What to Expect at Sundog Studios
Getting a tattoo is a collaborative process. Below is a step-by-step guide so you know exactly
what to expect from your first message to the finished artwork.
Submit Request → Consultation → Tattoo Appointment
1. SUBMIT A TATTOO REQUEST
Start by submitting a tattoo request through our website. Once received, your artist will review your idea and usually respond within about one week.
Your request should include:
- Placement on the body
- Approximate size
- Style or reference images
- Any important details about the design
This helps the artist understand your vision and prepare for the next step.
2. CONSULTATION
Consultations are typically scheduled a few weeks after your request is accepted.
Consultations usually last about 30 minutes and are free of charge.
During your consultation you will discuss:
- Tattoo size
- Placement
- Design direction
- Estimated time required
At the end of the consultation, your artist will require a deposit to book your tattooappointment.
PREPARING FOR YOUR TATTOO APPOINTMENT
FULL DAY SESSIONS
If you have booked a day session, tattoos typically start at 10am or 11am and may run untilaround 5pm.
During longer sessions:
- A 30-minute lunch break is not charged
- Short breaks are recommended every 5–10 minutes each hour to stretch and reset
- Your artist may occasionally ask for quiet time to focus while listening to music, a
podcast, or a show
Average Tattoo Timing
Tattoo time depends on size, detail, and placement. Below are common estimates.
ARM TATTOOS
- Inner Forearm: 4–6 hours
- Outer Forearm: 4–6 hours
- Outer Upper Arm: 8–12 hours
- Fine line: 7–10 hours
- Realism: 10–12 hours
- Inner Bicep: 4–8 hours
- Hand: 2–4 hours depending on style
LEG TATTOOS
- Side Calf (ankle to knee): 6–8 hours
- Lower Leg Full Wrap: Approx 20 hours
- Thigh: Typically two sessions around 5 hours each
SCRIPT TATTOOS
- Small script tattoos typically
take around 30 minutes.
SLEEVES
-
ARM SLEEVES
Fine line sleeve
~25 hours
Realism sleeve
~35–40 hours -
LEG SLEEVES
Realistic leg sleeves
~50–60 hours
-
ADDITIONAL SLEEVE WORK
Realism sleeves sometimes require extra sessions to:
- Connect transitions between sections
- Fill gaps between arm areas
- Add depth, contrast, and saturation
- Improve texture and realism
Scar cover-ups or tattoo cover-ups may also require additional sessions.
Most sessions include 4–5 hours of tattooing per visit.
How to Prepare for your Appointment
Before your tattoo:
- Get a good night's sleep
- Arrive on time (no need to arrive early)
- Avoid sunburn or excessive sun exposure
- Avoid alcohol for at least 2 days before your appointment
- Limit caffeine for a few days beforehand
These steps help your skin handle the tattoo process better.
What to Wear
Please wear clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area.
Recommended options:
Chest tattoos
Strapless top
Arm sleeves
Muscle shirt
Leg tattoos
Shorts
Ribs / hips
Bathing suit (recommended for comfort)
We suggest wearing black clothing so ink doesn't stain your clothes and it photographs well.
Aftercare & Long-Term Care
To keep your tattoo looking its best:
- Always apply mineral sunscreen when your tattoo is exposed to sun
- Protect your tattoo during healing
- Follow your artist’s aftercare instructions
QUESTIONS?
Please refer to our FAQ section for more information about:
- Tattoo healing
- Aftercare
- Deposits
- Appointment policies
