How do you start a message to a tattoo artist?

Author: Prof. Gust Nitzsche MD  |  Last update: Monday, September 15, 2025

A polite greeting starts your message on a good note. Say hi or hello to the artist before you introduce yourself. Mention that you like the artist's work and that you'd really like them to do your next tattoo.

How do I write a message to a tattoo artist?

Just keep it brief and include a few references pics of what you want, or which existing pieces the tattooer has already done and what specifically you like about them. You can get into deeper detail if they want to work with you and if they need context for the design.

How to start a conversation with a tattoo artist?

Use a friendly and respectful tone in your communication. Address the artist by their name if you know it; if not, a simple ``Hello'' or ``Hi'' works. State Your Intent: Clearly mention that you are interested in getting a tattoo.

How do you approach a tattoo artist?

It's usually best to email your tattoo enquiries in as you can explain in detail what tattoo you want, send reference photos and describe how you want the tattoo to look.

How do you present a tattoo idea to an artist?

The best way to convey what you want to an artist is to show them an example of a tattoo you like and then show them a tattoo they have done in the past that you really liked.

How to contact your Tattoo Artist | Basics 101

What not to say to a tattoo artist?

How do you talk to a tattoo artist about a tattoo?

How do you tell a tattoo artist what you want?

Tell the artist the tattoo style you want.

Some artists are really versatile while others may only specialize in a certain style. Briefly mention the tattoo style you were hoping to get so the artist can decide if it's something that they're comfortable and confident working on.

How do you pursue a tattoo artist?

What does it mean when a tattoo artist says books are closed?

If the artist's page that you are interested in says “books are closed”, that means that you cannot request an appointment now, and will have to wait for the next time window when that artist is booking.

How much to tip a tattoo artist?

As with tipping waitstaff, 20-25% percent is a good standard. An easy way to include tipping in your budget is to add it in when getting the estimated costs for having your work done. So, if your tattoo is expected to cost $200, with a 20-percent tip, that's $240.

What do you say at a tattoo consultation?

Do tattoo artists care if you bring a friend?

There's no set rule against bringing a friend to a tattoo shop, but there are some important tattoo etiquette tips to keep in mind. First, space is often limited.

How do you message an artist?

What do you talk about with a tattoo artist?

What should I write as a tattoo?

How do I market myself as a tattoo artist?

Create a Professional Website

People will most probably find you on social media or through recommendations, but they should find something when they type the name of your tattoo place on Google. You can offer relevant information on your website, such as business hours, costs of tattoos, and photos of your work.

How do I start getting tattoo clients?

How do I start a tattoo idea?

How do I message a tattoo artist?

Tattoo artists are busy people and receive multiple emails every day. Respect their time by making your email brief and to the point. Avoid writing lengthy emails that might overwhelm them. Instead, provide helpful information that they can use to create a custom tattoo design that matches your preferences.

How to tell tattoo artist what you want on Reddit?

Give them as much information as possible when first reaching out. This will speed up the process and get you booked faster. Give them a warm greeting, attach your reference image, and give them a ballpark size and area of the body you want it on. It's also important to hit up your artist via their preferred method.

How do you get a tattoo artist to like you?

Should you talk to your tattoo artist while getting a tattoo?

It can be tempting to want to chat with your tattoo artist while they're working on you, but it's important to remember that they are trying to focus on giving you a great tattoo. If you must talk, keep it brief and to the point. The same goes for taking pictures.

Do you pay for your tattoo before or after?

In most studios, payment must be made before services are rendered. It is up to each studio to decide which methods of payment they accept. Whatever method you pay with, make sure they give you a receipt. It is also customary to tip the artist for their work– 20% is the norm, but you can use your discretion.

What is tattoo etiquette?

The first part of proper tattoo etiquette comes in the design phase. Your tattoo artist is just that – an artist – so although the tattoo is yours, you need to work with them on the design. Don't ask them to tattoo in a style that's wildly different from their usual style, and listen to their recommendations.