Choosing a Tattoo Style Before the Design

Separate the subject from the style

If you are choosing a tattoo style, start by naming what you want the tattoo to show. A rose is a subject. Fine lines, bold outlines and soft black and grey shading are different ways to draw it. Looking at the subject and the style separately makes it easier to explain what you like, even when your references look very different.

A realistic portrait tattoo might draw your eye because of its expression and shading. A geometric tattoo might appeal because of its symmetry or repeating shapes. Look at where the detail is concentrated, how much open space the design leaves and whether colour is important to the effect you want.

See how placement shapes the design

Think about the tattoo on the body as well as on the page. A forearm piece can follow a long shape, while a full sleeve has to work from several angles as the arm turns. If you already have tattoos nearby, show them to your artist and explain whether you want the new work to connect with them or read as a separate piece.

Compare the Jesus portrait on the forearm with the Archangel and Virgin Mary sleeve in Tisi’s portfolio. Both use black and grey shading, but the forearm piece focuses attention on a single area while the sleeve connects several subjects around the arm.

Turn your references into a short brief

Choose two or three examples and write down one detail you like in each. Add your subject, preferred placement and any elements you want to keep or leave out. If you like two styles, explain what draws you to each and ask the artist how those elements could work together. You can also ask to see healed examples where available.

Explore the LondonInk Tattoo portfolio for more examples. Then use our tattoo consultation guide to prepare your brief or send Tisi your idea when you are ready to discuss it.