Getting a tattoo is a huge commitment and I know that you may have loads of questions, you’re not alone! So here’s a few commonly asked things that might help out.
My books generally open just once or twice a year for a few days. During the run up to new openings I’ll send out a newsletter with all the info you need to know. You can find the signup in the “bookings” section of my website.
When my books are open, you’ll be able to fill out an application form that’ll go live on my website. I do not accept email based applications.
Please be aware that I can’t take on every proposed project as I am just one person, however I will try and send you a response either way.
I am currently focusing on projects that feel most aligned with my work and genuinely excite me. While I do enjoy small and simple projects, I’m especially drawn to large scale, long-term pieces that bring creative freedom, collaboration and trust between me and my clients.
Making your booking form as detailed and as clear as possible will help me massively in deciding if it’s a project I’d like to take on.
I also use these to refer back to during the designing process so forms with little to no information will likely lead to it being discarded.
I receive a lot of forms, so please don’t let your only description say things like “flowers, will explain more when you accept” as I simply don’t have time to ask the same questions my form already did (you’d be surprised at how many of these I receive).
The best forms, are ones that include:
~ A detailed description of what you’re picturing. If you’re not totally sure, that’s fine too! Just let me know that you’re happy to take my guidance and send me the little info that you are sure of.
~ Specific placements e.g. inner left forearm, right thigh moving slightly onto stomach, etc.
~ Reference photos that aid with picturing your vision. This can be my own work or photos, but my favourite are badly drawn sketches and stick figures. I only ask that you do not send me AI images .
~ An at least semi-realistic idea of budget. Please refer to my price guide to get an idea of what your project may cost.
Yes! I will always send a VERY rough sketch around a week or so before your first appointment.
At this point you can tell me if there’s anything you don’t like about it and I can make amendments until you’re happy.
Please note that changing your idea once I’ve already finished the drawing could result in having to reschedule your appointment and your deposit may be voided.
Yes, all pieces I create are custom and one of a kind. I love to use painting references when I work, but each piece is completely made to fit you, your ideas and your body
Appointments are charged at £150 an hour. There is no day cap however you will have the option to set a budget per sit if you wish. I recommend 5 hours (£750) as a good guide, however if you’re traveling or wish to complete a larger scale piece quickly, this gives you freedom over your session length. All of this will be discussed with you if your application is successful and you’ll be able to figure out what works best for you and the design you’re choosing.
My minimum charge is £300
There is a section in the booking form regarding budget where you can let me know what your general limits are, however I do recommend taking a look at my ‘PRICE GUIDE’ page to get a good understanding of what can be completed within any certain number of sessions.
A non refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. It will be deducted from the price of the session tattoo is completed in, whether it’s a single or multi session project. It is not an additional cost.
You can reschedule your appointment if needed, however I do require 4 days notice. If you reschedule with less than 4 days notice, you may lose your deposit and be required to pay a new one.
A complete cancellation will also forfeit your deposit.
The deposit amount will depend on the size and complexity of the piece you’re getting and can range from £150-500
My work is not always the best suited for tattoo coverups as it involves a lot of negative space and light colours. However I will take them on if I feel confident that the design idea is appropriate for the coverup in question. I may recommend a few laser sessions to open up your options if your tattoo isn’t already faded.
I love doing scar coverups provided they are old enough. I recommend waiting till they have turned white/ silver to avoid further damaging already vulnerable skin, which is usually around the 2 year mark.
Please provide clear photos of your coverup in your bookings form.
Payment is preferred in cash, so please arrange this before your appointment. There are lots of banks and cash points surrounding the studio, though keep in mind your daily withdrawal limit.
Bring snacks, lunch and sugary drinks. Anything you need to keep your blood-sugar levels high. Getting tattooed for long periods of time is very taxing on the body, so it’s important to stay energised and hydrated. All diets are out the window on tattoo day.
If you haven’t had time to pack lunch, there’s lots of cafes surrounding the studio so you’ll be able to go out and get something during our lunch break, which is usually around 30 minutes.
Please bring clothes that allow easy access to the area you’re having tattooed, you are welcome to bring clothes to change into once you are in the studio. It is a fully private, 1st floor studio so you won’t have any passerby’s looking in. Also consider what you will be leaving the studio in once we’re finished, it’s recommended to have loose fitting comfortable clothes as you may be a little tender.
During the winter months, I recommend bringing thick socks and a small blanket in case you get cold. The heating is always on but staying still for so long can make you chilly regardless.
Ibuprofen and paracetamol are great for pain and swelling prevention also!
The address is 59a Fore street, Trowbridge, BA14 8ET
As it’s first floor it’s a little hidden away. You should come to a red door that says “Bakers Yard”, there’s a little buzzer next to it that’s labelled ‘Alchemilla Tattoo Studio’. Ring that and I can let you in. Walk all the way through the little alley way and I will come and meet you.
If you’re driving it’s recommended to park in Saint Stephens Place multi-storey car park. The higher floors are free all-day parking (there are a LOT of floors you have to go up to get to these but we promise you, they exist). It’s a 5 minute walk to the shop from here. Alternatively The Shires is only £4 per day
The train station is also only a 5 minute walk away.
We do recommend using maps if you don’t know the area, as the whole town centre is a one-way-system and may put you behind schedule if you get lost.
if you are running behind for your appointment time, please send me an email to let me know.
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