Straight answers to the things that stop people booking a tattoo — from the first idea to a healed tattoo. Each guide points you at real, credited work in the catalogue, and health guides quote dermatologists who specialise in tattoos.
What ornamental looks like
How fine line ages — the part to understand before booking
Fine line, micro-realism and small script soften first.
What does a tribal tattoo actually look like?
Blackwork tattoos: solid black, bold graphic shapes and negative space - who they suit, how they age, cost and how to spot good work.
What does a dotwork tattoo actually look like?
Why some tattoo placements hurt more than others - bone, nerves, thin skin, movement - ranked from least to most painful, with a pain map.
Which one fits what you're picturing?
Hands, fingers and feet see constant friction and sun, and fine detail there softens fastest — that's exactly why simpler linework tends to hold up better in those…
See 1 real fine line pattern & ornament tattoos on the shoulder →
Nine stages from a vague idea to a healed tattoo. Every guide ends with a link to the next step, so you can read them in order — or jump straight to where you are.
The worries people mention most — and where the honest answer is.
11 guides
10 guides
4 guides
6 guides
4 guides
4 guides
5 guides
1 guide
Health guides quote dermatologists who specialise in tattoos word for word. New to the words? See the tattoo glossary. How guides are written and corrected: editorial policy.