STEP 1

Prior to your appointment, it's crucial to ensure you've eaten adequately and are well-hydrated to minimise the risk of feeling lightheaded during the tattoo session. We recommend bringing some sugary snacks or drinks to help while you’re being tattooed.

STEP 2

There is 3 hour parking on port road’s medium strip. Alternatively, there is $5/day parking at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre car park.

STEP 3

We recommend arriving 10 minutes early to your appointment at Birds of Prey Tattoo to allow ample time for completing your consent form. Should you have any queries or concerns about the consent form, please don't hesitate to ask—we're here to assist you every step of the way.

STEP 4

After completing your consent form, your artist will personally present the design they've crafted for you. Some artists opt not to send designs in advance to maintain the personal touch of the experience. Sharing designs beforehand can lead to numerous opinions, potentially diluting the unique experience. However, if you have any adjustments in mind for the design, feel free to discuss them with your artist—they're open to accommodating your preferences.

STEP 5

The following step involves determining the size of the tattoo. Typically, the artist will print out various sizes to help you decide on the desired dimensions. Once both the design and size are chosen, the artist will create a stencil for application. This stencil acts as a guideline, composed of a carbon print, applied to the skin to outline the placement of the tattoo and provide a reference for the artist. This allows you to visually confirm the placement in a mirror. Should you wish for adjustments, the stencil can be easily removed, and a new one created to ensure your satisfaction with both the size and placement. Before applying the stencil, your artist will thoroughly disinfect and shave the area.

STEP 6

The stencil is allowed to dry for 10-15 minutes before the tattooing begins. Depending on the location of the tattoo, you may sit or lie down comfortably. We also provide privacy screens for discreet areas on the body. Additionally, we recommend bringing your your phone, iPad, music etc to keep you entertained while you wait. You may want to use these while getting tattooed also. However, you're more than welcome to talk to your artist and observe their work as they proceed.

STEP 7

“Does it hurt?" Tattooing entails piercing the skin's surface repeatedly with a sharp needle coated in pigment. Essentially, yes it does, although the level of pain can vary from person to person. As a general guideline, areas with more fat, fewer nerve endings, and thicker skin tend to be less painful. Conversely, areas with less fat, more nerve endings, and thinner skin are typically more sensitive. Regions with prominent bones, like elbows, often tend to be more painful.

STEP 8

Tattooing, particularly for larger designs, can be a time-consuming process. If you feel the need for a break, whether it's for a trip to the restroom or simply to take a breather from the tattooing session, please don't hesitate to inform your artist. They will gladly accommodate your request. Your artist will guide you to the shop’s amenities should you require them during your appointment.

STEP 9

After the tattooing is finished, your artist will take steps to protect your new ink until you return home. This might involve wrapping it in Glad Wrap for added protection or applying a "Second Skin," depending on the artist's recommendation. Additionally we recommend having some aftercare cream so that you have access to it once you get home. Any tattoo balm/cream should work fine, Bepanthen is also ok to use.

STEP 10

You'll settle payment directly with your artist, rather than through the studio. Payment options include cash or bank transfer for your convenience.

STEP 11

The healing journey typically spans 2-4 weeks, and adhering to the provided aftercare instructions is crucial for proper healing. Should any ink fall out during this period, please contact our artists for a touch-up within the first 3 months to ensure your tattoo looks its best.

Some other things to note:

WHAT CLOTHES SHOULD I WEAR TO MY APPOINTMENT?

• Whenever possible, it's better to wear loose clothes that exposes the area to be tattooed. For instance, for an upper arm tattoo, wearing a singlet is recommended. In certain cases, such as tattoos on the back or ribs, it may be necessary to remove clothing items. If privacy is a concern, particularly for tattoos in discreet areas, we provide screens that can be set up to ensure privacy between you and your tattoo artist.

IS NUMBING CREAM OK TO USE?

• Certain artists opt against the use of numbing cream, as it may toughen the skin, making it more challenging to tattoo. If pain is a concern and you're considering numbing cream, it's advisable to communicate with your artist beforehand to discuss the best approach.

We look forward to seeing you at Birds of Prey Tattoo. For any other questions please visit our contact page or email the shop at “contact@birdsofpreytattoo.au”.