Planning a Tattoo: A Guide to Designs, Styles and Artists
Updated: Oct 31
Planning a tattoo starts with a few decisions: the design, the style, where you want it and which artist is the right fit. You do not need to arrive with every detail worked out. A clear starting point gives your artist something to build on.
Whether this is your first tattoo or your next large piece, this guide will help you organise your ideas and prepare for a consultation at Ink Collective 77 in Milton Keynes.
Start with your tattoo ideas
Save a small selection of reference images and note what appeals to you about each one. It might be the subject, the line work, the shading or the way a design fits the body. References help explain your taste; your artist can then develop a design that works for you.
Choose a tattoo style and artist
Look through artists' portfolios before choosing who to book with. Pay attention to examples of the style you want, such as realism, fine line, traditional, blackwork or colour. A strong match between your idea and the artist's work is more useful than choosing from a single photograph.
Think about whether you prefer black and grey or colour. Both can suit detailed work, and the right choice depends on the design and your personal taste. If you are undecided, bring examples of both to your consultation.
You can also ask to see healed work where available. Explain which details you like and what you would change, so your artist can understand the direction you have in mind.
Flash or a custom tattoo?
Flash designs are pre-drawn pieces offered by an artist. A custom tattoo is developed around your brief. Either can be a good choice; it depends on whether you have found a design you already love or want something created around a particular idea.
If you choose flash, ask the artist about available sizes, placement and whether any changes are possible. Confirm the price and availability before making plans, rather than assuming every flash design is available as a walk-in.
For a custom tattoo, share your references and explain the subject, approximate size and preferred placement. Be open to suggestions about composition and detail, while being clear about the parts of the idea that matter most to you.
Think about placement and size
Consider how the tattoo will sit on the area you have chosen, whether you want it visible day to day and whether it might become part of a larger piece later. Your artist can help you judge the scale, orientation and amount of detail that will fit the space.
Prepare for your tattoo consultation
Bring your references and a short explanation of what you want. Useful details include the subject, style, approximate size, placement and budget. If you are considering a cover-up, say so when you enquire and ask what photographs the artist needs to assess it.
Ask about the design process, the expected number of sessions, the quoted price and any deposit or booking terms. Discuss your preferred dates too. Getting these points clear before booking helps you plan both your time and your budget.
Plan your next tattoo at Ink Collective 77
You do not need a finished design to start a conversation. Bring the ideas you have, choose an artist whose work you enjoy and give yourself time to make a decision you feel comfortable with. Our team can help you take the next step.
Explore our tattoo artists, read about tattoo pricing or contact the studio to discuss your idea.
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