FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about us
How do I get to the shop?
- We’re located at [Street Address, City]. The nearest public transit is [Transit Line/Stop], about [X] minutes away. Street parking is [availability notes].
How much does a tattoo cost?
- Pricing varies by artist, size, placement, and detail. For an estimate, please contact your preferred artist with your idea and reference images, or stop by for a quick consult.
Is there a shop minimum?
- Yes. Our minimum is [$100].
How old do I have to be to get tattooed?
- You must be 18+ with a valid government-issued ID. We do not tattoo minors, even with parental consent.
Do you take walk-ins?
- Yes, we accept walk-ins when artists are available. Walk-ins are served first-come, first-served. To guarantee a time, we recommend booking.
Do I need to leave a deposit?
- Yes. A non‑refundable deposit of [$X or %] is required to secure your appointment and will be applied to the final session. Reschedules require at least [48 hours] notice or the deposit is forfeited.
How do I book with a specific artist?
- Visit our Artists page and use the contact form on the artist’s profile. Include your idea, placement, approximate size, and reference images.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
- Call the shop during business hours or message your artist directly. Cancellations or reschedules with less than [48 hours] notice result in a forfeited deposit.
What should I expect during healing and aftercare?
- Initial healing takes about 2 weeks. Expect tenderness, light scabbing, and flaking. Color can look dull during this phase—that’s normal. The surface may appear shiny even after it looks healed. Follow the directions below until fully healed.
Aftercare directions:
- Leave the bandage on for at least 2 hours (or as instructed by your artist).
- Remove the bandage and do not re‑bandage. If it sticks, gently wet it to loosen.
- Wash hands, then wash the tattoo with mild, fragrance‑free soap and warm water. Rinse and pat dry—no scrubbing.
- Keep clean and lightly moisturized once or twice daily. Don’t over‑apply; don’t let it crack or dry out completely.
Approved lotions:
- Fragrance‑free options like Aquaphor (thin layer), Aveeno, CeraVe, Cetaphil, or Curel. If you notice bumps or irritation, wash and switch to another approved option.
Please avoid:
- Vaseline, petroleum-heavy ointments (except the thinnest Aquaphor layer in days 1–3 if suggested), baby oil, alcohol/peroxide, mineral oil, Vitamin E, aloe, or antibiotic ointments (like Neosporin), as these can impede healing or pull color.
Do’s and don’ts:
- Do: Shower normally. Protect from friction. Wear clean, breathable clothing.
- Don’t: Soak or submerge (no pools, hot tubs, baths, saunas) for 2 weeks.
- Don’t: Expose to sun for 2 weeks. After healing, use high‑SPF sunscreen to prevent fading.
- Don’t: Pick or scratch—let flakes fall naturally.
- Don’t bring children and leave them unattended!
Important notice:
- Although we use high‑quality pigments and follow strict hygiene, some individuals may experience allergic reactions. We cannot guarantee how a tattoo will heal outside the studio. Proper aftercare is essential.
Can I bring a friend?
- You may bring one guest for support. Space is limited, so please keep your party to one person.
Do you offer piercings?
- Piercing services are available by [walk-in/appointment]. Age and ID policies apply.
Do you do touch-ups?
- We offer touch‑ups on healed tattoos by our artists. Terms and timing vary by piece—please contact the shop within [X months] of your appointment.
What forms of payment do you accept?
- We accept [cash, major cards, contactless]. Tips are appreciated and can be given directly to your artist.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
- Be well‑rested, hydrated, and eat beforehand. Avoid alcohol or blood thinners 24 hours prior. Wear comfortable clothing that exposes the area to be tattooed.
Do you do custom designs?
- Yes—most of our work is custom. Share your concept, placement, and references; your artist will collaborate on a bespoke design.
Do you sell aftercare products?
- Yes, we carry artist‑recommended soaps and moisturizers at the front desk.
Where can I see guest artists?
- Check our Artists page and social media for current and upcoming residencies.