FAQ

Your first tattoo

Does it hurt?

Honest answer: it depends on placement, session length, sleep, food and how prepared you are. It is uncomfortable — but most people handle it far better than they expect. We take breaks whenever you need.

What should I do before my appointment?

Eat a proper meal, drink water and come rested. Bring valid photo ID and your references. No alcohol for at least 24 hours, do not arrive hungover, and avoid sunburn on the area. Tell us in advance about allergies, medication or skin conditions.

Can a tattoo be too small?

Yes. Fine details, small text and complex designs need enough space to heal clearly and age well. Something that looks perfect on a phone screen can become unreadable on skin. We will tell you honestly when an idea needs more size.

Pain

Where does a tattoo hurt the most?

Ribs, sternum, feet, hands, fingers and spots close to bone are usually the most sensitive. Upper arm, calf and thigh are more comfortable starting points. For a first tattoo we help you pick a placement that suits both the design and your tolerance.

Can I use numbing cream?

Ask us first. Some products affect the skin, some wear off quickly, and some are unsuitable for certain placements. Numbing cream does not work the same for everyone — we will give you an honest answer for your specific appointment.

Booking & deposits

What do you need to give me a price?

Send a clear reference image or description, the body placement, approximate size in centimetres, preferred style — and for cover-ups a clear photo of the area. We reply with an honest price range, a time estimate and an artist recommendation.

What does the deposit cover — and is it refundable?

The deposit secures your appointment, covers the artist's design preparation, and is deducted from the final price — it is not a fee. It is normally non-refundable, but you can usually move your appointment once with at least 48 hours' notice. A slot is only confirmed once the deposit is paid.

Can you copy this tattoo exactly?

No. References are welcome as inspiration, but your tattoo should be original and designed for your body — not a lazy duplicate of another artist's work. We will happily make something similar, but yours.

Piercing

Can I get pierced under 18?

Yes, from age 12 with parental consent: a parent or legal guardian must attend, show photo ID and sign the consent form. The piercer always has the final say — some placements have stricter age limits.

My piercing has a bump — is it infected?

Not necessarily. Bumps are often caused by irritation, pressure, poor jewellery fit or sleeping on the piercing. Severe pain, spreading redness, heat, fever or bad-smelling discharge do need medical attention — we do not diagnose infections.

Aftercare

Can I swim or sunbathe after a tattoo?

No — no pools, sea, baths, hot tubs, sauna, tanning or direct sun for 2–4 weeks, until fully healed. “Covering it” does not help. Once healed: high-SPF sunscreen is what keeps the contrast alive for years.

Are touch-ups free?

Yes, for eligible tattoos within 8 weeks of the appointment, once fully healed. It covers minor corrections — not fading caused by poor aftercare, sun, swimming, or difficult placements like fingers and hands. Larger changes are priced separately.

Book your appointment today

Send your idea, placement and approximate size — we reply with an honest price range and the artist best suited to the job.

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