How long is a typical tattoo consultation?

Author: Dr. Fiona Anderson  |  Last update: Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Tattoo consultations usually take around 15-30 minutes, but can sometimes take up to 1 hour, depending on the nature of the tattoo and design. Your artist will discuss all your ideas and reference images with you and advise on the best way to plan and execute your tattoo.

How long do tattoo consultations take?

Consultations generally take 15-40 minutes, depending on how involved the tattoo is. The consultation itself is free, but if you do decide to book a tattoo appointment once we've talked, I have you put down a deposit to secure your spot.

How long is a typical tattoo session?

Standard Session Length: Most tattoo sessions last between 1 to 4 hours. This duration allows for detailed work while minimizing discomfort. Longer Sessions: Sessions exceeding 4 hours can be taxing for both the artist and the client. Some artists can work for 6 to 8 hours on larger pieces, but this is less common.

Can you get a tattoo the same day as a consult?

In my experience when artists do consults they schedule a bunch for the same day and don't do tattoos the same day, they'll confirm the appointment after you've discussed the design and paid your deposit.

What do you say at a tattoo consultation?

I said `` hi (their name) I hope you're doing well. I really love your work. I'm interested in getting'' and then go into detail about the design, if you want color or a black an grey tattoo. Size and location. I'd also mention to them it's your first tattoo so you have no other tattoos in that area.

HOW DO TATTOO CONSULTATIONS WORK ?⚡? Why are they so important

Do you tip at a tattoo consultation?

When it comes to tipping your artist, there is no such rule but rather etiquette. If you feel like they earned it for the consultation, you can list them however you're satisfied. You can save your tip money for the day of your tattoo appointment, as it seems more appropriate to tip them for their hard work.

What does a tattoo consultation look like?

Your artist will discuss all your ideas and reference images with you and advise on the best way to plan and execute your tattoo. An estimated timescale and price will be quoted for your tattoo and once you are happy to go ahead, and appointment will then be arranged.

What to wear to a tattoo consultation?

First, there's one word to sum up the type of clothing you should wear to any tattoo appointment: loose. In general, you don't want to wear anything tight or restrictive.

What not to do at tattoo appointment?

Here's a handful of bad habits that are top of the list of things tattoo artists hate.
  • Not Showering Beforehand. ...
  • Micromanaging the Process. ...
  • Comparing an Artist's Work to Someone Else's. ...
  • Negotiating or Criticizing the Tattoo Price. ...
  • Acting Like a Know-It-All. ...
  • Bringing a Bunch of Friends. ...
  • Asking an Artist to Copy Someone's Work.

Do you need a consultation before getting a tattoo?

Most tattoo artists will want you to stop into the studio for an in person consultation, and this is so they can make sure they are going to draw up exactly what it is you are looking for.

Why am I so tired after a tattoo?

If you're familiar with getting inked, you might know that it's a term some people use to describe feeling flu-like symptoms after getting a tattoo. Tattoo flu is essentially your body's reaction to the trauma of getting tattooed, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, chills, and even slight fever.

How long is a standard tattoo session?

However, don't expect this from your artist. A typical tattoo session is about 4 to 6 hours, with some clients choosing to book sessions back-to-back.

How much do you tip on a $200 tattoo?

Tattoo tipping rates

But as a rule of thumb, a 15-20% tip is usually a good place to start. So, if you spent a total of $200 on a tattoo, tipping anywhere from $30 to $40 shows your artist that you appreciate their handiwork.

Do tattoo artists do free consultations?

Consultations are free of charge. They last around 30 mins – 1 hour and you will sit with your artist and go over design, style, placement, size, and any other details that help inform your tattoo design.

What annoys tattoo artists?

HOW TO PISS OFF YOUR ARTIST
  • Blow off your appointment and never call. ...
  • Ignore the aftercare precautions & ruin your tattoo but expect a free touch up. ...
  • DON'T TIP. ...
  • Bring your 3 kids and 5 extra people to watch you get inked. ...
  • Expect your artist to know what YOU should get permanently tattooed on you.

Is it rude to bring headphones to a tattoo appointment?

So, they often don't mind if you bring in headphones to listen to your own music during the session.

Why no caffeine before a tattoo?

While it may be true that caffeine is your go-to energy booster in daily life. It is better to reduce your intake before your tattoo session. Excessive caffeine can make you feel more anxious or restless. This in turn can potentially affect your ability to sit still and relax during the tattooing process.

What to ask during a tattoo consultation?

Tattoo Consultation Tips: What to Ask Your Artist
  • Come prepared with a clear idea or concept for your tattoo. ...
  • When you meet for the tattoo consultation, ask about the artist's experience and portfolio. ...
  • Next, discuss placement and size. ...
  • Colour and shading are other vital aspects to review during your tattoo consultation.

What not to ask a tattoo artist?

5 Things You Should Never Say to a Tattoo Artist
  • “Can't you give me a discount?”
  • “Can I bring my friends in?”
  • “Can't you just make it work?”
  • “Can you please copy this tattoo?”
  • “Can you do this while I'm drunk?”

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 happens during a tattoo consultation?

Having a consultation gives you the chance to speak with your tattoo artist directly. You are welcome to bring in some reference material to show an idea of what it is that you would like. This helps the tattoo artists translate your idea into your tattoo and gives them a better idea of style that you're looking for.

How do dermatologists feel about tattoos?

Most dermatologists recommend leaving skin with moles or abnormalities clear of ink. Because tattoos involve needles and blood, non-sterile tattoo practices can lead to transmissions of blood diseases like syphilis, hepatitis B, and even HIV.

Can you tell a tattoo artist what you want?

While it's fine to get ideas from pictures of other tattoos, talk to your artist about what their ideas are for creating it. Tell them what you would like to change so the piece is uniquely yours. Remember, you selected your artist because they have strong portfolio and you are attracted to their style.

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