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Tattoo Etiquette 101

Writer's picture: Tiny Needle TattooTiny Needle Tattoo

Updated: Jan 15

The unwritten guidelines when getting a tattoo


Look, I'm not a fan of rules either. I like to put my elbows on the table as much as the next person, and the word, etiquette sounds so formal. But this guideline will be helpful if it's your first time getting a tattoo.


DON'T: HAGGLE OVER PRICES


Choosing an artist means signing up for their pricing. We don't need to tell you tattooing is a skilled art form, and quality work comes at a price. Respect your artist's expertise and the value of their time by not trying to negotiate prices. Remember, you're investing in a piece of art that will last a lifetime – it's worth paying a fair price for exceptional art. And ultimately, if you don't like the offer price, there's no obligation to get the tattoo.



DO: STAY STILL


It's important to stay as still as you can when getting a tattoo. Even small movements can alter the design or make it harder for the artist to achieve accuracy. Staying steady allows the tattoo artist to apply the ink evenly, resulting in a cleaner outcome. So, take a deep breath and try to relax during the session; it will make the process smoother for both you and the artist.





fine-line butterfly
fine-line butterfly


DO: CONSIDER THE STYLE YOU WANT 

One of the greatest aspects of modern tattoo art is the abundance of styles and diverse artists available. Whether you're seeking traditional tattoos with profound meanings like Sak Yant tattoos or modern art such as delicate watercolor tattoos, there's a skilled artist ready to help you create your perfect piece.

If you're new to tattoos, all the different styles can be overwhelming. Make sure your artist aligns with your vision so you're not disappointed with the end result.


DON'T: DICTATE EVERY DETAIL


Imagine trying to paint a picture while someone stands over you, dictating every line and brush stroke. It would be pretty annoying, right? This approach would likely compromise the quality of the finished piece. The same principle applies to tattoos. While it's essential to communicate your vision to your artist, it's important not to micromanage every detail of the design. Remember, tattoo artists are professionals with their own creative flair. Trust them to interpret your ideas in their unique style—you might be pleasantly surprised by the results!



DO: TIP YOUR ARTIST


Not all artists expect a tip, and some countries differ on this. But generally, a respectful tip ain't gonna go down badly. Tattoo artists pour their heart and soul into their work, and a genuine gesture of appreciation for their skill and dedication should be much apprciated. As mentioned, tipping practices may vary depending on location but a tip of 10-20% is fairly standard.


DON'T: REQUESTING THE DRAWING BEFORE SCHEDULING AN APPOINTMENT


When you book an appointment with a specific artist, we trust you’ve appreciated their past work or received recommendations. As professionals, we are dedicated to delivering the best.

Tattoo artists have historically shared designs with clients beforehand, but this has led to issues like stolen artwork or clients taking designs to other artists, resulting in losses for us. Sharing designs often invites unsolicited opinions from friends and family, requiring us to redo the artwork multiple times, which is unpaid and distracts us from other projects. Trust the artist, you can make minor changes, but please be aware of the invisible work that gets done behind the scenes. 






DO: PRACTICE GOOD HYGIENE


Before your tattoo appointment, it's important to be clean and freshly showered. This shows respect for your artist and helps create a hygienic environment for the tattooing process. Additionally, be sure to follow your artist's aftercare instructions carefully to promote proper healing and maintain the quality of your new tattoo.




While rules may feel restrictive, they serve a purpose, especially in the world of tattoos where hygiene and respect are paramount. Embracing these guidelines can enhance your experience and ensure that you not only leave with an amazing piece of art but also with a positive story to tell. So, next time you decide to visit a tattoo studio, keep these tips in mind—they just might make your journey a little smoother and more enjoyable. Happy inking!

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