Do I Ever Turn Down Tattoo Projects?

[@MegaSkinnybuddha]

I'm a simple man. I see a new James Withee vid, I click.

[@SugarSkullSmile]

100% I’d rather have an artist turn down my idea or point my to a different artist if they aren’t comfortable or wanting to do my project. They need to be into it for it to turn out as a boss piece of work. Plus the experience will be better socially overall.

[@JessieBanana]

This is good to know. I always thought it would be considered bad or wishy washy to come to a tattoo artist without a complete image. It never occurred to me, I have no idea why, that a tattoo artist would actually appreciate a bit of artistic freedom. I'm not a particularly creative person, it isn't my strength, so I know that if I liked an artist work I would much rather they flesh out/create the tattoo, because I'm sure it would be so much more impressive than would I could come up with or copy from somewhere.

[@shanejones-lv4yl]

My guy won’t replicate anything, and I was kinda nervous about that. But he does an amazing job and there’s stuff I like more and stuff I like less about what he brings to the table, but it’s always as good if not better than the original images I give him.

[@mauranoonan8951]

I would think that as a “self employed” artist you have the right to accept or decline business.

[@stacy5728]

As a huge Disney fan, I really appreciate you turning down one that you didn't understand at first and felt it would insult your work. IMO the best Disney tattoos come from other Disney fans who can add other details to the tattoo because they know the movies and fandom, and not just a copy of an image.

[@Nursefire]

I am going in for disney leg sleeves starting this month. However, my requests is that is remains the way disney drew it, that all charictors are in poses,/facial expressions never seen and that each contain a hidden Mickey. While I appreciate tattoo artists having their own talent, I also love Disney's artists talent.

[@PikminandOatchi]

I don't give a damn about his reputation. I decide what goes permanently on my body.

[@ablair33556]

Benny Boi thank you !!!

[@a4rosli]

@@PikminandOatchi and so you decide to go to other tattoo artist and not bother the one that doesn't want to do this particular tattoo ❤

[@MikeOcksmallClips]

Disney fans are sick people

[@nickj12]

I loved this video. Blunt, honest, and humorous.

[@Flecked]

You got some good content homie idk why u don’t have a bigger fan base

[@MsMalevolent]

prob cos people like drama and chaos more than something calm and informative, sadly

[@WritersMoment]

Because he doesn't edit. Seeing a 20 minutes video without cuts throws you of for watching it. And no... it's not because "people nowadays don't have enough patience Yada Yada Yada..."

[@HGQjazz]

Viewership isn't bigger because his language isn't kid friendly. And his videos are too long. An option would be to give the quick answers at the top of the video and get into the rationale in the middle. Recap the answers at the end.

[@lakshmisymonerae8414]

SchreibersMoment nah ppl watch 20-30 min vlogs and makeup tutorials. All vids don’t have to be 8 mins

[@mroddy946]

No way. I like the longer videos. Super informative. Keep it coming!

[@nathanmorgan9401]

Video idea, tattooing on scars/acne scarred areas! Keep killing the game man. 🤟🏻

[@MsMalevolent]

and moles and stuff!

[@dreamiden]

I had my consultation yesterday for my full back tattoo. When I sent out my ideas I wasn’t certain it would get accepted but the artist not only loved the project but the blueprint I discovered that will serve as the pillar of my idea will look completely different than the sketch. Everything you mention in this video is pretty much what my artist said when we were in deep design discussion. I also told the artist that I want her to add her own creativity to the design as well because she has talent whereas I don’t.

[@sherellefreeman7993]

I watched this video way back when you first uploaded it and never forgot it. There’s an artist that I had my eyes on for years and really wanted to work with her but kept missing when her books would open. Long story short I finally caught the window for her opening. I submitted my request via email and poured all the advice you gave in this video and others into that request. I waited patiently and when she responded it was a go for her to take on my project. My first of three appointments is an entire year from now, which made me think I probably got one of the last spots she had for next year. I’m extremely happy!! Plus it gives me more than enough time to save for the piece and make sure I have a decent tip as well. I just want to thank you for the education and advice you give. I apply it to every body appointment I have. Be it tattoos or piercings.. it just helps me to be the best possible client.

[@imakaterpillar]

You should do a video on tattoo aftercare, do's and don'ts. You are so smart and informative

[@heavyhitta52]

I respect that. I rather you refer me to someone else, rather than do something you’re not great at. I think that’s professionalism at its finest.

[@PikminandOatchi]

The words "I've never seen Lilo and Stitch" should never come out of any human beings mouth.

[@sr-pz7gp]

The Dragonwithin lmao wtf it’s a good movie 🤣

[@ablair33556]

I’m grown and that’s my favorite movie and I absolutely knew what the little scribbley red pic was.

[@Krazytaco7877]

I've never seen Lilo and Stitch

[@PikminandOatchi]

@Tilly Divine If you can watch Lilo and Stitch and genuinely call it shitty I feel sorry for you.

[@Fourloko45]

@Tilly Divine you are such a special and individual person

[@mellanoche]

Lol that moment when the phone rang and that look.. that was funny to me

[@Mimi127]

I love your videos dude. This channel is really insightful.

[@stephanieclark9375]

I love the way you carry yourself. It's super sexy just saying!

[@JamesWithee]

haha thank you

[@ericap5096]

i usually can’t sit through a 20 min video just because my short attention span but i can for your videos 🤣 i think it’s cause your mannerisms & the way you speak or explain things reminds me of my homeboys

[@foorgutmipants9940]

I’ve watched like 20 of your vids in the past week preparing for my first tattoo next month, I’m so stoked, learning so much about the process only makes me appreciate it even more

[@haifuzhen9665]

What's your thought when a customer ask you how much do you charge? As a customer that's big priority no matter how much i love their work.

[@JamesWithee]

i don't have any feelings about it. i just tell them the hourly rate and try to give a ballpark estimate on their project. the only time i get annoyed is when they try to haggle with me as if i am really that thirsty for their business. when people do that i just end the consultation cuz i know i'm wasting time talking to that person.

[@angelamccarty8754]

How do you end the conversation without upsetting them?

[@JamesWithee]

@@angelamccarty8754 when they haggle i really don't care if they get upset. if they are just expressing that they don't have enough money then that's fine and i present them with solutions.. ways that we can reduce the price of the tattoo by making it smaller, less detailed, bng instead of color, etc.. but if they are straight up asking me for the same tattoo for less money or trying to suggest a different hourly rate or flat rate when i've made it clear what i charge, then i just cut them off and tell them thanks for inquiring but i'm not the guy for the project and walk away.

[@angelamccarty8754]

@@JamesWithee straight to the point. I like it. Thanks for making these videos. I love your breakdown of things. I often refer to them with customers in case they want to learn more.

[@JamesWithee]

haha i try my best. thanks for watching and adding valuable input

[@BigThumpr1]

This is a solid video. It’s great that artists know their boundaries. At the same time, customers should seek out the artists that can do the style of tattoo they are looking for. I have been wanting Polynesian for quite some time now, instead of going down to my local tattoo shop and just settling for some work be it good or bad, I waited a long time and sought out an artist who if you want to say specializes in Polynesian design work. I think artists have the right to turn down work. I would rather have an artist shoot my idea down than to have them do work they are not comfortable or great at doing.

[@strawberryfrog76]

As an animator and huge Disney lover, that Stitch comment killed me xD but I totally get your point! Like, even in the studio, I'm a character designer and I'm good at what I do, but don't come at me with environment and lighting, because I'm not comfortable in it... it'll take me 3 times as long and will not look as good in the end. Some people even asked me to design their tattoos just because "I'm an artist" and "I know how to draw pretty" lol oh and I used to do henna tattoos as a summer job in uni and let me tell ya, the amount of times guys came to me with fascist /nazi requests omg...

[@raeorion]

Yeah! I am looking for an apprenticeship and the first thing I thought of was having to turn down angry Nazis 😬

[@gorillaflips7587]

You’re very coherent and you explain things very well for those of us who have chemo brains. I’d like to thank you for that.

[@zane260]

I’m really liking your new video style. The way you include pictures are really helpful

[@lizreynolds4554]

Thanks for being so honest and REAL. I try to research an artist, and their portfolio, before I even talk to them about a tattoo I would love. Makes sense not to ask a B&G portrait artist to do a color Japanese Dragon! Be well.🤗🍀🌺👩‍🎨🎨🖌🦓🌈 Liz ( just a nutty old broad, who loves art.)

[@lone6718]

People just need to get used to hearing “no”. When I worked as a butcher, and would do interviews with new hires, we would always discuss why you might have to tell a customer “no”. It was necessary to get people thinking about it, you can not always say yes to everyone. It’s just not possible.

[@JamesWithee]

it was really hard for me to say no in the beginning.. i was so used to struggling for money and taking every project on that i was afraid that my business would wane and fizzle out if i started refusing certain tattoos. luckily the opposite happened because as a result of turning down the stuff that was questionable i was posting better and better tattoos which generated even more business in the end

[@gooby4536]

If I wanna get tattooed by someone bad enough, I give them a broad theme and just let them run with it. I’ve never gotten a bad tattoo that way, and me and the artist always have a good time.

[@PonchoKid]

Man, I've just started watching your videos an this one is the best so far. You've opened my eyes so much to my approach as a client to the artist's thought process. Well done James!

[@hennzyjohnson]

That is exactly how i picked an artist for the tattoo on the back of my hand, by looking at the artist portfolio and i am so happy i did because i love it so much ;)

[@Seamo57]

Thorough coverage James. You really hit every reason I've had for turning down customers. This is definitely something I go through w/ my own Artwork. Anytime its a commission painting, drawing or some kind of graphic, logo, tee-shirt design, etc...... I'm finally branching out to tattooing, it's something I've been wanting to do for so many years! Unfortunately I lived in Oklahoma (throughout my teenage years, until I was 23), one of the only states in the US where tattooing was illegal, up until right around, or right after I moved away ('03). Besides that, I've had severe health problems & b/c of a negligent Dr., everything got put on hold for several years! .. I know that I'll have to do tons of work that's not my forte. I'm not pumped on the idea, but I'll have to build up my portfolio & it'll only add to my knowledge & understanding. What age did you start? Have you made a video on the subject? If so, I'd enjoy watching that for sure! I'm glad the "fake skin" (practice skin) is much better than that awful super thin shit! I grabbed some "Sheets" & a "Hand" as well (I'm guessing you've seen all this...). I noticed that several tattoo artists were & are actually using it (there are so hands w/ forearms, feet, breasts, framed "skin" & even skull last I checked) as a "canvas" that can be displayed, sold, whatever... Plus it's not a bad thing for part of a 1st portfolio. Especially b/c you can see the work up-close. What are your thoughts on that? -Sorry for the lengthy comment...

[@adrenamagpie488]

JAMES! I am a new tattoo apprentice, learning as much as I can. I am loving your channel, and find it super helpful. My mentor does not speak English very well, so I am also watching as much tattoo information as possible. He is very old fashioned, and skeptical of some of the newer tattoo fads and styles. Can you please do a video on the "fads"- single needle, tiny tattoos, watercolor (last/age factor), line spreading with age, etc, etc. I myself love to draw modern, abstract, bright, illustrative and new school, but how do certain things last/fade? My mentor was talking about how some of the biggest business right now is cover ups of 90s fad tattoos, covering up kanji, tribal and big black shapes and lines. Can you please cover this? Also, you should check out Julien Solomita's left forarm tattoos. I am in LOVE with this modern bright mix, but how would it fade?

[@edgarpal799]

I click on this video because of the quote you used “Turn Down For What” And I was imagining that song playing while you Turning Down For What 😂😂

[@alanahorner8012]

I totally understand you. I was a nail artist and I liked doing intricate nail designs with 3D flowers, drawings, etc and now turn down simple stuffs like French manicures, cheeta stripes etc simply because it's not enjoyable for me. It's not something I like to do and I did these designs for 3 whole years! Just wondering what are your thoughts about blackwork? Would you reject doing a huge blackwork like going from the shoulders to the arms ?

[@JamesWithee]

u mean like just filling in a whole limb solid black? or the style of tattooing called blackwork? blackwork is pretty much anything that uses only black and no color / greywash. it could range from geometric, to botanical style illustrations, to hatched/sketching looking tattoos

[@alanahorner8012]

@@JamesWithee yes i meant the whole limb solid black or just a part of it like solid black from the arm to the shoulders

[@JamesWithee]

@@alanahorner8012 hmm i've never done a huge black arm sleeve on someone. i would prolly only take it on if i knew there weren't going to be any scars from overworked tattoos showing through in the end. that would suck all of the satisfaction out of the project for me. but i think it would be fun to see how perfectly black i could get that limb to be.

[@loviedovie10]

I've only seen blackwork a couple times and haven't been able to understand what the point of it is? Can anyone shed some light on this please?

[@alanahorner8012]

@@loviedovie10 it could be to cover up a huge tattoo that the person doesnt like anymore.. `i've seen it most of the time on metal band members maybe it brings out more the other surrounding tattoos

[@mpentrepreneurship6457]

Lmao u tatted Justin Bieber on a dudes back ROFL

[@JamesWithee]

200 bucks was 200 bucks lmfao

[@midwayer11]

I did too.lol

[@krizzlyadams1208]

Man I love your video; well said. Today I spent 6 hours covering up a palm sized mushroom (that looked like it had been drawn on with a dried out sharpy and colored in with green crayon) on a butt, with a dragon(not my jam)...My stretching arm hurts (from all the booty streching) and my heart hurts (from the booty dragon). It was my friends mom and she had received 2 gift certificates for Christmas, but under normal circumstances it would have been a hard pass. Not because a booty dragon is a bad idea but because tattooing dragons on booty's just isn't for me. Its a bummer to spend a day on something and walk away feeling anything but pumped about it, and like you'd rather not add it to your portfolio in fear of attracting more booty dragons.

[@JamesWithee]

i understand and feel your pain. that's one reason i don't do gift certificates. they imply that i owe someone i've never talked to a tattoo regardless of what the project entails. i also hate doing dragons. they take me forever to draw

[@datdwjdd]

Speaking of booty dragons, what turn downs might artists make bc of the body part

[@emilyangel13]

This is the best thumbnail you've done. I've not even watched yet but I love it

[@TheMasterOfNone]

I've been a tattoo artist for 10 years and while I really like doing custom work and have a unique style I love working with I still often get asked to do something that's quite strict and really out of my "comfort zone" as in, something I really feel bored and uninspired doing. I often manage to talk with the customers to make compromises but I find it super hard to totally turn down anyone since most of my customer base revolves around my social circles (friends, friends of friends, co-workers of friends, relatives of friends, relatives, friends of relatives, etc etc). People don't take rejection well no matter how you phrase it and if it's someone you mingle with outside of your business it can kinda start hurting your social relationships and can eventually lead to where people don't like you anymore because you've "..become a stuck up cunt who won't even tattoo his friends anymore. I wanted him to do this tribal sleeve on me and he just fucking told me no. Who does he think he is?" etc. Would be so much easier working in a city where no one knows you and your customerbase comprises of total strangers. That way you could keep business- and social relationships totally seperate from eachother. The reason why it bothers me is because I've noticed over the years it has really started taking a toll on me, doing alot of tattoos I really "dislike" doing, that makes me feel like it's a chore that's expected of me and not something that I inspire to do out of my own free will. It wouldn't be a thing with any "normal" kind of job -atleast not as much- but when you're talking about doing art, where inspiration is the key driving factor. The motivation and productivity can die down real fast and that'll make it almost impossible to continue working after a while... Look at writers, ever heard of "writers block?" Why do people find it hard to understand it's very much the same for any creative art, you cannot force it. I used to draw several hours every day and I used to look forward to get to do new and exciting tattoos. I was passionate about it. Nowadays -years later- I barely draw at all since it somehow sickens me and I feel tired. I find myself avoiding work because I feel burnt out. No one I talk to about it seems to understand this but I believe other tattoo artists and artists working with only commission based projects know exactly what I mean. Good video, you're in a good spot. I personally sometimes feel like a prisoner to my profession since everyone wants to get tattoos from me and they want it _now_, no matter how I feel about it. I could just sell my tools away and quit the job. Hell, I've considered it countless times over the last couple of years.

[@JamesWithee]

damn dude, it makes me sad to read this because i can really clearly imagine how it must feel to be stuck in that rut with so many years in the game. if you're having trouble gaining the momentum you need to pull in more projects that inspire you, it might be time to go back to the drawing board and come up with some fresh designs that you really wanna do that you offer at a discounted rate to close friends and long time clients. once in a while i'll do the same thing and a lot of times it's produced a wave of cool projects. people need to see what you're capable of with their own eyes because it's hard for them to take a risk on something cooler and more artistic when it's tough for them to visualize it in their mind's eye. hook a few people up and see if the momentum starts to shift in a good way. right now is a great time to do that, because busy season is just around the corner. maybe getting a fresh outlet for your art would help to reinvigorate your level of interest and motivation. if you have any art workshops or classes available around you, i'd go sign up for one or two and get to a place where you're interacting with new artists you've never been influenced by before. they might give off some energy for you to feed off of and channel. moving to a new tattoo shop can have the same effect. if that doesn't work and you feel like the well of clients is drying up along with your desire to make art, you might wanna consider moving to a larger city and forcing yourself outside of your comfort zone. people are capable of amazing things when they are forced into a sink or swim situation and have to go hard or go home. i dunno if that's feasible for you or if you have kids or whatever, but it's worth considering. anything is better than switching careers and putting the machine down, in my opinion. this is an excellent time to be a tattooer so it would be a shame to cash in your chips at this stage of your career. just my two cents man i don't know you or your circumstance very well but i wish you luck. life, like art, is all about making constant adjustments until you're happy with the picture you've painted. if shit isn't going the way you want the best thing to do is start making changes. you have a lot of control over what's happening to you. you just have to exercise it to the highest degree you can manage.

[@shennaartusio6526]

I laughed so hard at the face you made when the phone rang 🤣

[@sunnisusie]

As a newbie, could you do a video about how much to save up for a tattoo? Pricing seems to be a touchy subject and most artists are not willing to give a price outright, but it does make it hard to decide when to go for that tattoo and how much cash to have available! BTW, love your videos, great info!

[@JamesWithee]

this is a pretty good suggestion. i already planned on making one for tattoo pricing but a video about managing your budget for a tattoo is a great idea. thank you!

[@catherinstander9363]

Thsts so true! Sometimes the artist get judged based on the tattoo and quality of the example the client wants it's like thr client's personal preference that can make the tattoo artist look bad

[@monsieurlee1343]

You’re such a real dude I think I may have to get something from you one day. You’re a true student of the game, and I appreciate it

[@RobVespa]

You're really good at conveying your thoughts. Your videos are such a good resource. I always look forward to new ones. Thanks!

[@kennypowers9181]

Wish I could have a teacher like you... you have an easy going personality. Some would call me a scratcher but I only tattoo myself... and with a decent tattoo machine. I also work full time as a medical equipment tech. So the thought of being a shop bitch for a year or more scares the shit out of me because of the whole paying the Bills thing. I dont know jack about the process in reality. I just know art is my life... and your videos definitely make me want to work full time on being a legitimate tattoo artist. Awesome channel man!

[@ainhoal6394]

Great video as always! I had a question to add to this. When you turn down a tattoo because of the style, do you recommend someone to go to? Maybe someone from your own shop. But even if some tattoo artist do so, I think it's a bit our own research to do at some point. Maybe for people who can't do their research that easily could rely on that 🙂

[@JamesWithee]

luckily my shop has a lineup of artists that do a really wide variety of styles, so usually i just refer them to someone else at my shop. but in the rare case that it's something that none of us are willing/able to accomodate, i never hesitate to recommend an artist from some other shop. i know a lot of artists in the phoenix metro area so there's someone for every project

[@christinelamb1167]

Hi James! I've been considering getting a tattoo for a couple of years now. Recently I'm at the point where I'm starting to do some research, and stumbled across your channel. I've been binge-watching your videos all afternoon! I like how you present the information, and you talk about so many different things concerning tattoos. I feel much more informed now, thanks to you! BTW, this particular video was very interesting to me. I definitely can understand why, as an artist, that a person would turn down a project. I totally get it! Why would an artist want to do a piece that he wasn't interested in, and/or it wasn't his specialty? It makes sense to me, so I would not be offended if a tattoo artist declined to do a particular piece of work for me.

[@eatmoregrapes]

Thanks for your insight, James! Watching this video is good timing for me, haha. Although not a tattoo, I'm finishing up a commission (black pen illustration) that I am no longer enjoying because of the drawing style changes that the customer wanted all along ("make everything more cartoony"), despite telling me in the beginning that they wanted it in my style. I spent a lot of time reworking the concept and composition, and I'm excited to just get this shit over with lol. #LessonsLearned

[@nicolealaniz4634]

You’ve earned the right to be choosey period😉

[@stormimcknight5743]

I think that’s why so many people stay loyal to one artist- I showed up this past Sat after having talked about what I wanted and showing some pictures a month or so ago. I sent my deposit and set appts and just showed up ready for whatever my artist created for me. Nothing at all like my pictures or what my mind was thinking but an amazing start to an awesome tattoo so I’m game!! Mine are just my artists creations- that’s what he does and does well so I let him do his job.

[@slumplump]

When James uploads a video, I know it's going to be a good day!

[@kwenciemayfield311]

When I hear you break it down you just sound real af 💯💯💯

[@idratherbereading5766]

I fucking love your videos, definitely subscribed. Your blunt honesty is amazing.

[@deadcentermass]

I already have an appointment book with an artist back in California once I am back stateside from Afghanistan. Now that I know I will be around Gilbert for a few days, I may need to come up with an additional tattoo idea so I can swing by your shop...

[@JamesWithee]

roll thru anytime!

[@deadcentermass]

@@JamesWithee Thanks, brother. I will do my best to come up with something and I'll be in touch.

[@TheLaneasze]

I believe any artist, be it digital, mixed media, classical, tattoo, gets the right to say no. No one owns you or your talent, and you are not obligated to do anything for anyone. I am not sure why people think you are owe them simply because they want to hire you. Any hoo. Can you discuss tattooing imperfect skin as well? Not just scarred skin like several other requests, but what to expect if you have had a big weight loss, or it's your first tattoo and you are older, if you have sensitive skin, that kind of thing. Anything you have had experience with. This is so informative. I feel like you should make a compilation video and sell it to shops and they should make people watch it before they get tatted. Like those looped videos they would play in doctor's offices years ago telling you how to lose weight and eat right.

[@noangel1087]

Very insightful. Could you do a video addressing such shows like Ink Master/and whatever its spinoff is called. Do you think these shows provide quality opportunity for artists to get their name out there or make a mockery of the tattoo industry. I would think the latter, for it is "reality" tv.

[@JamesWithee]

Yeah the ink master video is coming

[@sonicleaves]

Very interesting, I can tell you are a thoughtful creative person and also devastatingly handsome of course! You view it the same way I do my photography. I only do my style and I've been published enough times that is all I offer. Not family pictures or senior pictures, not weddings or events. Strictly conceptual surreal imagery, nothing else. Maybe it comes off as snobby because I've had people react the same way you described but it is what it is. My work, my time, I don't actually need to make money from it, it's a different perspective.

[@Halo-yt4po]

Respects to you brother. I will apply your method.. no bullshit.. just straight up and straight to the point.

[@titsmith91]

Your videos are sooo helpful. Thank you so much! Could you please do a video on all BROWN tattoos. Like a permanent henna??

[@Jgraham87]

This video made me laugh so hard (scribble on people’s skin 😂). Love the brutal honesty.

[@Uthu777]

Youe black and grey is solid dawggg

[@talulah2103]

I don't tattoo script mixed with images, it might be my personal pet peeve, but I just don't like to "label" tattoos, like if we are coming up with an image or like a scene representing idk music lyrics then you don't really need the lyrics in script underneath. Or like if you're getting a portrait of your grandma, you don't really need to add like her date of birth or death. It just makes the tattoo generally hard to read or just cluttered. I also don't tattoo anything that may considered culturally offensive.

[@withelisa]

Helpful video, thank you! I got turned down today at a consult because I wanted barnacles and the artist thought they wouldn't make for a good tattoo subject. Bummed because he's very talented with a style I thought would lend great to barnacles, but in the end I'd rather find a tatooer who is stoked to give a try. While I trust his opinion I hope there's someone out there who will disagree lol

[@onlyhalfbad333]

When it comes to tattoos, the costumer isn't always right. This isn't a store where you walk in a shop around. It's someone's time. Be respectful. Cuz not all your ideas will happen.

[@ablair33556]

only half bad 333 stop sucking up lol. If it’s going on my body forever... I am absolutely right . A person can get what they want and be respectful. I promise there are thousands of amazing artist that will do what anyone needs done.

[@onlyhalfbad333]

@@ablair33556 ok.

[@mariazaragoza9181]

25k dude holy fuck! Great job, you deserve it and more! 🌼🌼

[@animeisballing1]

What percentage of tattoo artists would take on something hateful?(if they needed the money).. Will greed or life pressure make them fold more often than not?

[@mrcovert011]

James I want to see a video on what type of obligations a tattoo artist has after a deal is struck/agreed on as far as holding up there side of the deal so deposit is paid appointments are kept and artist has started with first needle poke? Should it come out the same?should it be as black as promised? Should it not be hazzy? Should their lines be clean? Spaces be even? No mistakes in the tattoo ECT.... All things leading up to the quality of what was talked about and them not milking the clock for biting off more then they can chew/ or past they're skill level? And what if it's not Turing out how the tattoo should? At what point should you say look it's not Turing out? Should you let the artist keep running with it trying to make it better? And why should the client pay for more if the artist can't deliver what was agreed or promised? Why should a client be at mercy for a artist to run up a clock because they don't have the skill set they say they do? At what point should you back out? Ask for a refund? Let the artist know your not happy? Not have to pay more for no delivery? And shouldn't the artist be confident in the hours quoted? Or price quoted? The client isn't the professional here what steps should they take after the job is started?

[@wrightsrrt871]

I try not to except when it's portraits I just haven't learned to tattoo portraits yet. Love the vids

[@thomassantomartino7337]

There must be other tattoo artists that to know that would be into those people's projects. Maybe it would help if you gave them referral. After all you're not losing any money since you're not going to do their tattoo anyway.

[@meganmilam619]

love your intro music! every time i watch your videos i kinda jam out during the intro haha

[@momojajo]

I don’t plan a getting a tattoo anytime soon lmao. I just like his voice and personality 💕😩 and content is great too!

[@SonikJesus]

I bet you were or would be good at writing essays. your videos are well-thought

[@cheycheywilliams7767]

you say you spent a lot of time trying to think about how you could turn them down 😂and it won't seem so bad LOL you are literally the s*** you're funny as f*** and so real like I can totally relate to your personality/attitude 😭😭💯💯💯😁😁

[@josiahmorris2108]

I wish I could get a tattoo by you, bro. You’re awesome!

[@KaikiTsuki49]

Planning my first tattoo and your videos are super helpful. Thank you so much! For consultations, do you have any particular feelings about customers coming in with multiple tattoo ideas to choose from (different tattoos on different areas of the body)? I have a few different tattoo ideas in mind and I want all of them eventually, so I'd be ok getting any one of them as my first. As an artist, would you like having multiple ideas/potential projects to choose from, or would you feel like the customer is too wishy-washy without one set idea going in?

[@Jennifer-dg4xv]

You're cool, educated and interesting. I'm fixing to check out the shop's/ other artists link. As always I enjoyed this!

[@Dan-oy7pr]

yo, ill legit pay you if i have to, to see this justin bieber tattoo if you got pics of it lol

[@JamesWithee]

i didn't take pics. that dude was a fuckin weirdo for real tho

[@FF-rv2ud]

James Withee hahaha love ur answer:)

[@TheChanelcupcake]

I love your honesty!!

[@virusofdeath8023]

I really dont like appointment tattoo shops. Usually when I'd get my paycheck I'm down at the parlor hitting up my guy, showing him what I want done. And he was always cool with me. My audioslave logo was my last that actually angered my one tattoo guy cause he wasn't planning on doing any tattoos that light, he was gonna do something on someone else but thankfully the guy was cool enough to tell him to do mine cause I had the money so when he did my tat he was mad at first but at least he got into it cause he loves his detail.

[@TEN89_jburney]

Speaks so articulate with every word pronounced just about perfect sounds weird with cuss words weird mixture but "drawing permanent images on skin with a needle that has ink is your hella skill as you are artistically inclined with that shit"

[@yannieboi]

Is it too much to ask for too much? For example, I've been wanting to get a sleeve around my forearm to cover my scars from breaking my wrist back in the days including like 7 different elements. Will the Tattoo Artist not like it if i ask for feathers, an elephant on one side, mandela and a flower on the other, a bunch of inverted spots inbetween to make it stand out?

[@aysiahusby8594]

Not at all, you've put your time in and shouldn't have to explain yourself! It's your choice!

[@linasbutcher7740]

James Withee Thanks man and yes I enjoyed that shit. But I must admit I learned it from my own tattoo experiences. You are right about the pricing methods too. Thanks for uploading your video because people do need that information. Keep up the good work James! You might want to mention in your next video. How addicting tattoo's can be. Especially knowing that large/larger tattoo's can be really expensive. I have 6 tattoo's of my own and want another one. But I have to save some money to get my 7th. one. Oh.... the anticipation is killin' me! LOL! ; ^ D Have a great day!

[@jesussamurai8433]

I want an odin tattoo (God from nordic mythology) where he starts on top of my arm and it transitions into the sky, then into a landscape with trees and a river, with some crows and lightning thrown into the tattoo. (not sure if I want color or black and grey) Wish me luck explaining that to an artist. Obviously I don't have the skill to even begin to imagine how all that will mesh together. So I'm kinda hoping the artist has plans. And hoping it's not super complex and get rejected.

[@rubytheenyctophile390]

It would look so dope in color

[@alida9927]

Is it a red flag if an artist that doesn't have any of the styles you want in his portfolio but is still willing to take on the project anyway? Also he said to book him for 7 1/2 hours for a half sleeve at 180 an hour. Does that sound right , or would that be rushing a half sleeve?

[@kimski1875]

Totally depends on what you're getting and some artists are faster than other's. My half sleeve took about 8 hours the first session which took care of the majority of it and he said we have about 2-3 hours left to go. It's all black and greys and pretty much TOTAL coverage from wrist to elbow if that helps at all?

[@ritalovesthebeatles]

Hey James love the vids! You think you can discuss what makes a tattoo last? A lot of people in the industry argue about whether realism tattoos are going to stand the test of time. Do you have anyone that has come back after 10years+ with a realistic portrait that still looks fantastic? I have a few of them and worry about the longevity.

[@JamesWithee]

yeah i'll make a video about this. long story short it's all about color choices, edges, contrast, and the innate legibility of the subject matter in question. if someone does a batman portrait it's going to be legible for a lifetime provided that it's done properly

[@ritalovesthebeatles]

@@JamesWithee awesome thanks for responding. Keep doing you. I'm a fan 😊

[@ryanwsu4]

Anyone appreciate how the random "fucks" just add to the the quality of the video. They are just so random and so wonderful

[@Poopdar]

So chill, so articulate and informative, so... many random "fucks." Love it. Subbed.

[@kayceegreer4418]

That's a Bruce Lee quote about the punches isn't it?

[@808Xian]

Have you ever had someone tell you where they want a tattoo but they let you do ANYTHING? i would, just to get tatted by you.

[@joshua9856]

"I'm looking to get one of those wolf tree projects" lmao

[@codymartin1925]

James, you've gotta check out these two videos on this channel called Blue Collar Logic, he makes his case against tattoos for men and women, its pretty messed up some of the things he says P.s. love your vids, keep up the good work homes

[@JamesWithee]

more like blue collar logical fallacy. it's just a bunch of speculative rambling about his overly generalized view of society. i've met a lot of people like him in my life. people that are linguistically gifted but don't conceptually make sense when they talk. i call them "pseudo-intellectuals." one of my least favorite personality types for sure

[@andreasvandersal9837]

Do you do blackout tattoos

[@rodericktodd1647]

I went through a phase. I repeat I went through a phase. Did I mention I went through a phase, but at one time I wanted to get a Nazi soldier saluting a flag with a Swastikas' over my heart. Not only did every tattoo artist in my city turn down the offer, but many cussed me out and one even spit at feet as he told me to get out.

[@davidg5311]

Perfect video for my situation, recently I started looking for someone to tackle my 3/4 sleeve iv been planning for a while, a color realism pheonix. In the summer i found a list of artists and two of them stood out to me, one of them loved my idea and wanted to get started but the issue with him is i didnt feel that "color realism" vibe as well as i did with the other artist whos work perfectly fits my criteria so much that i asked if he can do the pheonix sleeve. His response was "sorry im not doing pheonix's at this time." What should i do? inquire him again to tackle on my project? or go with the guy who loves my project but his portfolio didn't 100% have the i want this artist vibe?

[@JamesWithee]

phoenix's are a hard one. a lot of artists don't like doing them and they are hard as fuck to pull off and make them look nice. i would keep searching.. if you have a fresh arm and a big budget there will be someone out there that is really great at color realism that would want to take on the project. you might have to get tattooed at a convention annually or travel to get it done though depending on what city you live in. whatever you do, don't settle on an artist that doesn't have good, large scale, color realism in their portfolio. that's just gonna land u in a spot where you have a dumb looking fire chicken on your arm that needs to be covered up. i've seen a lot of ruined phoenix tattoos. i've done one questionable one myself early in my career, so i speak from experience

[@davidg5311]

@@JamesWithee Yea I know, do you think I should email the artist (that I liked] again and see if hes willing to tackle on my project? Or look elsewhere.

[@JamesWithee]

@@davidg5311 if the be said he's "not doing them at this time" that probably means he won't take it on even if u ask again. I would switch the idea up before approaching him again or look elsewhere

[@15hellokittylover]

What are your favorite tattoo after care products? I want my tattoos to look alive and vibrant for many years. What products do you love?

[@gnayfp]

I’m listening intently.. thinking if I have a chance at getting a tattoo with you.. lol

[@kenichisan88]

If the person getting the tattoo has any type of medical condition, but have clearence from a doctor. Would you tattoo that person? Ex: someone who bleeds easily because of blood thinners medications (warfarin).

[@suga8160]

I fully agree that as the artist you need to be completely comfortable with the project otherwise you won’t really give it your all. As the person who is getting the tattoo you should make sure the artist you want to tattoo you does the style that your looking for.

[@TattoosLovers]

Heyy James Withee are you thinking about opening a store in Singapore ? I hope so lmfao lmao lol in the near future . Your da best dude clear in explaining detail's on Tattoo's and so on ect .....

[@lauraholmes9353]

13:25 to 13:35 😆

[@TardyTardigrade]

I'm a new sub and new to tattooing. I'm looking to get my first one, but want it to be perfect. Your work is amazing so I would trust your recommendation. Do you know of any artists in Washington State that would reccommend? I know this is a shot in the dark, but figured fuck it I'll ask anyway. I just want my first one to be perfect without going to consult at every shop in the state. I would try to book you, but Arizona is too far away. Thanks for any advice you can give. Keep up the great work.

[@hamishcampbell5130]

People forget you are tattoo artists, ARTIST. Give them freedom and enjoy a nice piece, give them stupid instructions and be picky it probably won’t be that nice. I always give artistic freedom so the artist has fun with it and it’s a good experience