Frequently asked questions:
Q. Does it hurt?
A. All tattoos hurt to a certain degree, depending on the size, placement on the body and the customer’s overall pain threshold. Everybody has a different opinion of what a tattoo feels like, but we assure you – it’s not as bad as you think!!
Q. How much does a tattoo cost?
A. Tattoos vary in price. Holey Skin has a minimum charge of £40.00 (different studios vary) and an hourly rate of £100.00 per hour with our more experienced artists. Tattoos are generally priced on the size, detail, colour, black and grey, and time taken. Large scale pieces that require session work are charged on the hourly rate. Artists may provide a fixed priced for smaller work.
Q. How do I book a tattoo?
A. To book a tattoo you will need to make an appointment on most occasions. Prior to booking we recommend that you visit your chosen studio and have a consultation with an artist. It’s advisable to call ahead to make sure the artist is available or to arrange a time that is. If you are requiring custom work, take any examples, ideas, references, etc to the studio with you. To book you will need to leave a deposit, this is to secure the appointment and varies depending on the price of the tattoo, or how many hours has been booked out for the job. Deposits are non-refundable and will be lost should an appointment be cancelled/don’t show up giving less than 48 hours notice.
Q. How do I get a tattoo designed?
A. We recommend you take a good look through the artists’ galleries and decide who you think you would like to do the work. If you’re unsure we can help with this. We can recommend artists depending on the style or type of tattoo you require. A drawing fee is required to have any artwork drawn up and prices vary depending on which artist you choose. After a consultation with the artist and the team, a design is put together (the artist will set a date with you to view the artwork). This drawing fee secures the artist’s drawing time and also acts as a deposit once the appointment is made. It is then deducted at the end once the tattoo is completed.
Q. How old do you have to be to get tattooed?
A. The law requires you to be 18 years of age – The Tattooing of Minors Act 1969. Parental consent is not an option! Holey Skin Studios operate a strict age policy and photo ID is required at all times.
Q. Are tattoos easy to look after?
A. yes, each of the studios provide full aftercare to each customer. We also provide a leaflet so you don’t forget and sell the cream we recommend customers use.
Q. What sterilisation and cross contamination procedures do you have in your studios?
A. All studios are fully equipped with the latest Ultra Sonics and Autoclaves which are regularly inspected and tested to ensure they are working properly. We use Trigene sprays to clean down all surfaces, floors etc – all equipment is brand new, fully sterilized with new ink, needles, etc for EVERY customer. Tattoo work stations and equipment are disinfected after each customer and all surfaces etc covered with cling film for extra protection. After each customer, the used equipment is disposed of into clinical waste and sharps bins and disposed of correctly. Customers are welcome to see our sterilisation procedures if they wish.
Q. Can tattoos be covered/reworked?
A. Yes, generally most tattoos can be covered or reworked, however if you have a tattoo that you are thinking of having covered or reworked, we advise you to speak to an artist directly to go through your best possible options.
Q. Can I go swimming with a tattoo?
A. No! swimming pools, the sea etc are not advisable until the tattoo is completely healed, at least 4 weeks – the chemicals used in the pool, germs etc are not a good combination! Likewise, sunbeds, saunas, sun holidays are also not advisable.
