What is a tattoo guest spot?

What it means

A guest spot is when an artist works out of someone else's shop for a short stretch, usually a few days to a couple of weeks. Artists use them to build a following in new cities, and it's your chance to book someone who doesn't live near you.

How booking works

There are only so many days, so guest spots fill quickly. Artists usually announce the city, shop and dates a few weeks out, then open a form or booking page. Flash is common on the road because there isn't time for a lot of back and forth on custom drawings, though some artists take custom requests ahead of time.

Getting a spot

• Keep an eye on their page around the time they usually announce
• Put everything in your first message: design, size, placement and the days you can do
• Pay the deposit quickly, since unpaid spots often go to the next person
• Have a backup design in mind in case your first pick is gone

Ask about touch-ups first

The artist will be gone by the time you've healed, so ask before the appointment how touch-ups work. Some will fit you in on their next visit, and some will send you to the host shop.