Questions. Answered.

Send your idea, placement, approximate size, photos of the area if useful, and as many references as possible. I use this to build the tattoo around body flow, scale, readability, skin, and the limits of the placement. I don't use templates or repeat designs. I'll show the design on the day of the appointment. If needed, we can make changes and adjustments on the spot. If I don't have enough information, I will contact you in advance via WhatsApp.

A standard full-day session is up to 7 hours. Every project is estimated after reviewing the idea, placement, size, skin, references, and old ink where relevant.

Rough scale:
Forearm / smaller area: usually 1–2 full-day sessions.
Shoulder / upper arm: usually 2–3 full-day sessions.
Full arm sleeve: usually 6–8+ sessions for black & grey, or 8–10+ for colour realism.
Full leg sleeve: usually around +2 sessions compared with an arm.
Back / torso / large multi-area projects: often 6–12+ sessions.

Cover-ups are assessed individually and usually take similar time to colour realism because old ink, darkness, scarring, and available space can change the plan.

My main work is medium and large custom realism, usually booked as full-day sessions. Smaller 3–4 hour projects may be possible if the idea fits my style, placement, schedule, and the level of detail needed.

My hourly rate is £140. I give an estimate after reviewing your idea, placement, size, skin, references, and old ink where relevant, so you can plan your budget before booking.

Yes. After your idea and references have been reviewed, a free consultation can be arranged before you decide to book.

After your concept has been reviewed and you decide to book, No Regrets Studios requires a non-refundable chair rental fee to secure the appointment. This comes off the overall tattoo cost.

Finance options may be available through No Regrets Studios, including 0% interest plans over 6 or 12 months. Current terms are handled by the studio. View No Regrets finance information →

Get a good night's sleep — being tired makes pain feel stronger. Eat a proper meal 1–2 hours before your appointment and stay hydrated. No alcohol or recreational drugs for at least 24 hours (ideally 48). Keep caffeine moderate. If you take regular medication or have medical conditions, let me know in advance. Bring fully charged headphones and download films or series to watch during the session.

Wear comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area — for shoulder work, a vest is better than a T-shirt; for legs, wear shorts. Prep your skin with gentle exfoliation 1–2 times per week and regular moisturising. Shave the area the day before (with a small margin). If it's on the inner bicep, shave the armpit too. If you're not confident, leave it — I can do it on the day. Avoid oils, self-tan and harsh scrubs for 2–3 days before.

I don't recommend numbing creams by default: there is a risk of allergy (including to lidocaine), the skin can react unpredictably, and healing can sometimes be less stable. The effect is often inconsistent — it can suddenly stop, and strong pain may hit abruptly. Cream is applied only to unbroken skin at least 40 minutes before we start and usually lasts about 1 hour. The first hours are often the least painful, while the most sensitive part is usually the last hour — when the cream has worn off. Make sure you are not allergic to lidocaine before using any numbing product. I can use calming sprays/gels (secondary numbing) during the session — this is usually a gentler and more acceptable option.

If you have allergies (latex, plasters/adhesives, antiseptics, medications, etc.), tell me in advance so we can choose suitable products. If you've had strong reactions to tattooing or cosmetics before, please let me know before booking.

If you are unwell (fever/cold), have active skin issues in the area, serious medical conditions, blood-clotting problems, or if you are pregnant/breastfeeding, please message me in advance so we can confirm whether it's safe to proceed.

Yes, but every cover-up needs assessment first. Old ink, darkness, scarring, skin condition, available space, and the new idea all affect what is possible. A dark tattoo can only be covered with something darker and usually larger. Cover-ups usually take a similar amount of time to colour realism because the design often needs more planning, layering, and saturation. Some areas may need a refresh after full healing. Send a clear close-up and a wider shot in good natural light. Read more about cover-ups →

Yes. You can come with a friend or partner, and they can usually stay during preparation. The appointment takes place at No Regrets Studios in Salford. Visits are by appointment only, no walk-ins. The setup is made for long sessions, with a dedicated workstation. Tea, coffee, and water are available. There is free on-street or nearby parking.

Yes, I film parts of the process and take final photos of the tattoo, usually without showing your face. If you don't want this, please tell me in advance.

Surface healing: 10–14 days. Full healing: 4–6 weeks (sometimes longer). Gym: light activity fine, avoid heavy sweating and friction for 7–10 days. Sauna/steam: avoid for 2–3 weeks (ideally 4). Pool/sea: avoid for 2–3 weeks (ideally 4). Sun: avoid until fully healed, then always use SPF. Full aftercare guide →

UV is the main reason tattoos fade. Avoid sun exposure until fully healed. After healing, always use SPF on your tattoo, especially in summer and on holidays. Tanning reduces contrast and speeds up fading.