How do I prepare for the day of my session?

On the day of your session, arrive rested, well fed, and wearing clothing suited to the area you're having tattooed. On site, your artist will have you fill out a consent form before starting. These few simple precautions help you have a more comfortable session, especially if it runs several hours.

Before you leave

A few simple habits help you get through the session more comfortably, especially if it's a long one.

• Eat a full meal before coming, and avoid alcohol the night before: your body handles the session better on a full stomach.
• Get a good night's sleep, tiredness makes pain harder to handle.
• Stay hydrated, before and during the session if it runs several hours.
• Plan clothing suited to the tattooed area: easy to remove or adjust, in a fabric you don't mind getting marked.
• Bring something to keep you occupied if the session is long: music, a book, or just something to help you settle in comfortably.

On site

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 starts, you'll need to fill out a health questionnaire and sign a consent form, required at every new session. See Why do I need to sign a consent form before the session? to know exactly what this involves.

During the session

Don't hesitate to tell your artist if you need a break, if a position becomes uncomfortable, or if you feel unusual discomfort. It's also normal to feel pain, it varies a lot depending on the area tattooed: it's better to mention it to your artist, who may be able to offer adjustments, than to keep it to yourself.

At the end of the session

Once the tattoo is finished, your artist will explain the aftercare instructions to follow and collect the remaining balance. See How do I take care of my tattoo while it heals? for what comes next.

Unsure before your session

If something is on your mind before the day (pain, duration, preparation specific to your project), contact your artist directly: they know the details of your service and can reassure you or point you in the right direction.