Tattoo Shop Etiquette: How to be the BEST Tattoo Client

Aloha, fellow ink enthusiasts! If you're reading this, it's likely you're gearing up for another tattoo adventure or considering taking your first plunge into the world of body art. It's a thrilling journey, no doubt, but there's more to it than just choosing a design. Tattoo shop etiquette is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. So, without further ado, let's dive into the best practices and behaviors when visiting a tattoo shop:

1. Do Your Research

Before setting foot in any tattoo shop, do your homework. Browse through portfolios, read reviews, and ask for recommendations. Most artists tend to have a particular style they lean towards due to their individual artistic strengths. Make sure that you're not asking a heavy bold artist to make your fine-line tattoo dreams come true. You're not just buying a service; you're investing in art that will be with you for life.

2. Schedule an Appointment

Tattoo artists are often busy with appointments. It's advisable to schedule one in advance, but if you're planning to walk in, be patient and respect their availability. Most artists that book by appointment only usually prefer to have you book a consultation in advance of taking you on as a client to get a feel for you and the project that you are bringing in.

3. Be Punctual

No Call / No Shows are a Cardinal Sin as a tattoo client. Very few exceptions will be made for such a grievous offense. Time is precious, and that includes your artist's time. Show up on time for your appointment, and if you need to reschedule, give as much notice as possible. A side note to this - DO NOT schedule other events or appointments shortly after on the day of your tattoo. Your artist should not be rushed to get you somewhere else on time. You will likely be late.

4. Personal Hygiene Matters

Remember, you're getting up close and personal with your tattoo artist. Basic personal hygiene, like a proper shower and clean clothes, is a sign of respect. It also makes their job easier.

5. Dress Comfortably

Choose attire that's comfortable for both you and the artist. Loose-fitting clothing is often the way to go, depending on the tattoo's location. Most tattoo shops are pretty chilly after a while, so find ways to keep yourself warm like wearing comfortable socks or a sweatshirt depending on which part of you is being tattooed.

6. Communicate Clearly

Talk to your artist openly and honestly about your ideas, design, and expectations. They are there to create your vision, so the more they know, the better they can do their job. Tell the artist what you do and do not like to see. That being said, they don't need to be overwhelmed with a giant wall of text about every single last detail. At a certain point you need to trust them to do their job as an artist.

7. Respect the Shop Rules

Tattoo shops have rules for a reason. They're there to ensure safety and a pleasant environment. Whether it's a no-smoking policy or a request for quiet, respect these rules. If you're uncertain of what the rules in a shop are, just ask. We'd prefer you ask than unwittingly make a mistake that can jeopardize your safety or the quality of a tattoo in progress. Most of my personal rules can be found in my FAQ section of the website!

8. Bring Cash

Cash is still KING. It is absolutely the BEST way to pay your artist for their work. I do not RELY on tips but it's a lovely way to show your appreciation for our hard work. Bring some cash with you for your tattoo for extra brownie points with your artist.

9. Sharing is Caring

If you leave the shop to go and get a snack or a drink it is always nice to ask if your artist if they need anything. Often times we get in hyper-focus mode with the tattoo and can forget to nourish ourselves. An offer to grab us a snack or a drink will rejuvenate our spirits in a most excellent and effective way. This will go a long way to ensuring the best quality of tattoo as your artist can feel the mutual respect and love from their client.

10. Keep Friends to a Minimum

It's always recommended to ask your artist before bringing even just one friend. While it's nice to have a friend for moral support, try not to bring an entourage to the shop. It can be distracting and disrupt the artist's workflow. Some of us are a little touchy in the social department and don't always do well when surprised with extra visitors.

11. Stay Still and Relax

Tattooing is an art that requires precision. Once you're in the chair, try to stay as still as possible. This includes not fidgeting with your phone a bunch, not talking with your hands, or at all, and just breathing as naturally as possible. This will ensure the best results. I always find it helps for me to practice awareness of which muscles are tensing up while being tattooed and consciously relaxing them.

12. Don't Haggle Over Price

Respect the artist's pricing. Good tattoos aren't cheap and cheap tattoos usually aren't good. Quality tattoos are an investment. If you are working within a budget, it's best to iron out those details during the consultation phase of your tattoo. It's always preferred when the client can afford the work they are asking to get.

13. Follow Aftercare Instructions

After you get your tattoo, carefully follow the aftercare instructions your artist provides. This ensures your tattoo heals properly. You can find my detailed aftercare instructions right here. Summarized, baby your tattoo.

14. Leave a Review

If you had a fantastic experience, leave a positive review online. It helps other potential clients make an informed decision and also the improves artist's local credibility and reputation.

15. Support the Shop

Consider purchasing merchandise from the shop or sharing their work on social media. Support your local tattoo artists!

16. Be Patient

Remember, great art takes time. Be patient with the process and with your artist. It's worth the wait. That being said if you're getting bored hanging with me for hours at a time, then we might just not be a good fit to work together. I like to have a little fun with my clients! Though while I am actually tattooing, I do get really into the zone to be sure I'm doing my absolute best work in your skin!

So there you have it, the lowdown on how to navigate the world of tattoo shops with grace and respect. With these best practices and behaviors, you'll not only ensure a smooth tattooing experience but also contribute to a thriving and respectful tattoo community.

 

Mahalo for taking the time to learn and embrace tattoo shop etiquette – now book that consult with me to get your next tattoo started and put all of this great information to use!