tattoo faqs

Images captured by That Funny Feeling Productions

How do i book?

There are a few ways you can book with us! You can either head over to our contact page and fill out a form, alternatively you can send us a direct email, phone up, or pop into the shop! Any one of our team will be more than happy to chat with you about your new tattoo. The main information we will need from you will be:

  • Reference photos

  • Sizing

  • Placement

  • Colour / black & shade

Email : tattoome@ringsandneedles.com

Phone: 0190526477

Does it hurt?

All tattoos hurt to an extent, however it is nothing unbearable. Different areas can be more tender than others, but it is quite normal for the pain to start to ease off and to settle into it after about ten minutes or so. Only you know your own pain threshold, so just do what you can, you don’t have to push yourself to a point of it being unmanageable.

If you ever need a break or want to stop, you can always just ask your artist and they will stop immediately. It’s important to listen to your body, and we will listen to you too.

what should i wear?

There are different options when it comes to clothing. The most important thing you need to do, is to make sure that the area you are getting tattooed is clear and easily accessible. For more revealing tattoo areas, we have privacy screens available for all clients to use if they so wish. Other than that, just wear something you are comfortable in! You will be needing to sit or lay still for a prolonged amount of time, so make sure what you’re wearing will be suitable for that.

What is the aftercare process?

After your fresh tattoo, we recommend taking the cling film off once you get home, and cleaning your tattoo with warm water and unscented soap. Pat it dry with a clean towel and apply a small pea size amount of cocoa butter to your tattoo to moisturise it - the size of the moisturiser you use may change depending on the size of your tattoo.

We recommend moisturising your tattoo every day for 1-3 weeks after it has been done to keep the skin supple and to avoid heavy scabbing which may lead to the ink needing a touch up.

Do not soak your tattoo under water or apply too thick a layer of moisturiser to your tattoo for the next 1-2 weeks, as this can clog your pores and drastically affect the tattoo healing. If any scabs form, just leave them to drop off and heal naturally, do not pick or scratch them as this can pull the ink out of the skin.

If after a few weeks you feel that your tattoo needs a touch up in any areas, get in contact with your artist and they can help you out.

How should i prepare for my tattoo?

There are lots of things you can do to prepare for your new tattoo - whether it’s your first or you’ve had lots before, it’s always good to be as prepared as possible. A good nights sleep is a good place to start, if the body is well rested you will feel much better and ready for the day. Having something substantial to eat before your appointment is very important - without this sometimes people can feel quite weak and can sometimes lead to fainting. Having some substantial food in you gives your body fuel alongside your adrenaline which can help with your tattoo experience. Last but not least, have some water with you. It’s always good to stay hydrated and to look after yourself!

Can i use numbing cream?

Yes! If you wish to use numbing cream before your appointment that is not a problem with us. It is always worth consulting with your artist beforehand. Always read the instruction and care manual of your specific numbing cream to ensure you are using it correctly. Numbing cream cannot be used during your tattoo appointment.

Do you accept walk-ins?

We mostly operate on a bookings-only system, however we do sometimes get last minute cancellations / no shows. In this case we do sometimes accept walk ins if the artist has enough time for the design you are wanting. To check if we have walk-in space, we recommend giving us a call, or messaging us on Facebook / email. We do tend to post our cancellation space on our Facebook, feel free to check out our page for up to date spaces.

Do i need to pay a deposit, and are they refundable?

We do take deposits for all tattoos, we charge £20 per hour booked. In a case of rearranging or cancelling your appointment well ahead of time, we will transfer or refund your deposit. However, cancellations 48 hours before your appointment or no shows will not have their deposits refunded - as this gives the artist little to no time to fill your space.

If there is an emergency meaning you cannot make your appointment, please call the shop on 0190526477 to discuss further options.

Do I need to bring my ID?

Yes, we need to see a valid government approved ID before your appointment, such as a (provisional) driving licence, or a passport.