A Melbourne tattoo artist shares the top requests they’re getting right now

Bows, stars, animals and more.

When I was in my teenage boho era (heavily inspired by Vanessa Hudgens and the Olsen twins circa 2004), I desperately wanted a giant dreamcatcher tattoo on my ribcage. Thankfully I wasn’t old enough because, in retrospect, it was a short-lived phase that left me Googling ‘how to remove hair feathers’ while staring at the crochet graveyard in the corner of my room.

Tattoos, unlike hair feathers, are relatively permanent. As tempting as it is to jump on the bandwagon, it’s probably best not to choose your next piece based on a fleeting trend. In saying that, a tattoo is a form of self-expression. Its permanency can act as a wonderful reminder of who you were when you chose that specific design.

Interested to hear how others navigate the world? Head to our Life section.

And sometimes, you just need a little bit of inspiration. Faith Pace (aka Siqboi) is a Melbourne tattoo artist and the Co-Owner of Fitzroy North’s Heartstrings Studio. Below, she shares her first-time tattoo tips, aftercare advice and the top requests she’s getting right now,

What are the top tattoo requests you’re getting right now? What are the trends you see emerging?

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Siqboi tattoo – Faith (@siqboi_)

My requests are popping off for bows, stars, animals, and a lot more finer line work lately too. I’m sure it’s partially a result of the cost of living that we’re all facing – but I’m seeing lots of popularity in mini tattoos again.

More people are coming in for a couple of cute tiny stickers on their arm – or small gap fillers to go amongst their current tattoos. A lot of artists in our shop, Heartstrings Studio, have been doing bundle-style flash sheets to offer a discount on smaller tattoos.

It’s really fun to play around in person with the client and some simple little set designs to see what works together. It’s always a good feeling to walk out with a few new little tattoos after just one session. Bonus: they all heal at the same time too.

What should people know before choosing their first tattoo?

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Siqboi tattoo – Faith (@siqboi_)

It doesn’t hurt as much as you think it’s going to! My first tattoo was of a tiny 3cm croissant on my ankle. I overthought it for months on end and was convinced it was going to result in some sort of shift in my life or who I am as a person.

Obviously, it didn’t… if you’re starting small don’t stress too much. In the long run, it’s just going to be something you thought was cool and fun at some point in your life, which is a nice thing to be reminded of down the track. Hot tip – moisturise your skin over the week or two before your appointment! Hydrated skin can make a smoother canvas.

When people come to you, what kind of art can they expect?

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Siqboi tattoo – Faith (@siqboi_)

I’m a bit of a mixed bag. For example, I love a cute simple outline tattoo of a bunny or a tooth, but I also want to freehand across your arm with dark, edgy, abstract spikes if you’ll let me. Overall, I would say spiky hearts are my current jam right now.

How should we care for fresh tattoos?

Keep ’em clean! If you fell over and scraped your knee – it’s a similar thing. You want to keep it clean and free of bacteria, sweat, harsh chemicals etc. The skin always needs regular hydration, but you don’t want it to be too damp and saturated all day long.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Siqboi tattoo – Faith (@siqboi_)

Inky (vegan, locally made, women-owned company) is a perfect all-round product. I apply a tiny amount twice daily on fresh tattoos. I’ve also used Inky on my face and for dermatitis.

To book your next tattoo, head to the Heartstrings Studio page here.