Tattoo shops love walk-ins. There’s nothing quite like it to perk up a slow day in the shop. However, it can be frustrating for tattoo artists when new clients don’t understand how walk-ins work or have if they have unrealistic expectations for them. Here is everything you need to know about walk-in etiquette for tattoo shops in Toronto.
Know What You Want
If you book an appointment ahead of time, there is typically a consultation where you and the tattoo artist will discuss what you want and collaborate to come up with a design. With walk-ins, you’re expected to already know what you want. There may be a chance to discuss a few minor things with the artist, but there isn’t time for a full consultation. If you don’t have a design decided on and printed out, or if you have tons of questions or don’t know what you want, then a walk-in tattoo appointment might not be for you.
Call Ahead
It’s always a good idea to call head on the day you’re thinking of coming in. That way you can avoid arriving at the busiest time or on days where everything is booked up. We don’t like making clients wait hours, but unfortunately, that might happen if you just arrive.
Flash Is Your Friend
All tattoo artists have a book of pre-designed tattoos called flash tattoos. For walk-ins, these are great because they’re already designed and ready to go. Some artists are open to small changes but don’t expect to alter anything major.
Expect To Wait
If you’re walking in for a tattoo there will be a waiting period. Even if on the off chance the shop is dead empty, the tattoo artist will still need time to draft up the template. Toronto tattoo shops will also give priority to booked appointments. Expect to wait at least a half an hour, if not more. If you want to avoid longer wait times then call ahead.
Don’t Bring The Whole Gang
We get it, getting a tattoo is fun and exciting and you want to share that with your friends. But please limit how many people you bring. Tattoo shops in Toronto are typically small, so a large crowd can be in the way. A friend or two brought along for moral support is fine, but an entire entourage is not.
Don’t Haggle The Price
People like to think of tattoo shops like farmers markets where they can bargain the price. Prices are set because tattoo artists know exactly how much time it will take, what the materials will cost, and what their art is worth. Negotiations on price aren’t an option for walk-ins or booked appointments.
Show Up Sober
Who hasn’t thought about a tattoo while having a fun night out on the town? Just know that Toronto tattoo shops don’t tattoo people that aren’t fully sober. Alcohol makes blood thinner, which causes more bleeding during the process. Plus, no studio wants to be responsible for a horrible drunken tattoo.
Other Tips
· Don’t bring pets
· Don’t bring kids
· Make sure you have payment available (Call ahead to know what payment types they accept)
· Dress appropriately
· Trust your tattoo artist
Conclusion
Don’t be discouraged from walking in to a tattoo shop in Toronto, just know what to expect. Contact us or stop by our downtown Toronto tattoo shop to learn more or get a new sweet tattoo today.
