Thinking about getting my first tat...

Blueswan • 🏳️‍🌈 (Pan/demi, she/they) A smart feminist who writes, sews, cooks, etc. kundalini/Sikh follower, and hopefully successful college student. ADHD/anxiety

I’m pretty much a body mod virgin, and none of my friends have one. What should I know? I’m thinking a quote or a small picture (black; no color) on either my arm or back. How much does it actually hurt? What’s a good way to test a potential tat to make sure you really want it? Non toxic ink? How to judge an artist’s ability (both in terms of work and safety)? Thanks!