
Kindred Ink Tattoo Studio – FAQs
These are our most asked questions, all in one place for you :)
Booking & Deposits
How do I book an appointment?
You can book by contacting us via Messenger on our Facebook page, WhatsApp Business, TikTok Dm's, Instagram or our preffered method is you coming into our store and meeting you face to face. We also have our own dedicated telephone numbers, individual artist emails and a general studio email (info@kindredink.co.uk). We’ll discuss your idea, placement, size, and availability, then confirm a date and time. We make it easy for you to contact us, because we love hearing from you!
Do you take a deposit?
Yes. A deposit is required to secure your appointment time. Deposits come off the final price on the day unless stated otherwise.
Are deposits refundable?
Deposits are generally non-refundable, as they secure time reserved specifically for you and cover admin/design time. If we need to move your appointment, your deposit will be transferred to a new date.
Can I reschedule my appointment?
Yes, please give us as much notice as possible. If you provide at least 48 hours’ notice (you can change this), we’ll usually transfer your deposit to a new date once.
What happens if I cancel or don’t show up?
If you cancel late or do not attend, your deposit is normally forfeited. This is because we’re unlikely to refill the slot at short notice.
How far in advance do you book?
It varies by artist and season. Message us and we’ll tell you the next available dates.
Pricing
How much will my tattoo cost?
Prices depend on size, detail, placement, and time required. We’ll give you a quote after a quick consultation. We won’t guess a price from a blurry screenshot of a dragon fighting a lighthouse (we will, however, admire your ambition).
Do you charge by the hour or by the piece?
Some designs are priced as a set piece, others by an hourly rate. We’ll confirm this before you book.
Do you do small tattoos and fine line?
Yes, we do small pieces and delicate work, depending on the design and placement. We’ll advise what will age best over time.
Design & Consultation
Can I bring my own design or reference images?
Yes. References are helpful. If you bring someone else’s tattoo, we will not copy it exactly, but we can create an original design inspired by it.
Do you offer custom designs?
Yes, custom work is what we love. We’ll go through your concept and tailor it to your body and style.
When will I see the design?
Usually close to your appointment date (this prevents endless design changes weeks in advance). Minor tweaks can be made on the day.
Can I make changes to the design on the day?
Small changes are often fine. Big changes may require a rebook so we can redesign properly.
Age, ID, and Consent
Do you tattoo under 18s?
No. We do not tattoo anyone under 18 under any circumstances. We check ID's and in some cases are obligated to store a copy of this.
Do I need ID?
Yes, if you look under 25, we may ask for valid photo ID (passport/driving licence).
Safety, Hygiene & Studio Standards
Is your studio hygienic and licensed?
We maintain strict hygiene and infection control standards, including appropriate cleaning, single-use items where required, and safe waste disposal. We have a full registration with the local authority.
Do you use single-use needles?
Yes. Needles are single-use and opened in front of you.
Can I bring a friend?
It depends on the day, the artist, and space in the studio. For safety and focus, we may limit extra people. Please ask when booking.
Can I bring my children?
No, the studio isn’t a suitable environment for children due to sharps, cleaning chemicals, and the nature of the service.
Preparing for Your Appointment
How should I prepare?
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Eat a proper meal beforehand
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Stay hydrated
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Get a decent night’s sleep
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Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the area
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Avoid alcohol and drugs for 24 hours beforehand
Can I come if I’ve been drinking?
No. We won’t tattoo anyone who appears intoxicated. It’s a safety issue and affects healing.
Can I use numbing cream?
Some clients use numbing creams, but they can affect the skin. Please ask us first if approved, use only as instructed and tell your artist on arrival.
Medical & Skin Questions
Can I get tattooed if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
We generally recommend waiting. If you’re unsure, speak with a medical professional first.
What if I’m on blood thinners or have a medical condition?
Tell us during booking. Some conditions/medications affect healing or bleeding. We may ask you to get medical advice before proceeding.
Can I be tattooed if I have eczema/psoriasis/acne on the area?
It depends. We cannot tattoo over broken or actively inflamed skin. We’ll advise you honestly.
Aftercare & Healing
How do I look after my tattoo?
You’ll receive aftercare instructions on the day. In general: keep it clean, don’t pick, avoid soaking (baths/swimming) for around 2 weeks, and moisturise lightly. We offer instore aftercare products in a bundle for an extra £15.00.
How long does it take to heal?
Surface healing is usually 2–4 weeks, but full healing can take longer depending on placement and your body.
Can I go swimming or use a sauna after?
Avoid swimming, saunas and hot tubs for at least 2 weeks (often longer). Water and heat increase infection risk and can affect healing.
What if I think it’s infected?
If you have signs of infection (spreading redness, heat, pus, fever), seek medical advice via NHS 111 (or 999 in an emergency). Then let us know so we can support and record the concern.
Touch-ups & Fixes
Do you offer touch-ups?
We’ll advise based on the tattoo and your aftercare. Some pieces may include a touch-up window; others may be chargeable. We’ll be clear when you book.
Can you cover up or rework an old tattoo?
Often yes but cover-ups depend on the old tattoo’s size, darkness, and placement. Send a clear photo in good lighting and we’ll advise.
Studio Policies
What’s your cancellation policy?
We require notice, typically 48 hours. Late cancellations/no-shows usually lose the deposit because the slot cannot be refilled.
Other policies are found in store and at the bottom of our website. We have 102 pages of policies and procedures, making us a robust and thorough Tattoo Studio.
Do you do refunds?
Because tattooing is a bespoke service and involves time, consumables, and artistic work, we generally do not offer refunds. If something has genuinely gone wrong, we will review it through our complaints process.
How do I make a complaint?
You can email info@kindredink.co.uk with “Formal Complaint” in the subject line. We’ll acknowledge within 3 working daysand aim to respond fully within 10 working days. The full complaints policy can be found at the bottom of our website.