What to Expect When You Walk Into Our Tattoo Parlor

Introduction
Getting a tattoo is a big moment, whether it's your first piece or an addition to your collection. Walking into a tattoo shop in Edinburgh can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially if you don’t know what to expect. At Sanatorium Tattoo, we aim to make the experience as welcoming, professional, and comfortable as possible.
From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by an inviting atmosphere—buzzing tattoo machines, walls lined with incredible artwork, and a team of experienced artists ready to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re looking for a walk-in tattoo in Edinburgh or have a pre-booked appointment, we’re here to guide you through the process. So, what exactly happens when you walk into our studio? Let’s break it down.


What Happens When You Visit Our Tattoo Shop?1. The Consultation Process
Your first stop is usually the front desk, where our friendly staff will greet you and discuss what you’re looking for. If you’re coming in for a walk-in tattoo in Edinburgh, we’ll check availability and match you with an artist best suited to your style. For pre-booked appointments, you’ll sit down with your chosen artist to go over your ideas.
During your consultation, you can:

• Discuss the design, placement, and size of your tattoo.
• Get professional advice on how to modify or enhance your idea.
• Browse our artists’ portfolios for inspiration.

This is your chance to ask questions, get comfortable with your artist, and ensure you’re 100% happy with your decision before proceeding.


2. Design Selection & Customization
Once you’ve had your consultation, it’s time to finalize your design. Whether you’re choosing from flash art or getting something fully custom, our artists will work with you to refine the details.
What to expect during this stage:

• Picking a design from our collection: If you’re after something classic like a traditional rose or a bold blackwork piece, we have a variety of ready-to-go flash designs.
• Custom designs: If you have a specific idea in mind, your artist will sketch out a unique piece based on your vision, adjusting it as needed to fit your body perfectly.
• Sizing and placement: Your artist will print a stencil of the design and apply it to your skin so you can see exactly how it will look before they start tattooing.

This step is crucial, so don’t hesitate to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. We want you to leave with a tattoo you absolutely love!


3. Prepping for the Tattoo
Before the tattooing begins, we take care of all the necessary prep work to ensure a clean and safe process.

• Skin preparation: The area where the tattoo will be placed is cleaned and shaved (even if there’s barely any hair) to ensure a smooth surface.
• Stencil application: If your design requires one, we’ll place a temporary stencil on your skin for approval.
• Equipment setup: Our artists use single-use, sterile needles and high-quality ink, following strict hygiene protocols to guarantee safety.

If it’s your first tattoo, you might feel a little nervous at this stage—don’t worry, that’s completely normal! Your artist will walk you through everything before they begin.

4. The Tattooing Process
Now comes the exciting part—getting inked! The process varies depending on the complexity and size of the tattoo, but here’s a general idea of what to expect:

• The first few minutes: You’ll feel the needle start to work, usually described as a scratching or buzzing sensation. Most people find it uncomfortable but tolerable.
• Breaks and check-ins: Your artist will check in with you throughout the session, offering breaks if needed.
• Duration: Small tattoos can take as little as 30 minutes, while large, detailed pieces may require multiple sessions.

If you’re feeling unsure or need a break, just let your artist know—they’re here to make the experience as smooth as possible.


5. Aftercare & Healing Process
Once your tattoo is finished, the healing process begins. Taking care of your tattoo is just as important as the tattooing itself, so we’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to help your ink heal beautifully.
Basic aftercare tips include:

• Keep it covered: Your artist will wrap your tattoo with protective film—leave it on for the recommended time.
• Wash gently: Use lukewarm water and mild soap to clean the tattoo.
• Moisturize: Apply a thin layer of recommended tattoo ointment to keep the skin hydrated.
• Avoid sun and water exposure: No swimming, saunas, or direct sun for at least two weeks.

Following these steps ensures your tattoo heals properly, preventing infections and preserving the ink’s quality.