There’s more to getting a tattoo or piercing than sitting in the chair and walking out with something shiny or inked. The artist may be the one holding the needle, but the client plays a huge role in shaping the entire experience—from the moment they walk in the door to the final healing stage.

While most professional studios set clear expectations around hygiene, preparation, and aftercare, there’s a whole world of tattoo shop and piercing shop etiquette that isn’t always spelled out—but can make all the difference in how your appointment goes.

Whether you’re planning a large piece or popping in for a new piercing, here’s how to be a client your artist appreciates working with—and how that respect often leads to the best possible outcome.

1. Show Up Clean and On Time

This sounds obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing: hygiene matters. Your artist is going to be in close proximity to your skin, potentially for hours. Taking a shower beforehand, wearing clean clothes, and avoiding heavy perfumes or lotions is basic respect.

Also, time is valuable—especially in busy studios. Whether you’re coming in for a consultation, a session, or a walk in tattoo or walk in piercing, arriving a few minutes early sets the tone and gives you a chance to fill out forms or relax without rushing.

2. Eat Something First—Seriously

Both tattoos and piercings can cause your body to burn through energy. Showing up on an empty stomach increases your chance of feeling faint, nauseous, or dizzy.

Having a light meal about an hour beforehand stabilizes your blood sugar and helps you stay calm and alert. Bonus points for staying hydrated throughout the day.

3. Silence Is Golden (Sometimes)

Every artist has a different approach to conversation during the appointment. Some love chatting. Others focus best in silence. It’s perfectly fine to ask, “Do you prefer to talk or zone in while working?”—then follow their lead.

If you’re bringing a friend, make sure they understand this dynamic, too. Loud side conversations, speakerphone calls, or constant commentary can be distracting and disrespectful in a tattoo shop or piercing shop setting.

4. Don’t Haggle Over Price

The cost of tattoos and piercings isn’t just about the ink or jewelry—it reflects years of skill, sterilization procedures, studio overhead, and the time involved in designing and executing the work.

If you have a strict budget, it’s okay to ask upfront what your options are. But haggling over price like it’s a flea market or comparing one artist’s rate to another’s mid-conversation isn’t the move.

Respect the quote, and if it’s out of range, consider scheduling something smaller or saving for a future session.

5. Know What You Want, but Stay Flexible

Clear direction helps your artist plan their time and materials efficiently. If you’re getting a tattoo, bring reference images and have an idea of style, placement, and size. For piercings, know what area you’re interested in—even if you’re open to professional suggestions.

That said, flexibility is key. The artist may recommend size adjustments, slightly different placement, or changes based on anatomy. What looks good in a photo might not translate well to your skin or structure—and their goal is always to make it work long-term, not just for a photo.

6. Trust the Process, Not the Pinterest Board

Inspiration is great—but your artist isn’t a copy machine.

Avoid asking for exact replicas of other people’s tattoos or piercings. Instead, use reference images as a style guide. Be open to your artist’s interpretation, especially if you’re working with someone whose portfolio you already admire.

Great body art balances your vision with the artist’s experience—and that often means letting go of rigid expectations.

7. Avoid Movement Unless Directed

During a tattoo, staying still is essential—even during long sessions. Shifting suddenly, twisting your body, or trying to watch what’s happening can lead to uneven lines or accidental injury.

For piercings, following breathing cues and remaining calm makes the process smoother. Don’t flinch, pull away, or tense up unless you’ve been told to reposition.

It’s okay to ask for breaks, but try to communicate before reacting physically.

8. Tipping Is Not Required—But Always Appreciated

Tipping may not be mandatory, but it’s a common practice in both tattoo and piercing communities, especially in studios where artists set their own rates or work on commission.

The standard ranges from 15–25% of the service cost, depending on the complexity, time, and overall experience. If tipping in cash isn’t possible, some studios allow you to add it digitally or bring it during a follow-up visit.

Even a small tip paired with a kind word shows appreciation—and builds a strong relationship with your artist for future work.

9. Respect the Healing Process

Aftercare is a continuation of the appointment—and your responsibility. Following instructions carefully, keeping the area clean, and resisting the urge to pick or change jewelry early are all part of being a respectful client.

If something seems off during healing, reach out with questions rather than making assumptions or attempting DIY solutions.

Studios like Iris Tattoo & Piercings Miami value clients who take healing seriously—it’s a shared effort that reflects on both sides.

10. Don’t Surprise Your Artist with an Audience

Most studios are totally fine with a friend tagging along—but don’t bring a group. Space is often limited, and too many people can disrupt the working environment or make other clients uncomfortable.

Always ask beforehand if someone can come with you, especially if you’re nervous. Keep in mind that not all procedures are ideal for spectators.

Final Thoughts: Etiquette Is a Two-Way Street

Respecting your artist’s time, space, and skill isn’t just polite—it improves your results. When you come in prepared, open-minded, and cooperative, the session flows better, the work comes out cleaner, and the overall vibe stays positive.

Remember, a tattoo or piercing appointment isn’t a transaction—it’s a collaboration. And great collaborations always begin with mutual respect.

Whether it’s your first session or your fifteenth, treating your time in the studio with care sets the tone for the art you carry out with you. Because in the end, how you show up matters just as much as the ink or metal you leave with.