Spell Check Before You Ink

The Cost of a Misspelled Tattoo

In a recent incident, a tattoo artist at a parlor on the Northwest Side was sued for misspelling the word "tomorrow" on a client, who ended up with "Tommorrow" inked on his skin. The artist attempted to cover the mistake with clouds, but the damage was already done. This was not the first time the parlor faced such an issue; 17 months earlier, they were sued for misspelling "Chi-Town" as "Chi-Tonw" on another client.

Legal and Emotional Repercussions

Misspelled tattoos can lead to significant emotional distress and financial burdens. According to a survey by The Harris Poll, 23% of people with tattoos regret at least one of them, and misspellings are a common reason for this regret. Legal actions, like the ones mentioned, can also be costly for both the client and the tattoo parlor.

Steps to Ensure Correct Spelling

To avoid the nightmare of a misspelled tattoo, follow these essential steps:

1. Write It Down Yourself: Always write down the word or phrase you want tattooed. This minimizes the risk of miscommunication.
2. Double-Check the Design: Most tattoo shops use transfer paper to apply the design to your skin before inking. Ensure you review the design thoroughly.
3. Verify with the Artist: If the artist is working freehand, double-check that they understand the correct spelling.
4. Bring a Friend: A second pair of eyes can help catch any mistakes you might overlook.

Interesting Statistics

• Tattoo Regret: Approximately 23% of people with tattoos regret at least one of them, with misspellings being a notable cause (The Harris Poll).
• Tattoo Removal: The tattoo removal industry is booming, with a market size of $478 million in 2020, projected to reach $795 million by 2027 (Grand View Research).

The Role of Technology

Modern technology offers several tools to help avoid spelling errors in tattoos. Apps like "Tattoo Spell Checker" allow you to input your desired text and check for any mistakes before committing to the design. Additionally, many tattoo parlors now use digital design software to create and preview tattoos, providing another layer of verification.

Conclusion

A misspelled tattoo can lead to lifelong regret and even legal consequences. By taking simple precautions like writing down your desired text, double-checking the design, and using technology, you can ensure that your tattoo is a source of pride rather than regret. Remember, a little extra effort before the ink can save you a lot of trouble later.

Your Tattoo Friend,

Ashley

For more information on tattoo safety and best practices, you can visit FDA's Tattoo Safety Guidelines and Tattoo Health by the CDC.

Sources:

• The Harris Poll
• Grand View Research
• FDA's Tattoo Safety Guidelines
• CDC's Tattoo Health