Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to Book an appointment?
The best way to book an appointment would either be to call the shop directly (860) 786-7060 or to send a message to the shop’s main email. If you are looking to book an appointment with a specific artist you may also send them an email directly.
Please add TheShop@Vanaheimtattoo.com as contact to prevent messages from being sent to your email’s spam folder.
Are Tattoos Safe?
As long as you go to a reputable artist that is following all recommended safety precautions and sanitary guidelines, getting a tattoo is perfectly safe. We do ask that you tell us about any preexisting medical condition beforehand so that we are aware and can be sure to take any necessary precautions.
Does It Hurt?
Pain really is relative, which means everyone has a different tolerance for it. We're not going to kid you though; it does hurt and certain areas of the body are going to hurt more or less than others. We have had clients it to a "hot scratching feeling" or “kind of like a bee sting/cat scratch” but people would not be returning again and again for more tattoos if the pain was truly intolerable. In our opinion, the beauty of the tattoo and the pride associated with wearing it far outweighs the temporary discomfort.
Afraid of needles?
The tattoo “needle” you are thinking of isn’t really a needle at all and doesn’t penetrate through all layers of the skin. The machines that our artists prefer to use aren’t the traditional tattoo machines you normally see online, they look more like a large marker and the needle itself will be hidden from your view.
Is It OK to Get a Tattoo if I'm Sick?
Getting a tattoo when your immune system isn't at 100% isn't a good idea and we do discourage it. You're going to need your strength and your white blood cells to heal your tattoo, something your body won't be able to do if it's already doing battle against virus or bacteria. If you have an appointment, call to reschedule within 48 hours prior to and we will be sure to use your deposit on your newly scheduled appointment. If you do not call us beforehand your deposit will be forfeited.
Is there anything I do before my appointment?
We ask that our clients eat a (not overly filling) meal an hour before their appointment and stay well hydrated (in general as well-water is important kids!). Feel free to bring a coffee or bottle of water/Powerade/soda with you and a plus one, but please know it can only be one (any other people you brought will be asked to wait in the lobby). Remember that getting a tattoo releases endorphins, so if you feel a bit dizzy or faint or anything out of the norm please let us know immediately. We’re more than happy to give you a break if you need it. If you are diabetic, please plan and be prepared for a crash!
Put a little thought into your clothing as you are going to want to be comfortable and there is the risk of your clothes getting a bit dirty. The actual clothing itself matters to, not because we are fashion critics but because we need to be able to easily reach the area the tattoo is going while making sure you maintain your comfort and dignity. If you are feeling a bit vulnerable, we can easily set up a screen to give you more privacy, don’t be afraid to ask we want you to feel as comfortable as possible.
If possible, when you shower before your appointment, shave over the area you're getting tattooed and make sure it’s clean. If it is somewhere you aren’t sure how to approach shaving (elbows/wrist/back of your ankle, etc.) or cannot comfortably reach to shave then please don’t try. It’s not necessary for you to do but our bodies are coved in fine vellus hair that can affect your tattoo and having the extra step taken helps to insure a clean stencil placement.
We reserve the right to refuse any service if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
How Much Is It Going to Cost?
When it comes to tattoos, you get what you pay for. Good tattoos aren’t always cheap and cheap tattoos are definitely not always good, so look for quality and be willing to pay for it. Think of it this way: this is a piece of art you'll wear for life. We want you to be as happy about the way it looks a few years after your appointment as the day you first got it. In most cases we charge hourly, if you plan on coming in for a small tattoo you maybe given a lower flat rate. Feel free to ask us for the going rates of our artists.