
Frequently Asked Questions
f.a.q’S
How old do I have to be to get a tattoo?
A client must legally be 18+ years of age to receive tattoo services. You cannot get tattooed if you are under age even with parent or guardian permission or supervision, this will incur fines for both tattooist and guardian. We accept government issued forms of ID that provide proof of your age.
I am ready for a tattoo. How do I make that happen?
Go to the Contact Us page and submit your details and project description. Our studio manager will get back to you within the studio trading hours. If you selected your preferred artist, we will re-direct your enquiry to them. They may organise a consultation with you, or they might organise a booking via correspondence. It is at the Tattoo Artists discretion regarding what projects they wish to accept or politely decline.
How much is a consultation?
Consultations are FREE. However, if you feel ready to commit to booking tattoo sessions the tattoo artist may require a booking fee and/or an art prep fee. The tattoo artist you consult with will inform you of all fees and rates prior to you booking in.
Can I view my artwork before I commit to the tattoo?
This preparation and preview process is at the discretion of the Artist. It can be common for a Tattoo Artist to not preview any work at all until the day of the tattoo session. Others might request a follow up consult appointment, provide mock-ups or you may have made a private arrangement for a commissioned artwork. This is a conversation to have with the tattoo artist.
Tell me more about the booking Fees please?
Deposits and art prep fees range from $50 minimum, $250 or more depending on the arrangement and discussion you have with the Tattoo Artist during consultation. Usually a portion of the booking fee paid will be discounted from final bill at the last tattoo session unless otherwise organised with your Artist. If you paid for art prep this is usually non-refundable. Each Tattooist will have a unique rate that they have set for themselves. This might be hourly, or it might be a half or full day rate. This is a conversation you will have with the tattoo artist.
I can’t make it/I have changed my mind. Can I have my deposit back?
If you cancel within the 48 hours prior to your appointment or no-show on your tattoo booking, then your deposit is forfeit. If you get in touch prior to the 48 hours limit then your deposit should be transferable, this policy is at the discretion of the Artist you hold a booking with as they will have their own policy for cancellations.
How do I prepare for my Tattoo?
Great question, and the simple answer is rest, hydrate, eat and try not to stress about it. We recommend that you aren’t hung-over or dehydrated from the previous evening, this will elevate sensitivity and nausea. Have a good solid breakfast to ensure your blood sugar is at its best. Wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. Make sure the clothing has ease of access for the area that is getting tattooed. Privacy screens can be provided if clothing needs to be removed. Bring snacks, sweets, and fluids for the tattoo session to maintain energy and your blood sugar levels. Bring your personal audio headphones to tune into a show or music on your phone if you find you need the distraction. You might want to chat due to nerves but be aware that your artist might need to focus on the job at hand for the best result. When in doubt just ask your tattoo artist. We kindly ask that clients and artists try to be mindful of the shared space and the people within it.
This is my first tattoo! What will it feel like? Can I numb it first?
I am sure everyone you have talked to will have given you differing opinions and testimonials. Remember that everyone is different, each body part will feel different and even each session might feel different from the last one. There is no definitive answer to this question BUT the safest approach would be to start small if it’s your first time to see if tattooing is for you or not. Your tattoo consent and release form will require declaration of medications and substances topically applied or taken prior to your session. Numbing products will be either approved or rejected at the discretion of the Tattooist and this should be discussed prior to attending your appointment. Numbing creams can on occasion be more of a nuisance than relief for both client and Artist, always check first.
I did it! Now what? How do I care for this new tattoo?
Congratulations, you did it!
Your Tattoo Artist will wrap you up and run you through the aftercare. As a basic recommendation we advise you to only remove your bandage wrap when you are home or when you can clean your tattoo correctly. Your tattoo can stay wrapped for a few hours without cause for any concern.
Use cool or lukewarm water and soap free gentle body wash, don’t use a cloth, sponge or abrasive shower scrubbers to wash your tattoo. Clean away the applied product, sweat and plasma from the surface and gently pat it dry with a clean towel. Let it breathe and air dry if possible.
You do not need to re-wrap it as this could possibly introduce bacteria and risk infection. Start applying aftercare product sparingly the next day (always with clean hands), you can pat away any excess aftercare product or plasma/wetness with a clean towel or piece of disposable kitchen towel.
It will feel irritated like sunburn, and it might weep onto clothing, it might swell and feel warm, it might scab over or become itchy as it dries and heals, this is all normal. Consider covering your tattoo with clean clothing as a barrier for minimising risk of infection from things like dirty upholstery, dust/dirt, sun exposure, pet fur or hair, people grabbing or touching it with dirty fingers and any other environmental risks you might be prone to experiencing.
Stay clean, eat well and drink plenty of water and your tattoo should take roughly two weeks to fully heal.
NO SCRATCHING, PICKING, SUN EXPOSURE OR SOAKING
NO BATH/POOL/SAUNA/SPA/MUD/SEA WHILST YOU HAVE A FRESH OR HEALING TATTOO.
Sun will damage and degrade your tattoo; we recommend a 50+SPF sunscreen to prevent fading.
Call the studio if you need any more information or advice. Always consult a health professional if you suspect you are experiencing any adverse reactions.
Do I need a touch up, re-work or second pass?
We want you to receive the best outcome with your new tattoo. If touch ups are required, then this is free if it is done within the first 4 to 6 months before the tattoo settles in and new ink stands out too much. After this time, any more work on the tattoo is considered a re-work or second pass and is charged according to the Artists rates.