Eat and hydrate
Have a proper meal beforehand and keep drinking water as you normally would. Ask about bringing a snack for a longer sitting. If a health condition affects your food or fluid intake, follow your clinician’s advice.
First tattoo · Dublin
Your first tattoo, one step at a time.
Know what happens before the day arrives.
You don’t need to know the process before you come to us. This guide walks you through the enquiry, the preparation and the appointment, so you arrive knowing what to expect. If you’re nervous or have questions, tell us. We’ll make time for them.
Your first appointment
Take your time with every step.
Questions and pauses are always welcome.
Your enquiry and consultation give us time to talk through the idea before you come in. On the day, you’ll look at the drawing and see how it sits on your body. Ask for changes or clarification whenever you need them. Tattooing only begins once you’ve agreed to go ahead.
Your comfort
Tell us what helps you settle in.
Your pace
Questions and pauses are always welcome.
Your say
Check the design and stencil before we begin.
Start by sending us your idea, placement, approximate size and any references. You can ask for an artist by name or leave the choice open. Our consultation and quote guide shows what makes a helpful first message.
What to expect
How your appointment comes together.
We’ll guide you through each stage, from what we need from you to what comes next.
- 01
Your idea
Tell us about the subject and placement, with references and a rough size. Let us know it’s your first tattoo and share any questions you have.
- 02
Your consultation
Once you’ve accepted the initial estimate, we arrange your consultation. You’ll talk through the idea and the practical details with your artist.
- 03
The design and stencil
Look over the drawing and check the stencil or placement on your skin. Take all the time you need before you agree to begin.
- 04
Your appointment
Your artist will keep an eye on your comfort throughout. You can ask for a break at any point. Before you leave, you’ll receive aftercare guidance and written instructions.
Before the day
Getting ready for the day.
These practical steps help your appointment run smoothly. If you’re unsure about any of them, ask us before your visit.
Sleep, alcohol and substances
A good night’s sleep helps. Please arrive sober and able to give informed consent for the whole session.
Dress for the placement
Wear clean, loose clothing that lets your artist reach the area and won’t rub it afterwards. Bring layers if you like, and ask us about clothing for a sensitive area.
Bring the essentials
Bring valid photo ID and anything listed in your booking details. Headphones are welcome, and you can ask about the comforts we have here.
Look after your skin
Keep the area out of the sun. Tell us beforehand about any irritation or broken skin. Leave shaving to your artist unless we’ve given you other instructions.
Plan the days after
Leave time for rest and aftercare. When you choose a date, mention any swimming, holidays, exercise or travel so we can discuss how they affect the timing.
Once your appointment is over, follow the studio’s instructions and our full tattoo aftercare guide. If you are travelling, read the Dublin visitor guide before you choose a date.
Questions are welcome
Questions you may have
01What if I’m nervous?
Tell us what worries you. We’ll explain what the sensation is like, talk you through each step and the drawing, and keep checking on your comfort. You can ask questions or ask for a pause at any time.
02Can I request an artist?
Yes. Choose their name on the enquiry form, or leave the choice open. Each artist’s profile has their work for you to explore before you get in touch.
03Does my first tattoo need to be small?
Not at all. Start with the design you love and a size you feel comfortable with. Your artist will talk through how much space the drawing needs.
04What will tattooing feel like?
It depends on the person, the placement and the length of the sitting. Ask your artist about the area you’ve chosen, and let them know whenever you need a break.
05What should I eat beforehand?
Have a proper meal and keep drinking water as normal. Ask us about snacks for a longer session. If a condition affects your food or blood sugar, follow your clinician’s guidance.
06What should I wear?
Clean, loose clothing gives your artist easy access to the placement and won’t rub it afterwards. If you’re unsure about the area, ask us for advice.
07What should I bring?
Valid photo ID and anything listed in your booking details. Headphones are welcome. If you’d like a companion to join you, let us know in advance.
08Can I drink alcohol before the appointment?
Please arrive sober and able to give informed consent. We can’t tattoo anyone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
09Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes, for each tattoo session. When we agree a session date, we ask for a deposit of 30% of that session’s price, up to €300, to secure it. It comes off the price of that session, and you pay the rest in the studio on the day. Please read the booking terms before paying, including the 72 hours’ notice needed to move an appointment.
10Will you explain aftercare?
Yes. You’ll receive written instructions and a full explanation before you leave. If anything is unclear afterwards, get in touch and we’ll help.
11When will I see the design?
You’ll talk through the direction at your consultation. The final artwork is usually shown at your appointment, with time to review it and agree any changes.
12Can I check the placement first?
Yes. You’ll check the drawing and its stencil or placement on your skin before any work begins. Ask for changes or take more time if you need it. Going ahead is always your decision.
Ready to talk about your first tattoo?
Send us your idea, references and approximate size. We’ll review your request and reply with the estimate and consultation details.