FAQs
Tattoo Questions
Do you take walk in appointments?
Yes, we take both walk in and booked appointments. Walk in appointments are on a first come first serve basis and are subject to artist availability and design. We recommend calling before you come so that you are not disappointed!
How do I book an appointment?
If you would like to book an appointment it is best to call us at 604-642-6556 and speak to someone at the front desk. They will will help answer any questions that you might have. Or, you can come down to the studio and book it directly here. You can view our artists’ portfolios and look through our galleries for ideas and inspiration. We will look to match you with the artist who is best suited for the piece you request.
For most pieces, a consultation is required with the artist. This generally lasts around 15 minutes and gives you a chance to meet the artist and discuss the details. We don’t charge for consultations. This meeting would happen before your tattoo appointment. You can bring reference material to show the artist what you are looking for. After the consultation, you can pay a deposit and book your tattoo time.
For some smaller work, or if you live out of town, you can also book with our reception staff directly for a tattoo appointment. For this we would need to have specific information (i.e., visual reference) and then we would check with the artist to see that they don’t need to consult with you. The final drawing is typically shown at the time of your tattoo appointment. You will have a chance to review it with the artist and they can make changes to it at that time.
Is there a deposit fee?
Yes, we do require that you pay a deposit for a booked appointment. A $50 deposit per hour booked is required and will be deducted from the final total. If you give at least 48 hours notice prior and need to cancel, we can reschedule or refund your deposit*
What form of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, debit card, MasterCard, Visa, American Express and PayPal. No cheques. Identification will be required for credit card purchases.
What rate do the tattoo artists charge?
The standard rate is $160 per hour. There is a minimum charge of $100. Our artists do not charge for consultation or drawing time, just the time you are in the chair.
Is getting tattooed painful?
Unfortunately, tattooing is not a pain free procedure. Although different people have different pain thresholds, most people will at the very least feel a mild irritation. Some areas are more painful than others (I.e., ribs, collar bone, upper under arm.)
What about aftercare?
Your artist will explain to you in detail the aftercare instructions. Sometimes our tattooists will provide different aftercare advice depending on the particular tattoo. Generally speaking, after the tattooing is complete, a thin layer of ointment and a bandage will be applied to the area. After a few hours you will remove the bandage and wash your tattoo with a mild soap, pat it dry with paper towel, then re-apply a thin layer of healing ointment (we sell H2Ocean tattoo cream at the shop which we highly recommend) to keep the area moist. You can also use Lubriderm. Apply the healing ointment for three days, no more than three times a day (Some of our tattooists will advise that you allow your tattoo to simply “dry heal” for a few days before applying any creams or ointments to it). DO NOT shave over your healing tattoo. DO NOT soak your healing tattoo in water (I.e., swimming or baths). After three days you can switch to an unscented skin lotion. Keep your tattoo moist. Your tattoo will begin to flake and peel after about three days – DO NOT pick at your tattoo. When it stops flaking/and or peeling, you will notice a shiny appearance to your tattoo. That shiny appearance will go away and your tattoo will be completely healed. Please, always protect your tattoo with minimum 30 SPF sunscreen. This will help prevent fading of your tattoo. If you have any more questions don’t be afraid to contact G.T.P. to ask!
What is the minimum age to get a tattoo?
18 years old. No exceptions!
