Booking a Tattoo for Dummies (and you too)

Getting a tattoo should be an exciting, smooth process—for both you and your artist. But every tattooer has stories about that client. You know, the one who makes the whole thing harder than it needs to be. If you don’t want to be the reason your artist lets out a deep sigh before responding to your email, here’s a guide to booking your tattoo the right way.

1. Read the Damn Instructions

Most artists have booking info readily available—on their website, Instagram, or wherever they take appointments. If they say “Email only,” don’t DM them. If they have a booking form, fill it out. Artists aren’t sitting around waiting to answer questions you could’ve figured out in two minutes.

2. Know What You Want (and What You Don’t)

You don’t need every detail planned, but have a direction. “I want a cool tattoo” isn’t helpful. Neither is sending 15 different styles and expecting some Frankenstein mash-up. If you like an artist’s work, trust them to do what they do best.

3. Don’t Haggle—This Ain’t a Flea Market

Tattoos cost what they cost. If you wouldn’t walk into a restaurant and negotiate the price of your meal, don’t do it with a tattoo. If the price is out of your range, save up or find something smaller that fits your budget.

4. Be On Time and Be Ready

Showing up late throws off the whole schedule. Showing up unprepared (hungover, sunburnt, or bringing a whole entourage) just makes things more difficult. Respect your artist’s time and come ready to get tattooed.

5. Trust the Process

You chose your artist for a reason. Micromanaging every decision or overthinking things last minute only makes the experience stressful. Let them do what they’re good at, and you’ll walk away with a tattoo you love.

At the end of the day, getting tattooed is about trust and respect—on both sides. Be a good client, and you’ll not only get a great tattoo but a solid experience, too.