How to Get a Tattoo in 2025

Getting a tattoo is exciting, but if you’ve never done it before, it can feel a little intimidating. Where do you start? How do you choose the right artist? What should you expect during the session? If these questions are swirling in your mind, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting a tattoo in 2025, from research to aftercare, and how Venue makes the process easier.

What You Should Know Before Getting a Tattoo

Before you sit in the chair, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Pain is part of the process – Some areas hurt more than others. Ribs, hands, and feet? Brutal. Outer thighs? Surprisingly tolerable. If you’re unsure, ask your artist beforehand to be mentally prepared.
Healing takes time – Expect scabbing, itching, and peeling for a couple of weeks.
Deposits are required – If you’re not ready to pay a deposit, you’re not ready to book.
Safety first – A professional artist follows strict safety protocols—clean tools, fresh gloves, and proper sterilization. If anything seems off, walk away.
Finding the right artist takes time. Every artist has a specialty, so make sure their style fits your vision. Check healed work, read booking policies, and don’t rush the process. If an artist clearly communicates their process and booking system, that’s a good sign they take their business seriously.

Process of Getting a Tattoo

Here’s what to expect from start to finish:

1. Tattoo Research

Tattoos stay with you longer than most friendships, jobs, or apartments, so getting a tattoo deserves a little thought. Not the overthinking kind—the kind that makes sure it fits, lasts, and doesn’t turn into something you’ll want to laser off in five years.

Start with style and placement. Some spots fade fast. Others stretch. Some make a simple design look incredible, while others swallow detail whole.
Bring references, but let the artist do their thing. They won’t copy someone else’s work, and the best ones won’t let you walk out with something that doesn’t suit you.
Make sure the design fits your body. A tattoo should work with the lines of your body, not against them. A bad placement can make even the best design look off.
Color ages. Black and gray settle in and stay sharp. Bright colors can fade, depending on how much sun you get and whether you ever remember sunscreen.
Be aware of cultural significance. Some symbols have deeper meanings, so it’s worth looking into their history before committing.

2. Choosing a Tattoo Artist

A tattoo artist is part illustrator, part surgeon, part mind reader. They take an idea from your head, put it on your skin, and make sure it stays there. You’re trusting them with permanence—so it’s worth finding someone who knows what they’re doing. The right one makes the process seamless. The wrong one makes you wish lasers were cheaper. And while skill matters, the best artist for you isn’t just the one with the best linework. It’s the one who communicates clearly, respects your time, and takes their work (and hygiene) seriously.

Check their portfolio like it’s a dating app. You’re looking for someone whose style clicks with yours. No amount of talent can make an artist who specializes in American Traditional give you the perfect fine-line floral.
Read reviews, but read between the lines. Great work doesn’t always mean a smooth experience. Look for signs of professionalism—responsive, clean studio, good bedside manner.
Ask questions before you book. How do they handle deposits? What kind of ink do they use? What’s their aftercare protocol? If an artist gets annoyed by questions, that’s your answer.
Visit the studio if you can. It should be cleaner than a doctor’s office. No sketchy setups, no questionable practices. If the vibes are off, trust your gut.
Communication matters. Some artists are brilliant but impossible to reach. That’s why more artists are using Venue—it keeps everything in one place, so there’s no lost DMs or confusing payment requests. If tattoo artist is on Venue, you know they take their business (and your time) seriously.

You can also browse through our Artist Stories to find artists whose work and approach resonate with you. While Venue isn’t a discovery platform (yet), we’ve interviewed many tattoo artists using Venue—sharing their style, process, and what makes them stand out. It’s a great way to get a feel for who you’d want to work with before reaching out.

3. Booking an Appointment

Tattoo artists don’t work like barbers or nail techs. You don’t just walk in, pick something off a menu, and get inked on the spot. Booking a tattoo is more like getting into a speakeasy—there’s a process, unspoken rules, and if you don’t follow them, you’re not getting through the door.

Read the artist’s booking info carefully—it’s often on their Venue profile or pinned on Instagram.
Deposits vary: apprentices ($25–$50), experienced artists ($100–$200+).
Many artists work in private studios—don’t expect an address until your request is accepted.
Artists won’t take every request. Make sure your idea aligns with their style.
Venue simplifies booking—no more messy DMs, unclear deposit policies, or scheduling headaches.
Be flexible with scheduling—popular artists may be booked months in advance.
Discuss any medical conditions, allergies, or skin sensitivities with your artist before booking.

Communication with artists can sometimes be tricky. Many tattoo artists are creative geniuses but not always the most organized when it comes to scheduling and client management. Venue Ink helps tattoo artists streamline their bookings, making the entire experience smoother for both of you.

4. Tattoo Session Preparation

A tattoo session goes smoother when you’re ready for it. Your artist will do the hard part, but what you do before the appointment makes a difference.

Follow your artist’s instructions. If they’ve given you pre-care steps, take them seriously. They know what helps the process go smoothly.
Keep your skin in good shape. Stay hydrated, moisturize in the days leading up to your appointment, and avoid anything that might irritate your skin.
Eat a solid meal. A long session on an empty stomach is an easy way to feel dizzy or lightheaded.
Wear the right clothes. Pick something comfortable that gives your artist easy access to the area being tattooed. Layers help if you’ll be sitting for a while.
Get real sleep. A rested body handles pain better, which makes things easier for both you and your artist.

5. The Tattooing Process

You walk in with blank skin. You walk out with something permanent. In between, there’s a lot of buzzing, a little discomfort, and a process that every artist has fine-tuned in their own way.

Your artist will clean the area and apply a stencil. Take a look and speak up now if you want adjustments. Once the needle starts, there’s no erasing.
The tattooing begins. Expect a buzzing sound and a scratchy sensation. Some spots are easier than others, but pain is part of the deal.
Sessions can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours. Bring music, a podcast, or something to zone out to if you’re in for a long sit.
Breathe normally and stay relaxed. Tensing up makes it worse. If you need a break, say so—your artist would rather pause than deal with someone squirming.
Let your artist focus. They don’t need a play-by-play of how much it hurts or a rundown of every tattoo horror story you’ve heard.

Sit still, trust the process, and before you know it, you’ll be wrapped up and on your way.

6. What are the Next Steps After Getting a Tattoo?

our skin just went through something serious. Now it’s up to you to take care of it.

Your artist will apply a protective covering. Keep it on for as long as they recommend. It’s there for a reason.
Follow aftercare instructions. Wash with mild, fragrance-free soap, avoid soaking it in water, and don’t pick at scabs.
Healing takes 2–4 weeks. Some flaking and itching is normal. Messing with it isn’t.
Stay away from swimming, sun exposure, and heavy sweating for at least two weeks. If you wouldn’t rub an open wound in it, don’t expose your tattoo to it.
If something looks off—excessive redness, pus, fever—talk to a professional. Bad aftercare can ruin a tattoo, and infections aren’t worth the risk.

A fresh tattoo needs time to settle in. Take care of it, and it’ll heal clean and sharp.

Where Can You Get a Tattoo?

Tattoo studios come in all shapes and sizes. Some are full-service shops with a buzzing energy, walk-in flash days, and artists covering every style you can think of. Others are private studios—one artist, a quieter space, and a more personal experience. Neither is better. It just depends on what you’re looking for.

What matters most is finding an artist who’s skilled, professional, and easy to work with. That last part is where things can get tricky. Some artists run their business like a well-oiled machine. Others—brilliant as they are with ink—aren’t exactly known for their scheduling skills.

While it’s not a discovery app (yet), artists who use Venue Ink are serious about keeping things organized. No lost DMs, no guessing about deposits, no wondering if your appointment is actually locked in. Once you’re booked, you’ll have everything in one place—including appointment details, reminders, and an easy way to stay in touch for touch-ups or future work.

Where you get tattooed is your call, but working with an artist who keeps their business together makes the whole experience smoother.

So where do you actually find the right artist?

Instagram – This is where most tattoo artists showcase their portfolios. Search by hashtags (e.g., #finelinetattoo, #blackworktattoo, #NYCtattooartist) or check out who’s tagged in posts from people with tattoos you love.
TikTok – More artists are using TikTok to show their work, healing process, and behind-the-scenes clips. It’s a good way to see how an artist engages with their clients.
Local tattoo studios – Even if a shop doesn’t have the artist you’re looking for, they often host guest artists or can recommend someone who matches your style.
Word of mouth – If you see a tattoo you like in real life, ask where they got it. Most people with good tattoos are happy to share.
Tattoo conventions – If you want to explore different styles and meet artists in person before booking, conventions are the place to do it. Many artists take walk-ups or book appointments months in advance.

How to book a tattoo using the Venue app

You’ve found your artist, locked in your design, and now it’s time to book. Venue makes the process clear, organized, and stress-free—no lost DMs, no guessing about deposits, no last-minute scheduling chaos.

Confirm your artist uses Venue. Not all artists do, but the ones who do take their business seriously and make booking easier for you.
Secure your spot. Your artist will send you a booking link with deposit details and scheduling options. No need to download anything—just follow their process.
Keep everything in one place. Your appointment details, deposit info, and any communication with your artist stay accessible, so there’s no confusion.
Get reminders and updates. Venue helps you stay on top of your session, so you’re always prepared—whether it’s your first tattoo or your tenth.
Stay connected for touch-ups. Need a follow-up session or planning your next piece? Venue makes it easy to keep in touch without scrolling through old messages.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Tattoo in 2025?

Getting inked is as personal as it is pricey. In 2025, tattoo costs vary based on a few key factors:

Size, Style, and Artist Expertise

Size: A simple design might cost a couple hundred dollars, while larger, full-coverage pieces can run into the thousands.
Style: Minimalist line work is generally more affordable than intricate, detailed, or color-rich designs.
Expertise: Top-tier artists charge premium rates for their skill and reputation.

Hourly vs. Fixed Pricing

Hourly Rates: Many artists charge by the hour—ideal for custom or detailed work. Rates vary by artist and location, so it’s wise to ask for an estimated time and cost upfront.
Fixed Pricing: Some offer a flat fee for a specific design, giving you a clear total cost from the start.

Deposits and Extra Costs

Deposits: Most tattoo bookings require a deposit to secure your spot. This shows commitment and covers part of the cost, ensuring your artist reserves their time for you.
Additional Fees: Touch-ups, design tweaks, or consultation fees could add to the final bill – so always get a full rundown before you ink up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Getting a Tattoo

A little planning keeps you from ending up with something that fades too fast, heals badly, or makes you wonder what you were thinking.

Choosing the Wrong Placement

Some areas fade faster (fingers, palms) or stretch (stomach, ribs).
Consider your lifestyle—do you need to keep it hidden for work?
Bony areas hurt more. If pain is a concern, maybe don’t start with your ribs.

Choosing the Wrong Tattoo Artist

Cheap tattoos are expensive when you have to fix them later.
Always check portfolios, hygiene standards, and reviews.
If an artist refuses to show a healed version of their work, consider that a red flag.

Ignoring the Aftercare Steps

A fresh tattoo is an open wound. Treat it like one.
Stick to your artist’s instructions—don’t play dermatologist with random products.
Picking scabs ruins tattoos. If you can’t resist, maybe start with a temporary one.

No Skin Preparation Before the Session

Dry or irritated skin can affect how ink settles.
Moisturize and stay hydrated before your appointment.
Avoid tanning, sunburns, or excessive shaving before your session.

Ready to book? Make it easy on yourself (and your artist)

A good tattoo lasts forever. The process of getting one shouldn’t feel like it does.

If you’re booking, come prepared. Find the right artist, read their policies, send a clear inquiry, and respect their time. If you’re tattooing, make it easy for your clients to do all of that—because the less time you spend chasing deposits and sorting through DMs, the more time you have for the work that actually matters.

A smooth booking process benefits everyone. Venue helps with that, but so does common sense, clear communication, and working with people who take their craft seriously.

Find the right artist. Book the appointment. Get the tattoo. No stress, no confusion—just good work that lasts.

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