Tattoo Convention Etiquette

Heading to your first tattoo convention? Learn tattoo convention etiquette, how tattoo expos work, what to bring, getting tattooed at a convention, artist etiquette, and convention tips.

What Are Tattoo Conventions?

Tattoo conventions are a way for tattoo enthusiasts and tattoo artists alike to meet up and revel in the tattoo community and enjoy each other's interests in the art. It is an excellent opportunity for people to meet and interact with other enthusiasts, buy tattoo-related merch, and even get tattooed by their favorite artists on-site. It is also an excellent way for tattoo artists to network with fellow artists in the industry and learn from them.

The History of Tattoo Conventions

It's crazy to think that the first tattoo convention was hosted over 40 years ago! It's clear that Lyle Tuttle and Dave Yurkew had a vision for the world of tattooing, and their efforts to bring together artists from all over the country was a major milestone in the history of tattooing.

A combined total of 130 or so artists showed up with a couple of common objectives: to learn from other artists, see other artists' work and display their work as a means of advertising. It's amazing to think that they were able to bring together such a large number of talented artists in 1976, and it's clear that their contributions to the tattoo community are still appreciated today.

How Do Tattoo Expos Work?

• Keep in mind that the convention could be rescheduled.

• Get ready for the noise - Tattoo conventions are loud. There are generally hundreds, even thousands of people, alongside the loud music, people talking, and tattoo machines buzzing.

• Bring your own food - there will be food at the convention, but there will also be hundreds of people in line for the food.

Getting a Tattoo at a Convention

• If you plan on getting some ink, EAT AND HYDRATE BEFORE

• People will approach you as you get tattooed - because tattooing at a convention is public, people will stop and stare at you or talk to you as you get tattooed. Strangers will come and comment on your tattoo, or even comment on your appearance. On that note, Staring is rather rude, whether at a convention or elsewhere. While it is normal to be starstruck, we recommend saying hello, giving a brief compliment on the work, and moving on.

• Try to book a visiting artist in advance - It can be hard to get a tattoo at conventions since so many people want to do the same. So, to ensure you get in line, try booking a specific tattoo artist in advance.

Do You Pay for Tattoos at a Tattoo Convention?

• You're going to pay for a tattoo - possibly even more then you would at a shop.

• Do not rely on ATMs at the convention - Bring cash! Avoid lines at the ATM and high transaction fees.

Tattoo Artist and Vendor Etiquette

• Artists are often out of their element, from the quiet and comfort of their shops to a gathering with thousands of people constantly passing by, as well as working with hundreds of artists side by side. Here’s what to keep in mind when interacting with the artists:

• Do not hog an artist or vendor’s table. It may be a convention, but it is also a place of business. Standing in front of a table for long periods without buying anything or setting an appointment is rude.

• Do not haggle for prices because tattoo artists run a business like any other, and haggling is rude AF.

• Do not interrupt a tattoo session because it is very disrespectful to the client and the art. There is usually an artist placed at the station ready to take any inquiries you may have instead of interrupting someone else’s session.

• Do not distract the tattoo artist - once the tattooing has started, try not to distract your tattoo artist. They need full concentration to do their work.

Tips for Having a Great Tattoo Convention Experience

I hope you have a kickass time at the tattoo convention! Make sure to take plenty of pictures and tag the artists, shops, and vendors. Take your time and look around at all the amazing artworks. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and talk to the other attendees and artists. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy your time!

 

FAQ:

What are tattoo conventions?

Tattoo conventions are pretty much exactly what they sound like. They are events where tattoo artists and tattoo enthusiasts all gather together for a few days to celebrate tattooing and tattoo culture. You can meet artists, buy merchandise, look at artwork, and even get tattooed right there at the convention. A lot of people attend just to walk around and check everything out because there is always something interesting going on.

How do tattoo expos work?

Tattoo expos bring together artists from all over the country and sometimes even from around the world. Artists rent booth space and spend the convention tattooing, meeting people, and showing off their work. There are usually vendors, contests, and all kinds of events happening throughout the day. Most people end up spending hours walking around because there is so much to see.

Can you get tattooed at a tattoo convention?

Absolutely. In fact, a lot of people attend conventions specifically to get tattooed. Some artists are fully booked before the event even starts while others may have openings during the convention. If there is a specific artist you want to get tattooed by, it is always a good idea to reach out and book ahead of time.

Do you pay for tattoos at a tattoo convention?

Yes, of course. Tattoo artists are still working and running a business at the convention just like they do at their shop. A lot of people assume convention tattoos will be cheaper, but that usually isn't the case. Some artists charge the same rates while others may charge more because they have travel expenses and booth fees. It really depends on the artist.

Are tattoo convention tattoos more expensive than shop tattoos?

Sometimes they are and sometimes they aren't. Every artist handles pricing differently. Some artists keep their normal shop rates while others increase prices a little bit because conventions cost money to attend. There really isn't one answer that applies to everybody.

Should you book a tattoo artist before a convention?

Yes. If there is a particular artist you want work from, booking ahead is probably one of the smartest things you can do. A lot of popular artists fill up their schedules long before the convention even starts. Waiting until the last minute can leave you standing in line hoping someone has an opening.

What should you bring to a tattoo convention?

Bring cash, your ID, water, and comfortable shoes. If you plan on getting tattooed make sure you eat beforehand and stay hydrated. You will probably spend a lot of time walking around and standing, so being comfortable goes a long way.

Is cash recommended at tattoo conventions?

Definitely. Even though a lot of artists and vendors accept cards these days, cash is still a really good idea. ATM lines can get long and nobody wants to pay extra fees just to get access to their own money.

Can you talk to tattoo artists while they are working?

You can, but try to use common sense. Most tattoo artists are concentrating on their work and don't want constant interruptions while they are tattooing. If an artist is busy working on a client, it is usually better to wait until they have a free moment before starting a conversation.

What is proper tattoo convention etiquette?

The biggest thing is respect. Respect the artists, respect the vendors, and respect the clients getting tattooed. Don't interrupt tattoo sessions, don't crowd booths, and don't haggle over prices. Everybody is there to enjoy the convention, look at great artwork, and have a good time.