Tattoo FAQ · Edinburgh
Good questions.
Straight answers.
Your first tattoo or your next one. Here’s what to know about booking, getting ready and looking after your ink at Okey Dokey.
Book nowBooking & prices
From your first idea to a date in the diary.
How do I book a tattoo in Edinburgh?
Tap Book now and send us your idea, approximate size, placement and any reference images. You can choose an artist or ask us to help you find the right match.
We’ll discuss the details and availability with you. Your appointment is secured once the date is agreed and the required booking fee is paid.
How much will my tattoo cost?
The price depends on the design, size, placement and time involved. Send us your idea for an estimate, and mention your budget if you have one.
A change to the size, placement or design can affect the estimate. Your artist will discuss the details with you before tattooing starts.
Do I need to pay a booking fee?
Yes. A booking fee reserves your appointment and is normally deducted from the final tattoo price, unless we clearly tell you otherwise.
Once we’ve agreed your appointment, we’ll confirm which fee to pay. You can find the options on our booking fee page.
Can I cancel or move my appointment?
Please give us at least 96 hours’ notice. With sufficient notice, we’ll do our best to move your appointment and carry the booking fee over, subject to artist availability.
For less than 96 hours’ notice or a missed appointment, the fee is normally retained. Read our refund and rescheduling policy for the full terms. Your statutory rights are unaffected.
How do I pay on the day?
Please bring cash for your appointment. The remaining balance is paid directly to your artist at the end of the session.
There are cash machines nearby, but arriving prepared helps keep your appointment running smoothly.
Do you accept walk-in tattoos?
Yes, when an artist has availability. Small designs, simple linework and flash are often a good fit for a walk-in. Larger custom pieces and cover-ups are better discussed in advance.
Visit us at 19 Bread Street or send a message before travelling. A walk-in space is not guaranteed. See our walk-in information.
Your design & artist
Make it feel like you.
Which tattoo artist should I choose?
Look for work you connect with, including the linework, subjects, shading and use of colour. Our artists work across fine line, florals, realism, traditional, illustrative and blackwork styles.
Explore Diana, Tomy, Simon, Zen, Marco and Patryk. If you’re unsure, send your references and we’ll help you choose.
Will I see my design before the appointment?
We don’t send designs out in advance. You’ll review the design with your artist at your appointment and discuss adjustments before tattooing begins.
Send your references, placement and approximate size beforehand so your artist understands the direction you have in mind.
Can I bring a design or reference photo?
Absolutely. Reference images help explain the style, mood and details you like. Add a short note about what you’re drawn to in each one.
We use other artists’ tattoos as inspiration, rather than copying their designs. Your artist will work with you on something suited to you and the placement.
How long will my appointment take?
It depends on the size, detail and placement of the tattoo. We’ll give you an approximate duration when arranging your appointment.
Your visit also includes discussing the design, preparing the stencil and checking placement. Allow some flexibility, as the session before yours can occasionally run over.
Before your appointment
A little preparation makes a difference.
Does getting a tattoo hurt?
You’ll feel discomfort, and how much varies with the placement, length of the session and your own sensitivity. Some areas feel more intense than others.
Tell your artist if you’re nervous or if it’s your first tattoo. We can talk you through the process and discuss breaks. You don’t need to pretend you’re comfortable if you’re not.
How should I prepare for my tattoo?
Get a good night’s sleep, eat a proper meal beforehand and stay hydrated. Bring water and a snack for a longer session, plus your photo ID and cash for the balance.
We cannot tattoo anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you feel unwell or the skin in the planned area is irritated or sunburnt, contact us before coming in.
What should I wear?
Choose comfortable clothing that lets your artist reach the area easily. A sleeveless top works well for an arm tattoo; shorts or loose trousers can help for a leg piece.
For a back, rib or stomach tattoo, message us if you’re unsure what will work. Wear something you won’t mind getting a little ink on.
How old do I need to be, and what ID should I bring?
You must be 18 or over. Parental permission does not allow us to tattoo someone under 18.
Bring valid photographic ID, such as your passport or driving licence. Without suitable ID, your appointment cannot go ahead.
What if I take medication or want to use numbing cream?
Tell us about relevant medical conditions, medication, allergies and any skin concerns before your appointment. Complete your consent form accurately.
Ask your artist before applying numbing cream. For advice about medication or whether a tattoo is suitable for your health, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t stop or change prescribed treatment on your own.
Can I get tattooed while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Our studio does not tattoo clients who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Please arrange your appointment for after this period.
You’re welcome to share ideas in the meantime. Let us know before booking if this applies to you.
Healing & aftercare
Look after the tattoo you came for.
How long does a tattoo take to heal?
Healing takes several weeks and varies with the tattoo, placement and your skin. Looking settled on the surface does not mean the deeper skin has finished healing.
Follow the aftercare and dressing instructions your artist gives you. Keep the area clean, avoid picking or scratching, and ask us if you’re unsure about routine aftercare.
Can I swim, take a bath or sunbathe afterwards?
Avoid swimming, hot tubs and soaking the tattoo until it has healed. Keep a healing tattoo out of direct sunlight and avoid sunbeds.
Once the skin has healed, protect the tattoo from the sun. If you have a swimming or beach holiday planned, discuss the timing with your artist before booking.
What if my tattoo needs a touch-up?
Let the tattoo fully heal, then send us a clear photo so your artist can assess it.
Whether a touch-up is included or chargeable depends on the tattoo, artist, placement, healing and aftercare. Your artist will confirm any charge. See the touch-up terms in our policy.
What should I do if I’m worried about healing?
Message us for routine aftercare questions. If redness, swelling or pain is getting worse, or you notice unusual discharge, a fever or feel unwell, seek prompt medical advice from your GP or NHS 111.
Don’t wait for a studio reply if you think the tattoo may be infected. Medical concerns need assessment by a healthcare professional.
Visiting the studio
Find us on Bread Street.
Where is Okey Dokey Tattoo?
You’ll find us at 19 Bread Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9AL.
If you’re travelling in for an appointment, allow time to arrive comfortably and bring your confirmation details with you.
What are your opening hours?
Our usual hours are 10:30 to 18:00, seven days a week.
We sometimes close a little earlier. Send us a quick message before heading over, especially later in the day or if you’re hoping for a walk-in.
Can I bring a friend or support person?
Our waiting area is small, with limited seating, and guests cannot usually join you in the tattooing area.
If you need a support person or have access requirements, tell us in advance so we can discuss what you need and what the studio can accommodate.
Do you sell tattoo gift vouchers?
Yes. You can browse our tattoo gift vouchers online.
Check the voucher’s details and terms before buying. The recipient will still need to arrange their tattoo appointment, and our usual age and ID requirements apply.
Should I tip my artist?
That’s completely up to you. Tips are appreciated, but never expected, and there is no set amount.
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Okey Dokey Tattoo · 19 Bread Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9AL
Usual opening hours: 10:30 to 18:00, seven days a week. We occasionally close earlier.