Ep 12. Show Me Your Tats

In Bad Ink season 1 episode 12, titled "Show Me Your Tats," the team at Pussykat Tattoo Parlor get a visit from their newest client, Jacob. Jacob's tattoos include offensive language and gang-related symbols, making it difficult for him to find employment. With Jacob being a single father and wanting to set a good example for his son, he's looking for a tattoo makeover.

The first tattoo on the list is Jacob's chest piece, which features vulgar language. JJ and his team explain to Jacob the potential harm such a tattoo can bring and suggest he gets the tattoo covered up with a more meaningful piece. Bonded by their mutual love for kids, JJ decides to add a portrait of Jacob's son as the new centerpiece of the chest tattoo.

Next up is Jacob's "Love Hurts" tattoo, which also depicts a demon carrying a woman. The woman in the tattoo was modeled after Jacob's ex-girlfriend. After their breakup, Jacob thought it fitting to have the "Love Hurts" tattoo covered as a symbol of his heartbreak. This time, the team suggests that they get rid of the demon and create a more positive design featuring a phoenix rising from the ashes to signify hope and a new beginning.

Finally, Jacob's "RIP Mama" tattoo on his forearm is the last item on the list. Jacob's mother passed away when he was young, and he got the tattoo to immortalize her in his memory. The team decides to spruce up this tattoo by adding a more detailed portrait of Jacob's mother and vibrant colors to bring the portrait to life.

Throughout the episode, JJ and the team get to know Jacob more and sympathize with his struggles, both as a father and with his employment history. They try to make him feel as comfortable as possible during the tattooing process and make sure that he's happy with every design choice. Additionally, JJ takes the time to explain to Jacob how he should approach future tattoo decisions carefully, given the potential consequences such as the difficulty of finding employment.

The episode comes to a close as JJ unveils the final makeover to Jacob and reveals the new, improved designs. Jacob is overjoyed with the results and is moved to tears by the sentimental final tattoo. As JJ and his team say goodbye, they remind Jacob to keep his head high and look forward to a new future with his son.