Preparation, communication, and trust — the foundation of every great tattoo.

Getting a tattoo isn’t just a spur-of-the-moment decision; it’s the start of a collaboration between artist and client. The more prepared you are before your session, the smoother the process and the better your final result. At Honor and Ink™, we believe that the tattoo experience begins long before the first line is drawn. Here’s how to make sure your tattoo session starts strong:

1. Define Your Why

Before you ever walk through the door, think about why you want this tattoo. Is it to honor someone? Mark a milestone? Or maybe it’s just something you’ve always wanted because it feels like you. Even if you are not sure of the “what” you want to get, knowing your “why” helps guide the design process and ensures your artist understands the story behind the ink to help you bring it to life.

2. Choose the Right Style

Each tattoo style has its own voice — from bold traditional lines to intricate realism or fine-line minimalism. At Honor and Ink, we specialize in traditional style tattoos — clean lines, bold color, and timeless imagery that stands the test of time. If you’re unsure what style fits your idea, bring references or examples, and we’ll help translate your vision into something that fits your skin and your

3. Placement Matters

Think about where you want your tattoo — visibility, size, and how the design flows with your body all matter. Your skin moves, stretches, and changes with time. A good artist doesn’t just create a cool image; they design something that lives well on the body.

We’ll work with you to choose a placement that highlights both the design and your anatomy.  We can even show you what it will look like on you first with the software we use.

4. Prepare Your Canvas (That’s You)

Before your session:

• Get a good night’s sleep.
• Eat a solid meal.
• Stay hydrated.
• Avoid alcohol or blood thinners.

Your skin is our canvas, and healthy skin helps us achieve clean lines, smooth shading, and even healing.  Lack of sleep can decrease your pain tollerance.

5. Communicate Openly

You don’t need to know all the terminology — that’s our job. But you should feel comfortable asking questions, expressing concerns, and being honest about what you want. We’ll take the time to walk you through every step: from design adjustments to what to expect during your session and how to care for your tattoo afterward. A good tattoo experience is built on communication and mutual respect.

6. Trust the Process

You’ve done your homework. You’ve chosen your artist. Now it’s time to let us perform our craft. Tattooing is an art built on skill, patience, and experience. When you trust your artist, you’re not just getting ink — you’re getting the benefit of years of training, discipline, and passion for the craft.

7. Know What to Expect Next

Once your consultation and design are locked in, we’ll confirm your appointment and send you a prep checklist. In our next post — Client Care: During Your Tattoo — we’ll walk you through what happens once you sit in the chair: How we maintain a safe, clean studio environment, use professional-grade equipment, and follow industry-standard protocols to ensure both your comfort and safety. Your tattoo journey is more than a single appointment — it’s a collaboration rooted in respect, communication, and trust. At Honor and Ink™, that’s where every great tattoo begins.