Tattoo Etiquette 101: What Your Artist Wants You to Know
Getting a tattoo should 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, your tattoo artist plays 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 tattoo etiquette to know before booking 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 information and 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 big realism piece or a small, fine-line design, more details = happier artist (and a better tattoo for you).
Be real about your budget, too. Great ink isn’t cheap, and cheap ink isn’t great. Your artist can 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 conversation ensures that you and your artist are on the same page and that you’ll walk away with a tattoo you’ll love for life. Speak up if you want tweaks to the design or adjustments to the stencil placement. Your artist wants 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’s expertise 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.
Come in Clean
For the love of your fresh ink, show up clean. Take a shower beforehand (but skip the heavy lotion or sunscreen). Beyond just being the polite thing to do, good hygiene helps keep the process safe and comfortable for both you and your artist. Don’t worry about shaving, though. Your artist will 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 blood and can lead to increased bleeding during the tattooing process. Plus, they make the healing process harder. Your artist will absolutely turn you away if you show up intoxicated, so save the celebratory drink for when you’re healed!
Dress Comfy and Pack Snacks
Depending on your design, you might be in the chair for 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 water to keep your energy up. Keeping your blood sugar stable 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 headphones so they can zone out with music or a podcast and stay relaxed. If you’re in serious pain or need a quick break, don’t hesitate to speak up. Your artist wants you to be comfortable enough to enjoy the process and get the best possible result.
Leave the Entourage at Home
Your tattoo appointment isn’t a social event. Most studios don’t even allow guests in the tattoo area, 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’s Time and Effort
Your artist is 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 artist went 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 care is a huge part of keeping your ink looking bold and clean. Follow your artist’s aftercare instructions to the letter: wash gently with soap and 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 lotion that’s been sitting in your cabinet), ask! Open communication helps make sure your tattoo heals the way it should.
Ready to Get Inked?
Now that you know how to prep and how to make your artist’s life a little easier, all that’s left to do is take the next step. Book a free consult with 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.