Frequently asked questions
FAQ
Common questions about getting a tattoo or a piercing. More categories will be added as the studio provides them.
Getting a tattoo
Do you accept walk-ins, or do I need an appointment?
We accept both appointments and walk-ins, depending on each artist's availability. For same-day availability or general questions, clients can call or send us a text message during the studio's business hours. We prefer to work by appointment whenever possible because it gives us enough time to answer any questions before the visit and properly prepare for the service the client would like to receive. For tattoos in particular, booking in advance is highly recommended. Our tattoo artists usually take time to review each project and personalize the design for the client. Scheduling ahead gives the artist more time to prepare and refine the design, which can contribute to a better overall experience and final result.
How should I prepare for my tattoo appointment?
We recommend getting a good night's rest, staying hydrated, and eating a solid meal beforehand. Avoid alcohol or blood thinners at least 24 hours before your session. Wear comfortable clothing that gives access to the area being tattooed.
Does getting a tattoo hurt?
Pain levels vary depending on the placement and your personal tolerance. Some areas are more sensitive than others, but most people find the experience manageable — and we're here to make you as comfortable as possible.
How much does a tattoo cost?
Pricing depends on the size, complexity, and placement of the design. We'll give you a quote during your consultation. A deposit is required to secure your appointment and goes toward the final cost.
What is the healing process like?
Healing typically takes 2–4 weeks. We'll provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure your tattoo heals properly. During this time, avoid pools, direct sunlight, and heavy sweating over the area.
Can I bring my own design or idea?
Absolutely. We encourage it! Whether you have a sketch, a reference photo, or just an idea in your head, we'll work with you to create a custom piece that fits your vision and style.
Still have a question?
Contact the studio and we’ll get back to you.
Getting a piercing
Does getting a piercing hurt?
Everyone experiences pain differently, but most piercings only cause a quick pinch or pressure that lasts a few seconds. We focus on making the procedure as comfortable, safe, and smooth as possible.
What type of jewelry is best for a new piercing?
High-quality, implant-grade jewelry is recommended for fresh piercings. At El Estuche Ink, we use ASTM F-136 implant-grade titanium, a lightweight and biocompatible material suitable for initial piercings.
How should I clean my new piercing?
Wash your hands before touching the area and clean the piercing with sterile 0.9% saline solution. Avoid twisting, rotating, or unnecessarily touching the jewelry while it heals.
What should I avoid while my piercing is healing?
Avoid sleeping directly on the piercing, unnecessary touching, swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, and other bodies of water. Keep makeup, lotions, creams, and other products away from the area, and avoid changing the jewelry too soon.
How do I know if my piercing is healing normally?
Mild swelling, tenderness, redness, and some clear or whitish-yellow discharge that forms a small crust can be normal during healing. Increasing pain, significant swelling, spreading redness, excessive heat, thick or foul-smelling discharge, or fever may require professional evaluation. If you are concerned, contact your piercer, and seek medical attention if an infection is suspected.
Still have a question?
Contact the studio and we’ll get back to you.
Booking
How do I book an appointment?
You can submit a booking request through our website. For tattoo appointments, please include as much information as possible about your idea, preferred placement, approximate size, and reference images. For piercings, select the service you are interested in and provide your preferred date and time.
Is a deposit required to confirm my appointment?
Yes. A deposit is required to officially secure your appointment. Your appointment is not considered confirmed until the deposit has been received.
Is the deposit applied toward the final price?
Yes. Your deposit will be applied toward the final cost of your service unless otherwise stated.
Are deposits refundable?
Deposits are generally non-refundable because your appointment time is reserved specifically for you. If you need to make a change, please contact us as early as possible.
What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?
We ask that you provide at least 48 hours' notice. Cancellations or changes made with less than 48 hours' notice may result in the loss of your deposit, and a new deposit may be required to book another appointment.
Can I book if I do not know exactly what tattoo I want yet?
Yes. You can send us your general idea, preferred placement, approximate size, and reference images. Your artist can help develop and finalize the concept for your tattoo.
Can I get a price before booking?
Yes. You can request a quote before confirming your appointment. Tattoo pricing depends on factors such as size, placement, level of detail, style, and the amount of time required.
Are tattoo quotes exact?
Tattoo quotes are estimates unless a fixed price has been specifically confirmed. Changes to the size, placement, design, or level of detail may affect the final price.
Do you accept walk-ins?
Yes, when availability allows. Because availability can change throughout the day, we recommend messaging or calling us before coming in.
Can I book multiple services in the same appointment?
In many cases, yes. If you would like multiple tattoos, multiple piercings, or a combination of services, please let us know when submitting your request so we can schedule enough time for your appointment.
Can I bring someone with me?
You may bring someone with you, but access to the procedure area is limited. For safety, hygiene, and comfort, only the client and the artist or piercer are generally allowed in the procedure area unless otherwise necessary.
How early should I arrive?
We recommend arriving approximately 5–10 minutes before your scheduled appointment to complete any necessary paperwork and prepare for your service.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring a valid photo ID. Minors must also meet our age, identification, and parental consent requirements. For tattoo appointments, you are welcome to bring any additional reference images you would like your artist to see.
Can minors receive services?
Certain services may be available for clients 16 years of age or older with a parent or legal guardian present and the required identification and consent. Age requirements and restrictions may vary depending on the service.
How will I know my appointment is confirmed?
Once your appointment details have been finalized and the required deposit has been received, you will receive confirmation of your scheduled date and time.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept several payment methods, including cash and electronic payment options. Credit and debit card payments may be subject to an additional processing fee.
Can I change my tattoo design after booking?
Minor changes can usually be accommodated. Significant changes to the concept, size, placement, or style should be communicated in advance because they may affect the amount of time needed for your appointment and the final price.
Still have a question?
Contact the studio and we’ll get back to you.