Knowing What You Want And How To Tell Your Artist So Everyone Wins

Published June 1, 2020
By Celebrity Ink

Knowing what you want for a tattoo is the first and often hardest step to take when you are getting a tattoo. There are many brilliant designs to draw inspiration from that have been created by outstanding artists across the globe.

One common problem you will need to navigate with your tattoo artist is explaining to them what you want, so they are able to translate it into a tattoo design you both like and you aren’t feeling uncomfortable during your session.

Tattoo artists are extremely passionate and knowledgeable when it comes to creating a great looking design, but they do need you to give them a clear starting point so they can capture exactly what you are looking for in your design.

5 tips to getting the tattoo you want from your artist

To help you with clearly communicating what you want to your tattoo artist, here are a few things you can do to make it easy for you both:

Research, research, research!

Have a look at the different types of designs you like and start creating a gallery that you can share with your tattoo artist. The more examples you can give the better!

Find examples.

If you are wanting to get a picture or piece of art done as a tattoo, get at least five hi-res images that show all the fine details, colours and features you want. Your tattoo artist will use this as a reference for your design.

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Teamwork makes the dream work!

Work collaboratively with your tattoo artist to create your design. Give them clear direction and feedback on the designs they create and get their advice and recommendations on how you can make your design better. There can be a bit of back forth with this, but at the end of the day you will have a tattoo you’ll love!

Be flexible with what you want.

Sometimes people will see a picture they think will look amazing as a tattoo, but it is simply not practical. Listen to your tattoo artist with what will work, they are a wealth of knowledge.

Think about the big picture.

If you’re looking to get more than one tattoo, consider a few different places for your tattoo and ask your tattoo artist what they think will work for this one and future tattoos.


Getting a tattoo is not a simple ‘off-the-shelf’ purchase, it is something that takes time, skill and experience to get it right. Our tattoo artists want every client they work with to walk away with a design they will love forever.

Being prepared, doing your research, and making the time to sit-down to speak with a tattoo artist about what you want is the best way to make sure you get what you want.

Already done your research and ready to talk to a tattoo artist about the design you want? Reach out to us here to make a booking and chat with one of our tattoo artists who can help you get the right piece.

Get your next tattoo at Celebrity Ink

The team at Celebrity Ink can provide you with not only a tattoo that tells your story but also detailed aftercare information that goes beyond the question of how long does a tattoo take to heal.

Our team sets standards in tattoo design while working alongside you to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re seeking traditional tattoos, realistic designs, mandalas, or any other, we have artists specialising in a range of tattoo styles that can provide you with the tattoo you have envisioned.

Book a consultation to discuss your tattoo design, get in contact with the crew at Celebrity Ink, and we will lock you in for your next ink session.
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