How do I describe my project to my artist?

Prepare a few key details before you book or attend your appointment: the body area, a rough idea of size, the style you want and, if possible, reference images. The faster your artist understands your project, the smoother the conversation and the closer the result to what you have in mind.

What to have in mind

You don't need a full brief, but these few points help your artist enormously in picturing your project.

• The body area: forearm, calf, back, ribs... some areas take more time or influence which style works best.
• The approximate size: an idea in centimeters, or a simple comparison ("about the size of a credit card," "the whole forearm").
• The style you're after: realistic, traditional, fine line, tribal, watercolor... if you don't know the name of the style, images are more than enough.
• Reference images: photos or drawings that show the mood you're going for, even if it's not exactly what you want.
• Your approximate budget, if you have one in mind: it helps the artist put together a realistic proposal.

How to share these details

Depending on the studio, you can share these details in your first message, or save them to discuss in person at the appointment. Some artists prefer an early preview before the session to prepare a drawing or a quote, others build the project together on the spot. Go with whatever your artist suggests.

A well-described project from the start avoids back-and-forth and misunderstandings. It also helps the artist estimate the session length more accurately, which directly affects the slot to book and the price quoted.

On the day of the session

Your artist will show you the final drawing or the stencil before starting, so you can confirm the exact placement on your skin together. This is the right moment to ask for a last adjustment, before the session begins. They'll also have you fill out and sign a consent form. See Why do I need to sign a consent form before the session?

If your project changes

It's normal for an idea to evolve between your first message and the day of the session. Tell your artist as soon as you change your mind about a detail: the sooner they know, the more easily they can adjust the drawing or, if needed, the length of the appointment.