How much does it cost?

At Primeval Ink we have a $60 minimum and we charge $125 an hour. We will give you an estimate ahead of time so you can know what to expect and plan for. The “average” tattoo usually costs anywhere from $90-$150.

Do you take credit cards?

Yes, we gladly accept Mastercard, Visa, and cash.

Does it hurt?

It does hurt, but probably not as much as you think, or there wouldn’t be so many tattoos out there! Actually, it varies quite a bit from person to person and from one area of the body to another. People vary widely in how they perceive pain. It also depends on your health and your attitude toward having the work done. If you choose a tattoo to empower yourself and create a transition in your life, then it makes a great deal of difference. A tattoo is a permanent change on your body and should not be undertaken lightly

What if I decide I want it removed... or covered up?

If you are already thinking that way before you get the tattoo, we probably won’t be willing to do it. However, if you do need to have a tattoo removed, we will refer you to a laser removal clinic, or discuss doing a cover up for you. Do be advised, laser removal is painful and much more expensive than having a tattoo done. A coverup is often possible but each coverup has its own unique challenges and is again, usually bigger and more expensive than what you are covering up. Keep in mind that dark ink cannot be covered up by lighter ink. Darker areas of an old tattoo must be disguised within the coverup. Sometimes a combination of laser removal and coverup can work wonders.

Do I need an appointment?

Appointments are advised, however we do welcome walk-ins if the time is available. We will always try to accommodate your needs. If you do wish an appointment, expect to pay a deposit in advance. The deposit will of course go towards your tattoo, but if you don’t make your appointment, your deposit will be forfeit.

What if I can’t draw my own design?

You don’t need to be able to draw. We are here to do that for you. Sometimes we can help you to narrow down your choice of design by discussing some of the many options we have in our collection of reference books or flash art (or which can be found on the internet) which can be adapted for you, or used as inspiration pieces for something completely original. If you are having an artist create a one-of-a kind piece of art for you, expect to pay for some drawing time, of $20-50.

If I am not yet 18 can I get a tattoo with parental consent?

Not in the State of Washington! We are very careful to check picture ID as it is a misdemeanour to tattoo anyone under the age of 18, even with parental consent.

Do you do piercing?

Yes, we have two piercers,but it is very wise to set an appointment for a piercing due to the fact that our piercers are not always available.

Do you use any of those glow-in-the-dark inks?

No. We don’t trust them at all. Who’s to say what would be in ink that glows in the dark. We don’t want to take responsibility for putting that into your skin, or into ours for that matter.

Do you ever say no to doing a particular tattoo?

Yes, we certainly do. If we think it is offensive or if we think it is unwise, we are free to refuse to do that tattoo. We never try to talk anybody into doing any tattoo. We do often talk people out of doing certain tattoos!

Is it safe to get tattooed in this shop?

All of our needles are single-use only. We use an autoclave for sterilization. Pigment for each tattoo is thrown away at the end of the tattoo. Artists are all instructed in strict standards of proper infection control.

How long before my tattoo is healed?

We usually advise that a month is the minimum healing time, even though some tattoos may appear healed sooner than that. It all depends on the health of the individual and the area that is tattooed. Should you come in for a free touch-up, we will inspect the tattoo closely to look for any shininess or cloudiness indicating the tattoo is not quite ready.

How do I care for my new tattoo?

Every artist will give you aftercare instructions and tell you what do do about caring for your new tattoo. In general, you should let it rest (bandaged) for an hour or so, then wash gently with soap and water, rinse, then pat dry with a clean tissue. An after care product can be used which is either an ointment, balm, or a lotion of high quality, preferably alcohol-free. Minimal use of aftercare product is very important. It is important that the tattoo be able to breathe, but be protected from being too dry. Keep it out of the sun, and do not soak in water. Don’t scratch or pick at your tattoo.

Do you tattoo hands, feet, faces?

Such very visible tattoos are up to the discretion of the artist and the shop owners..... we usually say no to very visible tattoos if the person asking is not already heavily tattooed. Also, our insurance company would object to tattoos on the face. Sometimes we will be willing to do a tattoo behind the ear or on the back of the neck if it is discreet. Tattoos on hands on feet are subject to special limitations due to the nature of the skin in those areas. We cannot guarantee those tattoos or offer more than one touch-up.

What does Primeval mean, and how do you pronounce it?

Primeval (pronounced Prime-Evil) doesn’t have anything to do with “evil” . Primeval means “the original thing” as in “the Forest Primeval”, the first one and the original one. Tattooing is one of the oldest of mankind’s means of self expression and body ornamentation... the Ice Man had tattoos...