Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find answers to many of our most popular topics regarding the tattoo process.
Can I get a quote for a tattoo?
Due to the nature of custom tattooing, we are NOT able to give you an accurate quote online or over the phone.
We will do our best to give you a ballpark estimate prior to starting your tattoo, preferably during an in-person consultation, but for larger works this can be difficult.
Why? Since our artists charge hourly, the final cost of your tattoo depends on how long it takes. Factors such as the size of the final design, amount of detail or style of the design, how well you sit, and how many hours you are willing or able to sit during each session effect the time it takes to complete your tattoo, and we won't know exactly until we have finished the process.
If we were going to give a ballpark estimation of different sizes of pieces, a hand size tattoo can be done in a few hours, a half sleeve could take 2-4 sessions (3-6 hours minimum per), double that for a full sleeve, and triple or quadruple that for a full leg sleeve. Some full back pieces can take over 100 hours over the course of 2 years.
What is your hourly rate?
Our shop rate starts at $200, but depending on the artist, the hourly rate can be $250-300 per hour. This will be covered during your consultation prior to setting a deposit. If you have a question about a specific artist feel free to reach out and ask our staff.
Do you do smaller pieces?
Yes, we do! While the majority of our artists focus on larger works, we enjoy doing ALL types of tattoos. Our shop minimum is $100, so depending on the design you might to consider that before heading down.
Do you take walk-ins?
During Covid-19 please call the shop for the most updated information regarding walkins. All walk-ins are handled on a first-come first-serve basis. It's best to call your preferred location to ask what our availability looks like that day. Keep in mind, some parts of the year are busier than others, and that affects our ability to take walk-ins, but you never know when an artist might have a last minute opening so it's always worth a call.
I emailed an artist, when can I expect a response?
Each tattoo artist has a different process when it comes to responding to email inquiries. Some artists check daily, while others reply to emails every week or two.
Generally speaking, we suggest waiting a full week before sending a follow up email to an artist, but you are welcome to contact our staff if you have questions about the process in the meantime.
We suggest emailing info@gurutattoo.com for any matters that are time sensitive (or if you feel like your inquiry got lost in the shuffle). We average 24 hours to reply to the info@ account.
Do I need to make a deposit?
Yes, a deposit is required when you start ANY new project. This is needed to secure your start date, and is NON-REFUNDABLE, but can be applied to the final session of the tattoo.
Cancelations: Many artists will still honor your deposit if you need to reschedule with at least 48 hours notice. If you no-show then your deposit is forfeited.
What can I expect during the healing process?
Once your tattoo has been completed, our commitment to you is not finished. We provide complete instructions for optimal after care and safety, ensuring that you and your tattoo leave our shop as healthy as when you arrived. You will get compete healing instruction before you leave, but if you are unsure of something then don't hesitate to reach out to us!!
Here are a few Pro Tips to guide you through the healing process:
DO NOT SUBMERGE in the ocean, bath, swimming pool or any other bodies of water while your tattoo is healing. This can be up to a few weeks depending on the person. If you are here on vacation, get tattooed at the end!
Keep your new tattoo away from extended sun exposure for the first few weeks. A sunburn can be devastating to a new tattoo, and can cause colors to fade overtime (even on a fully healed tattoo).
During the first week you should take it easy!! This is a very important phase during the healing process. Use your energy for healing, plus any damage incurred to your tattoo at this phase could be permanent. Skip the GYM this week.
Keep the original bandage on for the rest of the day (do not exceed 24 hours). It might be hot, and wet, and slimy, but it is the best way to keep foreign contaminates out.
After that, keep your healing tattoo clean by washing it a couple of times throughout the day. Use an unsented soap, and be prepared to use an unscented lotion to keep hydrated throughout the process. If your new tattoo is wet to the touch for a few mins that's ok, but if it's wet for longer than that you are likely using too much lotion. Conversely, if the tattoo or your skin starts to develop deep cracks then you might need to moisturize more often.
This should go without saying, but if you are experiencing anything from a rash to fever, or if your tattoo continues to be inflamed for longer than normal please seek out medical care.