FAQs
Q: What is Astoria Ink’s booking process?
You can book an appointment by visiting our website and clicking the "Book Now" button. From there, you’ll fill out a form with your tattoo concept, estimated size, and style. Our team will follow up to finalize your appointment. You can also book through instagram, facebook or text/call us on 0273651978.
Q: Can I bring my own design, or does it need to be custom?
Absolutely! You can bring your own design or collaborate with one of our artists to create a custom tattoo that fits your vision.
​
Q: What is Fable, and how can it help me?
Fable is our AI-powered consultation tool, designed to assist you 24/7 with your tattoo ideas. Modeled after a professional tattoo artist, Fable helps you brainstorm concepts, refine your vision, and mock up ideas before using our AI Tattoo Design Generator. By using Fable first, you can clarify your ideas and ensure you're ready to explore designs, making the creative process smoother and more efficient. Whether you're considering themes, placements, or styles, Fable acts as your personal tattoo consultant, helping you confidently bring your vision to life.
​
Q: How do I use the AI Tattoo Design Generator?
Simply visit our AI Generator page, input your preferences (style, themes, size, etc.), and let our AI create unique tattoo concepts. You can then share these ideas with your artist for refinement.
Q: How does AI help in the design process?
Our AI tool is designed to transform your ideas and preferences into visually stunning tattoo concepts, serving as a creative bridge between your vision and the final design. However, it’s important to emphasize that these AI-generated designs are not intended to be the final tattoo. Instead, they provide clients with the ability to explore unlimited variations of their ideas, helping them better articulate their vision to the artist.
​​
We understand that for many clients, especially those who aren’t artistically inclined, expressing a tattoo idea can be challenging. Describing a concept verbally may lead to misunderstandings, as the artist might visualize it differently than intended. Attempting to draw the idea often proves even harder. That’s where our AI tool steps in—to streamline the process by quickly generating multiple design options, allowing clients to see their thoughts take shape visually.
​
By offering this tool, we ensure that clients and artists can start on the same page. The AI designs provide a strong foundation for reconceptualization, helping artists refine and customize the tattoo based on the client’s preferences. This ensures that the client’s unique story and personal meaning are accurately represented in the final design, creating a piece of ink that truly reflects their vision. This approach saves time, reduces frustration, and guarantees that every tattoo tells the right story in the most authentic way.
​
Q: How does AI support our artistic vision?
At Astoria Ink, we are committed to embracing the future by integrating advancements in technology into the tattoo industry. We recognize that the evolution of AI and technology is inevitable, and instead of resisting it, we choose to lead the way. By incorporating AI tools like Fable and our Tattoo Design Generator, we aim to enhance creativity and collaboration while staying true to the artistry and individuality of tattooing.
Our AI tools are not meant to replace the human element but to empower both clients and artists. They serve as creative aids, helping clients express their ideas more clearly and allowing artists to craft unique, personalized designs that reflect your story. Every tattoo remains a handcrafted piece of art, created with care and skill by a professional artist.
Astoria Ink is proud to be one of the first tattoo studios to fully embrace the advancements shaping our world. We believe that progress can be a force for good, and we are excited to set the standard for a future where technology and artistry work hand in hand.
​
Q: Can I save and share my AI-generated tattoo designs?
Yes, you can save your designs to revisit later or share them with friends and artists.
Q: What types of tattoos do you specialize in?
Our studio specializes in a variety of styles, including realism, traditional, black and grey, fine line, and more. We pride ourselves on matching clients with the artist best suited for their chosen style.
​
Q: How much do tattoos cost at Astoria Ink?
Pricing is based on size, complexity, and other factors. Our starting rate is $150. We typically price tattoos per piece rather than per hour.
​
Q: Do you require a deposit?
Yes, we require a deposit to secure your appointment. The deposit is applied toward the final cost of your tattoo. If you cancel within 24 hours of your appointment, the deposit is non-refundable. However, if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance, we can transfer your deposit once to reschedule. The deposit is $100.
​
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, credit/debit cards, and digital payment methods like Apple Pay. We also accept Afterpay on our gift cards online, and are working on getting it integrated in store.
​​
​
Q: What should I do to prepare for my tattoo session?
Make sure to eat a good meal, stay hydrated, and get plenty of rest before your session. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area. If you are on blood thinners, please consult your doctor before your appointment. We also provide free drinks in the studio to keep you comfortable. Feel free to bring any personal comfort items, such as a blanket, warm hoodie, headphones, or anything else to help you relax during your session.
​​
Q: Does getting a tattoo hurt?
Pain levels vary based on placement and individual tolerance. Areas like ribs and feet tend to be more sensitive, while others like arms and thighs are less painful. If you're concerned about pain, talk to your artist about techniques to stay comfortable during your session, such as breaks or breathing exercises.
​
Q: Can I use numbing cream?
We do not recommend using numbing cream because it can affect how your skin reacts during the tattoo process, potentially impacting the quality of the tattoo. Numbing creams may make the skin more difficult to work with, which can lead to complications in achieving the desired result or during the healing process. Additionally, some creams contain ingredients that may irritate the skin or cause uneven absorption.
​
However, if you’re determined to use numbing cream, this will be handled on an artist-by-artist basis. Please note that if numbing cream is used, any necessary touch-ups will no longer be free. We encourage you to discuss this with your artist beforehand to ensure the best outcome for your tattoo.
​​
Q: How long will my tattoo take to heal?
Healing typically takes 2–3 weeks. Initial scabbing and peeling will occur within the first week, with full healing and skin settling taking about a month.
​
Q: Does Astoria Ink offer free touch-ups and consultations?
Yes, we offer free consultations to help you refine your ideas and ensure your tattoo is exactly what you envision. Additionally, we provide free touch-ups to ensure your tattoo looks its best after healing. However, please note that free touch-ups are not available if numbing cream was used during the session. Our goal is to provide exceptional care and support throughout your tattoo journey.
​
Q: Can I get tattooed if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
For safety reasons, we do not recommend getting a tattoo while pregnant or breastfeeding.
​
Q: Do you accept walk-ins?
Yes, we accept walk-ins
​
Q: Can I bring a friend to my appointment?
You may bring one guest for support, but due to space and hygiene concerns, we ask that additional friends or family wait outside the studio. At Boxed Quarter, there are many amazing restaurants nearby where they can relax and enjoy a meal while they wait.​
​
Q: What hygiene and safety measures does Astoria Ink follow?
Our studio adheres to the highest standards of cleanliness. We use single-use needles, sterilized equipment, and follow all health regulations. Additionally, we change out all wrapping between clients and thoroughly sanitize the workspace to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for everyone.
​
Q: Can I choose a specific artist?
Absolutely! Check out our artists’ portfolios online and request your preferred artist during booking.
​
Q: Do you do cover-ups or tattoo removals?
Yes, we offer cover-up services. While we don’t perform tattoo removals, we can recommend trusted local providers to help you prepare for a new tattoo.
​
Q: Is your studio wheelchair or pram accessible?
Unfortunately, our studio is not wheelchair or pram accessible at this time. There are three short flights of stairs leading to the entrance. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
​
Q: Can I bring my child to the studio?
For safety and to maintain a focused environment, we don’t allow young children in the studio. However, older, more responsible children (typically 12+) are welcome to accompany you, as long as they can remain calm and respectful throughout your appointment. We appreciate your understanding!