Your Tattoo Experience
From the First Idea to the Finished Piece.
You Have an Idea. Here’s Where to Begin.
Getting a custom tattoo starts with figuring out what you want to express and finding an artist whose work feels right to you. You don’t need a finished design before contacting Tattoo Saloon. A subject, a few reference photos, or a general direction is enough to start the conversation.
Kenny Waters works directly with you to explore the idea and develop original artwork. Whether you’re planning your first tattoo, adding to an existing collection, or considering a coverup, here’s what to think about as you get started.
Bring Your Inspiration
Reference photos and design ideas are welcome. They can help explain the subject you have in mind, the style you enjoy, or a detail you want included.
Before your consultation, consider:
- The subject: What would you like the tattoo to feature?
- The style: Are you drawn to realism, bold traditional artwork, fine line, or another approach?
- The placement: Where are you considering having it tattooed?
- The size: Do you picture a small, individual piece or something more substantial?
- The details: Is there anything that must be included—or anything you’d prefer to avoid?
You don’t need an answer to every question. These are starting points that help Kenny understand your preferences and give the conversation direction
Talk Through the Possibilities
The consultation is your opportunity to explain the idea, ask questions, and explore how it could work as a tattoo.
Size, placement, and detail influence one another. A design with several elements may need more room than you first imagined. The shape of the chosen area may suggest a different arrangement. Talking through those choices helps you understand the options before settling on a direction.
This is also a good time to discuss your budget and scheduling. Custom work varies, so call Kenny about your specific project rather than trying to judge the cost from someone else’s tattoo.
Other Services We Provide
Develop a Design That Fits You
Once the direction is established, Kenny develops custom artwork around the conversation. Your references help communicate what you like, while the design itself is original.
His range includes realism, black-and-gray, black-and-gray realism, traditional, neo-traditional, and fine line. If you’re unsure which approach suits your idea, examples from his work can help you describe the look you’re after.
Share your preferences clearly and ask about anything you don’t understand. The design conversation is the time to make sure the important details have been considered.
Thinking About a Coverup?
A coverup begins with a look at the tattoo you already have. Its size, color, darkness, and placement affect what can be achieved with a new design.
You may need to be open to a larger piece or a different composition than you initially pictured. Kenny can discuss how the existing tattoo influences the possibilities and whether your preferred direction is practical.
Call to arrange a consultation so he can assess the work and talk through your goals. Every coverup is individual, and the options depend on the tattoo being covered.
Your First Tattoo: A Few Things Worth Considering
Your first tattoo comes with decisions you may never have needed to make before. Give yourself time to consider the artwork, where you want it, and how visible you’d like it to be in everyday life.
Look closely at examples of Kenny’s work. Think about what you consistently like, rather than feeling you need to follow a particular trend. Ask questions about the appointment and what to expect while being tattooed.
Tattooing involves discomfort, and how it feels varies by person and placement. If that is one of your concerns, bring it into the conversation. Understanding the process can help you arrive better prepared.
Get Ready for Your Appointment
Tattoo Saloon offers appointments seven days a week, with all visits scheduled in advance. Call Kenny to arrange your visit and discuss any preparation specific to your tattoo.
A little planning makes the day easier:
Choose practical clothing.
Wear something that allows access to the area being tattooed and will be comfortable during the appointment.
Allow enough time.
Ask how much time to set aside, especially for a larger or more detailed piece.
Consider your calendar.
Upcoming swimming, beach trips, or activities that could rub against the tattoo may affect when you want to schedule it.
Confirm the details.
Ask about the expected cost, payment arrangements, and anything you need to bring.
Call if plans change.
Let Kenny know if you need to discuss rescheduling.
Care for Your New Artwork
Your tattoo experience continues after the appointment. Caring for the healing skin is part of protecting the work you’ve just received.
Follow the aftercare instructions provided for your tattoo, including guidance about the bandage, cleaning, and any recommended products. General care includes keeping the area clean, avoiding swimming and soaking while it heals, protecting it from direct sun, and leaving peeling skin or scabs alone.
If you’re unsure about an instruction, call the shop for clarification. If you suspect an infection or develop worsening redness, increasing pain, pus, or fever, seek medical care promptly.
[Designer: Have Kenny approve this section and confirm his bandage and product instructions before publication.]
Ready to Take the First Step?
Bring the idea you’ve been thinking about—or the questions that have been holding you back. A conversation with Kenny is the place to explore the possibilities and find out what comes next.
Appointments available seven days a week. All visits are by appointment only.