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Tattoo Talk Guides

5 Things to Include in Your Tattoo Talk Request

October 19, 2026·By American Tattoo Society
Five things to include in your Tattoo Talk request: idea and style, placement, size, reference images, and studio and timing.

For your Tattoo Talk request, include your idea and style, exact placement, approximate size, useful reference images, and preferred studio and timing. These five details give us a clearer picture of the tattoo you have in mind.

1. What idea and style should I describe?

Start with what you want the tattoo to show and the look you are going for. Mention whether you want color or black and grey. If you are undecided, say so—you can still explain the subject and what appeals to you.

For example: “I’m thinking about a traditional-style eagle in black and grey.” You do not need to know every style name to start the conversation.

Describe your tattoo idea and style, including color, black and grey, or undecided.

2. How specific should I be about placement?

Go beyond “arm” or “leg.” Tell us the side of your body and whether you mean inner, outer, front, or back.

“Outer left forearm” gives us a clearer starting point than “arm.” If you are choosing between two spots, mention both. Still exploring placement? Read our first tattoo placement guide.

Specify your tattoo placement, including the side of the body and inner, outer, front, or back.

3. How do I describe the size I want?

Use a familiar item to show the size you have in mind, such as a business card or a sheet of computer paper.

Try: “About the size of a business card on my outer forearm.” Use the object to communicate the overall space you imagine the tattoo taking up. If you are flexible on size, include that too.

Compare your intended tattoo size with a business card or sheet of computer paper.

4. What reference images should I include?

Share useful inspiration and explain what you like about it: the subject, linework, overall shape, or use of color. References help communicate direction; they are not a promise to copy another artist’s work.

No references? Describe your idea in words. “I like the bold outline in the first image and the leaf shape in the second” is more useful than sending several images without context.

Share useful reference images and explain what you like, or describe your tattoo idea in words.

5. Which studio and timing details should I share?

Choose your preferred ATS location and tell us when you are available. Mention a preferred artist if you have one.

A note such as “Weekday evenings work best for me” gives us practical information for the conversation. Your requested timing is a preference; submitting a quote request does not confirm an appointment.

Choose your preferred ATS studio and share your availability and any preferred artist.

Quick answers before you send your request

Do I need a finished design to request a quote?

No. Start with your idea, placement, and approximate size. Add inspiration if you have it, or describe what you are thinking in words.

What if I do not know the style or color yet?

Say you are undecided and describe what you like. The form includes undecided and artist-led options.

Is a Tattoo Talk quote free?

Yes. Fill out the Tattoo Talk form to request your FREE quote.

Ready to talk about your tattoo?

First tattoo or 100th? Fill out a Tattoo Talk form and let us give you a FREE quote.

First tattoo or 100th? Fill out a Tattoo Talk form for a free quote.

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