Walk-in tattoos: what you need before coming in

Have these details ready

• Subject: what you want tattooed. Save your references before you arrive so you can show them without searching through your phone.
• Placement: the exact body area and side. “Inner left forearm” tells us more than “arm.” Mention any existing tattoos the design needs to fit around.
• Size: approximate height and width in inches or centimeters. A photo on a screen does not tell us how large you want it.
• Appearance: color or black-and-grey, and what you like about each reference: the lines, shading, lettering, or subject.
• Budget and time: say what you can spend and when you need to leave. Ask whether the proposed work fits both.
• Lettering: have the final wording, spelling, dates, and punctuation written down. Check them again when reviewing the design.

Small does not automatically mean quick

The artist still has to review the references, work out placement, prepare the design, and set up. A detailed portrait, cover-up, or design that needs substantial drawing may require a consultation and a booked appointment. Be prepared to change the size or simplify the design if the artist explains why it will not work as requested.

Have a fixed time to leave?

Tell us when you can arrive and when you must leave, rather than just asking whether we are open. If several people want tattoos, give the number of people and each person's idea. Availability for one piece does not establish time for the whole group.

If you want a particular artist, ask whether they are working and taking walk-ins. Shop opening hours are not a promise that a new tattoo can start at any time before closing. Check our age and legal guardian requirements and confirm the documents and payment arrangements before coming in.