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Do You Need a Tattoo Consultation?
- Aimee Heckel
- Feb 5
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 8
If you're trying to book a tattoo online, you might be wondering: Should you book a tattoo consultation first? The answer depends on the tattoo you want. Not all tattoos need consultations.
First, what is a consultation?
A tattoo consultation is a short, relaxed conversation with one of our artists to make sure your tattoo idea is set up for success before any needles come out. At Solana Tattoo Company, consultations are always free, typically take about 20 minutes or less, and are all about clarity — on design, placement, timing, and expectations. A consultation can also lead to a more accurate price quote than an online price estimate.
Whether you’re coming in with a loose idea or something more complex, a consultation helps both you and the artist get on the same page.
You Need a Tattoo Consultation if:
You’re not 100 percent sure what you want yet. If you need help brainstorming ideas, refining a concept, choosing placement, or figuring out size and style, a consult gives you dedicated time with an artist to talk it through.
Your tattoo will require significant drawing time. Fully custom tattoos (or designs that need more than a few minor tweaks) benefit from a consultation so the artist can understand your vision and plan the artwork and stencil properly.
It’s a larger tattoo that’s hard to quote remotely. Bigger pieces can be difficult to accurately price via email or messages alone. Seeing the area in person helps the artist give a more realistic estimate.
The piece will require a large or complex stencil. Even if the design isn’t fully custom, tattoos like back pieces, full sleeves, or half sleeves often require extended stencil prep and careful planning.
All cover-ups. Cover-ups always require a consultation. This allows the artist to assess the existing tattoo, discuss what’s realistically possible, and design something that will work long-term.
Some reworks. Depending on the extent of the rework needed, a consultation may be required to ensure the artist can successfully rework the existing tattoo and that expectations are clear on both sides. If you're unsure, always email us!
You have a lot of questions. If what you need can’t be easily handled via email or a quick message, a consultation gives you face-to-face time to talk things through comfortably. We understand that you may be nervous or just need someone to talk things through with. No judgment here. Only support!
When You Don’t Need a Consultation
You usually don’t need a consultation for:
Smaller tattoos
Simple designs
Tattoos where you already have the final design, and it’s not especially large or complex
What to Expect During a Consultation
Consultations are casual, pressure-free, and focused. During your visit, you can expect to:
Talk through your idea, reference images, and inspiration. Bring as much info as you have for your artist (references, styles you like even if it's not the tattoo you want).
Discuss size, placement, and style
Go over what is realistic and achievable for your skin and existing tattoos (if any)
Get a rough price range and time estimate
Ask any questions you have about the process, healing, or scheduling
How to Book a Consultation
You can request a consultation:
As a walk-in, depending on the tattoo artist's availability
By appointment, which guarantees time with the artist you want, at the time you want
While walk-ins are welcome, appointments are the best option if you’re set on a specific artist or have a tight schedule.
On special occasions, we may also be able to arrange a virtual consultation, such as if you live far away or are traveling in from out of town.
Why Consultations Matter
A good consultation saves time, prevents miscommunication, and leads to better tattoos. It allows the artist to properly plan your piece and gives you peace of mind knowing exactly what to expect.
At Solana Tattoo Company, we see consultations as part of the creative process, not a hurdle. They’re there to make sure your tattoo experience is smooth, collaborative, and results in a piece you’ll love for years to come.
If you think your tattoo might need one, we’re always happy to help. Just reach out or stop by the shop.
