Understanding the Tattoo Appointment Process: Same-Day or Consultation First?

The process for getting a tattoo can vary greatly depending on the shop and the artist. Typically, there are two common scenarios: a same-day tattoo or a consultation first approach. Let's explore the nuances of each process and how it can affect your tattoo experience.

Same-Day Tattoo

In many tattoo shops, if you have a specific design in mind and have made an appointment, you can expect to get the tattoo done on the same day. This streamlined process involves discussing the design with the artist beforehand. Once both parties agree on the details, the tattooing can proceed. These experiences are ideal for those who have a clear idea of what they want and are comfortable moving forward right away. However, it's important to note that very large tattoos or intricate designs may require multiple sessions spread over time.

My Experience with Same-Day Tattoos

I have 16 tattoos, and in most cases, I have not required more than one session for any given design. This includes both small and medium-sized tattoos. The longest single session I've experienced was a total of 4.5 hours. This involved both discussing the design and actually getting the tattoo applied. One of my tattoos, a spiderweb on my hip, took about 2 hours, including a smoke break. Even my more intricate coverup on my wrist, which took around 3–4 hours, was accomplished within a single day. It's clear that for detailed designs, even same-day tattoos can be intense and lengthy.

Consultation First

In some cases, particularly for custom designs, the artist may need more time to work on the tattoo. This process often involves an initial consultation where you discuss your ideas and the artist sketches the design. After this, you might need to return for subsequent appointments to complete the tattoo. This approach allows for greater customization and ensures that both the artist and the client are fully satisfied with the final result.

Typical Scenario: Custom Design Consultation

If you are getting a custom tattoo, it is usually best to explain your design to the artist over the phone when scheduling your appointment. This enables the artist to prepare the design in advance, ensuring a smoother and more efficient process on the day of your appointment. Even for custom designs, same-day tattoos are possible, but the length of the session will depend on the complexity of the design.

How Different Are Tattoos?

The duration and intensity of the tattooing process can vary widely based on the individual experience and the complexity of the design. For example, I've had sessions that lasted up to 6.5 hours, sitting in the chair non-stop for both consultation and tattooing. These long sessions are not uncommon, especially for intricate designs. The coverup on my wrist was particularly challenging, requiring a total of 3–4 hours. Despite being generally pain-tolerant, this particular session was extremely painful, nearly inducing nausea due to the intensity of the pain.

Conclusion

Whether a tattoo can be completed on the same day or requires multiple sessions depends on the shop, the artist, and the complexity of the design. Same-day tattoos are common for simpler designs, while custom ones often require a consultation first and multiple visits. It's always best to communicate thoroughly with your artist to understand what to expect from your appointments. Remember, while the process can be challenging, the results are rewarding for those who have a clear vision for their tattoo.