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 tattoo time required
- Schedule tattoo appointments
At the end of the consultation, your Artist will require a deposit to book your tattoo appointment(s) and secure the appointment time. The deposit gets carried forward to your last appointment date and will go towards the cost of the tattoo.
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 allowing for background 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: 7–12 hours
- Inner Bicep: 4–8 hours
- Hand: 3–5 hours
Timing depends on scale, detail, and style
LEG TATTOOS
- Calf (ankle to knee): 6–8 hours
- Lower Leg Full Wrap: Approx 20 hours
- Thigh: Typically two sessions around 5 hours each
- Leg sleeve: 50-60 hours
SCRIPT TATTOOS
- Small script tattoos typically
take around 30 minutes to an hour
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 require additional sessions. Day sits are usually 4-5 hours of tattoo time.These are estimates, and consultations are usually recommended to discuss in detail timing with your Artist.
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 shirt
Sleeves: muscle shirt
Leg tattoos: shorts
Female hips or ribs: bathing suit
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 the healing process
- Follow your artist’s aftercare instructions
QUESTIONS?
Please refer to our FAQ section for more information about:
- Tattoo healing
- Aftercare
- Deposits
- Appointment policies
