If they can't complete it or understand what it says, we won't do any work on them. It asks whether they have any contagious diseases, confirms that they have read the care instructions and basically tells them that they understand they are going to receive something that will change the look of their body forever. We refuse to do any racist or gang-related symbols, or anything that has a negative or angry slogan or meaning. We feel responsible for any indelible statement we tattoo on a person. We will not tattoo hands, faces and sometimes forearms because this might hinder the person's ability to get a job or other interactions with the world.
Names are another touchy request.
I will generally only do them in pastels that can be later covered if necessary. I recommend people consider the social situations where their tattoo might show. Remember, wherever you go, your tattoo goes with you. Transformation through tattooing over a scar can have a powerful effect. Many women who have undergone mastectomies have designed and covered their scars with beautiful tattoos of flowers, leaves, vines, trees and other forms that signify life and wholeness.