For Beginners
Your First Tattoo — A Practical Guide
We see plenty of first-timers each week. There is no mystique here, no judgement, no upselling. This page walks you through every step before you walk in — what to wear, what to bring, what we will and will not do, and what to expect on the day.
Before the day
- •Choose your design without rush. Bring references — Pinterest boards, photos, sketches. Even a rough idea is enough for the consultation.
- •Pick a placement you can live with for life. Visible vs hidden — your call. Areas to think hard about: hands, fingers, neck (these are visible always and harder to cover later).
- •Eat a real meal beforehand. Sleep well. Hydrate the day before, not just the morning of.
- •Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before. Caffeine is fine but go easy.
On the day
- •Wear clothes that give your artist easy access to the area being tattooed. Tank top for a shoulder, shorts for a calf.
- •Bring snacks and water for longer sessions.
- •You can ask to take breaks — tattooing is collaborative, not endurance.
- •Listen to your body. Lightheaded? Tell your artist. They will pause and get you sugar.
What we won't do
- •Tattoo anyone under 18 — no exceptions, regardless of parental consent.
- •Tattoo anyone visibly impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- •Tattoo hate symbols, gang symbols, or anything we judge dangerous to the wearer.
- •Tattoo finger or hand pieces as a first tattoo without a frank conversation about how badly they age.
- •Pressure you to "go bigger" or "add more" if you don't want to.
After the session
- •You will leave with a healing plan tailored to the wrap your artist used. Follow it.
- •Itching is normal in week 2. Don't scratch. Don't pick.
- •First touch-up if needed is included within 90 days. Just message us.
- •Sun is the enemy. Once healed, SPF 30+ on the tattoo any time it sees sunlight. Sun fade is the #1 reason tattoos lose definition over years.
Who you'll work with
All six of our resident artists take first-tattoo bookings:
Ross, Max, Maks, Nadija, Alina (Junior Artist) and Amy (Apprentice).
At the consultation we will match you with the artist whose style fits your idea best. If you are still narrowing down, that is the consultation's job.
Pricing
- •Studio minimum: $135 (HST included).
- •Hourly rate: $180–$250 depending on artist.
- •Studio minimum: $135 (HST included) — covers small first pieces (single small symbol, small lettering).
- •Most first tattoos: $200–$500, single 1–2 hour session.
Final price is always confirmed at your free 30-minute consultation, before any deposit changes hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a first tattoo cost?+
Studio minimum is $135 with HST included. Most first tattoos sit between $200–$500 depending on size and detail. Your artist will give you an exact price at the consultation.
How much does it hurt?+
Pain depends mostly on placement, not on the design. Forearm, outer shoulder and outer thigh are the easier areas. Ribs, sternum, and inner ankle are harder. Your artist will be honest about what to expect for your placement.
Can I bring a friend?+
Yes — one person at most, and they sit in the waiting area, not in the tattoo room. The work needs your artist to focus.
What if I change my mind during the consultation?+
No deposit changes hands at the consultation. If the design or placement does not feel right after we talk through it, we revise — or you walk away with no obligation.
How long does the tattoo take to heal?+
Surface healing in 2–4 weeks. Full settling (all the colour and shading reaching its final tone) takes 3–6 months. Specific aftercare depends on the wrap your artist uses — they will give you a healing plan when you leave.
Ready to start?
Book a free 30-minute consultation. Bring references, talk through size and placement, leave with an honest quote — no deposit until you book the session.
Book a Free Consultation