Holding Ink on the side of the Foot

I was wondering if any of you experienced artists (TAz) have ever yielded exceptionally good results tattooing the instep side of the foot. My artist began work April 18th on a piece for my feet and ankles, which runs along both sides of each foot. So far we've worked 3 five hour sessions. I've worn nothing but these topless sandals for nearly a month, but what I've noticed is that the outlining ink in the ball area of my feet is somewhat spotty, which I'm not entirely surprised. The sides near the sole are taking a ridiculous amount of time to heal, but the only aforementioned area has had any real problem. I expected that touch ups would be necessary with a foot tattoo, and several more long sessions will be necessary to complete the color. We're working strategically to avoid too much work in a concentrated area, but I'd like to hear your suggestions as to an optimum time frame for touching up the trouble spots. Thanks TCE

hey tce...those topless sticky sandals are great aren't they?.. Anyway...speaking in GENERAL ( everyones body is different as are the methods of aftercare) tattoos below the wrist or ankle are very hard to heal and take extra care....there are multiple reasons for this... the skin in these areas shed much quicker than in most other areas therefore makin it harder to heal ..and a lot of people have slower blood circulation in their extremities.....in your case and by what you said in your other posts you are going to have some problems and all I can tell you is to expect them and adress the problems as they evidence themselves.You will no doubt have to have multiple touch up sessions but hey, thats the nature of this beast! Hope I helped and thanks for your post!...TAz

TAz, The topless sandals are definitely ideal for healing this type of work. You just have to make sure you don't have any residue from ointments or lotion on the bottom of your feet, or else they will come off. These beat the shit out of flip flops..............they don't have any straps to rub on the art, they don't floss between your toes, and they don't make that annoying noise! You did answer my email directly, and I thank you for your advice. I would have to say to anyone considering a foot tattoo, the pain should be the least of your concerns. Plan on altering your lifestyle for a time if you want the thing to heal properly. In my case, no shoes or socks for nearly a month already, and probably another month before this part of the project is complete, with several more added weeks for healing. Plus the swelling and blood rush when standing up are added bonus's. Thanks again TAz TCE

You are certainly welcome...hope we have been of some help...and we would definately appreciate pics of your tattoo(s) in progress and when they are done!! Good tattooing my friend!...TAz

Any of you other regular artists out there that have had particularily good luck with foot tattoos that healed up nicely and looked great for years, please, by all means elaborate..................... You guys have a great forum here, and I'm grateful for everyones feedback, good, bad, or indifferent! Thanks TCE