A tattoo consultation is just a conversation. There's no pressure, no commitment, and no needles. It's a chance for you and your artist to get on the same page before any work begins — and it's always free at Phantom Avenue.
Before You Come In
Think about your idea as concretely as you can. You don't need a finished design — that's what we're here for — but the more specific you can be, the better. Consider:
- Where on your body you want the tattoo
- Approximate size (bring a reference if you have one)
- Style — realistic, traditional, fine line, blackwork, illustrative
- Any reference images from Instagram, Pinterest, or photos you've saved
You don't need all of these. But even a rough sense of size and placement helps us give you an honest time and cost estimate.
What Happens During the Consultation
You'll meet with the artist who best fits your style. They'll look at your reference material, ask questions about your vision, and give their professional read on what will work best on skin — not just on paper.
They may suggest adjustments. A design that works beautifully as a drawing sometimes needs to be simplified for tattooing. Fine details that look sharp as a reference image can blur once healed on skin. Your artist's job is to translate your vision into something that ages well, not just something that looks good day one.
How Pricing Comes Up
Cost is part of every consultation, and it should be — you deserve a real number before committing. At Phantom Avenue the studio minimum is $125, mid-size custom pieces typically run $200–$600, and large projects are priced at a day rate. Your artist will give you a firm quote once they've seen your reference, size, and placement. If you're working within a budget, say so: a good artist would rather design something excellent at a smaller size than stretch a budget thin. The full breakdown is in our guide to what tattoos cost in Edmonton.
Deposits and Booking
If you're ready to book after the consultation, a deposit secures your appointment and gets the custom design process started. Deposits go toward the total cost of the tattoo.
Custom design work begins after the deposit is placed. You'll see the design before your appointment — never the day of, never as a surprise. If revisions are needed, we work through them before you're in the chair.
How Far Ahead Should You Book?
For small or simple work, we often have openings within one to two weeks. Custom designs — especially with our more in-demand artists — are usually booked four to eight weeks out, and large multi-session projects can run further. The consultation itself is easy to get: book online, call, or walk in. The earlier you start the conversation, the more choice you have in dates and artists.
Preparing for the Appointment Itself
Once your session is booked, preparation is simple: eat a proper meal one to two hours before, stay hydrated, skip alcohol for the 24 hours prior, and wear clothing that gives easy access to the tattoo area. Sleep well the night before — rested skin takes ink better and you'll sit more comfortably. That's it. Your artist handles everything else.
After the Consultation
Here's the sequence once you've placed a deposit: your artist drafts the custom design, you review it before appointment day, revisions get worked through together, and then you come in for the session. At the end of your appointment you'll get aftercare instructions in person — the expanded version lives in our aftercare guide whenever you need a refresher.
Walk-Ins Are Welcome
Not every tattoo needs a consultation. If you have a simple, well-defined idea — a classic symbol, a meaningful date, or a small flash piece — walk-ins are welcome during studio hours (daily, 12pm–8pm). Check availability at the front desk when you arrive.