FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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Ready to get Tattooed or Pierced Today?

WE’RE READY FOR YOU!

Walk-ins are welcome when availability allows. Booking ahead is the best way to guarantee time with the artist you want.

You can chose your artist, book your appointment, or call 212-736-3001.

Piercing Inquiries? Visit Nathalie LaPiercer.

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Do you accept walk-ins or do I need an appointment?

YES! – We accept walk-ins whenever artist availability allows.

Walk-ins are first-come, first-served and availability changes daily.

For custom work or specific artists, it’s best to book your appointment in advance.

All tattoo clients must be 18+ with valid government-issued ID.

 

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How do I book my appointment?

You can visit our Booking Page, contact your artist through their Artist Page, Call The Shop, or stop in for a consultation.

If you’re visiting NYC, booking ahead is recommended to secure time during your trip.

A $100 deposit (cash) secures your appointment and is applied toward the final cost of your tattoo.  Contact your artist for their best method of securing their deposit.

For multi-session projects (sleeves, back pieces, large custom work), your deposit is applied to the final session.

Request an appointment with Nathalie LaPiercer.

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Do you tattoo or pierce minors?

Tattooing:
NO. New York State law prohibits tattooing anyone under 18. There is no exception for parental consent.

Piercing:
YES — we offer piercings for minors ages 12 and up with a parent or legal guardian present.

• Ages 12–17 we require parental consent and valid government-issued ID.
• 18+ we require valid government-issued ID.

ALL CLIENTS MUST PRESENT PROPER IDENTIFICATION AT THE TIME OF SERVICE.

Visit our piercing page for more details.

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How much will my tattoo cost?

Pricing depends on size, placement, detail, and number of sessions.

Shop minimum is $100.
Larger and multi-session work is typically $250/hour.

The most accurate pricing and accepted payment method comes from a consultation with your artist.

Deposits and tips are cash only.

Piercing and jewelry prices are set by Nathalie LaPiercer.

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Should I tip my artist?

YES — tipping is standard.

10–20% is typical depending on the piece and experience.

Tips are customarily cash.

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Does getting tattooed hurt?

YES — but it’s temporary.

Everyone experiences tattooing differently. Most people describe the feeling somewhere between a scratch and a mild burn.

WE DO NOT RECOMMEND NUMBING CREAM.

To make your appointment easier:

• get a good night’s sleep
• eat beforehand and bring a snack
• stay hydrated and bring a soft drink or water
• wear comfortable clothing
• bring headphones or something to pass the time

Please do not drink alcohol or take painkillers before your appointment.

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What tattoo styles do you specialize in?

We work across a wide range of styles, with artists who each bring their own strengths:

  • American Traditional — bold, clean, built to last

  • Japanese Traditional — large-scale, cohesive body work

  • Black & Grey — smooth shading, realism, and custom designs

  • Color Work — vibrant, high-impact tattoos

  • Fine Line — precise, detailed, minimal styles

  • Custom Designs — one-of-one pieces built around your idea

  • Large-scale work — sleeves, back pieces, body suits, and more

  • Not sure what style fits your idea?

  • We’ll guide you to the right artist and approach during your consultation.

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Can you cover-up or fix-up a tattoo I already have?

YES – Our artists frequently repair, rework, or cover up older tattoos.

The best approach is determined during an Artist Consultation.

WE DO NOT DO LASER REMOVAL.

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Are there any tattoos you don’t do?

Some tattoos may be limited based on placement or long-term results.

We may decline:
• hand, face, or finger tattoos (depending on experience and placement)

WE DO NOT DO:
• racist or hate tattoos
• inner lip tattoos
• UV or glow-in-the-dark tattoos
• temporary tattoos or henna

White ink tattoos may be offered by some artists, but results vary.

If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult with your artist.

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How do I care for my new tattoo?

Proper aftercare is critical for healing and long-term results.

Please visit our Tattoo Aftercare Guide.

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Do you offer piercings?

YES – we offer professional piercings using implant-grade titanium jewelry.  Jewelry upgrades available.

All piercings precisely performed by Nathalie La Piercer.

Visit our Piercing Page for details.

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How do I care for my new piercing?

Proper aftercare is essential for safe healing.

Please visit our Piercing Aftercare Guide for full instructions.

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Is your shop licensed?

Red Rocket Tattoo NYC, LLC. has a license to do business in the State of New York.

All Red Rocket Tattoo artists are individually licensed by the NY State Department of Health and trained in:

• Universal Precautions
• Bloodborne Pathogen Safety
• Cross-Contamination Prevention