Ultimate Guide to Getting a Tattoo in Williston, ND | Sacred Skin Tattoos

Getting your first tattoo is a big milestone, and if you’re in Williston, North Dakota, there’s no better place to make it memorable than at Sacred Skin Tattoos. Whether you’re a local resident or

just passing through the Bakken oil fields, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from choosing the right artist and preparing for your appointment to proper tattoo aftercare.

Why Choose Sacred Skin Tattoos in Williston, ND?

When it comes to something as permanent as a tattoo, choosing the right shop matters. Sacred Skin Tattoos is trusted by the Williston community for a reason:

• Licensed & Certified Artists – All artists follow North Dakota health department regulations.

• Sterile Environment – We maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and safety.
  Custom Design Specialists – Unique, personalized designs made to fit your vision.

• First-Timer Friendly – We walk new clients through every step of the process.

• Local Connection – As a locally owned business, we understand the Williston community and culture.

Our award-winning portfolio includes a wide variety of tattoo styles:

• Traditional American designs

• Realistic portraits and landscapes

• Fine line and minimalist tattoos

• Cover-up and restoration work

• Custom lettering and script

How to Prepare for Your First Tattoo

Getting ready for your first tattoo can make a huge difference in your experience. Here are some simple tips:

Before Your Appointment:

• Sleep well the night before (7–8 hours).

• Eat a good meal 2–3 hours prior.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Avoid alcohol and drugs for at least 24 hours.

• Don’t take blood thinners unless prescribed.

What to Bring:

• Government-issued photo ID (must be 18+ in ND).

• Reference images or design ideas.

• Comfortable clothing that makes the area easy to access.

• Snacks and water if your session is long.
  
  

Skin Prep:

• Moisturize the area a week beforehand.

• Avoid tanning or sunburn.

• Don’t shave—we’ll take care of that.
  
  

Choosing the Right Design & Artist

For first-timers:

• Start with something smaller and meaningful.

• Think carefully about placement—some spots are more painful.

• Choose a design that will still matter to you years from now.

Popular Tattoo Ideas in Williston:

• North Dakota-inspired art (state outline, oil derricks, prairie landscapes).

• Memorial tattoos for loved ones.

• Inspirational quotes or dates.

• Family or pet tributes.

At Sacred Skin Tattoos, we’ll help you find the artist best suited for your design through a free consultation and portfolio review.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Here’s a step-by-step look at what happens on tattoo day:

1. Final Consultation – Review your design, placement, and aftercare instructions.

2. Preparation – Sterile setup, skin cleaning, stencil application, final approval.

3. Tattooing – Outlining, shading, coloring, with breaks as needed.

4. Completion – Cleaning, bandaging, aftercare instructions, and payment.

Pain Levels by Area:

• Lower Pain: Upper arms, forearms, calves, upper back

• Moderate Pain: Chest, shoulders, lower back

• Higher Pain: Ribs, spine, feet, hands, neck

Bring headphones, focus on breathing, and always let your artist know if you need a break.

Tattoo Aftercare: Keeping Your Ink Vibrant

First 24–48 Hours:

• Leave the bandage on for 2–4 hours.

• Wash gently with antibacterial soap and lukewarm water.

• Pat dry, apply a thin layer of ointment, and avoid tight clothing.

Days 2–14:

• Wash 2–3 times daily with gentle soap.

• Moisturize with fragrance-free lotion.

• Avoid swimming, hot tubs, or soaking.

• Don’t pick at scabs or peeling skin.

• Keep your tattoo out of the sun.

Long-Term Care:

• Use sunscreen to prevent fading.

• Moisturize regularly.

• Schedule touch-ups if needed.

Seek medical advice if you notice excessive redness, swelling, or signs of infection.