10 Things Your Tattoo Artist Wants You To Know

Getting a tattoo is a personal decision but making life easier for your tattoo artist will only guarantee a smoother and more fun process. Here are ten things your tattoo artist wants you to know before sitting down in their chair.

1. They’re Not Mind-Readers

While the world artists make looks magical, they aren’t magicians. They can’t create an awesome design that you’re going to love until you communicate with them what you want. You’ll discuss the final design with them but make sure you have ideas ready when you walk in. Look at Instagram or portfolios before you go in for inspiration.

2. Be Prepared to Wait

If you’re walking into a studio for a tattoo be ready to wait. Even if an artist is available they still need time to set up and get ready. Artists need to set up and sterilize equipment and need time to create a design. If you don’t have time to wait around book an appointment ahead of time.

3. They Don’t Enjoy Nit-Picking Clients

Tattoo artists understand that a tattoo is personal, intimate, and permanent. But making multiple tiny changes is a sure way to irritate your artist. At the end of the day, you need to have faith in them. Once you go over the design and the details that are important to you trust them to do the rest.

4. Large Work Takes Time

TV shows and movies have created the untrue perception that any tattoo can be done in an hour. The reality is that large work, especially large tattoos will a high level of detail, will take many hours. They can even require multiple sessions. In addition to sitting under the needle for that long, it will require consultations for designing. If it requires multiple sessions expect to have to wait a few weeks in-between each session.

5. No Kids Allowed

Look, even the most well-behaved kid has no place in a tattoo shop. There is dangerous, sharp, and hazardous material there. Kids get bored, they get hungry, and they like attention. You’re going to be immobilized, distracted and in pain. In other words, you’re going to be in no position to take care of let alone want to take care of a kid.

6. Take Bathroom Breaks Ahead of Time

There’s nothing worse for an artist then getting into the groove and having a client ask for a bathroom break. Sometimes it’s an emergency and it can’t be avoided. But most of the time its simply because the client didn’t go before they sat down. So please, sure the bathroom before sitting down in the chair.

7. Don’t Expect An Exact Price

Toronto tattoo shops get countless people coming in asking for an exact price while only providing a vague description of what they want. General descriptions like “a sleeve” or “a dragon” do little for us. The price will depend on the size, the level of detail, the style, and the time it takes. We can’t give you’re a price based on general knowledge.

8. They Don’t Work Well Under Time-Constraints

The pressure of a time constraint is intense for anyone. For tattoo artists, it is the worst to be given a time limit by a client. Tattoos are works of art and while most artists work as efficiently and quickly as possible these things can’t be rushed. If you have to be somewhere at a certain time come back at another time when you’re less busy.

9. Don’t Pretend to Be A Master of Tattoos

There’s nothing worse for an artist than having a client thing they know everything about tattooing. Unless you’re a professional tattoo artist, and honestly not even then, don’t give advice. Your artist is a professional with experience and talent. No matter how many tattoos you have or how many documentaries you’ve watched we can bet your artist knows more. And if they really don’t then why are they tattooing you?

10. Don’t Haggle

Haggling has no place in a tattoo shop. Tattoo artists and studios have set prices that are based on the artists, the detail, the design, and the time it will take to complete. Give your artist your budget ahead of time so they can create a design within that. Leave the haggling for the flea market.

Contact us today to set up an appointment in our downtown Toronto tattoo shop.

 

Day of Tattoo Preparations

To make sure you have the most enjoyable time possible and the best quality work, be sure to follow these preparation tips. Being prepared on the day of getting your tattoo is extremely important.

Tip 1: Eat a big meal before

This will make sure you are energized, awake, and full. You don’t want your stomach growling and distracting your tattoo artist to you?

Tip 2: Drink lots of water

Your body gets put under stress when you’re getting a tattoo. Make sure it’s at full fighting power by staying hydrated.

Tip 3: Avoid alcohol

Alcohol acts as a blood thinner. It will also impact your ability to follow directs and make good judgment. Don’t wake up with both a hangover and a tattoo you regret. Don’t drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before getting inked.

Tip 4: Don’t take any painkillers

Painkillers like aspirin are actually blood thinners. Avoid taking them at least 48 hours before. Thinner blood means more bleeding during the process.

Tip 5: Pack snacks, water, and cash

If you’re getting a large tattoo expect to be there for a while. Pack snack and water to keep you going. Also remember to bring cash to tip your tattoo artist for their time and talent.

Tip 6: Wear comfortable clothing

You might want to look cute for your post-tattoo Instagram picture, but trust us, wear comfortable clothing. You’re going to be sitting for a while so you want to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible.

Tip 7: Stretch

Sitting in the same position for a long time will take its toll. Stretch before hand to get your body ready. Even the most comfortable position will start to hurt after holding it still for a long time.

Tip 8: Stay calm and relaxed

Staying calm and relaxed is extremely important. When you’re anxious, your tattoo artist is anxious. Not only will stress make your muscle tense up but you’ll begin to fidget. Bring along something to distract you from what’s going on, like a good or a game.

Tip 9: Set aside extra time

Not even the most experienced tattoo artist can tell you exactly when your tattoo will be finished. Always set aside more time than you think you’ll nee. You don’t want your tattoo to be rushed- trust us.

Tip 10: Bring along company

Most people love to bring along company for getting tattoos. Bring someone that will help distract you from the pain. Make sure they’re supportive, encouraging, and calm.

Make getting a new tattoo as simple as possible by following these day of preparation tips. Contact us today to book an appointment or talk.

 

 

 

 

7 Things to Have Ready Before Booking Your Next Tattoo Appointment

Before booking an appointment for your chosen Toronto tattoo shop, make sure you have these seven items considered and ready.

Design

If you’re doing a walk in appointment you should have a design already in mind. For larger pieces that you book in advance, you don’t need the final image ready for the consultation. You should have some ideas and inspiration for the tattoo artist, though.

Time

The best Toronto tattoo shops will have artists booking in advance. As you book your appointment be prepared to be flexible and be available for however long the artist thinks it will take.

Identification

You have to be 18 years old to get a tattoo done so have identification ready to show. Some places will let you get it done younger with parental permission but you’ll still need proof of ID.

Money

You get what you pay for when it comes to tattoos. Make sure you have the right amount of money ready when you go in to get inked.

Artist

When you book an appointment at your Toronto tattoo shop make sure you select the right artist for the job. Look at their portfolio and Instagram to make sure their work is good quality and fits your style.

Image

When you go in, whether it’s for a walk-in or a consultation, make sure you bring in an image of what you want. It’s always best to print it out and make it larger than you actually want the tattoo to be so the artist can work off of it.

Size and Placement

Your artist will be able to give you advice on size and placement but you should think about these things beforehand. Some places are more painful to get tattooed while size will affect the time and money it will cost.

Contact us today if you’re ready to book an appointment with one of our talented artists in our local Toronto tattoo shop.

 

 

 

Portrait Tattoos 101

A portrait tattoo is a great way to honor or remember someone you love. It can be a portrait of a family member, a pet or even a celebrity icon. This type of tattoo can be tricky though due to the level of detail and the realism. Before you sit down to get your new portrait tattoo inked consider the following.

Time

Portrait tattoos take a lot of time due to the level of detail and skill. Expect to spend between 4-10 hours in the chair. This time can go up though depending on the size, placement, and details.

Style

Most tattoos are done in the realism style, capturing the lifelike image from the photograph. However, recently people are getting portraits done in another style such as dotwork, cubism or watercolors. Consider if you want a colored portrait or black and gray as well.

Cost

Portrait tattoos can be costly due to the high level of details and skills needed to capture the realism. They can be pricey but you never want to go cheap on tattoos, especially not portrait ones.

Artist

Always, always, look through an artist’s portfolio. Make sure they have experience and skill in portrait tattoos. It’s a good idea to ask to see the original photo and compare it with the finished tattoo they completed.

Picture

An artist can only recreate a quality image if they’re given a quality image. Make sure to always print out the picture and make it larger than the tattoo size you want. Make sure the image isn’t blurry, pixilated or faded.

If you’re looking to get a portrait tattoo done check out our Toronto tattoo studio. We have many gifted artists that specialize in portrait tattoos.

 

 

10 Most Painful Places To Get A Tattoo

10 Most Painful Areas To Avoid Getting Tattooed

If you decide to get a tattoo just know that there is no way to escape pain. Getting any part of your body stabbed repeatedly with a needle is going to hurt. You can however determine how much pain you’ll feel based on where you get inked. To avoid extra pain avoid these ten spots.

1. Hands: Bones, ligaments, thin skin and tons of nerves. These are all the reasons why hand tattoos are some of the most painful. Not to mention, not having full use of you hands can be extremely difficult.
2. Feet: The tops of your feet are made up of bone and thin skin, which make for extreme pain. Always avoid the anklebone and if you’re determine to get a foot tat try going for the side of the feet where there is less bone and more muscle.
3. Elbow: The elbow is pure skin and bone, not to mention in order to get a tattoo to look right you’ll have to hold and bend your arm in an awkward position while it gets done.
4. Back of Knee: While there’s no bone here to cause pain the extremely thin skin that makes up this area will do it. It’s also not a commonly touched place so it’s even more sensitive.
5. Inner Arm: Your inner arm has really sensitive nerves that will react immediately to the needle. People describe getting tattooed in this area like a scratching burn- sounds pleasant.
6. Chest: Your chest is nearly all bone, which means you’ll feel the needle vibrating the entire time.
7. Sternum: Just like a chest tat, a sternum tattoo is painful due to the needle hitting bone. However, sternum tattoos are even worse as they extend lower towards the stomach, which sends the vibrations lower too.
8. Head: Your head has no muscle, sensitive skin and bleeds a lot which all makes for a painful experience. It also means that you’ll feel the needle vibrating through your skull the whole time.
9. Ribs: The ribs are probably the most painful spot. Even tattoo veterans avoid this area. The skin there is tight and thin. There’s also no muscle to cushion the needle. Expect the need for lots of breaks if you decide to go through with a rib piece.
10. Spine: Your spine is bone and nerves. What could possible be painful about that? To avoid the pain in this area try moving over a little on either side to hit the strong muscle that runs along side your spine instead of right on the bone.

Pain is unavoidable when it comes to tattoos but hopefully we can help you avoid a little bit of it by warning your away from these spots. If you really want a tattoo in any of these areas just be prepared for all that comes with it. Talk to your tattoo artist before hand to get their take on it and if you’re going to go for it then commit fully.

Before You Get A Tattoo Ask Your Artist These Questions

Tattoos are expensive, time intensive and not to mention, pretty damn permanent. To make sure you’re getting the best possible artist, image and work done, be sure to ask these questions before you get inked.

What are your qualifications?

Any artist that gets offended by this questions or skirts around it is not someone you should trust. Reputable tattoo artists are honest and proud to talk about their experience and skills.

Can I see your portfolio?

An artist’s work will always speak volumes so be sure to ask to see their portfolio. Make sure the work is actually theirs by reverse Google searching the images and reading online reviews and testimonials.

What styles are you specialized in and/or comfortable in?

Even the most experienced and skilled tattoo artists in the work aren’t specialized in every tattoo style- it’s just not possible. Make sure to ask them, and check their portfolio, to see what styles and techniques they’re comfortable in.

Do you and how do you sterilize your tattoo equipment?

A sterile, clean tattoo studio should be your main priority. Ask to see where and how they sterilize the equipment. Also make sure that they use proper disposal protocols and take all necessary hygienic methods such as using gloves and bags.

How long will it take?

There’s no set timeline for tattoo completion but an artist should be able to give you some idea of how long it will take after you have settled on a location, size and design. Make sure you have the patience, time and pain tolerance to commit to the general timeline you’re given-and don’t be surprised if it goes over a little.

What is your recommended aftercare protocol?

Proper aftercare is just as important as a quality artist. Aftercare keeps your body and tattoo healthy. Make sure you ask about aftercare before getting inked to make sure your tattoo will be in a location you can handle.

Never be afraid of asking too many or a stupid question. Good tattoo artists will be more than happy to take the time to reassure you. They want you to be just as confident as they are in their work. Make sure you pick a qualified artist that can bring your desired image to life.

Tattoos That Show Off Your Love of Winter

We’re inclined to believe that winter is the most magical time of the year. The cold might not always be enjoyable but the beautiful snow and fun holidays that come with it sure are. If you love winter as much as we do and want to get a tattoo to display that consider these ideas.

 

Holiday Symbols

No matter what holiday you celebrate there are an abundance of image ideas to display your love. Santa Clause, Christmas trees, menorahs, Stars of David and candles are all ideas to consider depending on your religion.

 

Winter Wildlife

Wildlife associated with the cold months is a great subtle way to show off your wintery love. Reindeer, cardinals or even wolves make for great images that can be done in multiple styles.

 

Snowy Scenery

Some wintery scenery is also a great-understated way to show your love. Snowy mountains, icy lakes or stunning trees are just a few ideas.

 

Holiday Movies

Holiday movies are iconic and can be special traditions for some people. A tattoo of your favorite line or character from a holiday movie is great way to show your love of the season.

 

Snowflake

No two snowflakes are alike which makes this winter symbol a great tattoo idea. The simple image can be done in every style and made to look as unique as you are.

 

Winter Activities

Sometimes the best thing about winter is the activities that come with it. Skiing, ice-skating, and snowboarding are just a few of the awesome activities that winter brings with it.

 

If winter is a magical time for you a tattoo is a cool way of showing that off. The season can hold special memories, feelings or traditions that deserve to be shown off all year round. Talk to a tattoo artist today about capturing that holiday cheer in ink.

 

Factors That Impact How Long A Tattoo Will Take

The biggest question on people’s mind when they start to consider getting a tattoo is, how long will it take? Tattoo artists get asked that all the time and the answer every time is “it all depends”. There are a number of different factors that impact how long it will take for your tattoo to be completed and we’ve covered them all here.

Complexity

       Simply put, the more complex the tattoo the more time under the needle. High levels of detail requires more time to get the right shading and shape necessary to make the image come to life- and look good! Last thing you want is a rushed tattoo job.

Style

            Certain styles take longer than others. Pointillism and realism portraits typically take longer than simple line work or minimalist ink. The color pallet of your tattoo also impacts the length. Black and grey ink is usually faster than color ink, which requires the ink to be layered multiple times to get the correct vibrancy.

Size

            Size is probably the biggest factor when it comes to determining how long your tattoo is going to take. Small tattoos clearly will take less time. Larger tattoos can take multiple sessions over weeks or years to complete.            

Artist

            The more comfortable and practice a tattoo artist has with a certain style, or in general, will impact their speed at inking. Check out their portfolio and be sure to ask them how long certain pieces took to get an idea.

After Care (For Multiple Sessions)

            If you decided to go with a large, multi-session piece it’s key to listen to your tattoo artist’s after care plan. The longer it takes for your skin to heal, the longer you have to wait in-between each session.

            There’s no magical timeline for tattoos but after you decide on the location, size and design of your tattoo your artist should be able to give you a best estimate on the time until completion. Book an appointment with one today to start planning!

 

How to Decide if Black & Grey or Color Tattoos Are Right For You

Getting a tattoo is a big deal. It’s a commitment that takes time, money and it’s there forever. A big decision people face when getting inked is deciding between black and grey tattoos or colored ones. There are pros and cons of both styles and to make your decision easier we’ve laid them all out for you.

Pros of Black and Grey Tattoos

Black and grey tattoos are the traditional colors of the art. The first two major benefits of black and grey tattoos are that they take less time to complete and cost less money. Black and grey tattoos will fade from sunlight, but the fading is much less pronounced than it is with colored tats. The neutral color palate means that your tattoo won’t be clashing with the color of the clothing you wear. The dark ink also shows up on every skin tone. Color ink has a hard time showing up and staying vibrant on dark skin, which is frustrating since so much time, money and effort went into the image.

Cons of Black and Grey Tattoos

It takes a skilled tattoo artist to make an image come to life through black and grey ink. It takes special skills and techniques to get shading, tone, shape, composition and texture to come across. You should never get a tattoo you’ll think you’ll regret but we’re only human. Sometimes we want to remove or cover existing ink. Unfortunately black ink is significantly harder to remove and it’s also harder to cover with newer tattoos. Make sure the design is really something you love so you don’t face this struggle down the line.

Pros of Colored Tattoos

 Colored tattoos are bright, bold and vibrant. A pro of colored ink is the increased possibility in terms of creativity. With the multiple tones, shades and color variations available it becomes a lot easier to make certain images seem more life like and real. Like we said above, sometimes at the end of the day certain tattoos are a mistake. Thank god for colored tattoos then. They are significantly easier to get removed and cover up (with the exception of blue ink). Color ink is also the preferred choice to cover up old or unwanted tattoos among artists.

Cons of Colored Tattoos

As striking as colored tattoos are, a definite downside of them is that colored ink doesn’t show up well on every skin tone. You should definitely talk to your artist and get their opinion on how well a colored tattoo will show up and stay on your skin. Listen to their opinion too- they are the professionals after all. There’s nothing worse than spending so much time and money on it only for it to disappear not long after. Color ink is also more prone to fading than black and grey tattoos. Colored tattoos also have cons when it comes to cost, time and pain. The process is more costly than black and grey tats due to the level of details and colors needed to make the image come to life. This is also why they cost more. Colored tattoos can also be more painful due to the irritations of repeatedly layering colors on skin.

Which to Chose?

There are definitely pros and cons to both black and grey and color tattoos. At the end of the day it comes down to personal preference. Always be sure to check out an artist’s portfolio to see if they specialize in certain colors so that you get the best work done possible.