Custom tattoo process in Switzerland is often misunderstood as a simple sequence: send an image, receive a price and arrive for the appointment. In reality, a well-planned custom tattoo involves several decisions before the first line is tattooed. The artist needs to understand the idea, study the placement, evaluate scale and detail, define the visual direction and make sure the project can be executed responsibly.
At Entre Lagos Tattoo & Art Gallery in Interlaken, the process is designed to protect both the artistic result and the client experience. It gives enough structure to move from a personal concept to a tattoo that fits the body, without turning the project into a rushed copy of an existing image.
Why the Custom Tattoo Process Matters
A tattoo is permanent, but the first idea is not always the strongest final composition. Clients often arrive with meaningful material that still needs editing: several symbols, screenshots, photographs, text, memories or examples from different tattoo styles. The process helps identify what should remain central and what may need to be simplified.
This is not about removing the client’s personality from the design. It is about translating that personality into a visual form that works on skin. A strong process reduces misunderstandings, protects detail and gives the artist the information needed to make useful recommendations.
Step 1: Define the Meaning and Visual Direction
Begin by describing the project in one or two clear sentences. What is the main subject? Why does it matter? Which feeling should the tattoo communicate? A concise explanation is more useful than a long collection of disconnected ideas.
You do not need to know the exact tattoo style. References can help communicate whether you prefer soft black and grey, high contrast, realism, fine line, ornamental structure, illustrative movement or a more minimal result. Explain what attracts you to each reference rather than asking for an exact copy.
Useful questions before contacting the studio
- Which element must remain the visual focus?
- Which details are meaningful but secondary?
- Do you prefer a subtle piece or a strong statement?
- Should the tattoo connect to existing work?
- Are there subjects or styles you do not want?
Step 2: Choose Placement and Approximate Size
Placement and size shape the design from the beginning. The same idea can require a different composition on the forearm, upper arm, ribs, chest or back. Curves, movement and available space affect the direction of the subject and the amount of detail that can remain clear.
Give an approximate size in centimeters, but remain open to professional guidance. Complex faces, animals, architecture, lettering and realistic textures need enough room. If the artist recommends a larger scale or another placement, ask why. The reason is often better flow or long-term readability.
Step 3: Send a Complete Project Request
A complete request helps the studio understand whether the project is suitable and what should happen next. Include your idea, placement, approximate size, style references and possible dates. Mention whether you live in Switzerland or will be travelling to Interlaken.
For a cover-up, send clear photographs in natural light. For a tattoo near existing work, include a wider photo showing the complete area. For scars or skin concerns, explain the situation honestly; the studio may need an in-person evaluation and cannot diagnose a medical condition.
Use the tattoo booking request to provide the essential information in one place.
Step 4: Project Review and Consultation
During review, the studio considers artistic fit, placement, scale, technical complexity and the information supplied. Some projects can move forward after a clear exchange of messages. Others need a dedicated consultation, especially large pieces, cover-ups, projects that connect several body areas or concepts with many elements.
The consultation is not only for the artist. It allows you to understand the direction, ask questions and decide whether the communication feels right. You should leave with clarity about the main concept, approximate scale, style and next booking step.
What may be discussed
- The main subject and supporting elements.
- The relationship between detail and size.
- Body flow and stencil placement.
- Existing tattoos or cover-up limitations.
- Whether the project may need multiple sessions.
- What information or references are still missing.
For a broader overview, visit our pillar page about custom tattoo projects in Switzerland.
Step 5: Confirm the Booking
An inquiry is not the same as a confirmed appointment. The studio first needs to accept the project, agree on the direction and provide the booking conditions. A deposit is used to reserve the appointment and preparation time; the current amount and conditions are confirmed directly during booking.
Do not assume a date is secured until you receive confirmation. This is especially important if you are arranging travel or accommodation. Avoid making non-refundable plans around a tattoo appointment that has not yet been formally accepted.
Step 6: Design Development
The artist develops the tattoo from the approved direction, body area and references. Custom design is not the process of combining every reference into a literal collage. It requires visual hierarchy: one part leads, other elements support it, and open space helps the composition breathe.
Changes to the main subject, placement or size should be communicated early. A small adjustment can be simple, but a completely new direction may require a new composition and different preparation. Respect for the artist’s design time is part of a professional custom tattoo process.
Step 7: Review Placement on Tattoo Day
Before tattooing begins, the design and stencil are checked on the body. This is the moment to review orientation, scale and position. A stencil may be moved more than once when necessary; careful placement is more important than rushing.
Speak clearly if something feels wrong. At the same time, listen to recommendations about body flow and technical execution. The purpose is a shared decision that supports the agreed artistic direction.
Step 8: Prepare for the Appointment
Follow the studio’s individual preparation instructions. In general, arrive rested, hydrated and after eating an appropriate meal. Avoid arriving under the influence of alcohol or other substances. Wear comfortable clothing that gives access to the area without creating unnecessary exposure.
Bring what you need for a longer session, but keep the working environment calm and practical. Tell the artist if you feel unwell or need a break. Good communication during the appointment helps maintain a professional rhythm.
Step 9: Follow the Aftercare Instructions
Aftercare begins when the tattoo session ends. Follow the instructions provided by the studio rather than combining several conflicting routines from social media. Use the official Tattoo Aftercare Guide in Interlaken for the studio’s general guidance.
Healing experiences vary. Contact the studio if you are unsure how to follow an instruction. Seek help from a qualified healthcare professional when symptoms are worrying, severe or becoming worse. A blog article or online message cannot diagnose infection, allergy or another complication.
How Multi-Session Projects Are Planned
Large tattoos should be designed as complete compositions even when they are executed in stages. The artist may begin with structure and major focal points before developing backgrounds, transitions or final details. The exact order depends on style and body area.
Allow enough time for recovery between appointments and discuss travel, work and practical limitations honestly. The number and duration of sessions cannot be promised from a generic description because detail, placement, skin response and the pace of each appointment all influence the plan.
Common Mistakes That Weaken the Process
Sending only one image and asking for the same tattoo
References are useful, but a custom project should be adapted to your body and developed as an original composition.
Choosing size only by budget
A smaller tattoo is not always a better solution. It may be more appropriate to simplify the design or divide a larger concept into stages.
Changing the complete idea shortly before the appointment
Major changes affect preparation and may require a new evaluation. Communicate them as soon as possible.
Booking travel before the appointment is confirmed
Wait for the studio’s formal confirmation and booking instructions before arranging non-refundable travel.
Ignoring aftercare because the session is finished
The final result also depends on how the tattoo is protected and cared for during healing.
Prepare a serious custom tattoo request
Send your idea, placement, approximate size, references and possible dates. Clear information helps us review the project and guide you efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I contact the studio?
Contact the studio as soon as your idea, approximate placement and possible dates are clear. Availability varies, so no specific date should be assumed before confirmation.
Do I need an in-person consultation?
Not for every tattoo. Clear smaller projects may be reviewed remotely, while larger, complex or cover-up work may benefit from an in-person evaluation.
Can I change the design?
Reasonable adjustments can be discussed, but major changes to subject, style, placement or size may require new planning. Communicate changes early.
How many references should I send?
Two to five focused references with short notes are usually more useful than dozens of unrelated images.
Can the studio give an exact number of sessions immediately?
Not always. Session planning depends on the evaluated design, size, detail, placement and how the work progresses.
Final Thoughts
A professional custom tattoo process in Switzerland creates clarity before the appointment and protects the quality of the final work. The strongest projects combine personal meaning with appropriate scale, body flow, original design and honest communication.
Explore our page about custom tattoo projects, browse selected tattoo styles or send your request directly when you are ready to discuss your idea.
