Confirm the appointment details
Before the day, make sure you have the correct date, time and location. Check any instructions the artist has given you and ask about anything that remains unclear.
If the design, size or placement has changed since your first discussion, tell the artist in advance. A change may affect the preparation, session length or price, so it is better to discuss it before arriving.
Keep the booking conversation easy to find, and allow enough time to travel without having to rush.
Prepare your design references
Save a few clear reference images that show the subject, style or details you want. Explain what you like about each image rather than expecting the artist to know which elements matter most to you.
Know the approximate size and preferred placement if you have decided on them. If you are still unsure, make a note of your questions so you can discuss the options before the final design is approved.
For lettering, double-check names, dates, spelling, punctuation and any words in another language. For a cover-up, prepare clear photographs of the existing tattoo and explain what you hope to change.
Check the price and scope of the work
Ask for the price of your actual design and clarify what has been agreed. Size, detail, placement and the work required can affect the final quote.
Inking Tattoos has a general starting price of KSh 1,000 for tattoos. This is a starting point, not a fixed price for every design.
If you are considering a larger design, multiple pieces or a cover-up, confirm the plan and estimate before the appointment. Avoid assuming that a general starting price applies to a different amount of work.
Choose comfortable, practical clothing
Wear clean, comfortable clothing that allows access to the area being tattooed. Think about whether you can stay in the required position comfortably and whether the clothing can be moved without unnecessary friction against the tattoo area.
Consider privacy and coverage as well as access. If you are unsure what will work for your chosen placement, ask the artist ahead of time.
You may also want clothing that will be easy to wear on the journey home without rubbing against the newly tattooed area.
Look after your general comfort
Arrive rested, eat beforehand and drink water as you normally would. Leave enough time for the appointment and avoid planning a demanding commitment immediately afterwards.
Do not arrive under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs. Do not take extra medication or use a numbing product just to get through the session without checking whether it is suitable and discussing it in advance.
If you have a health concern, skin issue or question about medication, seek appropriate advice from a qualified healthcare professional before the appointment and share relevant information with the artist.
Ask about hygiene and the tattooing process
You should feel comfortable asking about the artist's hygiene practices, how equipment is handled and what steps are taken to maintain a clean working environment.
Observe the conditions when you arrive. If you have a serious concern about cleanliness, equipment handling or something that makes you feel unsafe, pause and ask for an explanation before proceeding.
You are allowed to ask questions before the tattoo starts. Do not feel pressured to continue while an important concern remains unresolved.
Know what happens before the first line
Allow time to review the design and placement before tattooing begins. Check the stencil carefully, including spelling, orientation, size and the position on your body.
Speak up if something differs from what you discussed or if you need clarification. Resolve the question before the session proceeds rather than assuming it will be corrected later.
Make sure you are comfortable with the agreed design and understand the next step before giving the go-ahead.
Plan for aftercare before you leave home
Ask what aftercare instructions you will receive and make sure you understand how to follow them. Your covering, cleaning routine and product guidance should be based on the instructions for your tattoo rather than guesswork.
Plan around swimming, prolonged soaking, friction and direct sun exposure while the tattoo heals. If you have work, sport or travel coming up, consider whether you will be able to care for the tattoo properly.
Know how to contact the artist if you need clarification. For symptoms such as worsening pain, spreading redness, unusual discharge, fever or feeling unwell, seek medical advice rather than relying only on routine aftercare guidance.
Checklist for the day
Before leaving, check that you have the booking details, design references and any information the artist asked you to bring. Confirm the location and allow enough travel time.
Make sure you have eaten, are rested and have practical clothing for the chosen placement. Leave room in your schedule for the session and the recovery period that follows.
Most importantly, arrive ready to ask questions. If the design, price, placement or conditions are not what you expected, discuss the issue before tattooing begins.
Booking with Inking Tattoos
Jay is based in Limuru. When contacting Inking Tattoos, share your design idea, approximate size and preferred placement so the details can be discussed before booking.
If you want to ask about a mobile session, include your location. Mobile availability depends on location and arrangement and is not guaranteed throughout Kenya.
Confirm the details directly before travelling, and keep the aftercare plan in mind when choosing your appointment date.