Tattoo Consultations Explained
A consultation is the conversation before the tattoo — where you and your artist agree on the design, size, placement and price before any needle touches skin. It is also your chance to decide whether this is the right artist for you.
What a consultation is for
The consultation turns your idea into a concrete plan. You will talk through the design, where it will go, how big it should be and roughly what it will cost, and the artist will tell you honestly what will and won’t work on the body.
What to bring
Bring reference images of what you like (and what you don’t), a rough idea of placement and size, and any questions you have. Photos of your own skin or the area to be tattooed can help. You do not need a polished design — bringing a clear direction is enough.
Questions to ask your artist
Good questions include: do you regularly work in this style; can I see healed examples; how many sessions will this take; what is the likely total cost and the deposit; and what aftercare do you recommend? Our guide on how to choose a tattoo artist goes deeper on what good answers look like.
What the artist will ask you
Expect questions about placement, size, your budget, any skin conditions or allergies, and whether you already have tattoos. Being open helps them plan the work properly.
Deposits and booking
Most studios take a deposit to book your slot. It usually comes off the final price and is often non-refundable if you cancel late or miss the appointment. Our tattoo prices guide explains how deposits and pricing fit together.
Design approval and changes
The artist will prepare a design or stencil, sometimes only on the day. Once the stencil is on your skin you can check the size and position — speak up then if anything feels off. Small tweaks are normal, but a complete redesign on the day is not always possible, so raise any big concerns early.
Preparing for the session
Once it is booked, prepare as you would for any tattoo: rest, eat beforehand and avoid alcohol — our first tattoo guide has the full checklist. Afterwards, follow your aftercare advice carefully.
A good consultation leaves you clear on the design, the plan, the cost and the timeline — and confident in your artist.
Frequently asked questions
Are tattoo consultations free?
Many studios offer a free consultation, but some charge a small fee or take a booking deposit, particularly for larger pieces. Check when you get in touch so you know what to expect.
What should I bring to a consultation?
Bring reference images of what you like and dislike, a rough idea of placement and size, and any questions. Photos of the area to be tattooed can help. You do not need a finished design — that is the artist's job.
What questions should I ask a tattoo artist?
Useful questions include whether they regularly work in your style, whether you can see healed examples, how many sessions it will take, the likely total cost and deposit, and what aftercare they recommend.
How long does a consultation take?
Not long — usually just enough time to talk through your design, placement, size and budget and to sort the booking. Some are a quick in-person chat or message exchange; others run longer if the piece is complex.
Do I pay a deposit at the consultation?
Often, yes. A deposit usually secures your appointment and comes off the final price on the day. It is commonly non-refundable if you cancel late or miss the slot, so check the studio's policy first.