FAQs

Is getting a tattoo a painful experience?

Getting a tattoo can range from mild discomfort to a more intense sensation depending on the placement and your individual pain tolerance, but the vast majority of people find it completely manageable. Our experienced artists are known for making clients feel at ease throughout the whole process, creating a relaxed and comfortable environment from the moment you walk in.

A few tips to make your experience as smooth as possible:

Get a good night's sleep beforehand
Eat a proper meal before your appointment
Wear comfortable, loose clothing that gives easy access to the area being tattooed
Stay relaxed and breathe slowly, as tensing up makes it harder on yourself
You can take an ibuprofen an hour before if you're feeling anxious about discomfort

Which area of the body is the least painful for a tattoo?

Generally, areas that see more daily contact, like the outer upper arm or thigh, tend to be less sensitive. That said, pain is temporary and your tattoo is forever, so we always encourage clients to choose placement based on what they truly want rather than letting fear of discomfort hold them back. Our artists are experienced in working with nervous clients and will make sure you feel confident and comfortable before putting needle to skin.

Which area of the body is the most painful for a tattoo?

The ribs are widely considered one of the most painful spots due to the thin skin and proximity to bone. Other more sensitive areas include the spine, inner arm, and feet. If you're considering a placement in one of these areas and have concerns, have a chat with one of our artists. They'll give you an honest assessment and help you prepare so you know exactly what to expect.

What should I wear to my appointment?

Comfort is key. Wear something loose and easy to move in, and think about your placement before you get dressed that morning. Here are a few pointers:

Back or shoulder tattoo: wear a loose open back top or something that can easily be moved aside
Leg tattoo: shorts or loose trousers that can be rolled up easily are ideal
Arm tattoo: a sleeveless top or a loose short sleeve works perfectly
Rib or stomach tattoo: a loose fitting top that can be lifted or removed comfortably is best

The easier it is for your artist to access the area, the smoother and more comfortable your session will be. If you're unsure what to wear for your specific placement, just drop us a message before your appointment and we'll point you in the right direction.

How long will my tattoo take?

Every tattoo is different, so timing depends on the size, complexity, and placement of your design. We will give you a rough time estimate when you book so you can plan your day accordingly. For longer sessions it's a good idea to bring snacks, stay hydrated, and make sure you've eaten a solid meal beforehand to keep your energy up.

How long does a tattoo take to fully heal?

The average healing time is 7 to 14 days, and with the right aftercare it's a straightforward process. Some itchiness and light scabbing is completely normal, it's just your skin doing its job.

Our artists will walk you through everything before you leave the studio, but here are the essentials:

Gently wash with lukewarm water and perfume-free baby soap in the first few days
Keep it moisturised with a quality tattoo aftercare cream. We stock a range of trusted products in the studio
Don't pick at scabs, as this can cause colour loss and uneven healing
Avoid swimming and long baths for the first 14 days (showers are fine)
Stay out of direct sunlight and use a high SPF sunscreen once healed. This is the single best thing you can do to keep your tattoo looking fresh for years to come

A little care in those first two weeks makes a huge difference to how your tattoo looks for the rest of your life. Our team is always on hand if you have any aftercare questions, just get in touch.

What if my tattoo needs a touch up?

Touch ups can sometimes be needed and there is absolutely no need to panic if yours does. It is a completely normal part of the process. Your first touch up is on us, completely free of charge. The only thing we ask is that you let your tattoo fully heal first, as we need to see the settled skin before we can assess what is needed. This typically means waiting 6 to 8 weeks before coming back in. Just get in touch once you're healed and we'll get you booked in.

Is it safe to get a tattoo while pregnant?

Getting a tattoo while pregnant is not recommended, and in line with best practice we do not tattoo pregnant clients. This is purely in the interest of your safety and wellbeing. If you're expecting and already have a design in mind, we'd love for you to get in touch so we can plan your appointment for after your pregnancy. Something to look forward to! Please note that we are also unable to tattoo anyone who is breastfeeding or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

What is the minimum age for getting a tattoo?

In the UK the legal minimum age is 18 years old. Valid photo ID is required at your appointment, so please make sure you bring along your passport or driver's license. No ID, no tattoo, no exceptions!

Can I bring a friend to my appointment?

You're welcome to bring someone along for moral support, though please be aware that our reception area is very small and our studio space is limited, so guests are not able to join you in the tattooing area. We do have a small waiting area, but seating is limited and may not be able to accommodate everyone comfortably. There are also plenty of great cafés and restaurants nearby where your friend can wait and hear all about it straight after! If you have exceptional circumstances that mean you really need someone with you, just let us know in advance and we'll do our best to accommodate.

Can I see my design before the appointment?

Designs are not sent out in advance. Our artists create your design with your input at the time of your appointment, ensuring every piece is completely unique to you. If you'd like to share reference images or inspiration beforehand, we're happy to take a look, though please note that we use these as references only and never copy existing designs. Any tweaks or adjustments can be worked through together on the day, and we want you to absolutely love it before we start.

What should I expect on the day of my appointment?

We'll send you all the key information by email before your appointment, but here's a handy summary of what to know:

Your booking is not confirmed until the booking fee has been paid
We are cash only on the day, so please come prepared. There are several ATMs within walking distance if you need to withdraw beforehand
Please bring a valid photo ID such as a passport or driver's license
Prices are given as estimates and may vary slightly at the discretion of your artist
Your appointment time covers everything from finalising the design and creating the stencil to placement, so please be aware there may be a short wait after you arrive before tattooing begins
While we always aim to start on time, previous appointments can occasionally run over and we appreciate your patience and understanding
Payment is made directly to your artist at the end of your appointment

If you have any skin conditions that could affect your tattoo, or if you are planning to use numbing cream, please let us know in advance so your artist can prepare accordingly.

Is my booking fee refundable?

A booking fee is required to secure your appointment and unfortunately this is non-refundable. It does go towards the cost of your tattoo on the day, so nothing is wasted. We totally understand that life can be unpredictable, so if you need to reschedule please give us as much notice as possible and we will always do our best to find you a new date. We just ask for the courtesy of timely notice so our artists can make the most of their time.

Should I tip my artist?

Tipping is entirely up to you and never expected, but always appreciated. If you loved your experience and want to show your artist some extra gratitude, it is a lovely gesture. There is no set amount, whatever feels right to you is absolutely fine.

Do you accept walk ins?

We love walk ins! If we have availability on the day we will absolutely do our best to fit you in. Just come on down and we'll see what we can do. For larger or more complex pieces, booking in advance is recommended to make sure you get the time and artist that's right for you.

How do I book an appointment?

Ready to get started? Hit the Book a Tattoo button at the top of the page or click here and we'll take it from there. We can't wait to work with you!

Can I swim or sunbathe with a new tattoo?

We'd strongly advise against both during the healing period. Swimming can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection, while sun exposure can cause the ink to fade and lose vibrancy before it's even had a chance to fully settle. Once healed, always apply a high SPF sunscreen to keep the colours sharp and vivid. Your future self will thank you.

Your tattoo is a long-term investment, and a little patience in those first couple of weeks means it'll look stunning for years to come.