The Tattoo Process: Finding Your Style & Artist

Finding your Style and Artist

Find your tattoo style

Style refers to the thread that pulls together a set of work. Some of the most common tattoo styles are Traditional, Neo-Traditional, Japanese, and Fine Line. You can learn more about the tattoo styles here.

The first thing you are going to do is find the kind of tattoo that you want. Once you find a style that speaks to your taste, you are going to find an artist that specializes in that style. Tattoo artists specialize in styles and not every tattoo artist has the same style. Tattoo artists are like doctors. Each one specializes in a specific part of the whole field, choosing which part fits them best and then honing their skills in that area. Most tattoo studios have an artist page where each artist’s styles are listed in their profile. Once you find your style, find a reputable tattoo studio in your area. It is always good to get a referaal to a studio from someone you trust. If you don't have anyone to refer you, read the reviews and check out the studio’s gallery to see what their work is like.

Find your artist

Find an artist that specializes in your style - ESPECIALLY REALISM! Portraits take a particular eye and balance with shading. If you are going for a realistic piece, make sure there are pieces in the artist’s portfolio that reflect that skillset. 

Compilation of sleeves done by Darin Priest

Some of the best artists aren’t very active on social media so do not solely rely on social media for information. Check out their online portfolio, either through their personal website or their studio’s website and rbe sure to read reviews of their work.

Most tattoo shops have a website and social media that will help you understand each artist’s ability and style. The portfolio shows past work and can help a new client see if this artist would be a good fit for them.

See if they have availability

Reach out to see if the artist you are interested in has availability or if their “books are open.” Highly sought-after artists often open their books at specific times throughout the year and have a waitlist. If their books are closed, ask to be put on the waitlist and if you have a flexible schedule, prepare to take a last-minute cancellation spot. It is good to find a few artists you love and reach out to see which one has availability.

Schedule a consultation & pay your deposit

Most artists require a deposit before drawing up the artwork. Do not expect to start the piece on your first appointment. That largely depends on the size and complexity of the piece. The more detailed it is, the more sessions it will take. Find references and examples of other pieces that you connect to, to give your artist an idea of the piece. Remember to be flexible with the design based on your anatomy, but stand by your taste.

“My first tattoo I wanted a bird with a ribbon. The first mockup the artist did was much bigger than I was looking for and incorporated roses which I wasn’t a huge fan of. My people pleasing side kicked in and I said it was great and let’s move forward. To my surprise, he was expecting edits and pushed me to be honest with him, which I am so grateful for but can’t be expected from every artist. My first tattoo taught me that ultimately, the artist wants you to be happy and they expect to go through the process to find what you really want.”

Raven done by senior artist Evan Vittetoe. This would be an example of heavy blackwork

How much does it cost?

This is the most common question and there is always the same answer to it: IT DEPENDS.

Each artist has their own hourly rate and the overall cost of the piece depends on how long it takes. As simple as that. Tips are appreciated but never expected. The industry standard rate is 18%-22% of the total cost. Hourly rates vary and depend on a wide array of factors. Make sure you have your budget set aside for the piece and always prepare more than you think you need.

There are many different ways to price a tattoo and it is up to the artist. We are going to talk about the two main ways.

It is not wise to seek out the cheapest work, go for the artist you love, and save for it.

You will thank us in the long run. Tattoos are already really expensive and we appreciate that. If you can’t afford to tip, artists love snacks and will barter.

Communicate with your artist! The better they are the longer they can take to respond. And don’t take it personally if they take some time to respond. Remember they are receiving messages from all of their clients. Feel free to reach out a second (or third?) time if you don’t hear back right away. If you don’t get an answer on the second try, start to look for another artist and repeat the process. Don't get discouraged! This is something that lasts so it is worth it to go through the process to find the right artist.