Tattoo Etiquette 101: What You Need To Know
Whether you're getting your very first tattoo or adding another masterpiece to your collection, it's essential to make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible for you and your tattoo artist. Here are some key etiquette tips to keep in mind.
These are all the things you should or shouldn't do when getting a tattoo.
Dos: Making Your Tattoo Experience Awesome
Communicate Clearly And Be Specific About Your Design: We love it when clients have a clear idea when booking a tattoo. If you have a specific vision, don't be shy about sharing it. A simple sketch, even if it's just a scribble, can go a long way in helping us understand your concept. Ensure you're confident with the design concept and have considered where you'd like it on your body. Changing your design or needing approval from someone else at the last minute can be frustrating if avoidable.
Share Relevant Information: When enquiring, let us know if you have any medical conditions or medications that might affect the tattooing process. This includes blood thinners or skin conditions like eczema or scarring.
If you plan to use numbing cream, give us a heads-up. Not all artists allow it, and some are better than others. Check out our blog on numbing cream for more info.
Discuss Your Budget and Time Constraints: If you have a limited budget or need more time to commit to a full session, let us know in advance. Showing up for a whole tattoo session and then asking only to do a few hours can disrupt our schedule and planning. Transparency helps us manage our time and expectations effectively.
Courtesy: If you decide to book elsewhere after enquiring, a quick message to inform your artist is appreciated. Clear communication fosters a positive relationship and respects your artist's time and effort.
Avoid Fake Tan: Fake tan can clog your pores and interfere with the tattooing process. Make sure your skin is clean and natural before your appointment.
Mind Your Alcohol Intake: Avoid consuming more than two standard drinks of alcohol in the 24 hours before your booking. Alcohol can thin your blood and complicate the tattooing process.
Get a Good Night's Sleep and Eat Well: Rest up and have a meal within four hours of your booking. Maintaining your blood sugar levels helps prevent fainting or nausea during your session. When your body's fuel tanks are full, the tattoo process is more comfortable.
Coming to your appointment ready and prepped, with snacks, drinks, and anything that makes you comfortable, is always appreciated. It shows you're ready for the session and makes the experience smoother for both of us.
Arrive On Time: Punctuality is crucial. A late arrival can disrupt the schedule for the entire day. If you're running late, inform us as soon as possible to avoid rescheduling and additional deposit fees.
Follow Aftercare Instructions: Tattoo aftercare is crucial for the longevity and quality of your tattoo. By following aftercare instructions to the tee, your tattoos will heal well and look great for years to come. So think twice about booking your tattoo right before that weekend beach getaway and save yourself a trip back to the studio for a touch-up.
Don'ts: Avoid These Common Tattoo Pitfalls
Don't Leave Us Guessing Or Give Vague Descriptions: Please feel free to describe your design idea. Our artists understand that a tattoo is permanent and want you to love the end result. The more details we have prior to your booking, the better we can interpret your vision, and the less time we'll need for design adjustments.
Always tell your artist if you plan on your design being a coverup when booking!
Communicate Changes: We understand that getting a tattoo is a big deal and that you may have second thoughts after making your booking. If you decide to go in a different direction with your design, please let your artist know at least a week prior to your booking, especially if it's a large piece. While all our tattoo artists are absolute wizards, creating a design takes time, and we'd rather your time in the studio be spent on your tattoo.
Pay Your Deposit Promptly: When you say, "I'll pay the deposit now," please follow through within 48 hours. Deposits secure your booking and put your artist at ease. Our studio is run as a collective, so each artist is their own boss and is likely handling their own messages. Less time spent on administrative tasks like following up on deposits means more time we can spend on our favourite part—the art!
Remember to be mindful: Distractions, such as talking with your hands or moving your head while tattooing, can be challenging. Try to stay as still as possible to help us do our best work. For this reason, we prefer you come alone to your booking and definitely don't bring the kids. It can be more challenging for the artists to concentrate if people are leaning over them or children are running around.
Feel free to bring your tablet, laptop, or Nintendo Switch if it helps you with the tattoo process. Remember your headphones, too, and be aware of how much movement they require. Our neuro-spicy artists and clients may be sensitive to sensory stimuli. Your distractions shouldn't distract others.
Mutual Respect: Creating a Comfortable Experience
Ensure a Stress-Free Environment: We strive to maintain a chill, stress-free environment for everyone. Respecting our time and space helps create a positive atmosphere. Respecting the start times and communicating any changes or concerns upfront ensures that everyone's day goes smoothly.
Your Comfort Matters: As a client, you should always feel comfortable and respected. If you have any concerns or need to communicate something, don't hesitate. We're here to ensure you have a great experience and walk away with a tattoo you love.
Tattoo etiquette boils down to communication, preparation, and mutual respect. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a positive experience for both you and your tattoo artist. Now, with these tips in mind, go ahead and book that appointment—your dream tattoo awaits!
Remember, the key to a smooth and enjoyable tattoo experience is all about clear communication, patience, and mutual respect. Happy inking!