Not every tattoo suits a walk-in. The best same-day tattoos are small, clear designs that an artist can draw up or pick from flash and finish in one short sitting. Here are the ideas that work best when you walk into our Bournemouth studio, and a few to save for a booked session.
Fine line symbols and florals
Small flowers, stars, moons, hearts and simple outlines are some of our most popular walk-ins. They are quick to tattoo and easy to place on a wrist, ankle or behind the ear. One honest tip: fine lines need room to breathe. If lines sit too close together they can blur as the tattoo ages, so we may suggest going a little bigger. See examples in our fine line tattoos section.
Names, dates and short script
A name, a date, a single word or a short quote is ideal for a walk-in. Bring the spelling written down (or a photo of a loved one's handwriting) and we will check sizing and spacing with you before the stencil goes on. More on lettering in our script and handwriting tattoos section.
Traditional flash
Classic flash such as swallows, roses, daggers, hearts and banners is made for walk-ins. The designs are already drawn, the bold lines age well, and you can often pick something off the wall and be tattooed the same afternoon. Browse our traditional and old school tattoos.
Tiny matching tattoos
Matching tattoos with a friend, partner or family member work well as walk-ins as long as the design is small. If there are a few of you, message us first so we can check how many artists are free.
Ideas to save for a booked appointment
- Realistic portraits of people or pets, which need good reference photos and time.
- Large colour pieces, sleeves and back pieces.
- Cover-ups, which need planning around the old tattoo.
- Anything you want fully custom drawn in a particular artist's style.
For these, send us your idea for a quote and we will match you with the right artist.
Get inspired before you visit
Have a look at our tattoo gallery and at recent work on our Instagram. Screenshot anything you like and show it to your artist. Walk-ins run Monday to Saturday from 11am, last walk-in tattoo at 5pm, and you will need original photo ID. Find out more on our walk-in tattoos page.
