How to Customise a Tattoo Design with Your Artist

By Dainty Garden Ink
Your skin. Your story. Our art.

A tattoo isn’t just ink—it’s a collaboration. Whether it’s your first piece or your fifth, working closely with your tattoo artist ensures the final result reflects your story, your style, and your body.

At Dainty Garden Ink, custom work is our specialty. We take your ideas and transform them into bespoke fine line tattoos with care, precision, and soul.

Here’s how to start the process and make sure your design comes to life exactly how you imagine it.

📨 Step 1: Start With an Email

All custom tattoo requests begin by emailing kim@daintygardenink.co.nz. To help us understand your vision and plan the design, please include the following:

What to Send:

✔️ A brief description of your tattoo idea
✔️ Reference photos – these can be drawings, Pinterest inspo, or elements you love
✔️ A clear photo of the body part you’d like tattooed
✔️ Preferred size in centimetres (approximate is fine!)
✔️ Your availability – we book between Wednesday to Sunday, 10am–5pm

The more detail you give, the better we can design something truly you.

✍️ Step 2: Receive a Quote Before We Start Designing

Once we receive your email and understand your concept, we’ll provide you with an estimated quote based on:

  • Design complexity

  • Size

  • Placement

If you're happy with the estimate, we’ll then request a non-refundable deposit ($50–$100) to secure your appointment.

Please note:
We only begin working on your custom design after the deposit is received. This ensures that your time and ours is respected, and that your spot is secured in our calendar.

Once the deposit is paid, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your booking details and studio address. We’ll then begin working closely with you to bring your design to life!

💳 Step 3: Secure Your Appointment

Once your concept is confirmed, a non-refundable deposit of $50–$100 is required to lock in your appointment. This:

  • Confirms your booking

  • Covers design time

  • Is deducted from the final cost of your tattoo

🔁 Rescheduling Policy

Life happens—we get it. If you need to reschedule:

  • You may do so once, with at least 48 hours' notice

  • Your deposit will carry over to your new booking

Please note: Missed appointments or late cancellations will forfeit the deposit.

🧡 Final Tips for a Smooth Process

  • Be open to your artist’s input—placement, line flow, and body shape all matter

  • Feel free to ask questions—we’re here to help

  • Trust the process—this is how we turn your vision into wearable art

Ready to Begin?

Your story is one-of-a-kind. Your tattoo should be too.
📩 Email kim@daintygardenink.co.nz to start your custom design journey today.
We can’t wait to create something beautiful—together.

Next
Next

Pain Scale of Fine Line Tattoos: What to Expect