Frequently Asked Questions ...
Getting a tattoo for the first time can be a big decision and may raise lots of questions for you, so to try to help you out we've answered the most common questions below. If you still can't find the answer to your question, feel free to give us a ring and we'll do our best to answer any queries you may have.
How old do you have to be to get a tattoo?
In the UK, you must be at least 18 years old to be able to get a tattoo, and if you're under 21 you must be able to prove your age with a valid form of photo ID.
You will not be able to get a tattoo if you are under the age of 18, even with the consent of a parent or legal guardian, so please don't ask.
Does it hurt?
Pain is relative for different people, though most people will contest that it's really not as bad as they first thought it was going to be. Modern tattooing equipment allow the needles to enter and exit the skin extremely quickly, so not as much is felt as it used to be. Most will compare it to a warm scratching than actual 'pain', and if you think about it, people would not be returning for more tattoos if it really did hurt that much. Certain locations on the body are reputed to be slightly more painful, usually where there's little flesh such as over the ribs or ankle bone, but the sensation is still quite bearable.
How long does it take?
This really varies depending on the size and complexity of the design that you choose. As a guide, smaller simpler pieces may take 15 to 30 minutes, whilst larger complex pieces may possibly take one or more longer sessions to complete fully. Once you have made your choice we will happily advise you on what to expect.
Can I use my own design?
Yes, almost every design is normally possible. Although the design may be adjusted slightly as certain aspects of artwork do not convert well into a tattoo. Feel free to visit us with your design for a chat and we can advise you on what you can expect.
How long will it take to heal?
We all heal differently but usually it takes about 2 full weeks. Our friendly staff will give you aftercare instructions at the end of the session, but it is your responsibility to look after your newly-gained tattoo. Remember that the more you look after your new tattoo for these 2 weeks, the better it will look for years to come!
How much will it cost?
With tattoos, you really do get what you pay for. Sadly, there are people around that will tattoo you for cheap, but normally you'll then be paying even more to have a real artist cover it up. Look for quality in an artist and their previous work, and be willing to pay for it. Never haggle over the price of a tattoo, it is disrespectful to the artist and just plain stupid to annoy someone who you'll be trusting to tattoo you! If you can't pay for quality then don't bother, tattoos should not be a bargain bin choice, they are pieces of artwork that you will be wearing for the rest of your life.
Getting a tattoo for the first time can be a big decision and may raise lots of questions for you, so to try to help you out we've answered the most common questions below. If you still can't find the answer to your question, feel free to give us a ring and we'll do our best to answer any queries you may have.
How old do you have to be to get a tattoo?
In the UK, you must be at least 18 years old to be able to get a tattoo, and if you're under 21 you must be able to prove your age with a valid form of photo ID.
You will not be able to get a tattoo if you are under the age of 18, even with the consent of a parent or legal guardian, so please don't ask.
Does it hurt?
Pain is relative for different people, though most people will contest that it's really not as bad as they first thought it was going to be. Modern tattooing equipment allow the needles to enter and exit the skin extremely quickly, so not as much is felt as it used to be. Most will compare it to a warm scratching than actual 'pain', and if you think about it, people would not be returning for more tattoos if it really did hurt that much. Certain locations on the body are reputed to be slightly more painful, usually where there's little flesh such as over the ribs or ankle bone, but the sensation is still quite bearable.
How long does it take?
This really varies depending on the size and complexity of the design that you choose. As a guide, smaller simpler pieces may take 15 to 30 minutes, whilst larger complex pieces may possibly take one or more longer sessions to complete fully. Once you have made your choice we will happily advise you on what to expect.
Can I use my own design?
Yes, almost every design is normally possible. Although the design may be adjusted slightly as certain aspects of artwork do not convert well into a tattoo. Feel free to visit us with your design for a chat and we can advise you on what you can expect.
How long will it take to heal?
We all heal differently but usually it takes about 2 full weeks. Our friendly staff will give you aftercare instructions at the end of the session, but it is your responsibility to look after your newly-gained tattoo. Remember that the more you look after your new tattoo for these 2 weeks, the better it will look for years to come!
How much will it cost?
With tattoos, you really do get what you pay for. Sadly, there are people around that will tattoo you for cheap, but normally you'll then be paying even more to have a real artist cover it up. Look for quality in an artist and their previous work, and be willing to pay for it. Never haggle over the price of a tattoo, it is disrespectful to the artist and just plain stupid to annoy someone who you'll be trusting to tattoo you! If you can't pay for quality then don't bother, tattoos should not be a bargain bin choice, they are pieces of artwork that you will be wearing for the rest of your life.
