sara phillips

At Bone & Blossom Tattoo Studio, we’ve heard it all. From the client who mixed up a dragon and a dolphin, to the one who wanted “that guy from that show” without remembering the name, unclear or unusual tattoo requests are part of the job. While some of these stories make us laugh, they also highlight something important: how artists and clients can work together to bring a vision to life—even when that vision starts out a little fuzzy.

When stepping into the world of tattooing—whether as an artist or a client—you’ll often hear about rent-based studios and commission-based studios. Understanding the difference can help artists choose the right work environment and help clients understand how their favorite shops operate behind the scenes.

January is here—bringing fresh energy, big goals, and the perfect excuse to finally commit to that tattoo you’ve been dreaming about. Whether you’re planning a meaningful custom piece or mapping out a full sleeve, this is the ideal time to get ahead of the game.