+ What is the cost of the deposit to book an appointment:
$200
+ Are deposits refundable?
No, deposits are non-refundable but will be credited toward your tattoo appointment. If you reschedule or cancel your appointment with at least 72 hours notice, your deposit will be carried over to a new appointment. That appointment needs to be booked within one year of the original appointment date, otherwise a new deposit will be required.
+ How much notice do I need to give if I would like to cancel or reschedule?
72 hours
+ What is the best way to book an appointment?
All artists including full time and guest artists book independently. Most of them utilize email or booking forms which are listed on their websites or Instagrams. If you need help finding how to contact an individual, you may email the shop and we can direct you: thehelmsf@gmail.com
+ Are any services or merchandise refundable?
No, all services are final sale. All merchandise is also non-refundable unless there is a flaw/damage at the point of sale.
+ Can I bring a friend to an appointment?
No. Due to Covid19 restrictions and the shops desire to keep the safest environment possible, we cannot have guests accompany. They are welcome to drop you off at your appointment and meet you afterward. The crew at The Helm is there to support and answer any questions you may have.
+ Is there any precautions I should take prior to my appointment?
Yes, you should make sure to have a full meal within at least two hours prior to your appointment. Please feel free to bring snacks as well as water or juice to your appointment.
+ Can I drink alcohol prior to my appointment?
No, you should be alcohol free 24 hours prior to your appointment. Alcohol thins the blood and can cause excessive bleeding and scaring.
+ How long do I need to wait in-between appointments before I come back to work on the same piece?
Three weeks is typical, but it can be pushed out later if more time is needed.
+ Are touch-ups free?
Most of the time touch ups are not needed; however, if something happens in the healing process and attention is needed, we cover one touch up within a year of the original appointment.
+ Are masks required?
Yes, all clients must wear masks in house regardless of vaccination status. All tattooers will be masked at your appointment as well. Please read through our COVID guidelines here
+ What are the aftercare instructions?
Aftercare instructions are listed on our website here and can also be sent directly via email. Make sure to ask your tattooer at the end of your appointment if you have any questions in regards to aftercare. We will happily go over them verbally.
+ What age do I need to be to get tattooed and do I need to bring a form of identification?
The state of California requires people to be at least 18 years of age to get tattooed. We cannot tattoo you even with parental consent prior to that age. You will be required to bring either a valid state ID, drivers license, or passport in order receive service. If you do not bring required ID or are not of age, your appointment and deposit will be forfeited.
+ What information should I provide my tattooer in order for them to draw for my appointment?
Tattooers may vary on specific requirements, but most often, they will require you to provide: Subject of tattoo, placement of tattoo, size of tattoo, if you’d like black and grey or color, price range/cap, reference photos of the subject matter and photos of the area you’d like tattooed.
+ Will I get a consultation prior to my appointment?
Often times, consultations are not needed or required. If an artist chooses to set one up, they will let you know. Most of the time we can go off the information provided in the previous question and create a gorgeous and accurate design for you. Make sure to be specific in your emails and let us know at least a week ahead of time if any design changes need to be made to your tattoo. If you feel more comfortable having a consultation ahead of time, please make sure to request one from your tattooer in your initial emails. Most consultations will be virtual, however each artist operates differently, so make sure to clarify with them.
+ What happens if I no-show to my appointment or cancel within the 72 hour cancellation period?
There will be a loss of your deposit. If you choose to reschedule, you will need to pay a $100 reschedule fee on top of the $200 deposit in order to rebook.
