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What is Tattoo Shop Etiquette?

by Jessica

Getting a tattoo is an important decision and a significant investment of time, money, and trust. Tattoo shops are not only places where skilled artists showcase their craft but also professional environments that require respect and proper conduct. Understanding what behaviors to avoid ensures a positive experience for both the client and the artist. This article provides an in-depth look at what not to do at a tattoo shop, detailing common mistakes and unwelcome actions that can disrupt the process and lead to unsatisfactory results. By learning these do’s and don’ts, you can foster a smooth and respectful tattoo experience.

Don’t Arrive Unprepared

One of the most crucial mistakes a client can make is arriving at a tattoo shop without proper preparation. This can involve not having a clear idea of what they want, failing to care for their body before the appointment, or neglecting essential paperwork.

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A client showed up to a reputable tattoo shop with only a vague idea for their design. The lack of preparation led to a drawn-out consultation, wasting time for both the client and the artist. Artists appreciate clients who come prepared with references and a solid understanding of the desired style. Proper research and a clear vision prevent misunderstandings and ensure that the artist’s time is respected.

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Preparation also means arriving in good physical condition. Clients should be well-hydrated and well-fed to avoid feeling faint or weak during the session. Tattooing can be taxing on the body, so proper rest and nourishment beforehand can make the process smoother.

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Don’t Haggle or Question the Artist’s Rates

A tattoo is an investment in permanent art, and haggling over prices is considered highly disrespectful. Professional tattoo artists set their rates based on their skill, experience, and the complexity of the work involved. Attempting to negotiate the price undermines their expertise and dedication.

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An artist recounted an experience where a potential client spent several minutes arguing over the quoted price, only to leave in frustration. This encounter created unnecessary tension and wasted valuable time. Respecting an artist’s rates is essential, as their pricing reflects years of practice, training, and the cost of quality materials.

While it’s natural to budget for a tattoo, approaching the situation with respect and understanding can build trust and foster a more enjoyable experience. Clients should consider the value of the work they’re getting and remember that cheap alternatives may lead to inferior results.

Don’t Bring a Large Entourage

Many people like to share their tattoo experience with friends or family for moral support. However, bringing a large group of people to a tattoo shop can be disruptive and make the environment chaotic. Tattoo shops are professional spaces where artists need focus to do their best work, and too many people can be distracting.

A tattoo shop owner shared an instance where a client brought five friends along for their appointment. The group was noisy and intrusive, asking the artist questions mid-session and making the process difficult. This behavior not only frustrated the artist but also distracted the client from enjoying their experience.

If you need support, limit it to one trusted friend or family member. Bringing more people than necessary can disrupt the workflow and create an uncomfortable situation for both the artist and other clients.

Don’t Be Impatient or Rush the Artist

Tattoos are detailed works of art that require patience and precision. Some clients, especially those new to tattoos, may feel restless and urge the artist to speed up the process. However, rushing a tattoo can compromise the quality of the work and even lead to mistakes.

One client insisted on a tattoo being completed in an hour despite its intricate design. The result was a rushed job that fell short of expectations, leading to disappointment and a need for future touch-ups. Professional tattooing takes time, and clients should be prepared to wait patiently for the best results.

It’s important to trust the artist’s process and understand that each step is necessary for a high-quality outcome. This includes the initial consultation, sketching, and the actual tattooing. Rushing compromises not only the final result but also the artist’s ability to focus on their work.

Don’t Ignore Aftercare Instructions

One of the most common mistakes clients make after getting a tattoo is failing to follow the aftercare instructions provided by the artist. Proper aftercare is vital for the healing process and long-term appearance of the tattoo. Ignoring these instructions can lead to complications such as infections, scarring, and faded ink.

A client who disregarded their artist’s advice to keep the tattoo clean and moisturized ended up with an infection. This negligence resulted in a damaged tattoo that required expensive correction work. Proper aftercare, including cleaning, applying ointments, and avoiding direct sunlight, helps ensure that the tattoo heals well and looks its best.

Listening to your artist’s aftercare instructions not only preserves the tattoo’s quality but also shows respect for the artist’s expertise. Skipping steps or neglecting the recommended care can undo hours of hard work and make future visits necessary for touch-ups.

Don’t Come Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol

Arriving at a tattoo appointment under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not only frowned upon but also can be dangerous. Substances can impair judgment, increase bleeding, and make it difficult for clients to stay still during the session. Most reputable tattoo shops will refuse to work on clients who are visibly intoxicated.

A tattoo artist shared a story of a client who showed up clearly intoxicated and had to be turned away. The artist explained that alcohol thins the blood, which can lead to excessive bleeding and complications during the tattoo process. The experience was uncomfortable for both parties and wasted the artist’s time.

Clients should come to their appointments sober and ready to follow the artist’s guidance. This ensures that they remain steady, attentive, and able to handle the discomfort of tattooing.

Conclusion

Visiting a tattoo shop is an experience that demands respect, preparation, and adherence to proper etiquette. By avoiding common mistakes such as arriving unprepared, haggling over prices, bringing a large entourage, rushing the artist, neglecting aftercare, and showing up under the influence, clients can create a more positive and productive experience for themselves and the artists. Respecting these guidelines not only results in a high-quality tattoo but also fosters a respectful and trusting relationship with the artist. Tattoos are personal expressions of identity and art; treating the process with care and consideration ensures that this expression is preserved and cherished for a lifetime.

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