FAQs | Tattoo Studio Brighton Gilded Cage
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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Tattoos:

  • When are you open?

Monday to Saturday 11.00-12.00 for consultations and 12.00 -18.00 for tattoo appointments. Includes Bank Holidays.

Brighton Pride weekend (first weekend in August) we are Closed

Christmas Day and Boxing Day we are Closed.

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s day we are Closed.

  • How much does a consultation cost?

Consultations are free and you can have as many as you need before your tattoo appointment date. To book a free consultation with one of our artists just click here!

  • How old do you have to be to get a tattoo?

You must be a least 18 years of age. Don’t be offended if we ask for official photographic ID, the laws on tattooing are quite strict, and tattooing a person who is under 18 is treated as an assault on a minor. Having your parents’ consent does not change the fact that you must be 18 to get tattooed.

  • Are Tattoos Safe?

As long as you go to a reputable artist that is following all recommended safety precautions, getting a tattoo is perfectly safe. Make sure you’re fully honest about any medical conditions.

  • How much do you charge?

Rates vary depending on the artist and also the size and detail of the tattoo in question. Some tattoo studios charge by design and others charge by time. Depending on the size of the project, we charge by the hour or by a day rate. You will be made aware of a time scale and potential cost during our consultation process.

  • Do you need a Deposit?

For a consultation you do not need a deposit, however to secure your actual tattoo appointment you will need to pay one.

Each artist has a different rate so the deposit usually equates to the first hour of the apointment.

This amount will be deducted on the day or last session of a series of appointments depending on how big the project is.

  • What is the Cancellation Policy?

Deposits are non-refundable.

We require 7 days notice (preferably by email) to move an appointment.

Last minute changes or no shows will result in loss of deposit

  • How can I get a quote?

It’s best to book a consultation with the artist of your choice so you can discuss and agree on all the details, including time and cost estimates.

  • Do you use Vegan inks?

Yes, we use Eternal inks in our studio which are classed as vegan-friendly inks. These inks are some of the best on the market to buy in terms of range and quality.

  • Do you recycle?

In 2018 we reduced our plastic packaging by 500g per week on our deliveries which equates to 26kg per year! In 2019, we decided to go one step further.

We have sourced a variety of 100% biodegradable plastic substitutes that we use daily further reducing our carbon footprint.

In addition to this, Our studio has already gone paperless on designs and now use Digital drawing processes instead. This increases the Quality of the designs and produces no waste. We will be switching to paperless aftercare and consultation forms by the middle of 2019.

We have also created flash designs for each artist around the “No Planet B” movement where 10% of the funds from each tattoo goes to WWF and Green Peace to help the fight for our home.

Do you do piercings?

Not at this current time, if you would like to get in touch with our previous piercer then we can pass on his instagram address or contact number

  • How long is your waiting list?

Each artist’s waiting list varies, so we can let you know once you contact the studio. Generally, smaller pieces can be booked within a short space of time, whereas larger pieces like sleeves, etc could have up to a six-month wait (depending on the artist).

  • When can I see my design?

Usually, the artist will start to finalize your design a few days before your appointment. We do not send finished designs out prematurely but it is still possible to check your design and make any amendments before you get tattooed on the day.

  • Do you do cover-ups?

Yes, but it depends on what you’d like to have covered. In some cases, your artist will recommend laser treatment on the existing tattoo to fade it down sufficiently so it can be covered properly. Depending on whats already there, we could also use the space available to integrate or hide the original tattoo under the new one. However, everybody is different, so it’s best to book a consultation and discuss all your options!

  • Can I have a few drinks to help me deal with the pain?

No. We do not tolerate drink or recreational drugs in our studio. Alcohol and many painkillers thin the blood, meaning that you bleed easier, which can result in a loss of ink.

So you may find the tattoo takes longer, and may not heal as well as it should affecting the quality of the final result.

This includes the use of marijuana.

  • Does it Hurt?

Pain is really relative. Everyone has a different tolerance for pain. We’re not going to kid you, though – it does hurt. Just not that much. Some have compared it to a “hot scratching feeling”. But, people would not be returning again and again for tattoos after tattoos if it hurt that bad! Most of us are not into pain, but the beauty of the tattoo and the pride associated with wearing it far outweighs a little pin-stick here and there.

What about using some kind of numbing cream? These kinds of products are really not recommended.

  • Can I Bring My Child Along To My Appointment?

We do not allow under 18’s in the tattoo area downstairs but do allow teenagers upstairs in the shop.

  • Is Tanning OK When You Have Tattoos?

It might be really tempting to get some rays during the summer months or hit up the tanning salon, but before you ruin your tattoo, please read about tattoos and tanning.

  • I Just Got a New Tattoo on My Leg – Can I Shave?

It will take some time for your skin to heal enough for you to shave again and it can vary from person to person.

  • My Friend Just Bought a Tattoo Kit and Wants to Practice on Me

Do NOT let them do it! Your friend could be putting both of your lives in danger by foolishly trying to learn this at home. Tell them they need to get a proper apprenticeship, and they can start practising on you when their mentor (master) feels they are ready.

  • What Should I Get? And Where?

This is all a matter of personal taste. You can get whatever you want, and whatever your artist is willing to do.

You can choose a picture off the wall, or you can have them create a custom piece just for you. Your only limit is your own imagination. As far as where you should get it, just keep in mind what you do for work and the type of social circles you are in. You might want to consider placing your tattoo where it can be easily covered up with normal clothing.

Why not Check out our artist’s portfolios for inspiration:

James Robinson

Sophie Sharp

What Is the Best Time of Year to Get a Tattoo?

Although you can get a tattoo any time of the year, your skin gets a lot more abuse during the summer with swimming, tanning and just being exposed to the elements more. Winter time is really the best season to get a tattoo.

Is It OK to Get a Tattoo if I’m Sick?

Getting a tattoo when your immune system isn’t at 100% isn’t a good idea. You’re going to need your strength and your white blood cells to heal your tattoo, something your body won’t be able to do if it’s already doing battle against virus and bacteria. Not to mention the fact that it’s very inconsiderate to bring your illness into the tattoo studio and risk passing the germs onto others, particularly your artist. If you have an appointment, call and reschedule for when you’re feeling well again.

Where Can I Find Pictures of Tattoos?

If you’re getting a tattoo, especially as an expression of your individuality, why would you want a tattoo just like someone else’s?

Instead, find other pictures of what you’re looking for and have your artist draw up a custom design for you. Example: If you are wanting a tattoo of a penguin standing on a glacier, find real photos of penguins and glaciers. If you want a tattoo of a blue rose wrapped around a cross, find pictures of real roses and crosses that you like. If the pictures don’t show exactly what you want, just take them to your artist to use them as guidelines and tell them what changes you want to be made to the original pictures. A real artist will welcome the challenge of a custom piece.

  • What is an autoclave?

An autoclave is what hospitals and dentists will use to sterilize equipment. Extreme steam-heat and pressure are used to sterilise any tools that may be needed. Needles are pre-sealed (single-use) and disposed of immediately after use.