Getting a tattoo involves more than just sitting in a chair while an artist works on your skin. Understanding the full tattoo process helps you prepare mentally and physically for your session. From choosing a design to proper aftercare, each step plays a vital role in creating body art that lasts a lifetime.
This article walks you through the complete tattoo process—from initial preparation to healing—so you know exactly what to expect when you visit a tattoo studio like Hyper Inkers in San Antonio.
The Process of Getting a Tattoo
The tattoo process follows a specific sequence to ensure safety, comfort, and quality results. Here’s what happens when you decide to get inked:
Researching and Choosing a Tattoo Design
The first step begins long before you enter a studio. Take time to research designs that resonate with you. Consider the meaning behind potential tattoos, their placement on your body, and how they might age over time.
Clients often gather inspiration from art books, photographs, cultural symbols, or personal drawings. Some designs require simple linework, while others demand intricate detail and color. The complexity of your design affects both tattooing time and the level of expertise required.
At Hyperinkers, we recommend selecting something meaningful that you’ll appreciate for years to come. Certain designs work better in specific locations due to skin texture, muscle movement, and visibility.
Find the Right Artist To Do Your Tattoo
Choosing the right tattoo artist is just as important as selecting your design. Each artist has unique specialties—such as traditional, neo-traditional, realism, watercolor, or blackwork.
Research potential artists by:
- Reviewing portfolios for quality and style consistency
- Reading client reviews and testimonials
- Evaluating studio cleanliness and safety practices
- Confirming licensing and certifications
At Hyperinkers, our artists bring over 15 years of experience and have won more than 20 world convention awards. We specialize in various styles, including portraits, black and gray work, traditional designs, and cosmetic tattoos. When you find an artist whose style matches your vision, schedule a consultation to discuss your ideas.
Schedule Your Tattoo Appointment
Once you’ve chosen your artist, you’ll need to:
- Pay a deposit to secure your spot
- Complete any required health and consent forms
- Follow pre-session instructions provided by the studio
Popular artists often book out weeks or months in advance, especially for large or complex pieces. If you’re planning your tattoo for a special occasion, be sure to schedule early.
At Hyperinkers, we’ll discuss your timeline and walk you through everything you need to know beforehand.
Discussing the Design and Size of Your Tattoo
On the day of your appointment, your artist will review your artwork and make any last-minute changes. This step includes:
- Confirming the design details
- Deciding the size of the tattoo
- Choosing exact placement on your body
- Selecting color options (if applicable)
Your artist will create a stencil to act as a blueprint. You’ll see the design on your body before the tattoo begins. Take your time and request changes if needed—this is your last chance to make adjustments.
Your Artist Will Sterilize Equipment and Prepare the Workspace
Safety comes first in professional tattooing. Before starting, your artist will:
- Wash their hands and wear fresh gloves
- Sterilize all equipment with an autoclave
- Use new, sterile needles and ink caps
- Prepare the work area with sanitary barriers
At Hyperinkers, we exceed industry sanitation standards. All tools that touch your skin are single-use or properly sterilized. Observing this step ensures your safety and reflects the studio’s professionalism.
Your Skin Will Be Prepped for the Stencil
Next, your artist will prepare the skin by:
- Cleaning the area with antibacterial soap
- Shaving the area (if necessary)
- Applying stencil transfer solution
- Placing the stencil and confirming placement
Take a moment to check how the stencil looks from different angles. Once approved, the artist will press the stencil securely as a guide.
Your Artist Will Complete the Outline
The tattoo process begins with the outline:
- The artist dips the needle into black ink
- Traces the stencil lines
- Wipes away excess ink and blood
- Checks in with you about pain and comfort
Outlining can feel like a constant scratching or stinging. Pain levels vary depending on the body location—areas with less fat or near bone typically feel more intense.
Your Artist Will Add Shading And Color
After the outline, your artist will:
- Use different needles for shading and depth
- Add colors if included in the design
- Build texture and contrast for dimension
This stage can feel different from outlining—sometimes more tolerable, other times more intense. For large tattoos, this step may be spread across multiple sessions.
You’ll Get Wrapped Up and Sent Home With Aftercare Instructions
Once finished, your artist will:
- Clean the tattooed area
- Apply an antibacterial ointment
- Cover it with a medical-grade bandage
- Give you detailed aftercare instructions
Hyperinkers uses high-quality bandages that protect your tattoo while allowing it to breathe. Proper aftercare is vital for healing and preserving your tattoo’s detail and color.
Your aftercare instructions will include:
- When and how to remove the initial bandage
- Proper cleaning procedures
- Moisturizing recommendations
- Activities to avoid during healing
- Signs of complications to watch for
Pay close attention to these instructions—they significantly impact how well your tattoo heals.
Take Great Care of Your Tattoo
During the 2–4 week healing period:
- Clean the area with mild, fragrance-free soap
- Apply the recommended lotion or ointment
- Avoid direct sunlight, pools, and soaking
- Don’t pick at any scabs
Think of your tattoo as a controlled wound—it requires care and attention to heal well and retain vibrant color and sharp lines.
How long does tattoo process take?
The duration depends on:
- Tattoo size (a small symbol might take 30 minutes, large pieces may require multiple 3–8 hour sessions)
- Design complexity (detailed, shaded designs take longer)
- Body location (sensitive or intricate areas take more time)
- Artist’s technique (some work fast, others are methodical)
At Hyperinkers, we provide time estimates during your consultation, helping you plan appropriately. We prioritize quality over speed.
Effective Ways to Reduce Pain During the Tattoo Process
While some discomfort is unavoidable, you can manage pain by:
- Getting a good night’s sleep before your appointment
- Staying hydrated for 24–48 hours beforehand
- Eating a healthy meal 1–2 hours before your session
- Wearing comfortable, loose clothing
- Using numbing creams (with your artist’s approval)
- Practicing slow, deep breathing
- Bringing music or podcasts for distraction
- Avoiding alcohol for at least 24 hours beforehand
- Communicating with your artist if you need breaks
At Hyperinkers, our artists prioritize your comfort and adjust their approach as needed.
Getting a tattoo is a deeply personal experience that turns your vision into lasting body art. Understanding each step—from selecting a design to following aftercare—helps you approach the process with confidence.
At Hyperinkers in San Antonio, our award-winning artists deliver top-tier tattooing with a focus on safety, artistry, and personalized care. With over 15 years of experience and a commitment to client satisfaction, we’re here to help you create a tattoo you’ll be proud of for life.
Ready to start your tattoo journey? Call Hyperinkers at (210) 997-9737 to book a consultation with an artist who understands both the craft and meaning behind every design.
