Frequently Asked Questions
It's cool, lots of our clients have questions and we're happy to answer them. There are a a few questions we get quite regularly, so we'll try and answer some of those the best we can here.
How do I book a consultation?
Simple! Pop by the shop. If we have time, we'll go through as much as we can right then and there. And if we don't we'll book in some time to meet soon.
In either case, it's a good idea to be sure you can properly explain what you're looking for before you pop in to the shop. So if possible, have some source material / visual inspiration on hand for our chat.
And please remember.... please be aware that your initial concept / design may need to change a bit to ensure the best possible outcome. When we review your idea together, keep an open mind to our feedback. We never like to say "No" or "That can't be done" but we may have to suggest another way of looking at how to put the pieces together.
For all of you not from Sarnia but looking to book a consultation, please call us to discuss setting up a time to meet next time you're in town, or so we can provide some details on how we can provide a remote consultation.
How much does a tattoo cost?
Tattoos, don't have a set price. Tattoo pricing is a careful balance of numerous factors such as size, colour, design complexity, hours to complete and so much more. If you want to know how much your tattoo will cost, come in for a consultation to learn more.
Some considerations on pricing:
Shop minimum is $100
We're not big fans of haggling / negotiating our prices
If you're a dick to us or our clients, we will likely be adding a "douchebag tax" when calculating the price of your tattoo. That is... if we'll even tattoo you.
Is getting a tattoo safe?
A tattoo is a medical procedure. Like any medical procedure, there is a certain level of risk involved. That said, we take the health & safety of our clients & artists very seriously. At Bluewater Tattoo we take all of the following precautions (and numerous others):
Maintaining a regular inspection schedule by Lambton Public Health
Participating in online and in-class health & safety procedural training multiple times a year
Participating in in-class sterilization training sessions each year
Using disposables for all required items (and even some non-required ones)
Sterilizing & properly packaging needles & other non-disposable equipment after EACH use
Wearing nitrile gloves during each tattoo, switching out as required
Is this going to hurt?
Yeah. But it hurts differently for everyone. Some can nap, while others may not sleep ever again (okay.... maybe that's an overstatement. Sorry! Didn't mean to scare you.).
During your consultation, we can discuss your pain tolerance, especially as it relates to the area you want your tattoo to be placed.
What should I do to prepare for my tattoo?
The primary things to ensure are that you are rested, hydrated, fed, sober & on time. We will discuss other considerations for YOUR tattoo appointment during your consultation.
Oh.... and having a shower beforehand would be greatly appreciated.
What do I need to care for my new tattoo?
Patience & discipline. Give your tattoo time to properly heal, and follow ALL of the directions provided to you by your artist. The care regimen provided to you is done so for a reason. To get the best short-term and long-term results.... follow the program.
How old do I need to be to get a tattoo?
By Ontario law (which we abide by), you must be 18 years of age or older to get a tattoo without additional consent required.
Minors of 16 years of age or older may get tattooed but MUST have a parent or guardian BOTH:
Sign the release form in person, at the shopRemain at the shop for the ENTIRE duration of the session (Parent or Guardian: come prepared! Bring coffee & snacks for yourself)
What's your deposit policy?
To schedule a tattoo session, a 50% deposit must be provided to Bluewater Tattoo at the time of booking. Deposits are non-refundable.
Can I make a request for a specific song to be played during my session?
Only if it's awesome.
Oh... and if it isn't... we're cancelling your appointment but keeping your deposit. So come strong with your requests!
Have more questions? Need us to clarify or provide more detail to these answers? Have a couple of follow ups? That's completely cool. We want you to be as comfortable with this process as possible so that you're well prepared to get your tattoo.
Contact us if you need any additional information.