A custom tattoo is exactly what it sounds like — a design created specifically for you, by your artist, based on your ideas. It is not pulled off a wall of flash art or copied from someone else's Instagram. It is yours. And for many people in Rigby and Jefferson County, that is exactly what they want — something as unique as the person wearing it.
But the custom process can feel mysterious if you have never done it before. Here is how it works from start to finish, so you know exactly what to expect.
Step One: The Consultation
Everything starts with a conversation. You sit down with your artist — either in person or sometimes over email or phone — and explain what you have in mind. This is where you share your ideas, your reference images, and the meaning behind the tattoo. Do not worry if your ideas are rough or incomplete. That is what the artist is for.
Good things to bring to your consultation include reference photos of artwork or tattoos you like, a description of the meaning or theme, your preferred placement on your body, and any specific elements you want included or excluded. The more information you provide, the closer the first draft will be to what you envision.
Step Two: The Design Phase
After the consultation, your artist goes to work. They take your ideas and translate them into a tattoo design that works within the realities of skin as a medium. Not every image translates directly to a tattoo — some details need to be simplified, some elements need to be scaled up, and the design needs to flow with the contours of your body.
This is where you are paying for real expertise. A skilled artist knows what will age well over time and what will become a blurry mess in five years. They understand how bold lines hold up versus fine details, and how to compose a piece that looks good from across the room and up close.
Step Three: Review and Revisions
Your artist will show you the design before any ink touches your skin. Most artists present the design at the beginning of your appointment, though some share it a day or two beforehand. This is your chance to request changes. Want something bigger? Smaller? Different placement? A minor element adjusted? Speak up now.
Be honest during this step. Your artist would rather make adjustments to the drawing than have you walk out unhappy with a permanent piece. Most artists include one or two rounds of revisions in their pricing. Major redesigns might cost extra, which is fair — you are paying for their time and skill.
Step Four: Stencil and Placement
Once the design is finalized, the artist creates a stencil and transfers it to your skin. You will look at the placement in a mirror and confirm it is exactly where you want it. The artist might adjust the angle or position based on how it looks on your specific body. This is a collaborative moment — take your time and make sure it is right.
Step Five: The Tattoo Session
Now comes the actual tattooing. Depending on the size and complexity, this could take anywhere from one hour to multiple sessions spread over weeks or months. Your artist will work methodically — usually outlining first, then filling in shading and color. For larger pieces, you might schedule multiple sessions with healing time in between.
What Custom Work Costs
Custom tattoos typically cost more than flash or pre-designed work because of the design time involved. Expect to pay for the consultation time, the drawing time, and the tattoo time itself. Check our cost guide for general pricing in the Rigby area. It is an investment, but a custom piece is something nobody else in the world will have.
Why Custom Is Worth It
In Rigby, people value things that are genuine and built to last. A custom tattoo fits that philosophy perfectly. It is made for you, it tells your story, and when it is done by a skilled artist, it stands the test of time just like the values this community is built on.
Synergy Tattoo in Rexburg specializes in custom work. Their artists take the time to understand your vision and turn it into something you will be proud to wear every day. If you have an idea bouncing around in your head, bring it to them and watch it come to life.