Watts.Your.Ink

Your tattoo journey begins

Tattoo Q&A

So, you've searched far and wide for the perfect idea — saving, screenshotting, and refining your vision until you're finally ready to take the next step. Whether it's your first tattoo or your fiftieth, it's completely normal to wonder what happens next. This guide walks you through the process and helps you feel confident and prepared for your session.

  • Depending on your design, we highly recommend booking a one-to-one consultation with your artist beforehand. This gives you the opportunity to ask any final questions, refine your ideas, and allows your artist to plan the design specifically for your body. Placement is key — a well-planned tattoo will flow naturally with your anatomy and feel like a part of you.

    Once your booking is confirmed, a non-refundable deposit is taken to secure your appointment, and your tattoo journey officially begins.

    In the lead-up to your appointment, it's important to take care of the area being tattooed. Please avoid sunburn, cuts, or bruising, as this may affect your skin and could result in your appointment needing to be rescheduled. If anything does happen, let your artist know as soon as possible.

    • Once your consent form is completed, your artist will present your design. This is the perfect time to make any final adjustments — whether it's sizing, placement, or small design tweaks. Never feel hesitant to speak up; we want you to feel completely confident and happy before we begin. This is your body, and your tattoo is something you'll carry with you forever.

      At the same time, you've chosen your artist for a reason — trust in their experience and guidance. Open, respectful communication is key on both sides, allowing us to work together to achieve the best possible result.

      Next comes the stencil — one of the most exciting parts of the process. The stencil can be repositioned easily, so you're welcome to explore different placements until it feels just right. Take your time to look in the mirror, move naturally, and see how the design sits with your body as it bends and stretches.

      • The first step is choosing the right artist for you. It's important to find someone whose work you genuinely love, but also someone you feel comfortable with. The atmosphere and connection you have with your artist can be just as important as the tattoo itself.

        Take the time to look through their portfolio — both healed and fresh work — and make sure their style aligns with what you're looking for. When you choose the right artist, you're not just getting a tattoo — you're creating an experience. One you'll enjoy, remember, and carry with you.

        • Preparation starts the day before your session. Think of it like preparing for a procedure — looking after your body will help ensure the best possible experience.

          On the day, keep drinking water and have a good breakfast 1–2 hours beforehand. You're welcome to bring snacks and drinks, especially for longer sessions.

          • —Get a good night's sleep
          • —Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours
          • —Stay well hydrated
          • —Eat a proper meal
        • It's one of the most common questions — and the honest answer is yes, all tattoos involve some level of discomfort. However, it's very manageable, and most clients find that once they settle in, it becomes much easier than expected.

          As your body adjusts, the sensation often becomes less intense, allowing you to relax into the experience. Whether you prefer to chat, listen to music, or bring a book, the time tends to pass more quickly than you'd think.

          Everyone copes differently, and whatever helps you feel comfortable is absolutely fine with us. The most important thing is to remain as still as possible during the tattoo. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, lightheaded, or need to move, just let your artist know — we're always happy to pause.

          • Looking after your new tattoo is just as important as the session itself. Read our full aftercare guide for exactly how to keep it clean, comfortable and healing beautifully.

            Once you're booked in, read the aftercare guide so you know exactly how to look after your new tattoo. No question is ever a silly one — if anything's on your mind, just ask.

            Ready when you are

            Let's make something permanent.

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