2nd Face Guide · The tattooing process

The tattoo studio
and tattooing.

A professional tattoo starts with a clear discussion, continues with careful skin preparation and ends with a technique adapted to the design, anatomy and chosen style.

How does a tattoo session take place?

The process starts with consultation and design adaptation, followed by skin preparation, stencil application, line drawing, shading, colour and protecting the tattoo at the end.

ConsultationThe idea is analysed and adapted to the body.
PreparationThe area is cleaned and prepared for work.
ExecutionThe artist draws, shades and colours.
AftercareThe tattoo is protected and explained to the client.

A professional studio means more than equipment.

The artist's experience, hygiene, quality of materials and proper communication are the elements that turn an idea into a well-executed tattoo.

The first step

The consultation.The design must be adapted to the anatomy, style, and size of the area.

The artist analyses the model, positioning, size, level of detail and how the tattoo will evolve over time.

What the artist checks.

Each project is evaluated before starting the procedure.

DES
DesignClarity, proportions, and compatibility with the area.
SKIN
SkinTexture, sensitivity, and possible contraindications.
SIZE
SizeDetails must remain legible over time.
POS
PositioningThe composition is adapted to the body's movement.

Preparation before tattooing.

The work area is prepared so that the stencil can be applied correctly and the procedure can take place under controlled conditions.

01 · Hygiene

Cleaning the area

The skin is cleaned and the work surface is prepared with disposable materials.

02 · Hair

Removing hairs

If necessary, hair is removed with a disposable tool.

03 · Stencil

Design transfer

The design is applied to the skin to check position, size and symmetry.

04 · Confirmation

Client approval

Positioning is checked before starting the tattooing.

Technical stages of tattooing.

The order may vary depending on style, but the basic principles remain the same.

Step 1

Line drawing

Contours are made with controlled pressure, speed and depth.

Step 2

Shading

Volumes and transitions are built using techniques adapted to the style.

Step 3

Colour application

The pigment is introduced evenly, without overloading the skin.

Step 4

Final cleaning

The area is cleaned, checked and protected after finishing the work.

Hygiene · Consumables · Protection

Safety starts with the studio's protocol.

Sterile needles, disposable cartridges, protected surfaces and compliant materials are mandatory in a professional studio.

Sterile consumables Needles, cartridges, caps and contact materials must be disposable.
Protected surfaces Equipment and furniture are covered and disinfected between clients.
Compliant pigments Colours must be stored, labelled and used according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Technique varies from one style to another.

Realism, fine line, black and grey or traditional require different approaches.

Lines and structure.

Clean contours require stability, control and a steady hand speed.

Line thickness and needle configuration are chosen according to the design.

Shadows and volume.

Shadows are built progressively to create contrast, depth and natural transitions.

In realism and portraits, control of grey values is essential to preserve details.

Four criteria for a good studio.

Choosing the studio must be based on safety, experience and quality of work.

01

Portfolio

Analyse healed works, not just fresh photos.

02

Hygiene

Check the working protocol and materials used.

03

Communication

The artist must explain the process and design limitations.

04

Aftercare

Care instructions must be given clearly.

Not every design can be copied identically.

A design must be adapted to size, area and anatomy. Too small details or unsuitable positioning can affect the tattoo's legibility over time.

Frequently asked questions.

What happens at the tattoo consultation?

The idea, style, size, area, budget and possible technical limits of the design are discussed.

Should the area be shaved beforehand?

It is not recommended to shave at home. The artist will prepare the area if necessary.

What is a stencil?

It is the temporary transfer of the design onto the skin, used to check position and guide the tattooing.

How long does a session last?

Duration depends on size, style, area and level of detail.

Are new needles used for each client?

Yes. Needles or cartridges must be sterile and disposable.

Why does technique differ between artists?

Each artist has their own rhythm, movement and approach adapted to the style practiced.

What happens after finishing the tattoo?

The area is cleaned, protected and the client receives care instructions.

Useful information about tattoos.

Choose the artist and studio based on experience, hygiene and style of work.

Informative content, reviewed on The exact procedure may vary depending on the artist, style, design and the client's anatomy.

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