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From Sketch to Skin: The Creative Process of Our Tattoo Artists
- Aimee Heckel
- Aug 22
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 25
At Solana Tattoo Company, every tattoo is more than ink on skin. It’s a collaboration, a story, and a work of art.
In addition to hundreds of pre-drawn flash designs on our walls, our artists also take pride in creating pieces that are personal, which is why we love to do custom tattoos that Fort Collins clients can connect with on a meaningful level.
Let's walk step by step through the tattoo design process, because we want the experience to be just as memorable as the finished piece.
Creative Process of Our Tattoo Artists at Solana Tattoo Company, Fort Collins
Here’s a look at the process of our tattoo artists, from sketch to tattoo.
Step 1: The Initial Consultation
The experience begins with a tattoo consultation Fort Collins clients can count on for comfort, honesty, and creativity. This is where ideas, placement, and style all come together in conversation.
“Usually it starts with vibes! Whether it’s for a custom or a client, I usually like to get an idea of the feeling I’m trying to encompass through the tattoo. Some people want it to be badass, some people want a softer feel. All of that information helps me piece together my designs.” – Sabrina
This first step sets the tone for the design ahead, ensuring both artist and client are aligned.
Step 2: Concept Sketching
Once ideas are clear, the artist begins sketching. Depending on the project, this may mean hand-drawn sketches, digital renderings, or both. If it’s a simpler design or pre-drawn, the artist may skip sketching altogether and move straight to creating a stencil.
“I try to look at the art through someone else’s mindset and try to see what they’re seeing when they are attracted to a certain piece of art. I then try to build on this aspect to create something custom.” – Liv
For some artists, this stage is also about offering variety and pushing the design further so the client can choose from multiple versions.
“I like to try and exceed expectations. If a client sends a simple reference, a lot of times I’ll try to do at least two renditions: one that is based on what they want, and one that is more aesthetically and visually appealing. Sometimes people ‘want what they want,’ but I find that most of the time people will choose the more appealing rendering, and I get to do a better tattoo, and they get to have a better tattoo, and then they become a regular as well as send all their friends to me as well = win, win, win!” – EZ
Sketching is where ideas start to come alive, bridging the gap from sketch to tattoo.
Step 3: Revisions and Feedback
Tattooing is a collaboration, and clients are part of the process every step of the way. Artists refine sketches, adjust details, and reshape ideas so that the final design feels right for the client.
“When a client comes to me for an idea for a tattoo, I like to collaborate with them. It makes the process fun for me.” – Matt
This back-and-forth ensures the tattoo reflects both the client’s vision and the artist’s expertise.
Step 4: Finalizing the Design
Once a design is approved, it’s time to finalize details such as size, placement, and stencils. A stencil is always created unless the piece calls for the artist to freehand directly onto the skin with markers. This step is about precision — making sure the design fits the body and complements its natural flow.
Step 5: The Tattoo Session
The stencil (or freehand sketch) becomes the roadmap for the tattoo. Artists prepare their stations with sterile tools, ensure comfort, and focus fully on bringing the design to life.
Some of the tools used with your tattoo include:
Tattoo Machine and Power
Tattoo machine – Liner for outlines, shader for filling and shading
Power supply and foot pedal – Controls machine speed
Needles and Ink
Tattoo needles/cartridges – Various sizes for lines and shading
Ink and ink caps – Holds pigments for the session
Stencil and Design Tools
Stencil paper and solution – Transfers design to skin
Markers/pens – For freehand drawing or custom touches
Hygiene and Skin Prep
Gloves, disinfectants, razors – Keeps area clean and safe
Ointments and petroleum jelly – Lubricates skin and aids ink flow
Miscellaneous
Paper towels and spray bottles – Clean and hydrate skin
Chairs and armrests – Comfort and proper positioning for client
“I always like to consider where the tattoo is going on the body. I believe proper placement is key to a good tattoo and should accentuate the body. I think that is what can ‘make or break’ a good tattoo. Obviously this is based on a decent tattoo, and sometimes people just want the ‘sticker tattoos’ where size, shape, and placement don’t really matter, but that’s one of the things I think can make a good tattoo into a great tattoo.” – EZ
Every line, shade, and detail is handled with care to make the design permanent, beautiful, and lasting.
A Story in Silver: Anna’s Concho Tattoo
Some tattoos tell stories that go beyond ink; they carry pieces of people’s lives. Anna reached out to us with an idea: a tattoo honoring her three horses, Major, Taz, and Rocket. She envisioned three silver conchos, each placed down her spine between her shoulder blades.
She shared references, photos of her horses, and even the stories behind them. After booking with Igor, he created her designs the day of her appointment, adapting them to flow with her body. A few hours later, Anna walked out with a complete piece that she immediately shared on Instagram, thrilled with how it turned out.
For Igor and the rest of our team, it was an honor to bring her vision to life. Stories like Anna’s are what make our tattoo studio in Fort Collins such a special place for both artists and clients.
Want More Info About the Creative Process of Our Tattoo Artists?
At Solana Tattoo Company, every design is approached with care, intention, and artistry. Each Fort Collins tattoo artist on our team brings a unique perspective, guiding you through a creative process that ensures your tattoo feels personal, timeless, and beautifully executed. Discover the Creative Process of Our Tattoo Artists.
Ready to begin your own journey? Book a free tattoo consultation in Fort Collins with us here: solanatattoo.com/appointment.
Meet our tattoo artists here: solanatattoo.com/staff. And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/solanatattoo.
