What To Expect.
THE FULL PATH, FROM START TO FINISH.
Whether this is your first tattoo or your fiftieth, heres what an experience at The Black Labyrinth looks like- from the first message to the finished piece.
Reach Out
Most custom works starts with a consult request, the best ways to book a consult is through the form here on our website, or calling our studio directly at 413-203-5700.
The Consult
We will talk through the idea together, what it means, where it is going, the specifics of design, and the process. No idea is too small or too big to bring to the consult table; we will tell you honestly what’s realistic for the piece you want.
Booking your session
To book your appointment, we require a deposit. The deposit is non-refundable, but it is not a separate cost- it gets applied directly to the final price of your completed tattoo. Click here for our full deposit policy.
Design Process
After booking, your artist will begin the design process. Our artists will have the designs ready for your first session. Feel free to send us as much, or as little reference as you like. Our artists are not typically able to send out designs in advance, but please feel free to ask at your consultation.
Tattoo Day
Bring a valid ID, and dress comfortably with access the area being tattooed.. The front desk will check you in, and your artist will walk you through the design, before any tattooing begins. If there are small changes that need to be done to the design, we will be able to do them on the spot. If it is a major change; we will treat the appointment as a second consult and reschedule for another day. The tattoo is going to be there for a while, we should make it perfect!
The Tattoo Process
Before the first dip of ink, your artist will do a little prep work. This includes cleaning, and shaving the area to be tattooed. We will also get your approval on placement and size- take your time here, this the chance to make any adjustments before the design is permanent. A good artist wont rush you through this process.
Once we begin, communication shouldn’t stop. If you need a break, a drink, or a moment to adjust let us know. If something isn’t comfortable, we have plenty of chairs, and bolsters to help.
Some artists prefer to work with headphones, some love to chat, but either way we will check in throughout the process to make sure that you are comfortable and everything feels right.
Your comfort matters here, in every sense of the word. If your tattoo is in a more private area, we can adjust our space accordingly, and provide you with whatever coverings you may need. Your artist will always ask consent before they adjust anything, not only with the design, but with the process as well.
Consent doesn’t stop at the release form, its ongoing, and at any point you are allowed to change your mind, or stop the session for any reason. Click here to read about whats normal for the tattoo process.
Aftercare
When the tattoo is completed, we will bandage you up, and walk you through healing your new tattoo properly- and what to expect over the next few weeks. Click here for full aftercare instructions. If something looks off during healing, or you have a question, reach out. We are here during the healing process as well.
