FAQ

Appointments and pricing

Booking an Appointment To book an appointment, you can fill out the form by answering the questions in the Book Experience link, or you can send an email to the studio with the following details. The Monolith Studio team will respond as soon as possible to connect you with your preferred artist:

Your preferred tattoo artist
Whether you prefer color ink or black and grey.
Desired size of the tattoo (please specify in inches).
The body location for the tattoo; attach a photo of the area for planning purposes.
Attach several high-resolution reference images (such as inspiration photos, sketches, or examples of other tattoos).
Any specific style preferences; include a photo of the artist’s prior work if possible.
Your home location or the location where you want the tattoo.
Confirmation that you are 18 or older.

A non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your booking. Once we set a date and time, the deposit finalizes the appointment. In some unexpected situations, a refund request may be considered depending on the discretion of the artist and studio manager.

Preparing for your appointment

Before your appointment, please:

Eat a well-balanced meal at least three hours beforehand.
Ensure you have a restful night’s sleep.
Avoid excessive sun exposure to prevent complications with the tattoo application.
Moisturize your skin regularly a few days before your appointment.
Avoid taking blood thinners, antibiotics, or steroids.
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
Limit caffeine consumption to no more than one coffee on the day of the appointment.
Shower before coming in to ensure your skin is clean.
And we strongly recommend that you drink plenty of water for the three days before your tattoo appointment. This means your skin will be more suitable for tattooing, and both you and your tattoo artist can enjoy the tattooing process more. Research shows that drinking ‘ enough water before the appointment helps the tattoo look healthier in the years to come.

Conditions that prevent tattooing

If you are on antibiotic or cortisone treatments.
If you are pregnant or have recently been pregnant.
If you have been vaccinated within the last 48 hours.
If you plan to be in environments with prolonged sunlight or water exposure shortly after the tattoo.
If you have atopic dermatitis on the intended tattoo spot.
If you are under 18 years of age.
If you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
If you fail to bring a valid government-issued ID.

Tattoo pricing

The cost of a tattoo is influenced by its size, placement, and design complexity. Each artist sets their own rates and will give you an estimated cost range. The final price will adhere closely to the higher limit of the estimate unless the design changes significantly or there are extraordinary circumstances. Booking an appointment requires a non-refundable deposit to reserve the date and time.

Bringing friend or family

Due to health and safety regulations, you must come to your appointment alone. Only the person getting tattooed may enter the tattoo area. Guests may relax in our lounge or nearby seating areas during your appointment. For your guests' comfort, there are excellent cafes and shopping opportunities nearby. At Monolith Studio, we only accept one companion during the appointment.

Viewing your tattoo design

You will first see your tattoo design in person at the start of your session. Due to copyright issues and the importance of discussing the design face-to-face, artists typically do not send out designs beforehand. Time for adjustments is included in your session to ensure satisfaction. At Monolith Studio, our priority is to provide you with the most wonderful and unique designs, and all our artists are renowned worldwide for their unique design processes and styles.

Tattooing techniques & placement

Tattooing involves the insertion of ink into the skin using a tiny needle. The needle transfers ink from the tattoo machine into the middle layer of the skin, the dermis. It's crucial that the ink is not deposited too shallowly or too deeply. If the ink is placed in just the upper layer, the epidermis, it can fade over time due to natural skin regeneration. However, if the ink goes too deep, it might spread, causing a blurry tattoo. Ideally, the ink should rest in the dermis, where it remains permanently among the cells. Monolith Studio and all our artists closely follow current tattoo research and continuously improve themselves in this field. Our biggest goal as a team is to bring together unique tattoo artists from the tattoo world to create the most unique team in the world.

The history of tattooing tattoos?

Have been a significant part of cultural expression worldwide for centuries. The term "tattoo" comes from the Tahitian word "tattau," meaning to mark something. Captain Cook’s diary from 1769 mentions his encounter with tattooed natives. The modern era of tattooing began with the invention of the electric tattoo machine in 1890. Over the years, tattoos have served various purposes, from identifying soldiers and prisoners to becoming symbols of rebellion and artistic expression. Today, tattoos are widely accepted and sported by people from all walks of life, including celebrities.

How tattoo ink remains in the skin?

When tattoo ink is injected, it triggers an immune response. Macrophages, a type of cell within the immune system, try to remove the ink particles but the tattoo pigments are larger than what the body can expel, so they end up holding them in the dermis. This is how tattoos become permanent fixtures on the body.

Types of tattoo machines used today

The most common tattooing tools are electric machines, including coil and rotary types. Coil machines operate through an electromagnetic circuit, causing the needle to move up and down. Rotary machines use a motor to achieve the same effect. These machines can make between 1,000 to 7,500 needle movements per minute, depending on the machine's settings and the artist's technique.

Composition of tattoo Ink?

Tattoo ink consists of colorants and a carrier solution. The colorants can be made from various minerals, while carriers typically include substances like glycerin, water, and alcohol. Tattoo inks must comply with safety regulations and are often vegan and cruelty-free. In our studio, we use inks that do not contain heavy metals and are proven to be harmless to humans through research. We have been following and paying close attention to research conducted in this field, especially over the last five years.

White ink tattoos

White ink tattoos may not retain their color clarity over time, often yellowing due to the skin's natural tint. Tattoo artists usually advise against using white ink exclusively due to these limitations. Remember that the tattoo ink is placed inside the skin, and as the skin covers the tattoo, the white ink blends with the skin tone, resulting in a combined color of white and skin tone.

Concerns with Fine Line and Single Needle tattoos

Fine line tattoos require meticulous care to maintain their appearance. Factors like skin type, aftercare, and lifestyle can affect longevity, but regular touch-ups can help preserve the tattoo’s detail. The most important thing about a tattoo is knowing how it will look after it heals. The amount of detail that the skin can hold is limited, so as a team, we create designs with the most detailed results by analyzing your skin and creating tattoos that look the best even after healing, rather than creating designs with unnecessary details that will fade over time.

Finger tattoos

Finger tattoos are prone to rapid fading due to frequent skin movement and exposure. Artists generally suggest other areas for tattoo placement to enhance durability, although touch-ups can be performed if necessary.

Cover-Up tattoos and Scar tattooing

Cover-up tattoos are available but depend on various factors like the existing tattoo’s darkness and size. Often, lightening the old tattoo with laser treatments is recommended before attempting a cover-up.

What is a tattoo blowout?

A tattoo blowout is a term used to describe a phenomenon where the ink spreads out under the skin, creating a blurry or smudged appearance. This can happen when the ink is injected too deeply into the skin and spreads into the surrounding tissue. Some common causes of tattoo blowouts include:

Needle Depth
If the needle penetrates too deeply into the skin, the ink can spread into the subcutaneous layer, causing a blowout.
Tattoo Machine Speed
If the tattoo machine is running too fast or too slow, it can affect how the ink is deposited in the skin.
Skin Thickness
Areas with thinner or more delicate skin are more prone to blowouts.
Tattoo Artist's Technique
Inexperienced or heavy-handed tattoo artists are more likely to cause blowouts.

How to prevent a tattoo blowout?

Choose an Experienced Tattoo Artist
An experienced tattoo artist will have better control over the needle depth and machine speed. At Monolith Studio, all our artists are globally recognized and have mastered their techniques. You won't need to worry about this issue when working with them.
Appropriate Skin Areas
Avoid very thin-skinned areas if you're worried about blowouts. Areas such as the hands, feet, joints, and ribs have thinner skin and require more delicate needle use and technique. Therefore, carefully follow the aftercare processes recommended by your artist when getting tattoos in these areas.
Proper Aftercare
Following the aftercare instructions given by your tattoo artist can help minimize the risk of a blowout.

How can I become a tattoo artist apprentice?

As Monolith Studio, we are excited to teach tattooing to people with talent and work ethic for tattoo apprenticeships and to teach them the details of the tattoo world. We hire apprentices at certain intervals. You can apply for this from the career section and follow our social media accounts to be informed about the periods when we are looking for apprentices.

How long does it take for a tattoo to heal?

The healing time for a tattoo can vary depending on several factors, including the size and location of the tattoo, the individual's skin type, and how well aftercare instructions are followed. Generally, here is a rough timeline for tattoo healing:

Immediate Healing (First Week)
Days 1-3: the tattoo will be red, swollen, and possibly oozing clear plasma. This is normal.
Days 4-7: the swelling and redness should start to subside. The tattoo may begin to scab and peel, similar to a sunburn.
Mid-Term Healing (Weeks 2-3)
Days 8-14: the outer layer of skin should mostly heal, but the tattoo might look dull or cloudy as the deeper layers of skin continue to heal. Scabbing and peeling should decrease significantly.
Long-Term Healing (Weeks 4-6)
Weeks 3-4: the deeper layers of skin are still healing. The tattoo should start to look more vibrant as it settles into the skin.
Weeks 4-6: most of the healing process should be complete. The tattoo should look bright and fully healed.
Full Healing
3 Months: it can take up to six months for the tattoo to fully heal and for the ink to settle completely into the skin.

Important Note
Please carefully follow the aftercare instructions recommended by your tattoo artist during the healing process.

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

The minimum age requirement to get a tattoo varies depending on the country and, in some cases, the specific state or region within a country. Here are some general guidelines:

United States

Most States: the minimum age is 18 years old without parental consent.
With Parental Consent: many states allow minors aged 16 or 17 to get a tattoo with parental consent and sometimes the presence of a parent or guardian during the procedure. Specific regulations vary by state.

There is no upper age limit for getting a tattoo, but if you are within a certain age group or have any health conditions, it is advisable to consult with your doctor. If you would like to know the details and contents of the equipment we use for tattooing to discuss with your doctor, we would be happy to provide you with this information.

How much does a tattoo cost?

Tattoo pricing is directly proportional to the experience, skills, and uniqueness of the artist you work with. Therefore, your tattoo artist can only provide a price estimate after understanding your ideas and the details of the tattoo. At Monolith Studio, we host some of the best tattoo artists in the world, and each artist has their own pricing policy. For detailed information, you can fill out the form on our Booking Experience page. Our managers will get back to you as soon as possible to provide the necessary information.

How much to tip tattoo artist?

Tipping your tattoo artist is a great way to show appreciation for their hard work and skill. While tipping practices can vary, here are some general guidelines to help you decide how much to tip:

Standard Tipping Rates
10-30% of the Total Cost: this is a common tipping range, similar to tipping at a restaurant. If you are very satisfied with your tattoo and the experience, you might consider tipping at the higher end of this range.

Other Considerations
Exceptional Service: if your tattoo artist went above and beyond, such as accommodating special requests or staying late, you might want to tip more generously.
Large or Complex Tattoos: for tattoos that require multiple sessions or are particularly detailed, a higher tip may be appropriate.
Your Budget: while tipping is a way to show gratitude, it's important to tip within your means. Even a smaller tip is appreciated and shows that you value the artist's work.

Additional Tips
Cash Tips: tipping in cash is often preferred by tattoo artists.
Say Thank You: a sincere thank you and a positive review online can also go a long way in showing your appreciation.

Remember, tipping is a customary practice, and while it's not mandatory, it's a great way to support and thank your tattoo artist for their hard work and creativity.