top of page

Frequently Asked Questions

​

 

​​

  • How much for a sleeve bruh? (PRICING) 

 

Pricing a tattoo can be tricky, there are many variables. Let’s start with the basics: our shop generally charges an hourly rate, which is $175-$250 depending on the artist. Some artists do half day and full day rates depending on the size of the project, which helps with budgeting. Click on the artist profile link to get more info on their particular pricing. The minimum price, no matter how small, if it’s under thirty minutes is $100. The rates are based on the current tattoo industry standards for experienced tattooists. The ever-rising cost of supplies in our current economical climate is also a driving force behind tattoo pricing. This brings us to the following:

 

  • My buddy says he can do it cheaper. (EXPERIENCE) 

 

Experience says you get what you pay for! I know we all have seen those tattoos out in the wild that well, could have used a bit more experience. At Wanderlust we strive to put out the best quality tattoos possible. We back that claim with 10+ years tattoo and 30 years art experience. We want to make art that you are proud to wear for the rest of your life with all those years of experience! The cost in most cases can be budgeted into multiple sessions to make it affordable. Besides, bragging rights on going to a reputable artist is priceless. Our artists appreciate the trust and loyalty; we couldn’t do this without you! Literally! 

 

  • I NEED a tattoo done right NOW, it’s my last day on Earth (AVAILABILITY) 

 

In this day and age of instant gratification, it seems natural after surfing Pinterest and getting stoked on some ideas to want that art on you now. Trust us, you want to be patient. Each artist has different availability, some a few weeks and some a few months out. The more experienced they are, the more likely they will be booked out further. As soon as you are ready to put down the deposit, make your appointment for the date you will have the money together. Many people wait until the busy seasons to get tattooed, and are disappointed at the wait. We occasionally get cancellations, so some artists have waiting lists for that. There are even times where we have same day appointments, it never hurts to call and ask! This leads to: 

 

  • Y’all do walk ins? (WALK IN POLICY) 

​

YES! When we have the time and availability. Please call or contact the shop and communicate concisely your tattoo idea request. Walk ins are fun, we love doing them. Coincidentally we have a “get what you get” candy machine with sweet flat rate deals. Pay the money and you get two tries, pick the one you like better! It’s like tattoo roulette! 

 

  • I don’t know what I want, can you pick for me? (CONSULTATION PREPARATION) 

 

If you’re unsure of what you want, we do have a “Get what you get” candy machine tattoo options with a flat rate. If that isn’t your style, we need a general idea. Let us know what you DON’T want as a stepping off point. We realize your time is valuable as is ours. We don’t want to spend unnecessary time on tattoo ideas you will turn down immediately. So come prepared with photos of ideas or art you may have that you want to turn into a tattoo and we can tell you if it’s feasible. 

 

  • Does it hurt? (FIRST TIME) 

 

Pain is a common concern for most. Different areas of the body hurt worse than others and are dependent on individual pain tolerance. Your artist will walk you through what to do as they set up. It’s common to be anxious about your appointment (especially if it’s your first time). If it hurt that bad, no one would get tattooed. If you have any questions about the process itself, your artist will be more than happy to go over that with you. 

 

Please do not ask an artist to copy another artist’s work. 

 

  • Like, can I get it super small? (DESIGNS) 

 

Please be aware that not all tattoo ideas translate into small, dainty ideas. Unfortunately the internet has ruined people’s perceptions of what is tattoo-able. Lots of small tattoo ideas you come across look good the day it was tattooed, but as the healing process happens, those tattoos become blobs and fade horribly. Most people end up getting them covered up. In our experiences the most common cover up we see is over illegible small writing and exes names. 

 

So be open to our experienced opinions about whether or not we can make your tattoo idea as small as you think you want it to be. 

​

  • My auntie, grandma, bestie and poodle want to come too, is that cool? (STUDIO ETTIQUETTE) 

 

While we love to visit with your friends and family, we do ask that you speak with your artist about guest capacity. Work spaces are limited and with the current state of the world, we do not want to encourage large groups in small spaces. 

 

We also ask that you respect the work spaces of our artists. Tattooing takes concentration and over stimulation and lots of noise can effect our work. Please mind your topics of conversation, not everyone shares your opinion. We ask that all guests be kind and considerate to everyone in the shop. 

 

Let your artist know if you have any time constraints prior to your appointment. 

 

  • Can you text me a pic of the design at 10pm the night before? (ART PROCESS) 

 

Speak with your artist about setting up dates to see the progress of your tattoo design. Every artist’s design process is different. Please do not wait until the last moment to ask to see your design. Have good communication prior to your appointment to find out any information you may be questioning before your appointment. 

 

  • It was my nephews bar mitzvah, sorry I didn’t make it (NO CALL NO SHOW POLICY) 

 

Hey! That’s what deposits are for! It doesn’t come close to the cost of your appointment, which is why they are so high. So expect to lose it if you no-call/no-show. We need AT LEAST 48 hours before your appointment to cancel. Exception to this would be a positive COVID test which you would need to provide in order to keep your deposit. 

 

  • Dude! I haven’t slept, I was out all night drinking like a fish, I can sleep in the chair right? (HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR TATTOO APPOINTMENT) 

 

  • Show up at your designated appointment time. Not later. 

  • We ask that all guests practice good hygiene before coming in for their appointment. Please don’t show up dirty and smelly from work. Wear deodorant (cannot stress this enough). You do not what to be known as “Sir Stinks A lot.”  

  • You can pre-shave the area in which you are getting work done, if you wish. 

  • Wear appropriate clothing for the area you are getting tattooed.  

  • Make sure you get enough rest the night before. No alcohol 24 hours prior to your appointment. Eat a good meal before your appointment. And no blood-thinners (aspirin and ibuprofen). 

 

  • You guys don’t reuse needles right? (SANITATION) 

 

We make every effort to sanitize every surface and use disposable cleaning supplies as much as possible. We follow all of the Washington State guidelines and procedures for tattoo sanitation.  

 

  • I’ll be 18 in like 42 months, can my mom sign for me? (AGE REQUIREMENTS) 

 

You MUST be 18. No exceptions. As per Washington state law that has been in effect for 20+ years. 

 

  • Listen, I get paid next Friday, can I just pay you then? (FORMS OF PAYMENT AND TIPPING ETIQUETTE) 

 

Deposits apply to the final cost of your tattoo. Cash is a preferred method of payment some artists will accept cards but that needs to be discussed during your consultation. 

 

Tipping is always appreciated but never expected. Generally most people tip about 20%.  

 

  • Yeah, I rebuilt my truck motor after I go tattooed. Then I scrubbed it with my wife’s loofah. You can fix it right? (TOUCH UPS) 

 

Plan your tattoo time appropriately so you can heal for a few days at minimum before potentially exposing your art to possible hazardous work environments. If you haven’t read the aftercare portion of our website, please do so now. Failure to abide by the aftercare requirements we advise, your free touch up is void. You will have to pay for any repairs. You’re paying a lot of money for your tattoo, treat it as such. You don’t buy a $2k TV and scrub it with a loofah. 

bottom of page