How To Book A Tattoo Appointment is the first step in getting inked, and tattooat.com is here to guide you through the process smoothly. Whether you’re looking for custom tattoo designs or flash art, our comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect artist and schedule your appointment with confidence. From conceptualization to aftercare, explore the world of skin art and get ready for your first tattoo experience.
1. Brainstorming: Idea, Date, and Budget
1.1 How Do I Find the Right Tattoo Design?
Trust your instincts and consider the things you love most. The beauty of tattoos is that they can illustrate anything you want in any style. Start by creating an inspiration board on tattooat.com to gather ideas and visualize your perfect tattoo. Remember, a meaningful tattoo reflects your personality and passions.
1.2 Can I Ask the Artist to Copy a Design?
Most reputable artists will not copy a design unless it is a flash tattoo. Instead, they can create a similar design inspired by what you bring in. Think of it this way: you’re unique, and your tattoo should be too. According to a study by Portland State University’s Art Department in July 2023, originality in tattoo art is highly valued by both artists and clients.
1.3 What Does Flash Tattoo Mean?
A flash tattoo is pre-designed artwork created by the artist. These designs are often displayed on the walls of a tattoo shop. Flash tattoos are a great option if you want something quick or don’t have a specific idea in mind but desire a cool design.
1.4 Do Tattoo Artists Draw Your Tattoo?
If you’re opting for a custom tattoo, tattoo artists will draw your tattoo. They’ll use your inspiration and ideas to create a design that you love before your appointment. This collaborative process ensures that your tattoo is unique and personal.
1.5 Can I Bring My Own Design?
You can definitely bring your own design, but keep in mind that the tattoo artist may need to make slight changes to ensure that your piece turns out perfect. Trust your artist and collaborate with them to create a tattoo you love.
Eye traditional tattoo with tears
Brainstorming tattoo ideas and figuring out when you’ll be able to commit to a tattoo appointment is the first step, and it’s a crucial one. The clearer your idea, the easier it will be for your tattoo artist to create your new piece. Your happiness is important, and artists want to do a good job. Having a strong, concise idea in mind, along with your budget and schedule, will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
If you’re struggling to come up with the best tattoo idea, visit tattooat.com’s extensive tattoo image search and enter specific keywords of interest. Our archive contains thousands of inspirations. Start with terms like “chest tattoos,” “rose tattoos,” or “tribal tattoos”—whatever you love, we’ve got it.
2. Choosing Wisely: Find an Artist or Studio
2.1 How Can I Find the Right Artist or Studio?
Narrow down the style you want to find the right artist or studio. This allows you to choose an artist whose artwork aligns with your vision. Look at their portfolios and see if their style matches what you want.
2.2 How Do I Know If the Artist Is Good?
Look at their portfolio, research the studio, and check out reviews to determine if an artist is good. A good artist will work in a clean studio and produce high-quality art. According to Inked Magazine, top tattoo artists often have years of experience and a strong online presence.
2.3 How Can I Make Sure That the Studio Is Good?
Check the reviews on the studio’s profile to ensure the studio is good. See what others say about their experience. Ensure the tattoo studio is clean and respected for its artists.
2.4 How Can I Book an Appointment on tattooat.com?
You can easily book an appointment on tattooat.com. We offer a direct booking feature with artists of your choice or by sending out an open booking to artists in your area. Visit our Booking page for more information.
Watercolor peony flower tattoo on the stomach
Finding an artist or studio should be a fun experience. The best way to simplify the process is to use tattooat.com’s booking feature. We offer two options: Open Booking and Direct Booking. These features allow you to easily send a tattoo request with all the details you desire. You can even upload images for the artist to reference.
With Open Booking, your request is sent to all tattooists on our platform in your area. You can then browse through their portfolios to find the perfect fit. If you prefer an artist or studio found through our search, send them a Direct Booking. You’ll see a “Book Now” button to make the process even easier.
3. Scheduling Smart: Things to Consider
3.1 What If It’s Not Clear How to Book?
How to first contact a tattoo artist for an appointment will often be the first thing tattooists mention on their profile, but if it’s not clear how to book with an artist make sure you check their profile information again and their personal website before you try reaching out directly. tattooat.com artists will have a large red “Book now” button on the profile. But if it’s not there or there’s no mention of it in their profile, when you reach out directly via email or contact form, just mention you had trouble finding out to book in a polite way and ask them how to do so.
3.2 What Does Closed Book Tattoo Mean?
A closed book means that the tattoo artist is not currently taking bookings. Some in-demand artists will close their books once their calendar is full for a few months to a few years and then open it again. Add your name to an artist’s client list to be the first to know when they’re available.
3.3 What If I Have the Artist’s Contact Details?
You should still go through their preferred booking system even if you have the artist’s contact details. This respects how the artist works, and they’ll appreciate it. Also, remember that politeness goes a long way when booking a tattoo appointment.
3.4 What If I Want Something That Day? Can You Walk In and Get Tattoos?
If you want to get something that day, you can definitely walk in and get tattoos. However, make sure the studio takes walk-ins. Private studios typically only do custom work for tattoo appointments. Also, keep in mind that custom tattoos take longer than flash tattoos. Flash tattoos are best for day-of appointments and walk-ins.
3.5 How Far in Advance Should I Book My Tattoo?
Book your tattoo far enough in advance to allow both you and the artist time to prepare. Your preparation includes knowing your budget and desired design, while the artist needs time to prepare your unique tattoo for the appointment. If you’re traveling, contact the artist with your preferred dates to see if they’re available.
3.6 How Long Do Tattoo Appointments Take?
The length of a tattoo appointment depends on the size, placement, and complexity of your design. Small flash tattoos can take less than an hour, while large tattoos or difficult placements, like hands or neck, can take 3 to 5 hours. For these more extensive tattoos, set aside a whole day for your appointment.
3.7 Is It Bad to Cancel a Tattoo Appointment?
It isn’t bad to cancel a tattoo appointment as long as you do it well ahead of time and politely. Not showing up means the artist loses time they set aside just for you, so give them at least a few days’ notice to fill your spot. The more notice, the better.
3.8 What Is a Consultation Appointment?
A consultation appointment is time spent with a tattoo artist to plan your next piece, usually for custom tattoos. You’ll discuss design details, placement, colors, budget, and more, then schedule the actual tattoo appointment at a time that suits both your schedules.
3.9 Do I Need a Consultation Before a Tattoo?
You will need a consultation before a tattoo if you are getting custom work done. Sometimes this means coming into the shop, and other times, especially if you or the artist is traveling, the consultation will be done over messaging or email.
3.10 Are Tattoo Consultations Free?
Tattoo consultations are free. However, many artists will ask for a deposit before scheduling an appointment. After your consultation, if you both agree on the design and appointment day/time, the artist will usually ask for a deposit. This is a common practice and shows the artist you are serious about your commitment.
Nature themed tattoo on the arm with snake and floral elements
Setting up a tattoo appointment doesn’t have to be complicated. Many tattoo artists and shops have specific requests for booking. Ideally, this process is clear on their profile. “No DMs” sound familiar? It’s true. Many artists or shops prefer email, telephone calls, or a specific contact sheet. That’s where tattooat.com’s “Book Now” button comes in handy, making it easier for the artist to organize your request for a brand-new tattoo.
If you want something done that day, that’s a walk-in, not an appointment. Our booking feature makes it clear that you want a tattoo, even if it’s that day. Especially with our Open Booking feature, artists with random openings or cancellations can fit you right in. Researching beforehand is smart; you’ll see if the shop does walk-ins and if the artist is available. Most custom pieces aren’t scheduled, booked, drawn, and done on the same day. Expect some waiting time for original art. But if you’re looking for a quick flash piece, some studios specialize in that, and your research will come in handy.
4. Crafting Your Message: How to Contact a Tattoo Artist
4.1 What Should I Include When Emailing a Tattoo Artist to Book an Appointment?
Crafting your message to a tattoo artist when booking an appointment doesn’t have to be stressful. Our advice is to keep your message simple and straightforward.
When emailing a tattoo artist, include:
- A simple description of your idea and any photo references.
- The desired size and body part, as well as your budget.
- Any particular styles, colors, or details you’d like included.
- Dates that work well for you.
The most important thing is to be straightforward and polite. Keep it short but include all the necessary information and anything else you think is relevant.
4.2 What If I’m Unsure About the Size or the Placement?
If you’re unsure about the size or placement of the tattoo, that’s perfectly okay! Just let the artist know. You likely have an estimate in mind, but if not, that’s fine too. The tattoo artist will work with you to figure out the perfect size and placement for your piece. The same goes if you’re unsure about colors, design, or style. Let the artist work their magic with you.
We understand why many people are confused about how to email a tattoo artist. It’s not always obvious how an artist wants to be contacted, and many people don’t know what to say. What if it’s not clear how to book? Maybe their profile doesn’t have a “Book Now” button, or their bio doesn’t specify how they want to be contacted. If it’s an artist, try to find their email. Keep it short and brief, like: “Hey, I found you on tattooat.com, but I wasn’t sure how to book a tattoo with you. Please let me know what you prefer, and what information you’d like to have.” The same goes for a shop without contact info. If you can’t find the shop email, feel free to call. Simply say, “Hey, I found you on tattooat.com. I’d like to book a new tattoo.”
The key is to be clear and to the point. Many shops don’t have a manager to handle calls, so an artist is probably taking time away from drawing or tattooing to help you. Have your schedule ready to confirm a date and write down anything else you’re told.
Rose tattoo on arm in color
4.3 What If You Have the Artist’s Email, Instagram, Facebook, or Phone Number?
Unless you have a special relationship with the tattoo artist or they’re a close friend, following the rules will make you the best client you can be. Tattoo artists’ schedules are busy, and keeping track of multiple forms of communication is exhausting. By going through the proper channels, you ensure you’re on the calendar correctly, which helps everyone in the long run.
5. Money Matters: Price and Deposit
5.1 Can I Ask for a Price Estimate?
You can definitely ask for a price estimate on your tattoo. However, it may be better to simply provide your budget so the artist can work within your financial constraints.
5.2 Are Tattoo Prices Negotiable?
Tattoo prices can be negotiable, but most of the time they aren’t. Flash tattoos usually have a fixed price, and tattoo artists often have a fixed hourly rate. Price negotiation is more common with custom tattoos. An artist can work within your budget, but respect the artist’s valuation of their work. Negotiating the price may mean the custom tattoo will be less work-intensive, but you can always return to finish the piece when you have more funds available.
5.3 What Are Tattoo Deposits For?
Tattoo deposits secure your spot on the tattoo artist’s calendar. It shows the artist that you’re serious about the appointment and protects them if you don’t show up.
5.4 How Does the Deposit Work?
Tattoo deposits work like a down payment, going towards your new piece. Usually, for a custom tattoo, you’ll give the artist a deposit during the consultation and pay the rest after the tattoo is done. On tattooat.com, you can pay a deposit directly to the artist through our booking platform, simplifying the process for you and the artist.
5.5 How Much Are Tattoo Deposits Usually?
The amount of a tattoo deposit depends on the artist or studio and their hourly rate, but often a tattoo deposit is around $100.
5.6 Does the Deposit Count Towards the Tattoo?
Yes, the tattoo deposit counts towards the total cost. You can pay this directly through the booking flow on tattooat.com when you book an appointment with a tattooist.
5.7 Do You Pay for Tattoos in Cash?
Often, you pay for tattoos in cash. However, many studios and artists are starting to accept digital payments through platforms like tattooat.com, which uses Stripe. Some artists even take PayPal or Bitcoin.
5.8 Do You Pay for Each Tattoo Session?
Yes, for a large custom project, you pay for each tattoo session as you go.
Earth tattoo on arm
Remember that deposits are there for a reason. Most artists won’t put you on their books without a deposit, especially for custom artwork. Someone is creating an original piece of art just for you! Your initial deposit pays for the drawing time and guarantees you’ll show up for your appointment. People sometimes bail on their appointments, which can be disheartening. Your deposit ensures the artist’s time isn’t entirely wasted.
Booking your first tattoo appointment can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Following a shop’s policies and the guidelines set by your artist is a way to build a great new relationship. Many people stick to just one tattoo artist because they love their work so much.
6. Prepping Like a Pro: Be Prepared for Your Appointment
6.1 Stay Sober and Hydrated
Make sure you’re really hydrated. Don’t go on a bender the night before, as alcohol thins the blood. Bring a water bottle with you. Being hydrated is good for pain management and overall health. Your skin and blood vessels will thank you.
6.2 Eat Well and Sleep Well
Since you’re a human and alive, you should probably be thinking about this anyway, but be extra attentive before your tattoo session. Being nervous can make you skip this, but you don’t want to sit with an empty stomach for several hours while someone works a needle into your skin. You also don’t want to be on only a few hours of sleep. You won’t be able to handle the pain with any dignity or patience if you’re hungry and tired. This is your first tattoo, so you won’t really know how your body will react until it’s happening. Be as physically prepared as possible.
6.3 Shower and Moisturize
Think of your skin as a canvas. You want to have the best canvas prepared for your tattoo artist, so come fresh and clean. If you struggle with dry skin, some light moisturizing will do wonders. Think of hydrating both ways: inside and out.
6.4 Get Centered
Meditating or just ensuring you’re at peace can be helpful, especially for your first tattoo. It can be exciting and give you the jitters, but all that anticipation can hit you hard once you’re under the needle and in pain.
Stay calm, centered, and remember that the pain is worth the art you’re about to have for the rest of your life. Do some mindful self-care the day before your appointment—take a walk, do some yoga, have a smoothie, count your blessings, read a book. Whatever works for you to get into an ultra-peaceful mode will work wonders. Remember that physical and psychological well-being go hand in hand.
Dagger and heart tattoo on arm
6.5 Think About the Timing of Your Day
Think about the timing of your day. If your session is midday, eat a hearty breakfast. If it’s after work, bring snacks and water. Sometimes life happens, and you may be scared to get a tattoo. That’s okay, just think of yourself as a tattoo explorer and get what you need to be prepared. A friend and a tattoo-go-bag will do you right.
6.6 Schedule in Picking Up Supplies
You’ll need specific aftercare supplies that you may not already have, so schedule time to pick them up. You can always do this after you get your tattoo, but it’s up to you. Having non-fragrance, hypoallergenic soap on hand, preferably in a squirt bottle, will be great for keeping your new baby clean. No need for towels; air drying is better than rubbing it dry. Easy does it!
As for lotions or salves, everyone has their personal secret weapon to fight the dry itchiness of a new tattoo and promote successful healing. With your first tattoo, it’s best to stick with what your artist suggests. As you get more tattoos, you’ll find your own personal favorite.
6.7 Yes, It Will Hurt
“I want a tattoo but I’m scared of the pain” is something we hear often. “Did it hurt?” is one of the most common questions tattooed folks get. The answer is always “yes,” it totally hurts. The key is how much, and we can manage this by being prepared and knowing what to expect. Getting prepared is an important part of easing your tattoo anxiety. Many people feel nervous about a tattoo appointment, especially if it’s their first time, so you’re not alone! There are many ways to manage pain and prepare for sitting for a tattoo session.
7. Post-Booking Bliss: What Happens Next?
7.1 What Else Do You Need to Know Once You’ve Booked Your First Appointment?
Since this may be your first tattoo, you may be wondering what else you need to know. There are a lot of “unspoken rules” you may have heard about, but don’t let that intimidate you! tattooat.com has a great guide on how to prepare for a tattoo appointment. The best thing to keep in mind when you’re finally in the studio is to be respectful, kind, and patient. The rest will take care of itself.
Tattooed arm with geometric skull design
7.2 What Happens After You Have Gotten Your Tattoo?
After you get your first tattoo, you may have many questions. Your artist is there to guide you. They will always give you a care card outlining how to treat your new piece. tattooat.com also has a guide on how to take care of your tattoo. Feel free to call the shop afterward if you have any difficulties. Protect your piece from the sun. Once it’s all healed up, use sunscreen every time you know you’ll be in direct sunlight. The better care you take of your new tattoo, the better it will heal and age over the years.
Ready to book your tattoo appointment? Explore tattooat.com for inspiration, artists, and expert advice!
FAQ: Booking Your Tattoo Appointment
1. How far in advance should I book my tattoo appointment?
Book your appointment well in advance, typically a few weeks to a few months, depending on the artist’s availability and popularity.
2. What information should I provide when booking a tattoo appointment?
Provide a clear description of your tattoo idea, desired size and placement, preferred style, budget, and availability.
3. Is it necessary to have a consultation before booking a tattoo appointment?
A consultation is highly recommended, especially for custom designs or larger pieces, to discuss your ideas and ensure the artist understands your vision.
4. What is a tattoo deposit and why is it required?
A tattoo deposit is a non-refundable payment that secures your appointment and compensates the artist for their time in preparation and design.
5. Can I bring a reference image for my tattoo design?
Yes, bringing reference images is helpful for conveying your ideas to the artist, but be open to their artistic input and suggestions.
6. How do I find a reputable tattoo artist or studio?
Research online, check reviews, view portfolios, and visit the studio to assess cleanliness and professionalism. tattooat.com is a great place to start.
7. What should I do to prepare for my tattoo appointment?
Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and blood-thinning medications, eat a good meal, wear comfortable clothing, and arrive on time.
8. Can I negotiate the price of a tattoo?
Tattoo prices are generally not negotiable, as they reflect the artist’s skill, time, and materials, but you can discuss options within your budget.
9. What if I need to reschedule or cancel my tattoo appointment?
Contact the artist as soon as possible, and be aware that you may forfeit your deposit depending on their policy.
10. How does tattooat.com simplify the tattoo booking process?
Tattooat.com provides a platform for discovering artists, viewing portfolios, and directly booking appointments, making it easier to find the perfect artist and schedule your tattoo.
Address: 1825 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97201, United States.
Phone: +1 (503) 725-3000.
Website: tattooat.com.
