As a tattoo artist, I have encountered many different types of clients over the years. While most clients are respectful and easy to work with, there are a few things that clients should avoid saying to their tattoo artist. In this article, we will explore in detail what not to say to a tattoo artist, including why these statements can be problematic and how to communicate effectively with your tattoo artist.
“I want a tattoo, but I don’t know what I want”:
This statement can be problematic for a few reasons. First, it can be frustrating for the artist to try to come up with a design on the spot without any input from the client. Second, it can lead to a design that may not be what the client really wants. To avoid this, it’s important to do some research before booking an appointment. Look at different styles and designs online, and think about what you want your tattoo to represent. Come prepared with some ideas to discuss with your artist, and be open to their suggestions as well.
“Can you do it cheaper?”
Tattoo artists put a lot of time and effort into creating custom designs for their clients, and they deserve to be compensated fairly for their work. Asking for a discount or haggling over the price can be disrespectful to the artist’s time and talent. While it’s okay to ask about pricing and to negotiate within reason, it’s important to remember that quality tattoos come at a cost. If you can’t afford the price of a particular artist, it’s better to save up or find a different artist whose work is within your budget.
“Can you just copy this design from Pinterest?”
While it’s okay to use Pinterest or other sources for inspiration, it’s important to remember that tattoo artists are artists, not copy machines. Bringing in a design that you found online and asking for an exact replica can be disrespectful to the artist’s creativity and talent. Instead of asking for an exact replica, use the design as inspiration and work with your artist to create a unique design that is tailored to your preferences.
“I want it to be small, but with a lot of detail”:
While it’s possible to create a small tattoo with a lot of detail, it’s important to remember that there are limits to what can be achieved with a small design. Tattoo artists need to work within the limitations of the skin and the tools they have available. Asking for a lot of detail in a small design can result in a tattoo that doesn’t age well or doesn’t look as good as you envisioned. It’s important to trust your artist’s expertise and work with them to create a design that will look great for years to come.
“Can you do it quickly?”
Tattoos are a permanent addition to your body, and it’s important to take the time to get them done right. Rushing a tattoo can result in mistakes or a design that doesn’t look as good as it could. While it’s okay to ask for an estimated time frame for the tattoo, it’s important to remember that quality work takes time. Be patient and trust your artist to create a design that you’ll love.
“I don’t like it, can you change it?”
While it’s important to communicate with your artist and provide feedback, it’s also important to remember that tattoo artists are professionals who have put a lot of time and effort into creating your design. Asking for major changes to a design after it has been created can be disrespectful to the artist’s time and talent. Instead, provide feedback early in the process and work with your artist to make minor adjustments along the way. Remember that your artist wants you to be happy with your tattoo, but major changes can be time-consuming and may require additional fees.
Conclusion:
By avoiding these common phrases and communicating effectively with your tattoo artist, you can ensure that you get a tattoo that you’ll love for years to come. Remember to come prepared with some idea of what you want, respect the artist’s time and talent, and communicate openly and honestly throughout the process. By working together, you and your tattoo artist can create a beautiful and meaningful tattoo that you’ll be proud to wear.
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