Tattoo Etiquette 101: What Clients Should and Shouldn’t Do in a Tattoo Studio

Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience. Proper tattoo studio etiquette ensures that the entire process is smooth, respectful, and enjoyable for both clients and artists. Well-frushing tattoo etiquette maintains professionalism and enhances the whole experience.

What Clients Should Do?

Prepare and Arrive on Time

Punctuality matters. Arriving when there are other clients in the tattoo shop shows respect for the artist. Arrival time must also be fair because differences in personal schedules give you enough time to talk about the design and fulfill the session without a rush.

Explain Clearly

Clearing fantasies with references or mood boards will help the artist assign meaning to their interpretations. Do not hesitate to clarify with questions regarding techniques, placements, or after-care.

Observe Aftercare Instructions

Tattoo aftercare is important for both healing and duration. The artist will guide you on how to clean, moisturize, and, for the time being, stay out of sunlight or water. Following these instructions will show proper respect for the artist’s work and facilitate a good healing process for the tattoo.

Tip Where Necessary

Tip for the value of work done. Most importantly, the tipping number is based on appreciation for the time spent and the efforts by the artist. Industry standards guide the amount for tipping depending on the quality of the work done.

What Clients Should Not Do?

Don’t Break up or Distract

Artists need full attention, especially while working on detail-laden work. Avoid unnecessary interruptions, loud conversations, or using your phone excessively, as these distractions can affect the quality of your tattoo.

No Foods or Drinks Except on Official Approval

Some studios prohibit bringing outside food or drinks. Bringing them without approval can create a mess or disrupt the workspace. Most likely, they are okay with water, but check it with the specific studio’s policy beforehand.

Do Not Go When Under the Influence

Alcohol or drugs may make bleeding excessive, modify pain perception, and make it hard to communicate. It is a situation when the client is unsafe with the artist.

Do Not Micromanage the Process

Saying you need to provide insight into your vision, one must also leave the actual maneuver to the artist. Continuous directing or questioning every step of it will not support a friendly fight for creativity and would hinder the final result from being showcased.

This post was written by J Michael Taylor. J Michael Taylor is an artist and the owner of Black Amethyst Tattoo Gallery. Looking for Tattoo shops in St Petersburg, Florida? Black Amethyst has you covered! They provide an art-first approach to custom tattooing in a gallery setting.

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