Our booking and tattoo process…

Discover the Process: Booking with Jason at Black Swan Tattoo Company

1. Complimentary Consultation — Your First Step, No Pressure

At Black Swan Tattoo Company, every tattoo journey begins with a complimentary, obligation-free consultation. Prospective clients can visit the studio to share their ideas, tour the space, and collaborate with Jason on concept possibilities—without any commitment to book right away.

After submitting your inquiry via the contact form, expect a response—typically within 24 hours—from Chloe, the booking manager, who will guide you through the next steps.

2. Planning Session — Collaboration Through Conversation

During the consultation, clients engage with Jason to shape their design. Whether you have reference images or only a concept, Jason will help refine your vision.

The process is highly personal—freehand designs are drawn directly on the tattoo area the day of your project start session, ensuring a custom fit tailored to your body and idea.

3. Scheduling Your Tattoo Appointment

Once your concept is refined at the consultation, the booking manager will assist in scheduling your first tattoo session. Here’s what to know:

• Large-scale or intricate projects typically require planning in advance—some clients book weeks to months ahead depending on preferred day of the week. Weekends tend to fill up fastest with more flexibility on weekdays.

• Every person and project is unique, however as a general guideline full-sleeve tattoos (like Japanese color sleeves), could expect three to four full-day sessions depending on how each client sits and complexity of design and detail: outline/shading (Day 1), background and depth (Day 2), color finishing touches (Day 3 or 4). Alternately, after the first session, clients may choose to break the remaining work into half-day visits for comfort and flexibility.

4. Tattoo Execution — Personalized and Precise

On the scheduled day:

• Jason draws the design freehand directly on your skin—ensuring flow, fit, and a truly bespoke creation.

• Whether it's a large-scale sleeve, fine-line detail, traditional Japanese elements, or a cover-up project, every tattoo is uniquely crafted in-session.

5. Aftercare & Final Steps

Your tattoo doesn’t end when you leave the studio—how you care for it in the days that follow is just as important as the work itself.
Here’s what we recommend:

• Bandage care: If a traditional bandage is applied, leave it on for 2–4 hours. If a spray bandage was used, it will gradually wash off in the shower.

• First wash: Once the bandage is removed, gently wash the tattoo with mild, unscented soap and warm water—avoid washcloths or anything abrasive.

• Moisturizing: When the tattoo feels tight, dry, or itchy, apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or coconut oil. Avoid petroleum-based products.

• What to avoid: Do not scratch, pick, or submerge your tattoo in water (showers are fine, but no swimming or soaking). Healing typically takes 2–3 weeks, depending on your skin.

• Sun exposure: Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight while it’s healing and sensitive.

• Need help? If you have any concerns, reach out by phone, text, or email—we’re here to support you through the healing process.

Our in house Black Swan Tattoo Company Aftercare Products are available to purchase at the studio in person or online. Made locally here in Austin and custom formulated by Jason himself.

What Clients Are Saying

Your reviews reflect both the craftsmanship and the welcoming experience:

“Unbelievably happy with my sleeve… Jason took my idea and created it better than I could have imagined” — Bryan B.
“Jason and Chloe are awesome to work with… His attention to detail and placement … create exactly what I had in mind.” — Josh H.
“Jason is really skilled in Asian style tattoos… detail oriented and meticulous. Definitely recommend.” — Mark Owen B.

Ready to Begin Your Tattoo Journey?

At Black Swan Tattoo Company, every step of our process is designed to put clients first—from the initial consultation to the moment your tattoo is fully healed. Whether you’re ready to start a large-scale project or exploring your very first tattoo, we’re here to guide you through every detail with professionalism and care.

Submit your consultation request today and let’s create something timeless together.

Top 5 Most Requested Japanese Tattoo Sleeves

At Black Swan Tattoo Company, Japanese-inspired sleeves are all about strong composition, seamless flow, and striking detail. Here are five of the most requested themes clients choose when building a custom sleeve.

1. Koi Fish & Water Elements

Koi are one of the most visually dynamic motifs in Japanese tattooing. Their sweeping lines and natural movement make them ideal for wrapping around arms, especially when combined with waves, maple leaves, or wind bars. Koi sleeves work well in either bold color or black and grey, depending on your preferred finish.

2. Dragons & Clouds

Dragons offer bold shapes, intricate scales, and dramatic poses that work beautifully in full or half sleeves. Often paired with stylized clouds or wind, this theme allows for a strong visual center that flows naturally with the muscle lines of the arm. This is a favorite for clients who want a large, cohesive layout.

3. Floral Motifs — Peonies & Cherry Blossoms

Japanese floral elements bring contrast and rhythm to a sleeve. Peonies add bold texture and density, while cherry blossoms offer lighter, more delicate movement. Jason often uses these motifs as connectors or background features to tie a sleeve together without making it feel overcrowded.

4. Hannya Masks & Figures

Masks and character figures add structure and direction to a sleeve layout. Whether worked in as a focal point or paired with waves and smoke to create depth, these elements are a great way to build a high-impact visual. They lend themselves to bold outlines, fine detail, and high contrast, especially in black and grey.

5. Animals — Tigers, Snakes, Phoenix

These animals provide strong silhouettes, ideal for wrapping or coiling around the arm. Their dramatic shapes and patterns fill space efficiently and lend themselves to bold shading, which makes for a high-contrast sleeve that reads clearly from any angle. These designs also adapt well to either full color or monochrome styles.

Why These Themes Work

• Compositional Balance: Each theme offers a combination of solid focal points and movement-based elements that Jason uses to build sleeves that wrap cleanly and age well.

• Freehand Fit: Many of these designs benefit from Jason’s freehand approach, allowing the tattoo to flow with the body rather than being constrained by stencils or stock designs.

• Layering & Contrast: These motifs pair well with soft background textures—clouds, wind, smoke, or wave patterns—to create a sleeve that feels cohesive and dimensional.

Planning a Sleeve? Here’s What to Know:

• Come with a general idea—Jason will help refine layout, style, and pacing.

• Don’t worry about over-planning. The design evolves through conversation and drawing directly on the skin.

• Jason works in a variety of styles, so your sleeve can be bold, detailed, soft, or a mix.

Work With a Tattooer Who Specializes in Japanese Composition

With over two decades of experience, Jason Metka builds every piece from the ground up to ensure your sleeve fits your body, flows naturally, and looks timeless. The private studio setting at Black Swan Tattoo Company gives clients space to collaborate and focus—without distractions or crowds.

Start the Process

Ready to begin? Consultations are always free and low-pressure. You’ll meet with Jason to talk through the direction, then schedule your first session only when you’re fully ready.
Book your consultation → Click HERE

Japanese Color Koi Tattoo Sleeve : finished in 3 full day sessions.

Double Koi Tattoo Sleeve: water and wind bar background with sakura blossoms.

A common question we get from new clients is how long does it take to finish a tattoo sleeve? There are many variables involved such as subject matter, the size of the person’s arm and the amount of detail the client has in mind for their overall style direction. But for something like this example of a Japanese inspired double koi sleeve (from wrist to the top of the shoulder) three full day tattoo sessions is an accurate estimate. The first session involves drawing the design on to fit the client’s body/musculature and tattooing the outline with some initial shading. The second session is dedicated to background and ongoing shading work. And in this case, the third and final session was adding color to the koi and cherry blossom elements. For the initial sleeve start session a full day booking is required to allow proper time to get the entire sleeve design laid out. But for clients who are newer to getting tattooed and a bit apprehensive to sit for additional full day sessions; it is easy to switch to half day visits for the ongoing work after the first full day to chip away until the sleeve is complete. Of course we always suggest a consultation to confirm the details for each client’s specific plans; so get in touch to get more information for planning your next tattoo!

Freehand tattoo sleeve finished in three full day sessions.

Custom tattoo sleeve featuring two koi fish, florals and background.

Japanese Blackwork Cover-Up Tattoo

A cover up tattoo is a second chance for a tattoo project that didn’t turn out as the client expected. Despite there being some limitations to what should/could be done with a cover up tattoo project, if you are open minded to suggestions your finished result can be stellar. In this recent blackwork tattoo cover up half sleeve, our client wanted to cover up the majority of the original piece while keeping a floral element to be re-worked. Using inspiration from Japanese traditional blackwork designs, a swirl and cloud blast over for the half sleeve makes a bold statement. The design was drawn on directly to custom fit the needed cover up areas and musculature, finished in one day session. If you have been on the fence about covering up an old tattoo, consider options that are darker, bold and saturated. We offer complimentary consultations to discuss your options and make sure you have all the information needed to feel confident that your second round will end in a fantastic result.

Japanese Blackwork Tattoo Half Sleeve

Second sleeve finish!

We have been so grateful for the warm welcome Austin clients have given us! ATX is filled with lovely people and one of them is our amazing client Jordan. Jason just wrapped up the second full tattoo sleeve he created for him; which was made to honor his family focusing on a Koi for each member. Which involved working around an existing meaningful tattoo, showing the importance of custom tattoo design work made for the individual. The freehand drawing process allows the tattoo design to be custom fit for the client’s frame; and choosing full coverage Japanese inspired tattoo sleeves for a solid look. It has been an absolute joy to work towards his tattoo goals together and making plans for his back and front! If you have been on the fence about a large scale project, we always suggest coming in for a free consultation to get some information and start planning ahead.

Austin Studio Tour

Black Swan Tattoo Company is the private studio of Jason Metka which relocated to the East Austin, Texas area from Oregon in 2023. With 19 years of professional tattooing experience, Jason enjoys crafting custom freehand designs drawn to fit the contours of each individual client. Creating an exclusive experience focusing on high quality work with customer service as our top priority. The first step is to schedule a consultation to discuss your project goals in person at our studio location. Consultations are complimentary and no obligation to book, simply an opportunity to get more details regarding your plan prior to making any booking commitment. If you’re looking for clean, professional, one of a kind tattoo work - we’d love to hear from you!

Freehand designs from start to finish…

After an initial consultation to determine each client’s goals for their project; the design will be drawn directly on the tattoo area the day of the appointment. Freehand designs custom fit for the individual’s body and ideas. For some this may be the first time they have had this freehand experience for a tattoo process. Over the years we have collected many videos and photos of the drawing process and how it translates to the finished product. This visual allows clients to get a better idea of where their project journey begins. Here are a few examples from beginning to end to showcase the final result of the freehand process! Excited to connect with our new clients here in Texas, get in touch to set up your consultation for future plans!

2024 Star of Texas Tattoo Revival! Scheduling updates for Jason…

2024 is around the corner and we would love to get your new projects on the calendar for your preferred times! Jason is currently booked for his Oregon dates up until February 2024, and taking consultations in January for any new Medford plans. For his Austin studio dates, he will be available generally the second half of each month in Texas for consultations and tattoo appointments. January 19th through the 21st he will be attending the “Star of Texas : Tattoo Revival” convention, and taking pre-arranged appointments or walk-ups based on first come/first served opportunities. If you would like to get something planned ahead for his convention dates, please use our contact form to get in touch for more details. As always we are so grateful to our previous and new clients coming in to get tattooed! Cheers to the end of a very long year, and to bigger and brighter things in 2024!

Leg sleeve wrap-up for Andrew!

It takes some serious commitment to finish a leg sleeve project. Andrew not only got this done in less than a year through regular visits, he drove hours each way to come in for his sessions. Always so grateful for dedicated clients!

Austin, Texas Studio Space Now Open!

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Welcome to Black Swan Tattoo Company’s Austin, Texas studio! Jason Metka is now taking new projects in Austin, TX at his private studio located in West University neighborhood. Get in touch to set up a consultation to check out the space and discuss your plans prior to booking!

Fine Line Tattooing by Jason Metka

Jason Metka is currently booking new projects in Austin, TX as well as Medford, OR. Custom designs drawn to fit the individual. Get in touch today for a complimentary consultation!

Jason has time this week in Austin to get you in!

While we’re getting the Austin, Texas studio location dialed in; Jason has time available to get you tattooed! Use our contact form to send in an inquiry or simply send us a text at 737-295-9582 to get your plans confirmed. Get in touch to set up a consultation or tattoo appointment depending on your project!

Tattoo work by Jason Metka - now taking new projects in Austin, Texas at Black Swan Tattoo Company private studio.

New Austin Texas location opening late August!

We are very excited to announce that as of August 1st, 2023 the 1004 E Jackson St shop location will be transferring to new ownership operating as “Tiger Blood Tattoo” . Giving us the opportunity to relocate Black Swan Tattoo Company to Austin Texas as of mid- August. Jason will still be tattooing at Tiger Blood Tattoo for the near future as scheduled and will be splitting his time between the two locations. This however, will mean fairly limited schedule availability for his Oregon bookings, so please get in touch via text directly at 541-838-0752 ASAP for any unfinished tattoo work to find a date on the calendar. Austin availability will be featured on the main website calendar and Texas clients can text 737-295-9583 for additional details. Oregon bookings will need to contact Chloe to determine specific eligible openings at Tiger Blood Tattoo. Although this is bittersweet, we are so happy it will be in good hands and looking forward to more time for our own new adventures!

Shop Closed for Tattoo Services 7/25 - 7/29

The shop will be closed for tattoo services this next week starting Monday 7/25 through Friday 7/29 for maintenance. We will resume regular business hours as of Saturday 7/30 at Noon. We will still be available for tattoo inquiries and general questions via text to 541-838-0752 or email at blackswantattoocompany@gmail.com .

Shop Vacation Closure 2/8 - 2/17

The staff at Black Swan Tattoo Company are headed out of town for some rest and relaxation! We will be closed for tattoo services beginning Tuesday 2/8/22 and resuming regular business hours as of Friday 2/18/22. We will still be reachable via call or text at 541-838-0752 for time sensitive questions, and will be responding to all new project inquiries once we have returned to the shop. As always, we appreciate your interest in getting tattooed here and look forward to getting back in touch when we return!

One year shop anniversary!

It’s been one year since we opened our doors for business here at Black Swan Tattoo Company and we couldn’t be more stoked! We are so grateful to all of our clients who have put their trust in our business and come through with rad projects. Thank you again for coming in to get tattooed, spreading the word about the work we do here and having a good time with us here at the shop! Looking forward to another year spent with great people making fun tattoos!

All photos courtesy of Hannah Bee Photography Collective - www.hannahbeephoto.com

Ongoing Project Progress…from Jason Metka

Availability updates for Jason & Rok…

We are so excited that our visiting guest artist Rok has decided to continue making regular visits to tattoo here at Black Swan Tattoo! His specific future appointment availability will be announced as we secure the next trip’s dates each month. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with Rok during one of his guest spots here at the shop; please reach out using our contact form with any specific reference images or details to allow us time to reach out to him to confirm the booking details.

As of 8/27/2021 our soonest tattoo appointment openings for Jason are going to be in December; although occasionally we have cancellations or clients needing to reschedule creating limited sooner session opportunities. We have adjusted Jason’s booking availability down to 4 days a week. As of October he will be working Friday through Monday, and the shop will be closed Tuesday through Thursday. Due to limited schedule availability and being booked out so far; we are currently unable to add smaller tattoo designs to the calendar as appointments. For smaller tattoo designs we consider more of a walk in design, we recommend calling the shop on a given day you would like to get tattooed to see if we are able to get you seen after our scheduled appointments for the day. As always, we are happy to answer any specific booking questions or inquiries regarding your plans. Feel free to reach out at any time using our contact form, email address, text or call to get in touch with Chloe directly for all scheduling needs.

Fresh paint for the shop

Closed For Shop Maintenance 7/20 - 7/30

Black Swan Tattoo will be closed temporarily for tattoo services from 7/20/21 through 7/30/21 while we have our building repainted. The shop will be resuming scheduled appointments as of Saturday 7/31/21. We will still be operating behind closed doors and able to answer any scheduling, appointment, or inquiry questions you may have. Feel free to text or call 541-838-0752 for the most direct response time; or use our contact form to submit a tattoo inquiry so we have the opportunity to reply in detail. Thank you for your patience while we give the shop some TLC!