Tattoo
Guide

The decision, idea, design, size, placement, choice of artist, execution and healing are not separate topics. They are parts of the same process. When one important question is skipped, the problem often appears only after the tattoo has already been made and is no longer easy to change. This guide helps you find the part of the process you need to understand better before moving forward.

Who is this guide for?

This guide is intended for:

  • people considering their first tattoo
  • people who already have an idea but do not know how to develop it
  • anyone choosing a tattoo artist or studio
  • people preparing for an appointment
  • people going through the basic healing process
  • people planning a larger tattoo or wanting to preserve space for a future project

How should you use this guide?

You can read it in order, from the first decision to a healed tattoo, or open only the section that matches the problem you are currently trying to solve. Each section leads to more detailed explanations of a specific topic.

What to consider before getting a tattoo

This section helps when you are not yet sure whether you genuinely want a tattoo, whether this is the right time, or whether you may have become too attached to the first image you liked.

  • making the decision
  • the meaning of a tattoo
  • the possibility of later regret
  • your first tattoo
  • tattoo visibility
  • questions worth asking before making a final decision

Finding your tattoo idea

This section helps when you want a tattoo but do not yet know how to turn a feeling, symbol or group of images into a clear idea that an artist can understand and develop.

  • the difference between an idea, motif, reference and design
  • collecting references
  • using AI images as inspiration
  • avoiding copies of other people’s tattoos
  • preparing to discuss the design

From idea to tattoo appointment

This section helps when you already have a direction but still need to coordinate the details that determine whether the tattoo will work well on the body and in practice.

  • tattoo size
  • choosing the placement on the body
  • tattoo style
  • price
  • the first enquiry
  • consultation
  • preparing for the appointment
  • pain during tattooing

Who is tattooing you?

This section helps when you need to distinguish an attractive profile from a genuinely good process and assess whether the artist and studio are right for your project.

  • choosing a tattoo artist
  • choosing a studio
  • reading a portfolio
  • healed work
  • hygiene and safety
  • communication
  • the most common warning signs

Healing and long-term results

This section helps when you want to know what is expected during basic healing, what to avoid and when a problem is no longer a question of aftercare but requires medical assessment.

  • basic aftercare
  • the healing process
  • when to contact the tattoo artist
  • when to seek medical assessment
  • protecting the tattoo
  • touch-ups
  • cover-ups and other options for later changes

Frequently asked questions about tattoos

This section helps when you have one specific question and need a quick initial answer before opening a more detailed guide.

  • the decision
  • the idea
  • choosing a tattoo artist
  • price
  • preparation
  • pain
  • safety
  • basic healing

Not sure where to begin?

If you are not yet sure whether you want a tattoo, begin with What to consider before getting a tattoo.

If you want a tattoo but do not yet have a clear idea, begin with Finding your tattoo idea.

If you already have an idea and are preparing to book an appointment, open From idea to tattoo appointment.

If you are looking for a tattoo artist or studio, read Who is tattooing you?

If your tattoo is currently healing, open Healing and long-term results.

If you have one specific question, the quickest starting point is Frequently asked questions about tattoos.

Think What You Ink

Think What You Ink is Žvaki’s original approach to thinking about a tattoo before it becomes permanent.

It is not a replacement for the general Tattoo Guide. The guide is intended for clients of all competent tattoo artists, while Think What You Ink connects the person, idea, design, size, placement and long-term result more deeply within one individual project.

The Magical World of Tattoo Art

The Magical World of Tattoo Art is a story that takes you through the Think What You Ink process. The original web version opened that world, and the film version was created for its tenth anniversary.

Open The Magical World of Tattoo Art

Health notice

This guide provides general information about tattooing and can help you identify questions worth asking before, during and after the procedure. It does not diagnose medical conditions and does not replace advice from a doctor, pharmacist or another appropriate healthcare professional when health concerns exist or symptoms are getting worse.

Related guides

Zoran Pocrnić – Žvaki, Anubis Tattoo / Osijek–Čepin