Tattooing Western Canada for over 30 years!

Located just behind the world's biggest dinosaur

FAQ

How much do you charge?

We like to quote by the piece whenever possible, so bring your ideas in and we can have a discussion about the design options, sizing, and preferences which will affect the overall cost. In most cases you will be given a straight out quote before starting.
 

How far ahead do you book? Or can I just walk in?

Walk-ins are welcome, and daily space is filled on a first come first served basis. If a deposit is left to have work drawn up ahead of time, once the design is seen and approved we only like to book about 1 week in advance of the desired appointment date. This helps ensure we will never have waiting lists! 

Do you do piercings?

We do not offer piercings or jewellery change-outs at the moment. Our services are only tattoos and tattoo removal at this time, but we often have a variety of body jewellery available for purchase. We are always open to considering future opportunities of partnerships with other service professionals, so if there is a service you have to offer and are looking for a new location please let us know and we can see if there's a possibility for a fit!


Does it hurt?

Yes, but how much it hurts depends on several factors. The best way to decrease sensitivity is to be well rested, wear comfortable clothing, and have a large meal & pop right before your appointment. Another factor can be placement on your body, as some places are more sensitive than others, and depending on the type of design other placement options may be recommended to give you the best tattoo outcome possible.  

Can skin be re-tattooed after laser removal sessions?

Absolutely! Many people come in to get their old regretted tattoo lasered to fade it down and then get it covered with a new one that they'll love. In cases where there is damaged skin from the previous tattoo's application or healing we have found that our laser system can help break down old scar tissue and rejuvenate the skin to become a BETTER template for the new tattoo, and give a better, lasting result.

Do you do white ink tattoos? 

We prefer not to, as "white ink" tattoos don't typically last in the way a client expects them to. Most of the pictures you see online of all white tattoos are freshly done or over saturated in photoshop,  and not from after they've healed and settled into their lasting result. We like our clients to have the opportunity to make an INFORMED choice, and fully understand what the HEALED outcome of these types of trends entail. It may be considered if the expectations can be discussed first.

*eventually we will have more info & photos describing this in more detail*


Do you tattoo minors?

Minors tattoo designs will be considered on a case by case basis, and with strict placement restrictions in place, regardless of whether or not your parents have previously okayed it.  
If your design is approved you need to come in with your legal guardian to oversee and give their signature on the legal waiver. Click here for more information.

Why don't you post an hourly rate?

We like to quote by the piece whenever possible, so that the client can get a better sense of what they will actually be getting for the amount being paid. Artists of different experience will work at different speeds, so this way there is a better understanding of what the value is. Click here for more information.

Why do I have to pay a minimum charge if I just want something tiny?

All of our disposable safety barriers are single use per client, and there is a lot of time and expense put into station setup/takedown, cost of chemicals for equipment sterilization, etc. This process isn't reduced by the "size" of tattoo, so a minimum charge is applied.  This pricing has increased greatly with the global supply shortages that the Covid pandemic has incurred!  That said, teeny tattoos can be done at the same time as a larger tattoo for little or sometimes no extra cost, so sometimes it is better (financially) to wait for your next larger tattoo so you're not paying for 2 separate setups! 


How long does it take to heal?

Rock Central's healing policy is very unique. Our process has been altered and refined over 30 years to give you the best result possible. It takes an average of 9 - 14 days for most tattoos but individual results, placements, and colours may vary. Please speak to your artist about your tattoo's unique factors. Touch ups (if needed) are for free provided you follow our healing process, which includes informing your artist immediately of any healing concerns that may arise. Our touch up guarantee is valid for 6 weeks to 12 months of the initial tattoo, or a tattoo setup fee may be incurred. 

See more about our Touchup Policy here


Is there anything I should or shouldn't do before I get a tattoo?

You should eat a large meal and arrive well rested. Please avoid energy drinks or coffee a couple hours before your tattoo. Sugary items are great, but energy enhancers/stimulants are not. Mood altering substances are strictly forbidden unless otherwise prescribed by a doctor (such as anti-depressants and/or pain killers). Please inform us of prescription name and dosage on your waiver form. If you have any medical conditions or prescriptions please consult with your doctor for medical clearance for a tattoo BEFORE booking.   YOU WILL NOT BE TATTOOED IF YOU'VE BEEN DRINKING!


I know what I want for a tattoo. Now what?

Bring your designs and ideas in for a free, no pressure consultation where any concerns can be discussed directly with your artist to give you your best results possible. (Not every great idea makes a great tattoo)

Can I bring my children?

For a quick consultation if they are within your care & control, no problem at all! But it's best that you don't bring young unsupervised children during your tattoo. 


Will you fix my shitty tattoo?

In most cases, yes!  We can fix your shitty tattoo by either covering it up (after a few laser sessions if it's initially too dark to cover up properly), or by doing some sessions of laser removal to get rid of it completely. Come speak to one of our artists about your individual situation' s options and our Artists can let you know what can or can't be done.

Can I get a tattoo if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant definitely not. For breastfeeding we prefer you to wait your term. Some people choose to pump for a few days after a tattoo,  in which case we will have you sign an extra waiver. There isn't enough long term testing about the potential risks to baby, so we would really strongly suggest you just wait until you're done.


What if I'm sick?

We prefer that you don't come in for any services while you're sick, as it may strain your immune system while your body is already working on trying to get you better. PLUS, we don't want to get sick too!!!



COVID update: Please let us know IMMEDIATELY of any cold or flu symptoms leading up to your appointment. You need to be completely symptom-free for a minimum of 24 hours before your appointment.