Knowledge Hub
Expert tattoo advice, aftercare guides and honest information to help you make confident decisions before, during and after your tattoo.
Whether you’re planning your very first tattoo or adding to an existing collection, this knowledge hub is packed with practical guides covering every stage of the tattoo journey. From preparing for your appointment and caring for a new tattoo to design inspiration, healing advice and long-term tattoo care, every article is written from over a decade of professional tattooing experience, giving you honest, practical advice you can trust.
Browse the latest guides below and discover everything you need to know before your next tattoo.
Browse the Latest Guides
Learn what to expect from your first tattoo, from preparation and pain to aftercare, so you can feel relaxed and book with confidence.
Learn how to plan your tattoo with the right size, placement and reference images, so you can book with confidence.
Learn how the tattoo process works from your first enquiry to aftercare. See exactly what to expect at every stage, so you can book with confidence.
Learn how to prepare for your tattoo appointment, what to bring, what to avoid beforehand and how to make your session as comfortable as possible.
Learn how tattoos naturally age over time, why lines soften and spread, and how good design choices help your tattoo look its best for years to come.
Learn how AI images can inspire your tattoo, why some designs need adapting, and how size, detail and placement can create unrealistic expectations when translating a digital image into a real tattoo.
Learn why we may sometimes refuse or adapt certain tattoo designs, placements and ideas, and how our advice helps create a tattoo that works and ages well.
What you need to know about getting tattooed while using Mounjaro, from changes to your body and skin to planning the right placement and timing.
Everything you need to know about looking after your new tattoo, from the first few days through to fully healed, including washing, moisturising and what to expect during the healing process.
Everything you need to know about getting tattooed during hot weather, from preparing for your appointment to keeping your skin protected in the sun.
Discover what goes into the cost of a professional tattoo, from experience and design time to quality materials and a safe studio environment.
Learn why choosing a cheaper tattoo can end up costing more through cover-ups, corrections or removal, and why getting it right first time matters.
Browse the Latest Guides
Learn what to expect from your first tattoo, from preparation and pain to aftercare, so you can feel relaxed and book with confidence.
Learn how to plan your tattoo with the right size, placement and reference images, so you can book with confidence.
Learn how the tattoo process works from your first enquiry to aftercare. See exactly what to expect at every stage, so you can book with confidence.
Learn how to prepare for your tattoo appointment, what to bring, what to avoid beforehand and how to make your session as comfortable as possible.
Browse the Latest Guides
Learn how tattoos naturally age over time, why lines soften and spread, and how good design choices help your tattoo look its best for years to come.
Learn how AI images can inspire your tattoo, why some designs need adapting, and how size, detail and placement can create unrealistic expectations when translating a digital image into a real tattoo.
Learn why we may sometimes refuse or adapt certain tattoo designs, placements and ideas, and how our advice helps create a tattoo that works and ages well.
What you need to know about getting tattooed while using Mounjaro, from changes to your body and skin to planning the right placement and timing.
Browse the Latest Guides
Everything you need to know about looking after your new tattoo, from the first few days through to fully healed, including washing, moisturising and what to expect during the healing process.
Everything you need to know about getting tattooed during hot weather, from preparing for your appointment to keeping your skin protected in the sun.
Discover what goes into the cost of a professional tattoo, from experience and design time to quality materials and a safe studio environment.
Learn why choosing a cheaper tattoo can end up costing more through cover-ups, corrections or removal, and why getting it right first time matters.
How do i book?
To book a tattoo, simply complete the enquiry form on our website with as much information as possible about your idea, including the design, approximate size, placement and any reference images.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes. A deposit is required to secure your appointment and will be taken off the final cost of your tattoo.
The deposit secures the appointment time we’ve reserved for you, it isn’t a payment for the design itself. Your appointment is not confirmed until the deposit has been received.
Deposits are subject to our cancellation and rescheduling policy, which is covered below.
What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please give us as much notice as possible.
We require at least one week’s notice to move your appointment and transfer your deposit to a new date. If less than one week’s notice is given, your deposit may be lost and a new deposit will be required to book another appointment.
Full details can be found in our Terms & Conditions.
Are deposits refundable?
Deposits are non-refundable as they secure the appointment time that has been reserved for you.
If you need to move your appointment and provide at least one week’s notice, your deposit can be transferred to your new appointment date.
If you cancel completely or don’t provide enough notice, the deposit may be lost. Full details can be found in our Terms & Conditions.
How can I pay for my tattoo?
Deposits are paid securely through our online booking system when your appointment is confirmed.
The remaining balance can be paid by cash or bank transfer on the day of your appointment.
If you would like to use Klarna to spread the cost of your tattoo, please let us know before your appointment, as this needs to be arranged through our booking system for the full amount in advance.
How much does a tattoo cost?
The price of a tattoo depends on several factors, including the size, placement, level of detail and the amount of time needed to complete it.
Once you’ve sent through your idea, we’ll give you an estimated price before you book so you know roughly what to expect.
For more information about how tattoo pricing works, take a look at our Why Tattoos Cost What They Cost guide.
Do you accept walk-ins?
Appointments are recommended to make sure enough time is available for your tattoo and to allow us to prepare your design beforehand.
Occasionally, same-day appointments may be available depending on the diary, so it’s always worth getting in touch to check availability.
For custom work, booking in advance is always recommended.
How old do I need to be to get a tattoo?
You must be 18 or over to get tattooed in the UK.
If you’re lucky enough to look under 25, you may be asked to provide valid photographic ID before your appointment.
Parental consent cannot be used to tattoo anyone under the age of 18.
Do I need to bring ID?
Yes. Please bring a valid form of photographic ID with you to your appointment, as this is required when completing your consent form before we begin tattooing.
You must be 18 or over to be tattooed, and we cannot accept parental consent for anyone under 18.
Accepted photographic ID includes a valid passport or driving licence.
Can I use numbing cream?
We generally prefer tattoos to be done without numbing cream where possible. However, if you’re considering using it, please speak to us before purchasing or applying anything.
We can recommend a suitable product, explain how to use it correctly and let you know whether numbing cream is appropriate for your particular design and placement.
Numbing cream can temporarily make the skin swollen or puffy, which can cause problems with certain designs. This is particularly important with precise pattern work, mandalas and geometric tattoos, where even small changes to the shape of the skin can affect how accurately the design lines up once the skin returns to normal.
For this reason, numbing cream isn’t suitable for every tattoo. Please check with us first and we’ll advise you based on the design you’re having.
Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring one person with you for support or company.
Please be aware that on busy days, particularly when the studio is full, there may not be enough space for them to sit with you in the tattooing area. In this case, they may be asked to sit in the waiting area during your appointment.
We ask that you avoid bringing groups of people, as space is limited and a quieter environment allows us to concentrate properly while tattooing.
When will I see my tattoo design?
Designs are usually prepared close to your appointment date rather than weeks in advance, as we work through designs in appointment order.
Your design will be shown to you at the start of your appointment, and we’ll go through it together before anything is tattooed.
If any small adjustments are needed, these can usually be made on the day. Nothing will be tattooed until you’re happy with the design and placement.
Can I make changes to my tattoo design?
Yes. We’ll go through your design with you before we begin tattooing, and small adjustments can usually be made on the day if needed.
If you’ve changed your mind significantly about the original idea, style, size or placement, please let us know before your appointment. Larger changes may require additional design time or affect how long we need for your appointment.
Nothing will be tattooed until the design and placement have been agreed.
What should I bring to my tattoo appointment?
Please bring your photographic ID, as this is required to complete your consent form before we begin.
For longer appointments, it’s a good idea to bring a drink and something to eat or snack on throughout the day.
Wear comfortable clothing that gives us easy access to the area being tattooed, and avoid wearing anything you’d be particularly upset about getting ink or stencil products on.
What happens if I’m late to my appointment?
If you’re running late, please let us know as soon as possible.
We’ll always do our best to accommodate you, but appointments are booked for a specific amount of time and arriving late may reduce the time available for your tattoo.
If you’re significantly late and there’s no longer enough time to complete the planned work, we may need to reschedule your appointment and a new deposit may be required.
What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?
We require at least 7 days’ notice if you need to move your appointment. With enough notice, your booking deposit can be transferred to a new date.
Cancellations or changes made with less than 7 day’s notice will normally result in the booking deposit being lost, and a new deposit will be required to book another appointment. In genuine emergency situations, this may be reviewed at the artist’s discretion.
All booking deposits are non-refundable and are paid to secure the appointment time reserved for you.
For full details, please read our Terms & Conditions.
Custom tattoos designed around you.
Creating meaningful artwork with honesty,
creativity and attention to detail.
Contact Us
Last Horizon Tattoo
85 High Street
Polegate
BN26 6AE
Phone 01323 301411
Email lasthorizontattoo@gmail.com
Studio Hours
Tuesday – Saturday
9:00am – 4:00pm