frequently asked questions
If you're a first timer, unsure about something or have a question, this is for you ! We've added some common questions asked by our clients and information that can help with the process of getting a tattoo. Otherwise, please get in touch with us and we can help you out.
I'm 17 years old, can i get a tattoo with my parents consent?
No. Although, the laws of NSW state otherwise, The Darling Parlour has a strict, independent policy against tattooing persons under the age of 18, regardless of whether or not parental consent/permission has been obtained. In our opinion, it is better to wait.
It's my first time and I'm not sure how to book an appointment. What should I do?
It's best to have an idea of what you want first so the artist has a point of reference. Gather some images of tattoos that are close to what you want and think about the size and where you want it (if you're unsure of the exact size and placement, don't worry too much as our artist can guide you). Once you're ready, use our bookings tab here and fill out the form as best as you can. We'll be in touch with you to book you in for a consultation or an appointment.
Take as much time as you need as there's no need to rush. Laser treatments can be quite painful, time consuming and costly.
Do you take walk-ins?
We book our appointments back to back but will gladly take walk-ins if our schedule allows it. This will be due to cancellations or if an appointment finishes earlier than expected. If you're after a custom design and is bigger than palm size, we definitely recommend making an appointment.
Give us a call on 9555 6316 to check our schedule for walk-ins.
What is the minimum price / hourly rate for a tattoo?
Our shop minimum is $250. The price will go up from there depending on the size, placement, level of detail and the time it takes to complete. Our hourly rate is $250 + depending on the artist. Full day rate is $1300 + depending on the artist.
Can I get a quote online / over the phone / by email?
We can't give exact quotes but we can give you a rough estimate. Pricing depends on the final design's size, placement, level of detail and the time it takes to complete.
Do we have to leave a deposit to book an appointment?
Yes. A deposit of at least $150 is required to secure an appointment time with any artist. We take a $200 deposit for full day appointments. This can be paid via cash in-store, bank transfer or over the phone with a VISA/Mastercard. It is non-refundable and will come off the final price of the tattoo, or rolled over for your next appointment.
No deposit, no appointment!
Can the artist send me the drawing of my design before my appointment?
No. Our artist's do not send previews/drawings of your design prior to an appointment unless the artist asks you to come in for a drawing consultation. This is usually for very large tattoos. Rest assured, your design will be ready for you on the day of the appointment. Any small changes can be made on the day. To minimise changes on the day, ensure that you are very clear and concise when describing your tattoo idea to your artist. You may be required to come to the studio for a consultation prior to the appointment to discuss the design in person.
What happens if I need to cancel/reschedule my appointment?
For full day appointments we require 72 hours notice. For all other appointments we require 48 hours notice. If you don't give us notice before the notice period or don't show up to your appointment, you will forfeit the deposit. Deposits are to cover the artist's drawing time and for reserving the appointment time. If you need to change or cancel your appointment, please give us as much notice as possible . All deposits are non-refundable and non-transferrable between artists. We only accept cancellations via email or phone during operating hours.
Are there any restrictions on what I can get tattooed?
All tattoo designs are considered on a case-by-case basis, however our artists generally will not tattoo on the hands, face or neck if you are not already heavily tattooed. There are some other placements which may not necessarily heal well and therefore an alternate placement may be suggested. We will not do any tattoos that could be considered offensive to a particular race, culture, gender or any group of people, no exceptions. Our artists can at any time refuse to tattoo you at their own discretion.
Does it hurt? Do some places hurt more than others?
Yes. Some parts of the body do hurt more than others and will be different from person to person depending on their pain threshold. It is quite common to hear first timers say it's less painful than what they anticipated.
Can I use numbing cream? Do you provide it?
It's best to avoid using numbing cream where possible as it's only effective for 1-2 hours and can affect the skin texture and healing process. We don't provide numbing cream but once you've discussed this with your artist to see what's best, they can recommend one for you.
Can I bring my friend/s ?
You can bring your emotional support buddy with you however they won't be able to sit next to you during the appointment. As long as they're okay with waiting in the waiting area.
How can I pay for my tattoo? Do you take card?
We only accept cash on the day. There are ATMs in short walking distance to the shop which you're more than welcome to use once you're ready to pay.
Are touch ups for free?
If you have any issues with your tattoo or require a touch-up you are required to notify us within three (3) months of the date of your scheduled appointment. Should you get in touch any later than 3 months after the appointment, you may be required to pay a fee for any further services provided.
How to do I take care of my tattoo? What is the aftercare?
Remember ! Your tattoo is not finished until it is totally healed. It is your responsibility to take care of your tattoo(s). Good hygiene and care will reduce the risk of infection, aid healing and help maintain the colours. We have three different studio preferred methods. Use the following links to download a pdf copy of our studio-preferred aftercare instructions. There are three different options, so make sure you download correct information sheet. Your tattooist will tell you the best option for your individual tattoo after your appointment.
*If you're unsure about anything or have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
How do I get there? Is there parking available?
By Car
There is a free 2 hour car park directly outside our shop, as well as 2P and 4P metered street parking on Beattie St. All day street parking is available on Wortley Street which is about a 10 minute walk from the shop.
Public Transport
Buses
Route 441 and 442 runs from the Queen Victoria Building in the CBD to Balmain East wharf.
Routes 444 and 445 run from Campsie to Balmain East via Dulwich Hill and Leichhardt.
Route 433 runs from George Street in the CBD to Gladstone Park Balmain via Glebe.
The best stop to use to get to the shop would be "Darling Street at Mort Street".
Ferries
Available from Circular Quay and Pyrmont/Darling Harbour to Balmain Wharf and Balmain East Wharf, both options are roughly a 10-20 minute walk to the studio.
For more information on public transport options, use NSW Transport Trip Planner.