Walking into a tattoo studio for the first time can feel intimidating, and even people with many tattoos sometimes wonder if they are doing it right. Tattoo etiquette comes down to respect for the artist who is about to put permanent art on your body, and for the space they work in. If you arrive prepared, speak clearly and respect the studio, you set yourself up for a great experience.
This guide covers the whole process, from your first message to the tip at the end. These do's and don'ts help you build a good relationship with your artist, avoid common mistakes and leave with a tattoo you are proud of.
Booking and consultation etiquette
The consultation is where your tattoo really starts. Coming prepared shows the artist you value their time. The consultation guide covers it in detail.
Do:
- Look at the artist's portfolio first, and pick someone whose style matches what you want. The portfolio guide shows what to look for.
- Bring three to five reference images that show the style, mood and layout you want. Saved posts or a mood board work well.
- Be specific about size, placement and anything you definitely want or do not want.
- Leave room for the artist's ideas. They know how a design works on skin better than anyone, and their suggestions usually make the tattoo better.
- Be honest about your budget. A good artist would rather design something great within your budget than have an awkward talk about money later.
Don't:
- Ask an artist to copy another artist's custom tattoo line for line. It is seen as very disrespectful in the tattoo world. Use references for inspiration, explain what you like about them, and let your artist make something of their own.
- Haggle over the quote. If the price is too high, ask what could change, like the size or the amount of detail.
- Send the same request to lots of artists and disappear. If you decide not to book, a short reply is polite.
What to bring to your tattoo appointment
- A full stomach. Eat a proper meal in the couple of hours before. Low blood sugar can leave you lightheaded and more sensitive to pain.
- Water and snacks for longer sessions, like a cereal bar or some fruit.
- The right clothes. Wear something that gives easy access to the spot. Shorts or loose pants work for a leg tattoo. A button-up shirt or a tank top works for the upper body. Avoid your favorite clothes in case of ink.
- Headphones and a charged phone. Music, a podcast or an audiobook helps you relax and fills the quiet when the conversation stops.
- ID. Most studios ask for it, however old you look.
- Payment. Bring the payment method you plan to use, and some cash if you want to leave a tip.
If you want to use numbing cream, ask your artist before the day. Some artists prefer not to work on numbed skin. The pain chart guide has more on preparing for the pain.
The day before, have a shower and keep the area clean and moisturized. Do not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before your session.
How to talk to your artist during the session
Clear, polite communication makes the whole session go better.
Check the stencil carefully. This is your last chance to change things before the needle starts. If something feels off, say so. Every good artist would rather change the design on paper than on your skin. Be specific. "The flower looks a bit big next to the stem" is more useful than "something looks weird". Take your time and do not feel rushed.
Let the artist focus. Too much talking can break their concentration, especially on detailed parts. Light conversation is fine during easier parts, and many artists talk more during simple sections and go quiet on fine detail. Follow their lead.
Speak up about pain and breaks. If the pain gets intense or you need a break, say it calmly. Your artist can slow down, move to another area for a while or stop for a few minutes. Do not suffer in silence and then flinch. A sudden movement can cause a mistake that is much harder to fix.
How to behave at the tattoo studio
Do:
- Arrive on time, or a few minutes early.
- Put your phone on silent, and keep calls for breaks.
- Bring at most one friend for support, and check with the studio first, because some have little space. Your friend should sit quietly and stay out of the artist's way.
- Keep still while the artist works, and ask before you get up.
Don't:
- Touch equipment, lean on workstations or walk into areas you have not been invited into.
- Bring a group. A studio is a workplace.
- Turn up drunk or high. It is disrespectful, it can make you bleed more and feel more pain, and a reputable artist will send you home.
Cancelling and rescheduling politely
If you need to cancel or move your appointment, give as much notice as you can, and at least 48 hours where possible. Your artist set that time aside for you and turned other clients away, so a last-minute cancellation costs them real income. This is why most artists ask for a deposit that you lose if you cancel late or do not show up. The deposit guide explains how this usually works.
If an emergency comes up at short notice, contact the studio straight away and be honest. Most artists understand real emergencies and will help you find a new date. What frustrates them is people who cancel or reschedule again and again.
Tipping and saying thank you
15 to 20% is usual in the US, and 10 to 15% in Europe. In Europe a tip is welcome but not expected. Tip more for exceptional work, a custom design or an artist who worked around a tricky schedule.
- Multi-session pieces. Tip after each session instead of waiting until the end. The artist puts in full effort every time you sit.
- Cash or card. Many artists prefer cash because it reaches them with no fees, but most studios also take card tips.
- Discounted or free work. If a friend or an apprentice tattoos you at a lower price, a tip is a good way to show respect for their work.
For the full details, read how much to tip your tattoo artist.
A good review, a tagged photo of your healed tattoo or recommending the artist to friends are also great ways to say thank you.
After the session: aftercare and touch-ups
Good etiquette does not end when you leave the chair. Follow your artist's aftercare instructions exactly. How the tattoo heals depends a lot on how you look after it, and the aftercare guide has the full routine.
If a spot needs a touch-up after healing, contact the artist politely with a clear photo in good light. Many artists include one free touch-up in the first few months. If you have a question while it heals, ask your artist before you try something you read online. When you are ready for the next one, find a tattoo artist whose work you love.
