What to Expect During Your Tattoo Consultation
- Jul 28
- 4 min read
Deciding on a new tattoo is exciting, but if you've never had a tattoo consultation before, you might not know what to expect. At Linden Street Tattoo in Old Town Fort Collins, we offer free tattoo consultations so you can meet with your artist, talk through your ideas, ask questions, and make sure everyone is on the same page before your appointment. Our consultations are relaxed, collaborative, and designed to help you feel confident moving forward with your tattoo.
Do I Need a Tattoo Consultation?
Not every tattoo requires a consultation. Smaller tattoos or simple designs can often be discussed through email, Instagram, or when you stop by the shop.
For larger or more detailed projects like sleeves, cover ups, back pieces, or custom designs, a consultation gives you and your artist time to plan everything before tattoo day.
What Happens During a Consultation?
Every consultation is a little different, but here's what you can expect.
Let's Talk About Your Tattoo Idea
Bring any reference photos, inspiration, or rough sketches you have. Even if your idea isn't completely figured out yet, that's okay. The more information you can bring, the better. Photos of tattoos you like, artwork, colors, or even examples of a style you love can all help your artist understand your vision.
Don't worry if your references aren't exact. They're simply a starting point that helps your artist understand what you're drawn to so they can create a tattoo that's uniquely yours.
We'll Go Over Style
Whether you're interested in American traditional, Japanese, fine line, black and grey, or something completely custom, your consultation is the perfect time to talk through your options and make sure you're matched with the artist who's the best fit for your project.
We'll Discuss Placement and Size
One of the most important parts of a tattoo consultation is deciding where your tattoo will go and what size will work best.
Your artist may recommend adjusting the size or placement so the design fits your body's natural shape, ages well, and allows the details to remain clear over time. We'll also discuss how the placement fits your lifestyle and any long-term tattoo plans you may have.
We'll Answer Your Questions
Never feel like you're asking too many questions.
Common questions include:
We're happy to walk you through everything!
We'll Discuss Pricing
Once your artist understands the project, they'll be able to provide a quote or estimated price range based on the size, placement, level of detail, and whether the tattoo will require multiple sessions. If you'd like to learn more about how tattoo pricing works, check out our guide on tattoo pricing.
If you have a budget in mind, let us know. We'll always do our best to recommend options that fit your goals and budget while creating a tattoo you'll be happy with.
We'll Schedule Your Appointment
If you're ready to move forward, we'll collect your retainer and schedule your tattoo appointment. If you'd like to take some time to think things over, that's completely okay too. Tattoos are permanent, and we want you to feel confident in your decision before booking.
How Should I Prepare for My Consultation?
You don't need to overthink it.
Helpful things to bring include:
Reference photos
Placement ideas
Approximate size
Color or black and grey preference
Questions you'd like answered
If you aren't sure about every detail yet, that's perfectly fine. That's what the consultation is for.
Are Tattoo Consultations Free?
Yes! Tattoo consultations at Linden Street Tattoo are free and typically take about 30 minutes.
If you can't make it into the shop, we're also happy to discuss many projects through email, Instagram or phone before scheduling.
Most consultations take about 30 minutes, although larger or more complex projects may take a little longer.
Ready to Start Your Tattoo?
Ready to book your free tattoo consultation in Fort Collins? Stop by Linden Street Tattoo in Old Town Fort Collins Tuesday through Saturday from 12 PM to 8 PM to schedule your free tattoo consultation or contact us to get started. We'd love to help create something you'll be proud to wear for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment for a tattoo consultation? Not always. Smaller tattoos can often be discussed through email, Instagram, or when you stop by the shop. Larger custom tattoos usually benefit from an in-person consultation.
Can I bring reference photos? Absolutely! Reference photos help your artist understand your style and preferences. They don't need to be exact.
How long does a tattoo consultation take? Most consultations last about 30 minutes, although larger or more detailed projects may take a little longer.
Can I schedule a consultation if I'm still deciding? Yes! You don't need every detail figured out before meeting with us. We'll help you refine your ideas and answer your questions.
