10 Things Your Walk-In Tattoo Artist Wants You to Know

Getting a tattoo, whether it is your first or your tenth, is fun and exciting. Although most tattoo artists ask that you make an appointment to get your tattoo, there are those who will accept walk-in clients as well. Oracle Tattoo Gallery offers these tips for getting the most out of a walk-in tattoo session.

1. Understand What a Walk-In Tattoo Entails

A walk-in tattoo is for someone who doesn’t want anything elaborate and whose tattoo can be completed fairly quickly. Often, a walk-in tattoo is for what is known as “flash” tattoos which are designs an artist has completed before. These are often displayed in books or on the walls of the shop. Most are small, consisting of hearts or butterflies and other simple designs.

2. Do Some Research Before You Go

Because not all tattoo shops offer walk-in tattoos, it is best to do some research before you go to a particular shop. You can search for “local tattoo shops near me that allow walk-ins” to find shops in your area that don’t require appointments. Websites can also provide you with details on the artists themselves as well as photos of previous work they have done.

3. Know What You Want

If you walk in to get a tattoo, it is always best if you have an idea of what you want and where you want it placed. The tattoo artist is not going to choose your design for you, so you want to have something in mind. If you are getting a small, flash tattoo, you can take some time to view the available designs, but keep in mind it is unlikely the artist is going to customize it for you.

4. Keep the Tattoo Small

Choose a tattoo that is small to medium and that is not too elaborate. You want to choose one that does not require a lot of coloring and shading. Walk-in appointments are not designed for full sleeves or realistic photos of family members. If you think the tattoo you are considering is large or elaborate, you should make an appointment or schedule a consultation at Oracle Tattoo Shops.

5. There Will Be Pain

Before choosing where a tattoo will be placed on your body, understand that some parts of the body are more painful than others. Bony areas, like the top of your foot, your ribs, and the outside of your ankle are more painful than fleshier areas, like your upper arm or stomach. Most tattoo artists will give you breaks if you need it, even for small tattoos, but you don’t want to leave with a tattoo that is half-finished because the pain was too intense. Be honest with yourself and the tattoo artist about how well you handle pain. They can advise how painful your choice of placement may be.

6. Tattoos Cost Money

Many people who walk into Philadelphia tattoo shops are surprised when they are told what a particular tattoo will cost. Most shops have a minimum charge for all tattoos which means that even if your tattoo is tiny, it will cost the same as a tattoo that is slightly larger. The minimum charge covers preparation and cleaning as well as the time it will take for the artist to design and ink the tattoo you choose. This price is not negotiable.

7. Over-Estimate the Cost

If you have done some research, you may already have an idea what a Philadelphia tattoo shops charge for a simple tattoo. However, when you plan your budget for the tattoo, over-estimate the time it will take or the size of the tattoo in order to cover any unexpected costs. If you think your tattoo will take an hour, plan to have cash for two hours just in case it takes longer than you thought. For instance, you may need to take a few more breaks than anticipated which will add to the time it takes the artist to complete the tattoo.

8. Prepare to Tip the Artist

Even if you choose a flash tattoo, the artist must draw the tattoo and transfer it to your skin before inking it. Tattoos are art and someone who inks them is as much an artist as someone who paints or draws on canvas. Tipping a tattoo artist is always a good idea as it shows them you appreciate their talent. It can also establish a relationship with them should you decide to come back for another tattoo later.

9. Don’t Be Impatient

If you walk into a tattoo shop without an appointment, don’t be impatient when you have to wait to get your tattoo. Keep in mind that most shops take appointments and those will take precedence over any walk-ins, regardless of how small the tattoo will be. Depending on how many appointments the shop has, you could wait just a few moments, or you could be waiting a few hours. If you can’t wait, it is best to make an appointment and come back another time.

10. Bring Cash

Although some tattoo shops now accept debit and credit cards, many operate on a strictly cash-only basis. In order to avoid any surprises when you walk into the tattoo shop, bring cash with you for the tattoo. Again, overestimate how much cash you will need to be sure you have enough in your wallet.

If you are considering a tattoo, contact Oracle Tattoo Gallery today. You can arrange for a consultation by filling out the easy online form or give us a call at 215-638-1601 to see how we can help you with your body art wishes.