Tattoo artist Jason Drager has been inking art for eight years now, and one tattoo has always remained taboo by his standards. “Never get your significant other’s name inked on,” he warns. “It’s a jinx.” (Anyone remember Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder?) Drager says getting tiny lettering done on your wrist—the real fad at the moment—is the way to go for new couples. But he hopes that at this weekend’s Seattle Tattoo Expo, people will be looking for something a little more unique. After all, more than 200 talented tat artists from around the country will be needling and showing their best stuff. Live music from Nevermore and others will accompany the sound of whirring tattoo machines and human screams. Well, maybe not screams, but those looking for their first tattoo should be warned of the pain. Drager has seen tattoo newbies pass out, throw up, and sprout a leak in their pants—all of which is more embarrassing than having “Winona forever” burned off your chest. Seattle Center, 447-7725, www.seattletattooexpo.com. $15 (one day), $35 (weekend pass). Noon–10 p.m. JOSHUA LYNCH

Fri., Aug. 8, 12-10 p.m.; Sat., Aug. 9, noon; Sun., Aug. 10, noon, 2008