Tattoo Etiquette Tattoo etiquette is important for ensuring a positive experience for both the client and the artist. Whether you’re getting your first tattoo or adding to your collection, following these guidelines shows respect and professionalism.
Before Your Appointment
Research Your Artist
- Read reviews and ask for recommendations.
- Avoid asking an artist to copy another artist’s work—they appreciate originality.
Book a Consultation
- Discuss your design, placement, size, and budget beforehand.
- Be open to the artist’s suggestions—they know what works best for longevity and aesthetics.
Be Prepared to Pay a Deposit
- Most artists require one to secure your appointment (it’s usually non-refundable but goes toward the final cost).
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep & Stay Hydrated
- Being well-rested and hydrated helps with pain tolerance and healing.
During Your Appointment
Arrive On Time (or Early)
- Tattoo Etiquette Tattoo artists often have tight schedules—being late can cut into your session or inconvenience others.
Practice Good Hygiene
- Shower, wear clean clothes, and avoid strong perfumes/colognes.
- If your tattoo is in a hairy area, shave it beforehand (or ask if the artist prefers to do it).
Dress Appropriately
- Avoid overly tight or restrictive outfits.
- Respect the Artist’s Space & Process
- Don’t bring a large group—one friend is usually fine, but ask first.
- Avoid excessive talking if the artist is concentrating.
- Don’t touch their equipment or workspace.
Stay Still & Follow Instructions
- Sudden movements can mess up the tattoo or cause injuries.
- If you need a break, ask politely.
Tip Your Artist
- Tipping (15–25%) is customary if you’re happy with the work—even if the artist owns the shop.
After Your Appointment
- Follow Aftercare Instructions
- Listen to your artist’s advice on cleaning and moisturizing.
- Avoid swimming, sun exposure, and picking at scabs.
- Be Patient with Healing & Touch-Ups
Credit Your Artist
- If you post your tattoo online, tag the artist and shop—it helps support their work.
Don’t Haggle on Price
- Quality tattoos aren’t cheap; negotiating last-minute is considered rude.
- Return for Future Work (If You Like Their Style)
Choosing the Right Artist & Design
- Style Matching Matters – Don’t ask a traditional artist to do hyper-realism (or vice versa).
- Custom Work vs. Flash – If you’re getting a custom piece, expect to pay more for the design time. Flash tattoos (pre-drawn designs) are usually quicker and cheaper.
- Tattoo Etiquette Avoid Copying – Bringing a Pinterest pic for “inspiration” is fine, but demanding an exact replica of someone else’s tattoo is disrespectful.
2. Communication & Deposits
- Be Clear (But Not Controlling) – Give your artist creative freedom—they know how to make a tattoo age well.
- Deposits Are Standard – Usually $50–$200, depending on the piece. This secures your spot and compensates the artist for drawing time.
- Don’t Ghost or No-Show – If you cancel last-minute without rescheduling, you’ll likely lose your deposit and burn bridges.
3. Day-of-Appointment Etiquette
- Eat Beforehand – Low blood sugar = higher pain sensitivity and possible fainting.
- Skip Alcohol & Blood Thinners – Aspirin, caffeine, and alcohol increase bleeding, making the tattoo process harder.
- Bring Essentials – Phone charger, headphones (if allowed), water, and snacks (for long sessions).
4. Behavior in the Studio
- Don’t Hover Over the Artist – Let them work without unnecessary distractions.
- Keep Conversation Appropriate – Some artists like to chat; others prefer silence. Follow their lead.
- No Unsolicited Advice – Saying things like “Are you sure that’s straight?” mid-tattoo is annoying. Trust the process.
5. Pain & Movement
- Breathe Through It – Tensing up makes it worse. Controlled breathing helps.
- Don’t Complain Excessively – A little groaning is fine, but constant whining makes the session harder for everyone.
- Speak Up If You Need a Break – But don’t take too many—it can disrupt the artist’s flow.
6. Tipping & Payment
- Cash Is King – Many artists prefer cash tips (and some shops are cash-only).
How Much to Tip?
- Small tattoos (under 1 hour): $10–$20
- Medium (2–4 hours): $50–$100
- Full-day sessions: $100+
- When Not to Tip? – If the artist owns the shop, tipping isn’t mandatory (but still appreciated).
7. Healing & Aftercare
- Don’t Over-Moisturize – Too much ointment can suffocate the tattoo. A thin layer is enough.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight & Pools – For at least 2–3 weeks.
- No Scratching or Picking – Let scabs fall off naturally to avoid patchy healing.
8. Social Media & Credit
- Tag Your Artist – Always credit them when posting your tattoo online.
- Don’t Edit the Photo Excessively – Filters can distort the colors, making their work look inaccurate.
9. Returning for More Work
- Loyalty Pays Off – Regular clients often get priority booking and sometimes even discounts.
- Don’t Jump Between Artists for the Same Style – If you love an artist’s work, stick with them for cohesive pieces.
10. What NOT to Do (Seriously, Don’t)
- Ask for a “Quick Tattoo” Last Minute – Quality work takes time.
- Bring Kids or Pets – Most shops don’t allow them for safety reasons.
- Try to Bargain Last Minute – Tattoo pricing isn’t a flea market negotiation.
The Unspoken Rules of Tattooing (Advanced Etiquette)
1. The Psychology of the Consultation
- Don’t say: “How much for a sleeve?” (Too vague.) Instead, say: “I’m interested in a Japanese sleeve—can we discuss pricing based on sessions?”
- If the artist seems hesitant about your idea, it’s not personal—they might know it won’t age well or suit their style. Ask for alternatives.
- Bring visual references, but not a full collage—overwhelming an artist with 50 images screams “I don’t know what I want.”
2. The Deposit Game
Why do deposits exist?
- To filter out flaky clients.
- To pay for drawing time (some artists spend 10+ hours sketching before you even sit).
- Lost your deposit? Some artists might let you rebook if you apologize sincerely and pay another deposit.
3. The Tattoo Studio Hierarchy (Who to Respect & How)
- The owner – Usually the most experienced; don’t haggle with them.
- Apprentices – Don’t ask for discounts just because they’re new—they’re still professionals.
- Front desk staff – Being rude to them can get you blacklisted. Tip them if they help you a lot.
4. The Secret Language of Tattoo Pricing
- “Shop minimum” = The lowest price for a tiny tattoo (even if it takes 5 mins).
- “Hourly rate” vs. “flat rate” – Some artists charge by hour ($150–$300/hr), others by piece. Ask upfront.
- Why some tattoos are “expensive” for size:
- Detail work (micro-realism, intricate linework).
- Painful spots (ribs, hands, feet) = harder to tattoo.
- Artist’s demand – If they’re booked for months, prices reflect that.
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