A clear first message reduces unnecessary back-and-forth. You do not need to know how to draw: written ideas, references and examples of what you do not want can all help.
Seven details to send for a tattoo enquiry
- Subject or idea: a character, flower, portrait, memory, mood or purely visual direction.
- Body placement: include the left or right side where relevant, such as the inner left forearm or outer right calf.
- Approximate size: dimensions in centimetres are most useful. A clear photograph with a ruler may help show scale.
- References: explain whether you like the composition, lines, contrast, colours or atmosphere. References communicate taste; they are not a request to copy another tattoo.
- Preferred style or artist: it is fine if you have not chosen. The studio can compare your direction with the current portfolios.
- Budget range: this helps discuss practical scale and detail, although an arrangement can only be confirmed after the full brief is reviewed.
- Available dates: several dates or time windows are more useful than asking only for the next opening.
What affects a tattoo quote?
Tattoo pricing is not determined by surface size alone. Placement, detail density, black and grey or colour, composition changes, expected session time and whether the work may need more than one sitting can all affect the arrangement. A design that looks small on a phone screen may need more space on the body for the lines to remain clear.
A responsible quote therefore begins with placement, approximate dimensions and visual direction. Trois Tattoo Studio confirms the quote or estimate, deposit and appointment date on WhatsApp after reviewing the enquiry. Material changes to the agreed concept, placement or size may require a new assessment.
Which Trois artist should I contact?
HIM · Black & grey
Black and grey, figurative imagery, realism and larger compositions shaped by contrast and body flow.
View HIM’s portfolio ↗LC · Anime & colour
Colour, anime and character-led work built around silhouette, movement and colour relationships.
View LC’s portfolio ↗Allison · Fine line & florals
Fine lines, florals and lighter compositions that consider rhythm, proportion and negative space.
View Allison’s portfolio ↗These descriptions are starting points, not a substitute for viewing the work. If you are undecided, send your references, placement and size and ask for the closest portfolio direction.
What happens after the first message?
The first step is to establish whether the idea, artist, placement and scale are a workable match. The conversation can then cover the likely session arrangement, quote or estimate, deposit and available date. Before paying, check the artist, direction, placement, size and booking terms recorded in the conversation.
For the appointment, follow the instructions sent with your confirmation. In general, arrive at the agreed time, eat and hydrate beforehand, wear clothing that gives practical access to the area, and avoid alcohol. Tell the studio in advance about relevant health, skin or medication matters, and never stop prescribed medication for a tattoo without qualified medical advice.
First consultation FAQ
Do I need to know how to draw?
No. A written description, reference images and examples of what you do not want can all be useful.
Can I ask only for a price?
You can ask, but placement, dimensions and a visual direction are needed before the request can be meaningfully assessed.
Will my reference be copied exactly?
References communicate taste and direction. The design should be considered for your individual brief, placement and the artist’s approach.
Can I enquire without choosing an artist?
Yes. Send the idea, placement, size and references and ask which existing portfolio is the closest match.