Conveying a Design to Your Tattoo Artist

Have you ever tried to guess what someone is thinking? That is exactly what it's like for your artist when a client is giving a vague description of their idea for their next tattoo. Specifically when the description includes " I want it to look beautiful," or "I want it to pop," beauty is a matter of opinion, or is in the eyes of the beholder. In other words, one person's idea of what is beautiful or visually appealing can and will vary from one person to the next. 

The best thing you can do is bring reference pictures that visually conveys what you consider to be beautiful or appealing. This way, the artist has a clearer understanding of what you're trying to describe and not guessing what is in your mind's eye, If we could read minds we wouldn't be tattooing for a living. Even better, if you're able to sketch the general layout of your design it can be helpful for the artist to gain the basic concept of your idea. 

Think of these simple guidelines toward your tattoo design and you're less likely to frustrate your artist. The last thing you want is a pissed off tattoo artist making permanent marks on your body, in return pissing you off because you didn't get what you were looking for in a tattoo. 

-Neckbone