SPIDER INK / GOOD TO KNOW

Frequently asked
questions

Answers to your questions about tattoos, preparation and visiting the studio.

13 QUESTIONS · FROM THE SPIDER INK TEAM

Does it hurt?

The question we hear most often about tattoos is: does it hurt?
The honest answer is yes.
The sensation is often compared to using an epilator, although we think an epilator can feel worse than the needle.
Bear in mind that everyone has a different pain threshold, so it is difficult to predict how much it will hurt. The outer arms and shoulder blades are among the least painful areas, while in our experience the ribs, kneecaps and inner biceps are among the most painful.
Other areas fall somewhere in between, but everyone's experience is different.

Speak to your artist before using any numbing product.
Products differ in strength, ingredients and suitability.
Even for the most painful areas, we recommend using a numbing cream to make the experience more comfortable for both the artist and the person being tattooed.

Pricing depends on several key factors: the size, complexity and placement of the tattoo. Each tattoo has a fixed price that is not directly based on the time it takes. Of course, not every studio works this way. Consult your chosen studio to find out how it prices its work.

Choosing a tattoo is personal. There is no single right way to do it, but a few steps can help you develop your idea.
Some people choose a design simply because they like it, others because it has a deeper meaning, and others because they want to complement their body with a beautiful, elegant tattoo.
We have written a whole article about choosing a tattoo, digital design and the steps to consider when selecting your tattoo: read it here.

Please discuss preparation with your artist. Drinking before an appointment is not a suitable way to manage pain.
Arrive sober for your appointment.
Follow the aftercare and preparation instructions agreed with your artist. This answer is pending a final care-content review before publication.

Arrive well rested, hydrated and having eaten. Let your artist know if you feel unwell during the session.
Shower before your visit and wear comfortable clothing that gives access to the area being tattooed.

Tattoos are very personal.
Beauty means different things to different people. Try not to be influenced by people who are not professionals. Speak to your studio and develop the idea together; they can give you informed advice.
You will be the one wearing it for a long time, so it matters that you love it. 😀

There are a few ways to rework an existing tattoo.
Adding new elements can help an existing piece develop into a larger composition. A cover-up places a new design over the old one and may need to be larger or darker. Book a consultation before deciding on the next step.

Tattooing involves breaking the skin, so hygiene and appropriate materials matter. Tell us about allergies or sensitive skin before your appointment. If you have a skin condition or medical concerns, discuss them with a qualified clinician. We cannot promise that adverse reactions will never occur.

Possibly, but the scar and the condition of the skin need to be assessed in person. The area must be fully healed; suitability and timing require individual advice.

In some cases, yes. The design, coverage and condition of the skin need to be discussed during a consultation.

In short: yes, but only for a second.
The sensation depends on the placement and the person.
Talk to your piercer about the procedure and any concerns before your appointment.