How to Prepare for a Tattoo (Without Losing Your Mind)

So, you’ve got a tattoo booked. Could be your first. Could be your fiftieth. Could be the first session of a full traditional Japanese backpiece. Either way—nice one.

Here’s how I’d get ready if I were in your shoes.

Think of it like a marathon. Or maybe a 5K.

If you’re getting a small tatt, it’s a 5K. Big piece—like a full sleeve tattoo or chest panel? You’re running a full-blown marathon. Either way, prep matters.

Here’s the play-by-play.

1. Sleep in. Seriously.

Tattoo studios in Melbourne (mine included) don’t usually open until 10 or 11am. So treat yourself. Sleep in. No need to be up at the crack of dawn stretching like a UFC fighter. You’re about to sit very still and breathe deeply for a few hours. Big sleep = good session.

2. Dress for comfort, not the runway.

Trackies. Baggy tee. Hoodie. Sneakers you don’t mind kicking off. Anything loose that gives me access to the area we’re working on (bonus points if it’s black so ink stains won’t ruin your Sunday best).

Also: chuck your earbuds, phone, water bottle, and maybe a book in your bag. Just in case you want to zone out.

3. Hit Woolies. Stock up.

On your way in, stop at Woolies (yes, the supermarket). Grab some snacks—think muesli bars, Up & Go, protein balls, or whatever’s not going to get smooshed at the bottom of your tote.

No one wants a blood sugar crash mid-way through lining a panther.

4. Eat the best breakfast you can find.

Go to the nicest café near the studio. Order their top-tier brekkie. Full avo toast. Breakfast burrito. Big fancy plate of carbs and protein.

And yes—you do need to eat it.

Maybe grab a takeaway coffee too. If you’re caffeine-sensitive, a tea or decaf is fine. But having something in your system is a game-changer.

5. Arrive 3 minutes early. Or 3 minutes late.

This is the sweet spot. Early enough that you’re not sprinting in. Late enough that you’ve had your moment. If you're pacing outside the studio 20 minutes beforehand, that nervous energy can turn into tension. Keep it chill.

6. That’s it. You’re in. You’re doing it.

The prep is the hard part. Once you’re in the chair, you’re just breathing and vibing. Whether it’s a bold traditional sleeve, a neo-traditional thigh piece, or a giant eagle across your ribs—you’re doing the thing.

What about you? Got any pre-tattoo rituals?

Coffee in the same mug every session? Lucky socks? Let me know. Always keen to hear how people prep for big tattoos.

📍 Keen to book a large-scale traditional tattoo in Melbourne?

I specialise in bold, clean, American Traditional tattoos—backpieces, sleeves, chest panels and everything in between.
Click here to enquire or book a consultation.