Curious About Tattoos? We’ve Got You Covered!

At BLVCK LVBEL TATTOO, we understand that getting a tattoo can come with many questions and concerns. Our intuitive approach ensures that you receive all the information you need to make an informed decision. Whether you're considering your first tattoo, looking for tattoo-removal options, or exploring our permanent make-up services, our friendly team is here to guide you every step of the way. Here are some of our most frequently asked questions:

What is the shop minimum for a tattoo service?

Our shop minimum is $150.  These designs will not have a lot of detail, no colour and or minimal shading.

Do you accept Walk-ins for tattoo services?

Yes. However, making an appointment may eliminate, waiting time and the chance of not getting tattooed that day or time you decide to walk in.  We always encourage you to give us a ring before you come in or an email to ask us first of our availability.

Do I require a deposit to book a tattoo appointment?

Yes. All bookings require a deposit, no exceptions.  This is to ensure and guarantee the start of your design and lock in your time slot. Please note all deposits are non-refundable. Non-refundable means no exceptions.

How do I book an appointment?

Simply email, call us or drop by, then we will go from there. It's that simple

What are your deposit rates?

Deposits can range based on the complexity, detail, size and design of the tattoo. Deposits can range from $100-150 for one session tattoos or any of our other services. A $500 deposit may be required  for bigger tattoo  projects. Pricing will always be discussed during the consultation of which ever service to be performed.

Do I require a deposit to book a consultation?

No. All consultations for any of our services are complimentary. Bookings are recommended but walk-ins are always accepted.

I've changed my mind, can I get my deposit back?

Although, we understand that sometimes we make decision out of the spur of the moment. We do have a 100% non-refundable deposit policy with no exceptions. We respect our clients and are very serious about our artwork. Non-refundable deposits are to ensure you respect our time, and are equally as serious about your new tattoo that we have committed to execute. We value your time to come and consult with us, free of charge, so we ask you value our time as well, while we are designing your vision into reality.

Can I change my whole design idea after agreeing to your original completed design, I approved?

We've agreed on a design and now you want completely different ideas/design.  That's not a problem at all. An additional deposit will be required at the artist description. You're original deposit will be forfeited.

My friend or another shop can do my tattoo at a cheaper rate, can you match it if I come to you?

We take pride and time for our work. We put in detail, care, thought, passion, heart and respect along with love into our work! If money is your only concern to getting a tattoo done, then  go to your friend's or that other place.

Do you charge hourly or by the design?

Please see Services and Rates page.

It's my first tattoo and I'm nervous?

Nervousness is natural, we were all nervous when we got our first one. The only thing we can say is to relax and breath. If it were that bad, you wouldn't see that many people with tattoos.  We'd like to say, "it's all in the head, if you think it's going to hurt then it will; if you think it's going to be okay and what you're about to feel is only temporarily, then, it will be."  Remember, you can always ask us to stop whenever you suggest it.  You are aloud to take a break if you feel you need one.  We're pretty chill here.

Can I take Tylenol before my appointment?

We suggest you take nothing before your tattoo appointment and leave it for after the appointment.

Tylenol (acetaminophen) is not classified as a blood thinner-type of drug, but Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is a blood thinner. Acetaminophen is considered the pain and fever reliever of choice for most patients receiving oral anticoagulant therapy like warfarin. These medication affect tattoos: Accutane, tetracycline medications (minocycline, doxycycline, etc.) Acne medication makes your skin extra sensitive. 

What should I avoid before my tattoo appointment?

While it might be okay to take acetaminophen (Tylenol) before getting a tattoo, you should discuss it with your tattoo artist first. Some other things to avoid before getting a tattoo include: 

• Alcohol: Can cause excessive bleeding
• Blood thinners: Should be avoided before getting a tattoo
• Numbing creams: Should be avoided before getting a tattoo
• Caffeine: Should be avoided before getting a tattoo
• Steroids, anti-inflammatories, aspirin, or ibuprofen: Can increase the likelihood of bleeding problems.

What is your cancellation policy?

We require a minimum of 48 hours for any amendments to your appointment. We understand that life happens sometimes and emergencies may occur. However, we work hard to maintain our schedule and deadlines to date and without any changes. So, we must follow our policy of a 48 hour notice prior to your appointment for your deposit to remain in place and for you to be able to re-book at your next convenience without any penalties. 

*Last minute cancellations or no-shows will be charged a $75+tax fee without any exceptions and a new deposit may be required upon the artists discretion.*

How should I prep before my tattoo appointment?

The day of your tattoo appointment, we ask you come well fed, well hydrated, 100% sober and well rested. We would also advise to not shave the proposed area to be tattooed yourself. Please shower, apply deodorant and have clean garments on the day of your appointment. If you have any conditions we need to know about, you would have to answer them truthfully in the waiver form you are required to complete prior to your tattoo appointment. 

Can I use numbing cream before my tattoo?

We recommend you not to use any numbing cream that has not been approved by Health Canada or by Blvck Lvbel Tattoo.

Numbing cream usually uses epinephrine (most commonly known as adrenaline) or a similar ingredient to keep the lidocaine (the active numbing ingredient), localized. This constricts the cells making it harder for the lidocaine to flow out of the area. It also makes it harder to push ink between those skin cells. The tissue becomes more difficult to saturate, meaning more difficult to tattoo; which takes longer to tattoo the person which, defeats the purpose of the numbing cream. If we ever were to use it, it would be on a case by case basis for clients  that may scar easily or other issues, and we would have to have a conversation about it prior to their appointment.

There are a lot of numbing creams out there that shops try to sell for their own gain and lack of knowledge.  Serious risks can come from some numbing creams including death. Please educate yourself and /or ask us prior to purchasing one.

What happens if I used numbing cream before my appointment with you and I didn't warn you?

If this happens you will be asked to re-book a new appointment and a new deposit may be required. We ask you to educate yourself and or ask us about numbing creams.

How should I take care of my tattoo?

We will explain our procedure in person and give you full instructions for you to take home, on how we would like you to take care of your new tattoo.