Top Questions To Ask Before Booking A Tattoo Appointment
Getting a tattoo can be overwhelming–especially if it’s your first. No matter how much ink you have, there are some questions that you should ask your tattoo artist before scheduling an appointment or booking one. These questions should be asked to several artists before you make your final decision. Don’t let celebrity status or price per item dictate where you shop or who your artist is.
Ask About The Pricing And Payment
The cost per piece is a key question to ask your tattoo artist prior to your appointment. This can have an impact on the design you choose. Remember that tattoo artists charge fees based on the size, detail, and location. This will impact how long it takes and sometimes the number of sessions. Some artists charge an hourly fee, while others charge a minimum per piece. Bottom line: Cost is an important factor for everyone, regardless of how much you have. Before getting a quote, it’s essential to have a general idea of the design, size, and location.
Ask your tattoo artist what payment options they accept before you make your appointment. These regulations can vary from one state to the next, and each shop has its own policies. It’s important to ask your tattoo artist if they accept cash or credit cards. In case of an emergency, you’ll need to verify whether you have to make a deposit or if you can cancel your appointment.
Ask About Their Designs
The artist will need to see photos of any designs that you are interested in. This will also help determine the price. You may request a tattoo measuring two inches. Some artists will oblige. Others will tell you that it looks better at three to four inches.
If you are set on a particular style, she will use the picture as an inspiration to rework or customize the piece. Ask your artist if you don’t have any pictures. They may ask you more specific questions about the color, shading, thickness, and whether you are looking for something realistic or abstract. You can look at the Instagram accounts of artists you are considering to get a sense of where to start.
Ask About Their Artistic Process
It may be interesting to learn how tattoo artists do their work. If you are new to the industry, artists can create a stencil of your design, then use washable ink to transfer it onto your skin. Some artists like Valentine prefer to use stencils for the main design and freehand design the details. This is dependent on the artwork you have chosen.
If you are looking for a cover-up to your tattoo, be honest about it. Send pictures and send them before you go unless the shop or artist asks you to meet in person. The original will be larger and take longer to cover up. The cover-up will be bolder and possibly more colorful than the original. Ask about your options.
Additional Questions
You may also want to know: What to wear (loose clothes with easy access to your tattoo spot), what should you eat (yes), bring an ID (yes), bring someone (usually OK but not more than one to respect other clients), who can accompany you (get a babysitter to have some you-time), and what to do if you are having your period (try to book an appt when you don’t have your period; it will be easier and less painful, and it won’t make your blood thinner).
If you have any questions after getting your tattoo, or while it is healing, please reach out to the artist or shop to resolve them.
This post was written by J Michael Taylor. J Michael Taylor is an artist and owner of Black Amethyst Tattoo Gallery. Black Amethyst is the best amongst best tattoo artist in St Petersburg FL shops. They provide an art-first approach to custom tattooing in a gallery setting.
