Whether you’re a first-time tattoo-getter or a well seasoned client, there are always questions that come up in the course of the tattooing process. In this post, we’ll go over some of the most common questions our artists get asked.
How long have you been tattooing?
Horisumi Kian Forreal – 32+ years
Bonzai – 3+ Years
Pong – 17+ Years
Horivida (Ian Forlife) – 30+ Years
Yayoi – 16+ Years
Min – 10+ Years
James – 7+ Years
Max – 16+ Years
Lily – 8+ Years
Kai – 7+ Years
Pepper – 3+ Years
How much is it going to hurt in this area/what area is the most painful?
The pain of tattooing can vary from person to person. In general though the areas that tend to hurt more are areas with less muscle and more nerves–places such as joints (i.e. elbows, knees), areas with more nerve endings like the ribs and stomach, and places that don’t often experience damage such as the inner bicep and inner thigh. The pain is very relative as some people may find these areas as not that painful.
Are you going to send me a pre-design sketch?
At our studio we do not send out the design, it will be seen on the day. Some of our artists are more than happy to book in a view design a day or two prior to the appointment. However that will need to be discussed with the artist.
How much does it cost?
We price things one of two ways; for simpler, smaller designs the tattoo will have a set price. Our shop minimum is $100 (which would be for something like single line wave or an initial in a simple location) and the price will go up from there depending on detail, size and placement. Areas of the body are priced slightly differently as the skin on areas such as the forearm tends to be easier to tattoo than an area like the ribs.
For larger, more custom/detailed designs the price will be determined by the artists hourly rate and how long the tattoo takes. Our artists hourly rates range from $200-$380 based on the artists experience, demand, and style.
What’s the longest session time?
As our studio is only open from 11am to 7pm the longest possible session we can do is 8 hours. However for most of our session we do 6 hours from 11:30am to 6:30pm with a half hour–hour long break in the middle of the day.
Can I bring snacks?
Not only do we allow this, but it is greatly encouraged! A sugary snack like candy or a muesli bar is great for keeping your blood sugar high during your tattoo, and makes anyone much less prone to light-headedness and even fainting. While snacks and sugary drinks are more than welcome, we do not allow alcohol or drugs.
Can I bring a friend/partner/family member?
We’re happy to have you bring in your special someone, if you’re feeling like you need some moral support, want to share the occasion with a loved on, or if you’ve got plans before/after and it just makes things easier! That said, we do have some restrictions on where company can go. As per health code and safety regulations, all of our upstairs stations are limited to only the person getting tattooed. Any companions are welcome to sit in our waiting area, by the front of the studio.
I’m after a small-to-medium tattoo. Should I walk-in or make a booking?
Either works! If there’s an artist that you have a preference for, we recommend making a booking to ensure that you have a guaranteed appointment time with them. For more detailed or custom designs, it’s also recommended to make a booking as it allows the artist to take the time to properly draw out your design. Pricing is another thing to consider–we don’t make bookings unless a price has been agreed on, so you aren’t wondering if the tattoo will be out of your budget before rocking up.
If you’re feeling spontaneous though, a walk-in tattoo is always in the cards! We have a number of dedicated walk-in artists who will discuss, design and tattoo you on the spot. Walk-ins are on a first come-first serve basis, so there may be a wait if you come in later in the day, but our friendly front desk are happy to sort you out!
If there’s anything we’ve missed in this short post, give us a call or shoot through an email to ask! We’re help you out as best as we can.