THE PLANNING STUDIO
A practical first-tattoo planning checklist
Turn your idea into a clear artist conversation: references, placement, size, budget and the details you still need to decide.
Separate the idea from the finished drawing
Write down the subject, meaning and elements you want to avoid. Choose a few references for mood or line style; use artwork you own or have permission to preview. Ask the artist to develop an original design.
Compare two placements
Use a clear photo and the same artwork to compare the two areas. Save both previews and note what you like about each. The preview is a composition aid; it does not predict healing, pain or the final tattoo.
Prepare the conversation
Bring approximate dimensions, availability and a comfortable budget range. Ask about their design process, studio minimum, deposit and whether the detail works at your chosen size. Let your artist assess skin, safety and the final stencil.
See the idea on your own photo
Move, resize and rotate your artwork. Save a placement preview to discuss with your artist.
Open the free placement editor ↗