It felt so real at that moment, seeing it getting drawn up.
Then came the big day. I went back to the shop, and the artist got to work. It definitely wasn’t a walk in the park. It was uncomfortable at some moments, to say the least, especially on my back. But I kept thinking about the meaning behind the tattoo, the strength and courage it represented to me, and that helped me get through it.
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Choosing the design
I wanted a design that spoke to me personally. Not just any sword, but one that felt like it had a story. So after a lot of back and forth with the artist, I finally decided on this detailed design of a classic broadsword. It’s got these intricate engravings on the blade, and the hilt is wrapped in what looks like worn leather. It looked old, like it has been through battles, you know? That’s exactly what I was going for.
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The Placement
Deciding where to put it was another big thing. I considered my arm, my leg, but ultimately, I chose my back. It felt like the right place for something this significant. Plus, it’s a large enough area to really showcase the detail of the design. I went with a vertical placement, right down my spine. I imagined it being like this backbone of strength, you know?
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Sitting through it
Man, getting the tattoo itself was an experience. It’s not like I expected it to tickle, but the intensity was something else. There were moments, especially when the needle hit certain spots on my back, that I had to grit my teeth and just breathe through it. The artist was cool, though. He would check in on me, and we took short breaks to give me some time to catch my breath.
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Aftercare
The artist gave me detailed instructions on how to take care of it, which was super helpful. I had to keep it clean, apply ointment, and avoid soaking it in water for a while. It was a bit of a hassle, having to adjust my sleeping position and all, but I was determined to make sure it healed properly. I mean, I didn’t go through all that just to mess it up now, right?
Now, a few weeks later, it’s fully healed, and I absolutely love it. Every time I look at it, it reminds me of what I wanted it to symbolize: my own strength and determination to get through tough times. It’s not just a tattoo; it’s a part of my story now. A permanent reminder that I can overcome challenges and come out stronger on the other side. It was a pretty cool experience, and I’m glad I went through with it. Thinking about getting another one already. Who knows what the next adventure will be?
