Tattoo Design Process: What Every Client Should Know
Hello Everybody! In today’s blog, I’ll be walking you through how the tattoo design process might look from a tattoo artist’s perspective. Interested? I think this will be useful not only for first-timers but also for those who have been tattooed before. Let’s dive in!
Step One: Find the Right Tattoo Artist for Your Style
Finding the right tattoo artist is probably the most important step. “Right” can mean different things to different people, but my recommendation is to choose an artist who specializes in the style you’re looking for. For example, if you want a portrait of your child, you’ll want to find an artist who specializes in portraits. If you’re looking for a delicate flower, choose someone who’s known for fine, detailed work. If you’re after an old-school anchor tattoo—well, you get the idea! This way, you’ll avoid conflicts or misunderstandings. Just like any profession, mastering something takes time. While some artists, after years and years, may be capable of tattooing in multiple styles, if you see that someone offers “everything,” take a closer look at their work. Even the most skilled artists may not give their best effort if they don’t resonate with the design.
While a technically well-executed tattoo can certainly be done by an artist outside their usual style, there’s something off about working with someone who doesn’t truly enjoy the design they’re doing. It can affect the energy of the session, and you’ll probably feel it. Really great artists often don’t take on projects that don’t align with their style—but some still will. As a customer, it’s always better to choose someone who understands and connects with your vision. Remember, a tattoo is so much more than just ink on skin; it’s an art form. And just like musicians, tattoo artists specialize in different “instruments” and styles. Would you ask a guitarist to play the drums? It’s a similar concept with tattoos.
Step Two: Tattoo Artist’s Original Designs
Now that you understand the importance of choosing the right artist, let’s talk about the design. Many tattoo artists showcase designs on their websites or social media. Choosing one of these pre-made designs can be a great option, especially if you already like the artist’s work.
The benefit of choosing a design that’s already been created is that you’ll know exactly what the tattoo will look like ahead of time. Plus, it gives you a chance to think it over and adjust any details you want. These designs are often created in the artist’s unique style, so you’ll get something truly special.
However, be cautious: some unethical tattoo artists might use other people’s designs or even sell images from Pinterest as their own. This is a big red flag. While some designs, like a simple heart or a number, are more universally accepted, even simple designs can be personalized. At my studio, we always aim to give each design a personal touch. If you decide to go with a pre-made design, make sure to clearly communicate your vision for it, especially regarding placement and size. Not every design will work well in every spot, so be open to discussing your options with your artist. Don’t rush the decision—experiment with different placements and sizes during your consultation. And remember, the stencil is easy to wash off, so take your time.
Step Three: Custom Designs – Communicating Your Vision
If you’re ready for a fully custom tattoo, this is where even better communication between you and the artist is key. Before you send an email or book a consultation, take some time to carefully think through your idea. The clearer you are about what you want, the smoother the process will be for both sides.
When describing your tattoo idea, make sure to mention the overall concept, key elements, and how you envision the design. Size and placement are also critical factors, so think about how they will affect the final result. Not every size and placement will work for every design—sometimes a design might be too small or too large for a certain area of the body. Your artist might suggest a different placement based on the flow of the design, so be open to their suggestions.
It’s also a good idea to send reference pictures, but please keep in mind that every tattoo artist has their own style. It’s fine to send reference images, but don’t ask an artist to copy another’s work. If you want a tattoo done by a particular artist, book an appointment with them instead of trying to find a “copy” elsewhere. It’s the same as if you hired Elton John to perform at your wedding but asked him to play Spice Girls songs. Artists appreciate it when you respect their style and creative boundaries.
Thank you for reading!
Simon
Hello Everybody! In today’s blog, I’ll be walking you through how the tattoo design process might look from a tattoo artist’s perspective. Interested? I think this will be useful not only for first-timers but also for those who have been tattooed before. Let’s dive in!
Step One: Find the Right Tattoo Artist for Your Style
Finding the right tattoo artist is probably the most important step. “Right” can mean different things to different people, but my recommendation is to choose an artist who specializes in the style you’re looking for. For example, if you want a portrait of your child, you’ll want to find an artist who specializes in portraits. If you’re looking for a delicate flower, choose someone who’s known for fine, detailed work. If you’re after an old-school anchor tattoo—well, you get the idea! This way, you’ll avoid conflicts or misunderstandings. Just like any profession, mastering something takes time. While some artists, after years and years, may be capable of tattooing in multiple styles, if you see that someone offers “everything,” take a closer look at their work. Even the most skilled artists may not give their best effort if they don’t resonate with the design.
While a technically well-executed tattoo can certainly be done by an artist outside their usual style, there’s something off about working with someone who doesn’t truly enjoy the design they’re doing. It can affect the energy of the session, and you’ll probably feel it. Really great artists often don’t take on projects that don’t align with their style—but some still will. As a customer, it’s always better to choose someone who understands and connects with your vision. Remember, a tattoo is so much more than just ink on skin; it’s an art form. And just like musicians, tattoo artists specialize in different “instruments” and styles. Would you ask a guitarist to play the drums? It’s a similar concept with tattoos.
Step Two: Tattoo Artist’s Original Designs
Now that you understand the importance of choosing the right artist, let’s talk about the design. Many tattoo artists showcase designs on their websites or social media. Choosing one of these pre-made designs can be a great option, especially if you already like the artist’s work.
The benefit of choosing a design that’s already been created is that you’ll know exactly what the tattoo will look like ahead of time. Plus, it gives you a chance to think it over and adjust any details you want. These designs are often created in the artist’s unique style, so you’ll get something truly special.
However, be cautious: some unethical tattoo artists might use other people’s designs or even sell images from Pinterest as their own. This is a big red flag. While some designs, like a simple heart or a number, are more universally accepted, even simple designs can be personalized. At my studio, we always aim to give each design a personal touch. If you decide to go with a pre-made design, make sure to clearly communicate your vision for it, especially regarding placement and size. Not every design will work well in every spot, so be open to discussing your options with your artist. Don’t rush the decision—experiment with different placements and sizes during your consultation. And remember, the stencil is easy to wash off, so take your time.
Step Three: Custom Designs – Communicating Your Vision
If you’re ready for a fully custom tattoo, this is where even better communication between you and the artist is key. Before you send an email or book a consultation, take some time to carefully think through your idea. The clearer you are about what you want, the smoother the process will be for both sides.
When describing your tattoo idea, make sure to mention the overall concept, key elements, and how you envision the design. Size and placement are also critical factors, so think about how they will affect the final result. Not every size and placement will work for every design—sometimes a design might be too small or too large for a certain area of the body. Your artist might suggest a different placement based on the flow of the design, so be open to their suggestions.
It’s also a good idea to send reference pictures, but please keep in mind that every tattoo artist has their own style. It’s fine to send reference images, but don’t ask an artist to copy another’s work. If you want a tattoo done by a particular artist, book an appointment with them instead of trying to find a “copy” elsewhere. It’s the same as if you hired Elton John to perform at your wedding but asked him to play Spice Girls songs. Artists appreciate it when you respect their style and creative boundaries.
Thank you for reading!
Simon
