Begin with the work you like
Look through a few pieces by the same artist. Notice the lines, the amount of black, the use of colour and how the image sits on the body. Choosing someone whose existing work you enjoy gives the conversation a useful starting point. You do not have to know the name of the style.
At The Chamber, each artist manages their own appointments. Our guide to the studio’s specialisations can help you choose. If you are still unsure, send the idea to the studio and ask who might be a good fit.
Five things that help us understand your idea
Describe the subject or feeling, the body placement, an approximate size in centimetres, whether you imagine colour or black ink, and dates that could work for you. If any of these are undecided, say so. A useful enquiry leaves room for discussion.
A few references can help. Tell the artist what attracts you to each one: perhaps the composition of one image and the atmosphere of another. References are a starting point for an original design. They do not need to become a shopping list of details to reproduce.
Flash or a custom project?
Flash means a design the artist has already drawn as a possible tattoo. Send a screenshot or a link and ask whether it is available, which placements could work and whether it needs adapting. An older post does not guarantee that the design is still available.
For a custom piece, describe what you want the tattoo to express and which examples of the artist’s work you like. The artist can explain how they develop a design and when you will discuss or see it. Drawing processes differ across the studio.
It is fine to talk about budget
If you have a budget in mind, mention it privately. The artist can assess a suitable scale, level of detail or approach for the project. Read how we discuss tattoo pricing for the questions worth asking before you book.
A message starts a conversation
An enquiry does not reserve an appointment. Agree the project, price arrangements and appointment details directly with your artist, including any deposit and cancellation terms they provide. If you are travelling to Berlin, wait for confirmation before arranging your trip.
If you like, mention how you found us: an artist’s work, a recommendation, a search, or a journal article. This is optional and helps us understand which information was useful to you.