FAQ

How old do I need to be? 

You MUST be 18, NO EXCEPTIONS.  

If I am under 18, can I get a tattoo with parental permission?

No.  In the state of ME, you must be 18.

Do I need ID?

Yes, we require a legal form of I.D. with a photo from everyone regardless of age.  We will accept a state issued license or non-drivers I.D., Military I.D., or a Passport.

How do I book an appointment?

There are several options for booking appointments.  1) You can fill out the form provided on this website and we will get back to you. 2) You can message the Black Door Facebook.  3) You can also contact Myles or Jacob directly via Facebook or email (see artist pages for contact information). 4) You can call the shop (207)541-5000 during business hours. 5) You can stop by the shop during business hours.

Do you take walk-ins?

We do take walk-ins, but we prefer appointments.  Please understand that if you choose to walk-in, we may not have time in our schedule for that day. 

What information should I provide when booking an appointment?

Please be ready to describe the tattoo you would like to the best of your ability.  Providing photo references is preferred.  We do not need a photo of the exact tattoo you want, but several images that give a general idea of the style you are looking for is very helpful.  

Do you require a deposit?

We do not require a deposit to make an appointment unless you would like a consultation.  If you want a consultation there will be a $50 to $100 deposit required, depending on the size and content of your tattoo.  

What if I need to cancel?

Please notify us as soon as possible if you need to cancel an appointment.  We understand that circumstances change and things come up, but we also need to make a living.  At least 24-hour notice is preferable so that we can book another appointment.  If you paid a deposit at a consultation, you may reschedule and still have your deposit go towards your tattoo.  If you completely cancel, you will not get your deposit back.  **If you book a week or more in advance, your artist will likely message you the day before to confirm your appointment.  Please respond, even if you forgot about the appointment and have to cancel.  If you inform your artist that you will not be able to make it, they may be able to schedule someone in your place and avoid sitting around the shop waiting for you to show up and losing money.  

What are the shop hours?

There is generally someone in the shop from 12pm – 6pm Monday through Saturday.  This schedule is flexible and we can come in earlier or stay later by appointment.  Sunday is by appointment only.

What do you charge?

The shop minimum is $65, but we price by the piece.  When we book your appointment we can give you a quote based on your description of what you want.  Prices depend on size, how long the piece takes to tattoo, and body placement.  On average we charge approximately $100 an hour, but we will charge more for more difficult placement such as hands, elbows, necks, and knees.  If you are getting a larger piece or multiple pieces you can book for a full day.  A full day includes up to 7 hours of tattooing and we generally charge $600.  If you book a full day and decide to end the appointment early, or if you show up late to your appointment, you will still be charged the full $600.  

Do you take credit cards?

Cash is preferred, but Myles can take credit cards.  Jacob is cash only.

Should I tip my tattoo artist?

Tipping in the tattoo industry is similar to tipping in the hairdressing industry.  Tips are a sign of gratitude for a well-done tattoo and a pleasant experience.  They are always appreciated, but they are not required or expected.  There is no set standard for tipping percentage- your artist will appreciate anything you choose to give. 

Can I see my design ahead of time?

Generally you can only see your design ahead of time if you book a consultation.  Because we don’t require deposits for appointments only, we generally draw up tattoos a day or two before.  That way we avoid putting several hours of work into your piece only to have a cancellation.  If you wish to see your piece early and are willing to pay a deposit, we can make that arrangement.  

Can I bring my child or friends?

We prefer that you do not bring young children.  This is not a safe space and they can be a distraction to you and your artist.  You may bring friends.  We are lucky to have a large shop and individual rooms so that several friends can be accommodated.  We simply ask that everyone be respectful to the space.  

How should I prepare for my appointment, and what should I bring?

The night before you should get a good nights rest and avoid excessive drinking, and you should eat breakfast/lunch on the day of your appointment.  Sleep deprivation, dehydration, and low blood sugar lower your pain tolerance and will make the tattoo that much more unpleasant.  Please eat breakfast on the day of your tattoo. Protect your skin from the sun in the days leading up to your appointment; do not get a tattoo on sunburned skin!  Wear appropriate clothing so that the area where you are getting your tattoo can be easily exposed.  You should also wear clothing that you do not mind getting ink on- tattoo ink will stain clothing.  For longer sessions, please bring a snack and something to drink.  Again, low blood sugar and dehydration lower your pain tolerance and can increase your risk of passing out. 

Please be considerate and show up on time for appointments.  If you are going to be more than 10 minutes late, please message your artist.