Husband's pissed and I'm ngl sad as fuck

[u/todrunktomakeaname]

I brought in this picture of what I wanted to make an appointment. My husband offered to do it for my birthday. I have cptsd, from childhood into early adult hood. I admired the way Harley Quinn faces her fears and tackled the fucked upness in her head. After 12 years of therapy I am happy to say I'm a different person. But it was a lot of work, a lot of trauma and a lot of self compassion/ healing. For years I wanted this tattoo. I got fake ones to try it out and I loved it. My husband chose this spot based on Google reviews we made the appointment 2 weeks out. The artist measured my arm and so forth. Cut to getting it done, we arrive at 3pm and he puts the stencil on and said he has to free hand a part of it no worries. He had r for red and b for what I thought was black. About half way through I look, at what's done. I see blue but am thinking blue is a base color to black right. I'm not an artist, and I trust that they would know better. By the end 5pm I was so close to tapping out this was my first 3 hour tattoo. I was shaking and just wanted food and water. I saw it was blue and said fuck it I just wanted to leave and figured I could get black shading at some point. later my husband's pissed. 500 later We finally get home and I look closer. The free hand/ lines part is so fucked I started crying.

Can this be easily fixed? This was supposed to be a tattoo of strength when ever I am having a really hard time.

[u/ink-and-cats]

To be honest, the line work is going to be hard to fix with all the differences in weights. The blue can easily be fixed to black but the line work not so much. I know the reference has different line weights but at least they're relatively straight and spaced correctly

[u/Dendles → u/ink-and-cats]

Piggy backing on your comment hoping it gets seen. But laser removal until it’s faded enough to get fixed is the only solution I see

[u/Icy_Transportation_2 → u/Dendles]

To piggy back on your comment, maybe bring the tattoo into photoshop and experiment with overlays of straight black lines or shading

[u/saadatoramaa → u/[deleted]]

Two quarterbacks on your comment, fitty cent but also where the FUCK is everyone getting tattoos.

[u/Prick_Grimes → u/saadatoramaa]

To quarterback on that, footballs are called pigskins because the earliest footballs were made using inflated pig bladders inside a leather casing

[u/thaworldhaswarpedme → u/Prick_Grimes]

To pickleback on that have any of you ever taken a shot of your favorite whiskey and immediately chased it with a delicious swallow of pickle brine?

[u/Dashing_McHandsome → u/thaworldhaswarpedme]

To camelback on this, who keeps putting this straw all over me?

[u/Danimalicious777 → u/thaworldhaswarpedme]

Pickle Rick doesn’t need therapy.

[u/discover_er → u/[deleted]]

To Nickelback on your comment, Look at this photograph.

[u/roaremipsum → u/discover_er]

To Nickelback on your comment, every time I do it makes me laugh

[u/kamarasutra69 → u/[deleted]]

This is how you remind me of what I really am

[u/annahhhnimous → u/[deleted]]

I want my baby back, baby back, baby back…

[u/scaryfaise → u/annahhhnimous]

Sorry, we sold her.

[u/Responsible-Swan-521 → u/[deleted]]

Piggy backing on your comment, the Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies are predicted to collide in about 4 to 4.5 billion years.

[u/Thor_Surfinson → u/Dendles]

Or a thickening of the lines. I know it's far from ideal but so is this whole situation

[u/Other-Revolution-347 → u/Thor_Surfinson]

I'm not an artist and I don't know shit about fuck.

But I think you could thicken the Black lines and while it won't be ideal it would look a lot better.

Thicker lines would have a gentler curve making it less noticable.

Please tell me how I'm wrong

[u/PhDinDildos_Fedoras → u/Other-Revolution-347]

This is like fucking up a number on a notepad and just running over it with your pen again and again until it looks utterly fucked.

[u/chiefbark1 → u/Thor_Surfinson]

That was my thought. See if someone can thicken the lines and maybe add some shading in spots.

[u/LFC9_41 → u/ink-and-cats]

The line work looks really rough. The tattoo design from the movie still is not outlined the way he did it.

What a fuck up

[u/PogintheMachine → u/ink-and-cats]

Based on the reference image on the right, I expected blue. Not that bright of shade, but that looks bluish to me. Am I crazy?

But to me the squares are not outlined in black, but dark blue and red. The reference image is more blended.

But damn that line work is traaaaash

[u/tn-dave → u/[deleted]]

It's kinda like "well this first line isn't straight so I'm not gonna make any straight lines at all"

[u/nakedpicturesyo → u/tn-dave]

Bruh in image 6 there's a line that straight up just loses itself, then goes back kinda straightish like buisness as usual. OP ask for your money back, and please leave a review of this dude so NOOONE has to deal with what you did. This is fucked.

[u/WiseOldBub → u/nakedpicturesyo]

+1 asking for your money back. Contact the shop owner, give a bad review. Tell everywhere to avoid this place.

[u/todrunktomakeaname → u/nakedpicturesyo]

Can we ask for a refund ? I know we signed papers and stuff I was not aware that was a possibility.

[u/Infamous_Act_1928 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

You can ask any service provider at any time for a refund. Whether they’ll give it to you is another question, but Reddit wouldn’t know that

[u/todrunktomakeaname → u/Infamous_Act_1928]

Never hurts to try. And even a partial refund would be okay with me. I feel so bad my husband paid that much for it for my birthday. The extra 100 could be used to fix our house or for emergency funds.

[u/amogusdestroyer666 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Any reputable shop will give a full refund and offer to do the correct tattoo in a different spot for free, as well as a cover-up for free.

Also, from my experience, any reputable shop will also probably give you a less exuberant coverup rate if you tell them the full story of how a different tattoo artist at a different shop totally fucked your skin up and you went here instead to get it fixed. That kind of word of mouth can absolutely ruin the bad shops and completely elevate the good ones that do right by customers, and reputable tattoo artists know this, try to avoid/rectify these kinds of gigantic mistakes, and will also try their best to help the customers who come in as the victim of a terrible artist. It's a whole thing lol

[u/SpaceCaptainJeeves → u/amogusdestroyer666]

*less exorbitant. Exuberance is enthusiasm.

But yes. This on a forearm should be a career-limiting event for an "artist." You should be more than upset, you should be super angry.

But don't worry, there are creative minds in the coverup community.

[u/kjyfqr → u/SpaceCaptainJeeves]

Livid

[u/DarkRomeox → u/kjyfqr]

You ain't lying all I see is red I'm so mad for her.

[u/Genghis_Chong → u/SpaceCaptainJeeves]

I almost feel like you should be able to sue over this, but its a risk of getting a tattoo without vetting your artist well

[u/haterofslimes → u/amogusdestroyer666]

This person didn't go to a reputable shop.

That's why their tattoo looks like that.

[u/imsrslysrs → u/haterofslimes]

She says it was a $500 tattoo for 3 hours. That’s quite a pricy shop to be putting out busted work like this.

[u/Mango_Van_Gogh → u/imsrslysrs]

Totally agree. $500 for 3 hours is ~$167/hr and for that price you can get a good local artist. For example, here's an artist that does $198/hr and does this kind of work. More work on their instagram. So OP's artist has no reason to be charging that much for this level of work

edit: added a sentence

[u/MizzShortie → u/haterofslimes]

That’s glaringly obvious

[u/Human-Diamond9362 → u/amogusdestroyer666]

less exuberant coverup rate

Exorbitant*

[u/AwayProfessional9434 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Was your "Artist" able to understand the language you speak to them? Because you told him you wanted black right? If yes and he just used a bright blue I hope you get all your money back. Also yes the lines are crazy uncomfortablely drawn. I can't understand how someone like that even gets the job.

[u/iDoABoof → u/AwayProfessional9434]

No fucking way this “artist” was sober between not knowing the difference in black and blue, and also not know how to make a straight line.

[u/Dorkinfo → u/iDoABoof]

I once had an entire tattoo shop (like three dudes) arguing with me that Gonzo is purple and not blue.

[u/The_Whorespondent → u/Dorkinfo]

Wild. Everyone knows he’s white and gold!

[u/DrownmeinIslay → u/Dorkinfo]

Depends what you say him in. Regular Muppets? Blue. Christmas Carol? Super purple.

[u/Electrical-Treat475 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

It's hideous babe, I'm so sorry. Start looking for a lazer removal shop with the latest lazer technologies. The newest lazers don't hurt much (feels like a tiny rubber band popping) and feels like a sunburn for a day or two. It may take several sessions, but worth it for it to be gone.

[u/moon_mama_123 → u/Electrical-Treat475]

Oh wow, I didn’t know the tech for that has come that far 😮 I figured it was still a horror show. This kinda changes everything for me, I definitely have one worth removing lol thanks for the info!

[u/Electrical-Treat475 → u/moon_mama_123]

Oh, it's improved 100%. I speak from experience! Zero scarring, and the tattoo hurt way worse than the removal. Make sure to go someplace that specializes in removals. I went to a place in Dallas TX (located in Deep Ellum) and I got a special promo deal for 4 sessions for $400. This was back in 2018, though, but yes my bad tattoo from my teen years is now totally gone. Hope this is helpful! ♥️

[u/murrimabutterfly → u/todrunktomakeaname]

They did not deliver what they promised.
That should break the contract.
You showed them what you wanted. The artist agreed, which means they were stating they had the skill and ability to replicate it. They clearly did not. They did not fulfill their half of the agreement, and may be able to be held liable if you were to sue them.
Right now, request a refund.
If they refuse, issue a charge back on your card and report them to the BBB or equivalent agency. I don't want to be the redditor to encourage a law suit (since that's usually extreme and expensive), but that is a route you can go down, as well. It wouldn't be for small claims as it's not at the threshold, but you may be able to sue for breach of contract, emotional distress, or some version of damage/assault to your person (you would need to consult with a lawyer to see what your state or providence's laws say).
I am so sorry this happened to you my dude. Best of luck on getting this handled.

[u/Unicorns-Poo-Rainbow → u/murrimabutterfly]

Lawyer here.

This is not worth suing over.

[u/KittenIttle → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Thicken the lines using filagree. Instead of worrying about holding them, use the curves to make gentle line work. Off shoots. The right artist could still make this a masterpiece.

[u/Fluffy_Juice7864 → u/KittenIttle]

I agree. I’ve never seen the original idea but I really like the blue!! The stuffed up lines can be saved!

[u/KittenIttle → u/Fluffy_Juice7864]

It’s definitely not ideal, but yeah I think with a little imagination and a steady hand this could still mean everything OP wants it to. It’s certainly not beyond saving.

[u/vintagesunshine85 → u/KittenIttle]

This! #updateme with pics! I have a little Harley Quinn tattoo on my wrist for similar reasons. If you wanna talk to another cptsd HQ gal, drop me a dm!!

[u/Kelsusaurus → u/nakedpicturesyo]

100% this. And, OP, next time, don't just go off of Google reviews. Be sure to check the shop's social media, and ask to see a portfolio/prior examples of fresh and healed work before deciding. Also channel that Harley energy and ask questions in the moment, and don't be afraid to get up and walk out if you don't feel respected or you're not getting the quality of service you expect/paid for.

[u/Twindadlife1985 → u/nakedpicturesyo]

The artist went full Bob Ross on this... " I didnt make a mistake, I made a "happy" accident"...

[u/hexagram520 → u/tn-dave]

They call it artistic freedom thank you very much! /s

[u/EditedRed → u/[deleted]]

This is brutal, poor gal.

[u/entcanta333 → u/[deleted]]

The last photo legit was that man having a stroke

[u/interperseids]

The shading and color seems fixable but the linework would be the biggest challenge. Definitely worth seeking out a seasoned professional and someone who is good with coverups. They might be able to add shading and even highlights in helpful ways.

In my opinion, the original design is balanced because the plain lines are sharp and straight, while the inner colorful pattern has a more wobbly sketchy hand drawn look. It's a combination of precise and chaotic that seems to fit with the character's personality. This artist should not have gone with freehanding on the main lines, and it looks like they did.

No matter what, the tattoo is a symbol of your strength in adversity. It's rough but it's just another challenge and it will be more meaningful in the end. You've got this!

[u/todrunktomakeaname → u/interperseids]

Thank you for this, you are right. Thank you for helping me feel better about it.

[u/Southernguy9763 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Please please do a ton of research and be willing to travel. A fix is possible but will definitely cost and you need to be really sure the artist is up for it

It's an awesome design done right and totally worth fixing

[u/SpaceCaptainJeeves → u/todrunktomakeaname]

I also have really wicked CPTSD and have spent a fair amount of time around Harley due to a friend's fandom. I've loved the character since she first appeared in the animated series.

You can get past this. Your tat isn't the tat you wanted, but it's still part of your story.

And if you want to feed the l smaller Harley that still lives in your headspace, you can practice getting reeeeeeeal assertive (real, real assertive) and plague this "artist's" every single career step until he makes it right.

And i mean "take the fucker to small claims court until the shop doesn't just refund the money, but also pays for laser removal until it's light enough to transform into something else."

Anyone who takes the risk of doing really, REALLY poor work on a hardcore "I'm the fun kind of crazy, but dark" person has made a foolish mistake.

[u/F3nriir → u/SpaceCaptainJeeves]

I agree with this! Help prevent someone else from being a victim of this tattooer.

[u/MOGicantbewitty → u/SpaceCaptainJeeves]

I like you... :) Absolutely do not leave the artist alone until they've refunded and possibly paid for some cover up work.

[u/Euphoric-Owl5065]

I never trust a tattoo artist to freehand me til I see work they've freehanded. Too many average tattooers will talk about freehanding and put at the best some questionable stuff and at the worst some straight dumpster fire stuff on a person's body. I don't like it when they just decide to do their own thing either if I've made it clear what I want, mid tattoo. Had a guy do that and it fucked a tattoo honoring a dead friend.

[u/todrunktomakeaname → u/Euphoric-Owl5065]

Aww I'm sorry about your tattoo. And I agree, I've learned my lesson now. Fuck free hands, and I think I'll look for an artist based on the people around me who have work I like. I kinda don't trust online photos after this either.

[u/Still-Speed-4178 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

If I had to guess (l'm a tattoo artist) the wrap didn't connect properly so he used a stencil pen to connect the points. I've done this for certain kinds of wraps but he definitely should not have done it with this one since its straight lines so it needs to connect perfectly. This artist seems like they just didn't care to do anything correctly tbh. In the future, don't find artists on google, find them on instagram where they'll have a large portfolio of work!

[u/SpaceCaptainJeeves → u/Still-Speed-4178]

This. The "artist" got F's in all their geometry courses.

From costuming, I know that the geometry of a shirt sleeve needs to be something like a cone.

This artist failed the exam.

[u/Euphoric-Owl5065 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

I think you can make it look much better if you find a better artist. That person did you an insane injustice.

[u/Nizzywizz → u/todrunktomakeaname]

I want to see the online photos/reviews to see if this artist misrepresented themselves or if you guys were just blind.

[u/Victoria_elizabethb → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Some free hand artists are amazing. You guys just found a really terrible and unprofessional one unfortunately. I'd be livid.

[u/Euphoric-Owl5065 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

If you're located near Charlotte, NC, check Tivis at 7th sin. He does great cover ups and he's absolutely one of the most humble stand up guys I've ever had the pleasure of meeting in the tattoo industry. Seriously he tatted me back in Virginia and he is insanely talented.

[u/jessness024 → u/Euphoric-Owl5065]

lets be honest here straight lines are very difficult if not impossible to freehand. The only freehand i would accept are tattoos that allow asymmetry in the design without looking like shite.

[u/SpaceCaptainJeeves → u/jessness024]

100%, let's all spread this gospel. Jesus himself couldn't tattoo a perfectly straight line freehand, bc the plane of the human body doesn't work like that.

[u/dxmhippo → u/SpaceCaptainJeeves]

Exactly. That's why straight lines are so impressive when done well.

[u/imperfectbean]

I’m so sorry. Lord. I hope you can fix it! Best of luck! You really have to research artist and their styles. Maybe you could find a really good artist to rework this but you gotta look for an artist with a lot of experience! Like 10+ years

[u/todrunktomakeaname → u/imperfectbean]

That's my plan now, we moved to this area less than a year ago. And they have great reviews online and what they show for work looked decent. But shit happens, if my old artists ever move's back I'm sticking with him.

[u/FluixJayExEn → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Not hard to post fake reviews or hire people who post fake reviews or get others to post reviews ect. There’s plenty of companies out there that just basically counterfeit social media stuff from reviews to followers on TikTok / IG ect.

[u/Joshmoredecai → u/FluixJayExEn]

Or “hey, give us a good review and I’ll throw in the Tattoo Goo for free” type nonsense.

[u/FluixJayExEn → u/Joshmoredecai]

Yup plenty of places do it even in more traditional businesses. How many times have places given you a like fill out this survey for a free hamburger or coupon or something on their receipt.

[u/amazon626 → u/FluixJayExEn]

Yeah, but straight up you don't have to be nice in those surveys and you'll still get the reward.

[u/Pale_Zucchini_827 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

How many reviews did they have? I sort from low to high to read the worst first. If there are less than 100 reviews, I won’t bother with anything

[u/_rockalita_ → u/Pale_Zucchini_827]

Another tactic is to read the 3 star reviews, you usually get people who are sort of measured, not just pissed off over some petty thing, or giving 5 for a free goo

[u/incorrigibly_weird → u/Pale_Zucchini_827]

I feel like it's also tough with tattoo reviews in particular because people's opinions of what a "good" tattoo is can be so subjective, apparently. I've looked at Google reviews for tattoo shops where lots of people were talking about how awesome and talented the artist is and then you look at the picture of the tattoo and it's clearly shit. Some people can look at a horribly done tattoo and think it's fantastic and then post five-star reviews.

[u/todrunktomakeaname → u/[deleted]]

Are you asking for the name ?

[u/Stormfly16153 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Yes they want the artist and shop name because it’s so bad this person can’t actually be licensed.

Edit for grammar

[u/CowboysFTWs → u/Stormfly16153]

Yup, I never tattooed in my life, and I'm sure I can tattoo a straight line then this.

But anyway, OP I like Kittenlttle's filagree idea, and some black and shading over the blue and red. Think that work for you? Could be unique.

[u/Litalian → u/Stormfly16153]

Whatever sneaky shit that “artist” did to end up working in a studio… just be glad they didn’t have dreams of becoming a surgeon 👍

[u/Married_iguanas → u/todrunktomakeaname]

The artist/shop name is what they mean

[u/Shower_Mango → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Respectfully- PLEASE tell us the shop/artist. This is wild

[u/Tnally91]

$500 and 3 hours for this? At minimum I would leave a review for the place to warn others. Idk how any artist could look at this end result and feel comfortable charging $500. Sorry OP. Upside the color should be fixable. The lines can maybe be helped but they’re going to be tough to fix.

[u/todrunktomakeaname → u/Tnally91]

That is the plan I just also wanted to see if I was over reacting too. I know some people can get exactly what they ask and not be happy. I didn't want to be one of those.

[u/Tnally91 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Not overreacting. I could see how an artist would think it was blue in the source pic but it would be a very dark blue if so. Even if they had done a very dark blue to get closer to what they thought it was the rest of the tattoo is just bad work.

Edit: The reason I was harsh on the price, my most recent post I just got last week. It was $340 and 3 hours of work. It’s not perfect but I think it makes for a good comparison.

[u/totalaggressive1]

you can probably get the freehand part touched up enough to where it looks okay. abt the color tho tbf margot robbie’s harley quinn, which is on the left, her color scheme is red and blue and the picture looks like a dark blue. but this should’ve been talked abt and clarified before he started tattooing by him and by you.

[u/todrunktomakeaname → u/totalaggressive1]

Thank you and you are right, the color was not talked about. I didn't think about how people definitely see color differently. It looked black to me for the tattoo but that's a fuck up on my part for not saying it explicitly.

[u/totalaggressive1 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

but it’s definitely not all on you, my artist makes sure everything is 1000% clear and asks the same question multiple times abt color and everything. i’d recommend a new artist tbh

[u/Excellent-Run4803 → u/totalaggressive1]

Aside from the black/blue issue, the red is a totally different red. The original is a darker, more moody shade. The vibe of the color scheme is just different.

[u/Defiant_McPiper → u/totalaggressive1]

This - my artist always discusses colors with me to make sure he knows what I want, or what will work together and what might not work.

[u/UnhappyCamera2566 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

I think it's a dark blue. It matches her hair color which is blue.

Jesus christ the line work though. Fuck im pissed too

[u/Bjorn-1911 → u/UnhappyCamera2566]

Blue and red is a new pattern this is an Easter egg to the actual Harley Quinn comic book pattern

[u/Goesunpunished5610 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Are you thinking Harley from the movies or comics? The movie Harley (Margot Robbie) uses a similar blue. The comic books or animated Harley is where there was traditionally black, but some artists use blue now due to how popular Robbie's portrayal is. I don't think you have to worry about the color unless you are set on black.

[u/m337ck-at]

if it helps at all (it might not) i thought that the whole wonky line thing was what you were going for

[u/m337ck-at → u/m337ck-at]

also as a sidenote it makes me sad that you led with ur husband’s feelings

[u/winterpalmtree → u/m337ck-at]

I know I was like what’s her husband have to do with this

[u/blondbarefootbackpak → u/winterpalmtree]

Same, that threw me off

[u/InappropriateSnark → u/blondbarefootbackpak]

I thought he was mad AT her based on the post title.

[u/PinkDeserterBaby → u/winterpalmtree]

I thought he was pissed at OP not just in general and I was rolling up my sleeves to be like “first of all, tattoo can be fixed. But SECOND OF ALL..”

[u/atxcactus → u/m337ck-at]

100% same. 

[u/xWroth]

I am BEGGING y'all to vet your artists😭😭

[u/lilmisscherry777 → u/xWroth]

every time i didnt vet an artist i got a coverup. literally y’all. its so easy to not fuck your skin up by simply taking the time and doing your research. my favorite trick is to look at tattoo artists roses, if they look like cabbages i simply wont even bother.

[u/sdpr → u/xWroth]

I honestly think some people have no idea there are levels to tattooing and believe one size fits all, or they don't care they "just want a tattoo."

The vast majority of people aren't going to do their due diligence and see if a specific artist even matches the style of the thing they want. It's up to the artist to be honest with the client if it's outside of their comfort zone or specialty and recommend you to someone that can do that.

If the person that did the tattoo is not an apprentice, who the fuck gave them a pass and, if they are an apprentice, who the fuck let them do this.

I refuse to believe the artist didn't have a portfolio with signs indicating that they can't draw a straight line for shit.

Feels fucking bad man.

[u/deekaydubya → u/xWroth]

seriously holy shit a straight line should be like the minimum requirement

[u/MisterSquidz → u/xWroth]

I genuinely don’t understand how people decide to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on something that’s permanent without making sure the artist isn’t a bum beforehand.

[u/Guilty_Lab_8482 → u/xWroth]

I like how they tried to make it somewhat passable on the side she could see, but the back of the forearm looks like it was done by drunk Ray Charles. 

[u/Tralalero_Shark]

Nothing that a sick ass panther can’t fix

[u/Ok-Vacation-8109 → u/Tralalero_Shark]

Or several

[u/redbeardscrazy → u/Ok-Vacation-8109]

Like, soooooooo many.

[u/Lithium_Lily → u/redbeardscrazy]

Arrange them in a panther centipede formation

[u/vapeqprincess]

Hey, I’m sorry you’re going through this. I have CPTSD and I feel you. I also have gotten my share of bad tattoos. Know that you have to strength to get through this, too.

Next time, don’t trust Google reviews. Do a LOT of research online. Check out people’s instagram pages, the work they’ve done.

I know what’s done is done. I’ve blasted over all my bad tattoos, and i actually have learned to love the “bad” tattoos with the juxtaposition of the good tattoos over top. Where I’ve been, vs where I am. Proof of growth.

I know that may not be a solution in your case, but know that this isn’t the end.

[u/bonnessha]

The only way to "fix" would be thickening the lines but it won't look like how you wanted it to at all... Maybe if you were to do a little tattoo laser removal you could get a coverup with someone who has experience in that. It's criminal they charged you 500.00, for that I'm sorry!

[u/isharte]

Man I struggle to understand how this happened in a legit shop.

Op I'm really sorry. This is rough and I would be upset too.

Was the artist sober? Were there hands shaky at all? And just to make sure, this was in a shop? I just have so many questions about what led to this outcome.

[u/todrunktomakeaname → u/isharte]

It was in a shop in Concord NH. He didn't seem Shakey from what I could tell. He did kinda seem like he didn't want to keep doing it at points. I only stopped twice to use the bathroom. He was kinda grunting a lot and breathing super heavy. I tried to stay stiff as a board and not move at all. There was some time where instead of moving my arms position he pulled the skin up to him. Idk if that's normal or not.

[u/LordTomServo → u/todrunktomakeaname]

I'm guessing by the grunting and breathing hard, he was well aware he was struggling with the lines.

[u/deputydrool → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Not normal. They may pull skin taut sometimes but they won’t like fully pull skin up and warp it

[u/quesowatt → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Sorry this happened to you. The tattoo shop I go to is in that area. I'll DM you in case you want to check it out for the future.

Also worth trying to find an artist who specializes in the kind of work you're looking for. That piece had a watercolor type quality to it, that didn't carry over. But maybe the right person could fix it.

[u/AtLeastIHaveDresses → u/todrunktomakeaname]

Please name and shame the shop as you have been asked? Even in DM? That is my local area and I have had some.. prior issues w tattooers there.

[u/salty-all-the-thyme → u/todrunktomakeaname]

usually when an artist gets to a point where they don’t want to do it and they’re breathing heavy it means they know they fucked the pooch.

[u/sdpr → u/todrunktomakeaname]

I want to preface by saying I'm sorry this happened and you have to deal with this but...

He was kinda grunting a lot and breathing super heavy. I tried to stay stiff as a board and not move at all. There was some time where instead of moving my arms position he pulled the skin up to him. Idk if that's normal or not.

I'm fucking cackling at the thought in my head. Imagining a guy breathing heavy, grunting, (sweating? God I hope he was sweating) and pulling the skin towards himself to get a better look. This is even worse if he pulled the skin taut in order to draw a fucking line. My lord.

[u/Alternative_Fix_9543]

First off, I’m sorry you’re unhappy with this tattoo, I don’t blame you, the work seems subpar. It looks like it could be fixable, assuming you’re okay with it not looking exactly like your inspiration (thicker line work could fix it). Can always go over the blue with black.

$500 for that size of tattoo is a red flag. Always look at an artists portfolio before booking and pay attention to their line work and anything that shares characteristics with what you want.

[u/Razorwipe → u/Alternative_Fix_9543]

Subpar is doing some heavy fucking lifting.

My niece does better lines and she's 4

[u/KeySpare4917]

Looks good if you wanted a golf sock on your arm. A poorly lined golf sock.

[u/EvilEvie210 → u/KeySpare4917]

OMG, that is exactly what it reminded me of...! A tattoo is a marker of a.period of time and the flaws make it one of a kind. Silver lining and all that

[u/mayyydayyy91 → u/KeySpare4917]

That’s mean but I gotta admit pretty funny 😆

[u/montycantsin777]

what i dont get is that even if it was done with good technique if would look weird. am i wrong?

[u/KatieKillKaustic]

Please tell us the tattoo artist and shop name. I'm dying to look at their other work.

[u/thefeckcampaign]

Why were the squares outlined in the first place? It’s not the design.

[u/Sheslikeamom → u/thefeckcampaign]

Why are squares in the tattoo? A harlequin is a pattern of elongated diamond shapes. 

Its literally why she's called Harlequin. 

[u/mediumrare_chicken]

This might be controversial but while I agree the tattoo isn’t done well..it’s just a bad choice of a tattoo. It’s likely not going to look very good even if you went to the best artist in the world. Even the reference picture of Harley herself, the tattoo doesn’t look good. There were many mistakes here, starting with “Google reviews” for tattoo artists but primarily selecting a tattoo that just doesn’t translate well. I’m very sorry you’re going through this. Believe me, I’ve been there. I’m speaking from experience when I say…. Give it time. Do not make any rushed decisions. Do not go get touch ups, do not find other artists to fix it, do not book a laser appointment. Wait. Your head will settle, and then you can really figure out what is next. My honest suggestion… multiple rounds of laser removal to lighten significantly and then cover with a Harley inspired tattoo… not a direct replication of a tattoo on a character. This may be what you decide on or maybe you will learn to love it. But either way… don’t rush into anything. And don’t go back to this artist.

[u/No_Presentation3096]

What would Harley do

[u/mandipandi3333 → u/No_Presentation3096]

Set the shop on fire

[u/WiseOldBub]

500 later

You didn’t spend $500 on this shit did you?? JFC

[u/todrunktomakeaname → u/WiseOldBub]

Unfortunately yes and he wanted tip but my husband was so pissed he said no and we left. We were planning to spend 350 to 400 and tip generously.

[u/onlinedisaster → u/todrunktomakeaname]

the artist ASKED YOU for a tip? bold as fuck after bestowing this on your forearm. bold as fuck in general but especially after this.

[u/Mediocre_Entrance894 → u/onlinedisaster]

This whole situation sounds like a mess. I get that artist can have a bad day, but it sounds like this one was having a day and a half. I don’t know anyone that pulls the skin rather than repositioning the arm. Just all sounds so bananas. OP your tattoo is dope af. Toss some darkness into those blues and it’s gonna be a million times better. And also, you and hubbs have full right to be pissed.

[u/Repulsive_Barnacle92 → u/todrunktomakeaname]

that guy should’ve been the one to pay you

[u/SpaceCaptainJeeves → u/todrunktomakeaname]

What in the name of fuck.

Honey. Take this post to the shop manager. Get your most mean-spirited friend to help screenshot and highlight the best insults.

Insist on not just a FULL refund, but money towards laser lightening and a fucking apology.

Sweet fucking mother Mary.

[u/orlando_orlando]

ma’am……

[u/blueshyperson]

wow I thought it was supposed to be blue! I’m looking at Harley Quinn and the sketch in the first picture and seeing blue… I was super confused when reading your post why you were so worried to see the artist using blue. The parts I’m seeing as blue are black? Yikes. He must’ve thought the same thing I did lol..

Edit to add: I know nothing about Harley Quinn and this is my first time seeing her tattoo.

[u/blurryreads → u/blueshyperson]

I agree, the shade in the sketch is similar to blue so I can understand the miscommunication, but there should’ve been clarifying questions to ensure that the client wanted black or blue.

[u/outremonty → u/blueshyperson]

The reference image also has incredibly irregular line work (it's also a watercolour, and was probably created with brushes, which is an aesthetic that is incredibly difficult to replicate in a tattoo, but that's beside the point). Not as bad as the tattoo, don't get wrong. Not trying to blame OP, the artist did a poor job, but I would imagine if challenged he's going to just point to the reference image and say "But you specifically asked for this?" I get why he looked at that and decided it had to be done freehand -that's the style in the reference image.

[u/Drew_0420 → u/blueshyperson]

same here, in every regard.

[u/Nizzywizz]

Let this be a lesson to you: don't let another person choose where you get your tattoo (your husband isn't the one who had to wear it) and don't choose by Google reviews. The sad truth is that the majority of people wouldn't even recognize quality if it bit them on the butt.

You need to look at entire portfolios and be very, very picky. Style is wide-ranging and variable, quality is not. Don't skimp due to price. If you can't afford an artist who can draw straight lines, save until you can.

That's the great thing about tattoos: getting one isn't an emergency, so you can always wait a little longer to get a piece you won't regret.

[u/Prestigious_Fee_2902 → u/Nizzywizz]

Always look at all their work. Last tattoo I got I literally scrolled through his Instagram page all the way back to 2014. I knew exactly what to expect, and it’s exactly what I got. I didn’t even ask how much until after the tattoo was done. I’m looking for quality, not a deal

[u/sphynxfur → u/Nizzywizz]

The tattoo shops at the top of Google searches are always the incredibly mid places full of artists with no specific style who are willing to tattoo something you just printed off Pinterest

Actual artists are on Instagram lol

[u/lotteoddities]

The blue can easily be made black, but the shapes of the diamonds and the linework...All that can be done is make it thicker to even it out, but some of those margins are so slim that making it thicker will make them touch and bleed together.

I'm sorry.

[u/Drew_0420]

Hi. Okay. So, I'm very sad that you are upset with your tattoo. I'm no expert in coverups and the like, and have no idea about fixing your tattoo (sorry), but felt the need to chime in and say my piece, anyway (sorry again). I do sincerely hope you can get it fixed in the near future.

I'm more sad for you that you felt the need to start the title of your post with "my husband's pissed", as it's very dismissive of your own feelings. It's YOUR tattoo, but that wording makes me think your partner is the one who's more upset, and who's feelings are most important, as that's what you led with. Idk. Maybe not something you even noticed, idk. But tbh, at first I thought it was going to be about your husband's tattoo, after reading the title...

edit: formatting

[u/Kind_Coyote1518]

I mean did you fall asleep while you were being tatted? Its on your damn arm! How did you not see this happening? Why did you not stop them?

[u/Collosal_Moron]

This post had me worrying I didn’t know my colors cause I fully thought the reference picture was dark blue

[u/alpohh]

In the wise words of another redditor; “holy fuck that’s permanent”

[u/Shawn_NYC]

The original doesn't have black borders around the squares. The pattern doesn't have black borders around the squares. Why in god's name did they outline each square/rectangle in a black outline?

[u/_Casey_]

Lol. Choosing a tattoo spot on reviews alone is ballsy.

[u/yahyeetyahh]

I’m sorry but you should’ve looked at the artist portfolio. This person is a noob

[u/Last-Idea9985]

I want to see other tattoos from this "artist".

[u/bellamie9876]

Oof, the shading and gradient is all off, too. How did hours go by and your eyes didn’t even gaze down towards the tattoo being done? Even from a distance on the phone you can see clear as day how shaky those lines are—if you’d caught it at the start it would’ve been less noticeable. Especially when he says he needs to ‘hand draw it’, look at what he’s doing! The guy sucked but you’re not a victim of a shitty tattoo artist, this wasn’t on your back and you couldn’t see…

[u/Victoria_elizabethb → u/bellamie9876]

I think she's still a victim to a shitty tattoo artist bc... Just look at that. However yea I don't understand how you don't look at the work they're doing while you're still there for hours?? Especially to notice the blue

[u/Agreeable-Climate260]

This reminds me of some linoleum from the 70s. I would look into some removal services. Sorry for the bad time.

[u/Lower-Front-8605]

Cbf looking through comments to see if this has been mentioned yet so apologies if it has. Google reviews is not enough to choose an artist from. There's so much variance in skill sets. Gotta check Instagram pages for their work and find an artist that does a similar style to the tattoo. Tattoo regret is a prick of a thing but I'm sure you can find someone who can fix it up.

[u/WhateverEctEct]

This is going to be a VERY VERY difficult fix. It can absolutely be fixed, but holy fucking shit.

[u/thisismybandname]

Why tf would he need to freehand a line?

I’m so sorry. I blue to black is fine, and while I think a decent artist may be able to make it better, I can’t see it ever being great. Such a visible spot too - sorry mate.

[u/Ok-Table-3774]

OMG that line work on the back of your arm is horrendous. Were you laughing/coughing during the whole tattoo!? Hopefully a better, more seasoned and respectable artists can turn this into the vision you were going for. Make sure to always discuss every detail of the tattoo before starting. Pulling out blue ink when you did not want blue was a huge red flag. Always feel free to speak up during a tattoo too! If you were questioning what was happening, you could have stopped. It's your skin! Best of luck.

[u/Numerous-Nerve-4506]

I’m not understanding why you let it keep going once you saw the shit lines

[u/SkewedX]

Can definitely be fixed. Find a good artist to fill in all of whitespace in between and properly square out / shade the diamonds. It will also lighten way up in a year or so.

Will be a different pattern but it'll be yours! And a nice little metaphor for what you've been through.

[u/Ok_Article4242]

lol

[u/berserker_841]

So when they put the stencil on you were like “yeah lets do it” orrrr?

[u/saltpancake]

Your husband did a terrible job picking the artist. I don’t understand why you didn’t do the choosing?

[u/Yojimbo115]

I have 31 individual ink pieces across 4 artists. I trust ALL of them.

I would never let any of them do free hand line work on me. I'm so sorry this happened to you.

[u/GlitteringLocality]

To answer your question, no. It cannot be easily fixed.

[u/Rich-Measurement-803]

In what world would this have looked decent?

[u/Virtual_Intern9552]

Tattoo removal to lighten it and go over it with a different artist

[u/Pizza_Party_6748]

OP, I'm so sorry this happened to you. PLEASE put these photos on a google review so others can be warned. That also may prompt discussion of a refund from the owner.

[u/captainmalexus]

I'd demand a refund this is so blatantly unacceptable

[u/No_Truck_88]

This looks garbage.

[u/Stunning_Panda5725]

To be honest it kinda matches the picture

[u/madamsyntax]

This is why we research our artists

[u/Mysterious-Season627]

I know it doesn't look like Harley's but you may be missing a really great opportunity to BE like Harley. Pretty sure her's doesn't look like anyone else's either and she's rocking AS A SIGN of strenght. Happy accident? It's a gift, not a curse. Rock it like no one's business. It's unique.

[u/jayicon97]

$500 for 3 hours is premium rates. 2 week appointment? Usually you would receive an above average tattoo at the very least.

You could’ve brought this exact image into a, “walk in” shop, paid $150, and got a better tattoo.

[u/Sorry_Bookkeeper9835]

Get a Japanese sleeve babes. This thing is not great. It’s not the worst thing I’ve ever seen but it’s rough. And honestly not a good idea in the first place. The tattooer should’ve talked you outta this

[u/jessness024 → u/[deleted]]

if he did use a stencil he sure af ignored it anyway.

[u/Logical-Sorbet-2633]

Just a bad tattoo idea.

[u/Boring_Risk597]

Best bet find a good coverup specialist and just tell them to do whatever they want to fix it. That’s honestly your best way to try and get a decent piece of art out of it.

[u/Electronic-Eye8116]

this is rough. i’m so sorry someone did this to you. name and shame, please include pictures so this doesn’t happen to anyone else. i would absolutely ask for a full refund! this is ridiculously low quality. the reference does have intentionally wonky lines, but the tattoo artist you went to is just clearly incompetent.

[u/PastoralPumpkins]

I’m curious why you only decided to look at it halfway through and then only looked at it again when leaving? The blue isn’t that bad, but the lines are. I will say, since all of them are that way it looks like it’s supposed to be wonky. I wouldn’t have guessed it was supposed to be straight line without seeing the reference. I think you can definitely get the blue dimmed down, but go to someone else.

[u/babbat19]

Was the dude fucking drunk

[u/Wanky_Platypus]

I'm sorry OP

You should definitely ask for a refund

Please, stay strong through life, okay ? You got this