planning your tattoo

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Everything you need to plan your tattoo, from developing your idea and gathering reference images to choosing the right size and placement before you enquire.

A great tattoo starts with good planning. Whether you’ve got a finished design in mind or just a rough idea, taking a little time to think about your style, size, placement and reference images will help us create something you’ll love for years to come.

Step 1: What You Want to Get Done

Every great tattoo starts with an idea. Whether you’ve got a finished concept or just a rough theme, tell us as much as you can about what you’re looking for.

Reference images are incredibly helpful, and they don’t all have to be tattoos. Photos, artwork, colours, textures or anything that captures the look you’re aiming for can all help us understand your vision.

AI-generated images can also be a useful source of inspiration, but it’s worth remembering that they often create designs that aren’t possible to tattoo exactly as shown. Tiny details, impossible shading and unrealistic placements may need adapting so your tattoo works well on real skin and still looks great for years to come.

The more information you can provide, the easier it is to create a design that’s truly yours.

Step 2: Preferred Size

You don’t need exact measurements, but having a rough idea of the size helps us give accurate advice and pricing.

Rather than saying “small” or “medium”, try using measurements like 15–20cm, compare it to an A4 sheet, or take a photo of the area and mark roughly where you’d like the tattoo.

A little extra detail at this stage makes planning much easier.

Step 3: Preferred Placement

Placement is just as important as the design itself. Not every tattoo works well everywhere, and our bodies aren’t flat like a piece of paper.

If you’re considering a few different locations, let us know. We’ll happily explain the pros and cons of each area and help you choose a placement that complements both the design and the way your body moves.

Sometimes a small adjustment in placement can make a huge difference to the finished tattoo.

Step 4: Timeline Expectations

If you’re hoping to have your tattoo finished before a holiday, wedding, event or another important date, let us know as early as possible.

Larger pieces often require multiple sessions with healing time in between, so planning ahead helps make sure everything is completed comfortably and without unnecessary rushing.

Step 5: Style You Like

You don’t need to know the name of every tattoo style.

If you’ve saved tattoos you love on Instagram or Pinterest, send them over. Even if they’re by different artists, they’ll help build a picture of the style, mood and details you’re drawn to.

From there, we can take inspiration from what you like while creating something completely original that’s designed specifically for you.

Step 6: Ready to Enquire?

Once you’ve got your ideas together, you’re ready to send your enquiry.

Don’t worry if every detail isn’t completely final—that’s what the consultation process is for. The more information you can provide now, the smoother everything will be, and the sooner we can start creating a tattoo that’s uniquely yours.

We can’t wait to hear your ideas and help bring them to life.

Still Have Questions?

Hopefully this guide has helped you plan your tattoo and given you a better idea of the information that will help us create the best possible design. Remember, you don’t need to have every detail figured out before getting in touch – we’re always happy to offer advice and help refine your ideas.

You can also browse our Frequently Asked Questions or get in touch if you’d like personalised advice before starting your tattoo journey.

Custom tattoos designed around you.
Creating meaningful artwork with honesty,
creativity and attention to detail.

Contact Us

Last Horizon Tattoo 85 High Street
Polegate
BN26 6AE

Phone 01323 301411