You're wandering through Amsterdam, that one design has been living in your head for months, and suddenly you think: why not today? Good news: at Piercings Works you can simply walk in. We're a walk-in studio, and that goes for tattoos as well as piercings. Prefer to have everything sorted in advance? Then just book an appointment. Both are totally fine.
In this post you'll find out how a walk-in tattoo works, what to expect and how to prepare, so your spontaneous plan turns into a tattoo you'll love for years.
What does walk-in mean for a tattoo?
Walk-in simply means you drop by without having anything booked. You step into Reguliersbreestraat 46, right by Rembrandtplein, tell us what you have in mind and we look at what's possible together. You talk through your idea, the placement and the size with one of our artists. Then you'll hear what it will cost: you always get a personal quote from us, because no two tattoos are the same.
You'll find our current opening hours and contact details on our customer service page. If there's no free spot at the moment you walk in, we'll simply plan a time that does work. That way you never leave empty-handed (or empty-skinned).
Which tattoos work without an appointment, and which don't
Let's be honest: not every tattoo is suited to a spontaneous session. A small, simple tattoo, think of a symbol, a few lines or a minimalist design, often works perfectly as a walk-in. The design is quickly ready and the session isn't too long.
Bigger or more complex pieces are a different story. A realistic portrait, a large design or a cover-up of an old tattoo needs time: time to draw, to look closely at the placement and to plan the session calmly. You're still welcome to walk in, but for a chat, so we can book a session together. That way your tattoo gets the attention it deserves.
Not sure which category your idea falls into? Just pop in and ask. Our artists will happily look at your idea with you and tell you honestly whether it can be done on the spot or is better planned as a separate session.
Preparation: food, rest, clothing
Even a spontaneous tattoo deserves a little preparation. A few easy tips:
- Eat something. On an empty stomach you're more likely to feel light-headed. A proper meal beforehand makes the session much more comfortable.
- Be well rested. After a night out your body is less happy with a needle. Come in fresh.
- Come sober. Alcohol and drugs are a bad idea, for your own safety and for a good result.
- Wear practical clothes. Planning a tattoo on your upper arm, calf or back? Wear something that makes that spot easy to reach, and preferably nothing white you'd hate to get dirty.
- Bring your inspiration. A photo, sketch or screenshot helps the artist understand quickly what you mean.
Age and ID
A tattoo is forever, so we take age rules seriously. We only tattoo people aged 18 and over. Always bring a valid ID, even if you look older than you are. Piercings have different age rules; you can read them on our page about the minimum age for piercings and tattoos.
Safe: GGD licence and hygiene
Spontaneous never means sloppy at our studio. Piercings Works was founded in 1998 and has been on Reguliersbreestraat since 2004. Our studio holds a GGD licence (the Dutch public health authority) and we work according to the hygiene requirements that come with it. Curious what that licence involves? Read our post about our new GGD licence (in Dutch).
Wondering who's behind the needle? Our artist is happy to talk through your idea and will tell you honestly which style and size work best.
Prefer a fixed appointment?
More of a planner than a spontaneous walk-in? Also totally fine. On our tattoo appointment page you can easily book a time. That's especially handy for larger designs, a cover-up or if you really want a specific artist.
Still not sure? Just walk in for a chat. Our team speaks five languages, so there's a good chance we can help you in your own language. And with more than 2,000 reviews, you know you're not the first to step through our door.
See you soon at Reguliersbreestraat 46!