Tattoo F.A.Q.
Questions And Answers

1. Does it hurt?
A) Yes, the degree of discomfort though is dependant upon a number of factors such as location and a persons own pain tolerance. Most people will find that the level of pain is just an irritation or an annoying stinging. Generally the outline is the most intense part of the tattoo.

1.      2. Where does it hurt the most?
A) The most discomfort will be anywhere that there is a high concentration of nerve endings, such as near a joint (ankle, elbow, etc.) or in a protected area ( armpit) or over body organs ( ribcage, stomach, etc.). Contrary to popular opinion the degree of pain has nothing to do with how fleshy the area is (nearness to bone).

3.   3. How old do I have to be?
A) Age requirements are dependant upon state and local laws. Michigan requires that no one under the age of 18 can be tattooed or pierced without parental permission (parent must appear in person to give permission)

1.      4. How much does it cost?
A) Cost varies from shop to shop and state to state. An accurate price cannot be given without knowing the size and complexity of the tattoo. Our minimum price is $50 and go up from there. Our hourly rate is $135. Hourly rates start when your tattoo begins, there is no charge for set-up time.

1.      5. Does it cost more for color?
A) We do not charge extra for color, some shops do.

1.  6. How long does it take to heal?
A) Most tattoos will heal in 10 days to 2 weeks, actual healing time will depend on your own body chemistry and the skill of your tattoo artist

7. How long does it take to get a tattoo?
A) This will vary according to size and complexity. Very small tattoos can often be done in as little as 5 minutes, some very large tattoos can take several months to complete.

8. Can I use my own art work for a tattoo?
A) Yes, by all means. We welcome clients to use their own artwork to design their own unique body art. A rough sketch or idea is all that is needed our artists will be happy to assist you with your design, or if you are not artistic we will be happy to design a piece for you using your ideas. If you are planning on a portrait we will need the sharpest, clearest picture that you can provide, preferably 5x7 or larger.

9. I have an old tattoo that has faded or I have a tattoo that I don’t like anymore what can I do with it?
A) Old tattoos can be restored completely by re-lining and/or re-coloring. If you have a tattoo that you no longer desire for any reason (bad work, name, etc.) you have two options, you can have it removed (laser removal is best but, it is expensive) or you can cover it up with a new tattoo ( less expensive than removal).

10. When should I get my tattoo re-colored?
A) A properly applied tattoo using today’s best inks should not need to be re-colored for at least 10 to 20 years, provided that it is properly cared for. A tattoo that is not protected from the sun may only hold up for a few years or less.

More Questions? E-Mail them to: TattooFAQ@RoyalOakTattoo.Com