TattooEtiquette101: What Your ArtistWants You to Know

Getting a tattooshould be exciting. It’s a chance to turn your ideas into permanent art, and it should be an experience you actually enjoy, not just something you white-knuckle your way through.

Of course, yourtattoo artistplays a big role in that. They’re bringing the skill, the creativity, and the professionalism. But as the client, you help shape the experience, too. How you show up and respect the process can make a big difference in how the day goes.

Want to set yourself (and your artist) up for the best possible outcome? Here’s some tattooetiquetteto know beforebooking that appointment.

Know What You Want (and What You Can Spend)

First things first: know what you want and what you’re comfortable spending. We’ll cover key informationand ask plenty of questions during your consultation, but coming in prepared helps your artist plan your design faster and more accurately. Bring reference photos,style inspiration, and placement ideas, basically all the stuff swirling around in your brain. Whether you’re after a bigrealismpiece or a small,fine-linedesign, more details = happier artist(and a better tattoofor you).

Be real about your budget, too. Great inkisn’t cheap, and cheap inkisn’t great. Your artistcan help you figure out what’s doable without cutting corners or quality.

Communicate, Don’t Control

This is your tattoo, and it’ll be on you forever, so don’t be shy about sharing what love (or hate). Clear conversationensures that you and your artistare on the same page and that you’ll walk away with a tattooyou’ll love for life. Speak up if you want tweaks to the design or adjustments to the stencil placement. Your artistwants you to feel completely confident before the needle even touches your skin.

That said, avoid micromanaging every single line or shading decision. You don’t want to stifle your artist’sexpertise and creativity; they know how to translate your idea into a design that flows with your body and looks great in real life (not just on paper). Be upfront about what you want, but then take a step back and trust them to do what they do best.

Show Up Clean: Essential Tattoo Hygiene Tips Before Your AppointmentCome in Clean

For the love of your fresh ink, show up clean. Take a shower beforehand (but skip the heavy lotionor sunscreen). Beyond just being the polite thing to do, good hygienehelps keep the process safe and comfortable for both you and your artist. Don’t worry about shaving, though. Your artistwill handle that so they can prep the area properly.

Save the Drinks for Later

We can’t stress this enough: Do not show up under the influence. Alcohol and drugs thin your bloodand can lead to increased bleedingduring the tattooing process. Plus, they make the healing process harder. Your artistwill absolutely turn you away if you show up intoxicated, so save the celebratory drinkfor when you’re healed!

Dress Comfy and Pack Snacks

Depending on your design, you might be in the chairfor a while. Wear comfortable clothes that allow easy access to the area you’re getting tattooed. Think light, breathable clothing that you’re willing to wear for hours.

Eat a good meal beforehand, and bring a snack(something with sugar) and a bottle of waterto keep your energy up. Keeping your blood sugarstable helps prevent the wooziness that often sneaks up during longer sessions.

Sit Still and Trust the Process

Yes, tattoos hurt. There’s no getting around that. But moving around too much can mess up the work and make your appointment longer and even more painful.

Some people find it helps to bring headphonesso they can zone out with music or a podcast and stay relaxed. If you’re in serious painor need a quick break, don’t hesitate to speak up. Your artistwants you to be comfortable enough to enjoy the process and get the best possible result.

Leave the Entourage at Home

Your tattooappointment isn’t a social event. Most studios don’t even allow guests in the tattooarea, and even if they do, bringing a whole crew is distracting for you and your artist. One friend for moral support is okay, but leave the group hangouts for later.

Respect Your Artist’sTime and Effort

Your artistis giving you their time, skill, and creativity. Show respect by being on time or better yet, a little early. Running late? Call ahead and give them a heads-up. 

When it comes to tipping, around 20% is standard, but if you feel your artistwent above and beyond, don’t hesitate to show extra love. A good tip is always appreciated!

Don’t Skip Aftercare. Ask Questions!

Your tattoo’s journey isn’t over when you leave the shop. Skin careis a huge part of keeping your inklooking bold and clean. Follow your artist’saftercare instructionsto the letter: wash gently with soapand water, apply light moisture, avoid sun, pools, and heavy workouts until fully healed.

If you’re unsure about anything (bleeding, scabbing, whether you can use that one lotionthat’s been sitting in your cabinet), ask! Open communication helps make sure your tattooheals the way it should.

Ready to Get Inked?

Now that you know how to prep and how to make your artist’slife a little easier, all that’s left to do is take the next step.Book a free consultwith Inked NYC, bring your ideas (and your questions), and we’ll help you turn them into a piece you’ll be proud to wear for life.