Frequently Asked Questions
Booking
How do I book a tattoo?
To book your tattoo, please fill out our online booking form. Select your tattoo artist, fill in your details and include a few details about your tattoo idea. Your chosen artist will contact you directly to discuss the design and arrange your appointment.
Prefer to speak in person? We also welcome walk in tattoo consultations – just drop by the studio and one of our available artists will be happy to help.
Do you do walk in tattoos?
Yes, we offer both pre-booked appointments and walk in tattoos in Bournemouth. Visit us at Chimera Studios, 8 Poole Hill, Bournemouth, BH2 5PS, just up from the Triangle, and one of our available tattoo artists will assist you. We offer custom tattoos and pre-drawn flash tattoos.
Please note that walk in tattoos are subject to availability. If we can’t accommodate you on the day, we’ll gladly book you in for the next available appointment.
What is a walk in tattoo consultation?
A walk in tattoo consultation is an opportunity to have an informal discussion with a tattoo artist without a prior appointment. Our available artists can answer any questions you may have about the process, help you with a custom tattoo idea or help you choose a pre-drawn flash design.
Visit us at Chimera Studios in Bournemouth for a free walk-in tattoo consultation.
How much do tattoos cost?
The cost of your tattoo depends on the size, location and style. At Chimera Studios, we aim to provide high-quality, affordable tattoos that fit a range of budgets.
During your consultation, your tattoo artist will discuss your idea and advise you on how to achieve the idea you want within your price range – whether you're planning a one-off design or a larger project.
Tala, James and Harry offer tattoos of all sizes:
Sticker size (very small)
Palm size (small)
Hand size (medium)
Above hand size (large)
Backpieces/sleeves (bigger project)
We aim to offer the best custom tattoos and the best walk in tattoos, designed to suit your style and budget.
How do I pay for my tattoo?
Once you’ve discussed your tattoo with your chosen artist (either after booking online or during a walk in), a booking deposit will be required to secure your appointment. This deposit is non-refundable and paid directly to your tattoo artist.
On the day of your appointment, you’ll pay the remaining balance, minus the deposit.
Payment methods accepted: Cash, PayPal, or bank transfer.
What should I know before my tattoo appointment?
Before booking your tattoo appointment, please keep the following in mind:
You must be over 18 to get a tattoo. Please bring valid photo ID to your appointment.
You must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
We cannot tattoo over injured or broken skin, including eczema flare-ups, sunburn, open wounds, or healing scars. Please make sure the area you want tattooed is healthy and intact.
A tattoo is a form of trauma to your skin, so it’s important to be in good overall health to promote a smooth healing process.
What tattoo styles do you do?
At Chimera studios, we offer a diverse range of tattoo styles from our 3 resident artists.
Tala (Affanita) specialises in Traditional Japanese tattoos (ukiyo-e style), alongside black & grey, illustrative and detailed fine line tattoos.
James (Toadhell) creates bold American Traditional tattoos inspired by 90s aesthetic and pop culture.
Harry (Dogendtattoo) offers fine line, blackwork, brushwork and high contrast realism tattoos.
To see more of their work or learn about their individual styles, visit our tattoo artist pages.
Do you do cover up tattoos?
Yes, we offer cover up tattoos. If you’re booking online, please include clear photos of the tattoo you'd like to cover in your request. Alternatively, you can visit the studio and show your tattoo to an available artist during a walk-in consultation.
Not all tattoo styles are suited to cover ups. Your artist will advise you on the best approach and design to achieve effective results.
Do you do piercings?
Unfortunately we do not offer piercing services at Chimera Studios.
Getting a Tattoo
How does getting a tattoo work?
Getting a tattoo starts with your idea – and finding a tattoo artist whose style speaks to you. At Chimera Studios, the process is straightforward and collaborative:
Explore our tattoo artist pages to learn more about Tala, James and Harry, then choose your preferred artist on the booking form and share details about your idea.
Your chosen tattoo artist will get in touch to discuss the design, take a deposit, and arrange your tattoo appointment.
Before your appointment, your tattoo artist will show you your design and can accommodate alterations upon request.
On the day, you'll meet your artist at the studio, sign a consent form, show your photo ID to verify your age, approve the temporary stencil of your design, and then get tattooed.
After your session, you'll complete payment and receive aftercare advice.
For walk in tattoos, you can either discuss your idea with an available artist or choose a pre-drawn flash design. If there’s space, we’ll tattoo you the same day – otherwise, we’ll offer the next available appointment.
If you have any questions about the tattoo process, you can visit us for a free walk in consultation or leave questions in the any other questions or comments section at the bottom of your booking form.
Does getting a tattoo hurt?
Getting a tattoo will always involve some amount of pain, however, the intensity can vary depending on individual pain tolerance and tattoo placement.
Areas with thinner skin or closer to bones tend to be more painful, whereas fleshy areas like the outer thigh or upper arm are generally considered less painful.
Longer tattoo sessions can lead to increased pain as the skin becomes more irritated.
How do I stop my tattoo being painful?
While some discomfort is a normal part of getting a tattoo, there are ways to make the experience more manageable. Get a good night’s sleep, eat a proper meal beforehand, and stay well hydrated. Avoid alcohol the night before, as it can thin your blood and increase sensitivity.
Even with preparation, it’s important to understand that some pain is inevitable – but for most people, it’s tolerable and short-lived. If you're particularly worried, talk to your artist about numbing options.
Can I get a tattoo with sensitive skin?
Having sensitive skin usually isn’t a barrier to gettting a tattoo. Please share information about your skin condition with your tattoo artist in the any other questions or comments section at the bottom of your booking form, or in person if you prefer to walk in, and your tattoo artist will help you.
Can I get a tattoo over scars?
Yes, you can get a tattoo over scars. We recommend waiting until scars are at least 3 years old before getting a tattoo over them. Please share a clear photo of the area that you wish to get tattooed and your artist will advise you on next steps.
What should I wear when I get a tattoo?
Your tattoo session can last several hours, so wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed. Choose clothes you don’t mind getting ink on. Feel free to bring clothes to change into at the studio if needed.
If your tattoo requires removing clothing, please wear something practical to allow for this. We also provide privacy screens to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
For hygiene and comfort, please shower before getting your tattoo. You will sweat during the tattoo session.
What happens if I’m late or need to reshedule my appointment?
If you’re running late or need to reshedule your tattoo appointment, please contact your tattoo artist as soon as possible.
Missed appointments without notice will result in a lost deposit.
Tattoo aftercare
How do I heal my tattoo?
Proper aftercare is vital for the best results. Your tattoo artist will cover your tattoo with either Dermalize (second skin) or clingfilm immediately after your session. Please follow these aftercare steps:
If covered with clingfilm:
Remove it once you get home. Gently wash the tattoo with antibacterial soap and warm water, then let it air dry. Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer or tattoo balm. We recommend Palmer’s Cocoa Butter. Avoid thick ointments like Bepanthen, which can clog pores and delay healing.If covered with Dermalize:
Leave it on for 2–3 days. Remove it in the shower by gently peeling it downwards, parallel to your skin. Baby oil can be used to remove any leftover adhesive. Then begin the washing and moisturizing routine described above.
Continue to wash and moisturize your tattoo 2–3 times daily with clean hands until it is fully healed.
Do not scratch or pick your tattoo, leave it to heal naturally.
Your tattoo artist will share more details about tattoo aftercare with you on the day.
Can I shower with a new tattoo?
Yes, you can shower with a new tattoo. However, you should gently clean you tattoo in the sink with warm water to start with. While your tattoo is healing try to avoid getting shampoo or showergel in your tattoo, as these can cause irritation. Allow the tattoo to air-dry fully before applying moisturiser.
If your tattoo artist used Dermalize/Second skin, you can shower with this on, just try to avoid getting it wet until it is ready to take off.
Can I have a bath with a new tattoo?
Yes, however, you should avoid submerging your tattoo.
Can I Exercise with a new tattoo?
We generally recommend that you do not exercise for two weeks after you get your new tattoo to ensure that your tattoo has the best chance of healing correctly.
If you choose to work out during the healing period, avoid tight clothing that may rub against the tattooed area and avoid training the specific area that was tattooed. Friction and sweat exposure can lead to irritation.
Can I swim or go in the sea with a new tattoo?
No, swimming pools and the sea contain bacteria that can infect your tattoo and prevent it from healing correctly.
Can I use sunbeds, fake tan or go out in the sun with a new tattoo?
You should avoid sunbeds and fake tan for at least one month, or until your tattoo is fully healed.
During the healing process, it's important to keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight and avoid sunburn. UV exposure can increase the risk of infection and negatively affect how your tattoo heals and looks long term.
Once healed, always use high-SPF sunscreen on your tattoo to help preserve its quality.
My tattoo is flaky and itchy, is that normal?
Yes, flaking, peeling, and itching are all normal parts of the healing process. This usually occurs a few days after your appointment and can last for up to two weeks.
It’s important not to scratch, rub, or pick at your tattoo, as this can disrupt the healing process and affect how the pigment settles in the skin.
Let the tattoo flake naturally, and continue to wash and moisturise it gently with clean hands.
My tattoo is has scabs, is that normal?
Yes, light scabbing is a normal part of the healing process for some tattoos.
Be gentle when washing and moisturising the area, and do not pick or scratch the scabs. Allow them to fall off naturally. Removing them too early can damage the tattoo and cause parts of the design to heal unevenly.
My tattoo is red and swollen, is that normal?
Some redness and swelling is normal in the first few days after getting a tattoo, especially for black & grey pieces or in areas with more sensitive skin.
However, if your tattoo becomes increasingly red, swollen, painful, warm to the touch, or continues to weep fluid beyond the initial healing stage, it may be a sign of infection or an allergic reaction.
Don’t panic – if you notice these symptoms after the first few days, contact your tattoo artist for advice. They may recommend speaking to your GP or pharmacist for further assessment or treatment.
Travel & Accessibility
Where is Chimera Studios?
Chimera Studios is located at:
8 Poole Hill, Bournemouth, BH2 5PS
We're easily accessible by both car and public transport, making it easy to reach us from across the UK.
How do I get to Chimera Studios by Car?
Chimera Studios is located at 8 Poole Hill, Bournemouth, BH2 5PS, just up from the Triangle in central Bournemouth. We’re easily accessible by major road routes:
From Southampton – approx. 50 minutes via the A31 and A338.
From London – approx. 2 hours 30 minutes via the M3, M27 and A338.
From Birmingham – approx. 3 hours via the M5, A350 and A35.
Do you have free parking?
Yes, we offer two free all-day parking spaces for clients. If these are occupied, there are several public car parks within a short walking distance of the studio.
How do I get to Chimera Studios by public transport?
If you’re travelling from London, the direct Weymouth line from London Waterloo takes under 2 hours to reach Bournemouth, with the total journey to Chimera Studios taking 2 hours and 30 minutes.
From other major cities across the south and further north, there are direct train connections to Bournemouth from stations such as Birmingham New Street, Reading, and Southampton Central.
Upon arrival at Bournemouth train station, exit the station and turn right to catch the M1 bus from the single bus stop near the underpass. Get off at the Poole Hill stop – Chimera Studios is located across the road.
How late does Public transport run?
Buses in Bournemouth operate until after midnight most days with a night service running on Fridays and Saturdays. On these days the M1 bus service continues as the N1 night route. The last direct train from Bournemouth to London departs at 9pm, while trains to Reading, Birmingham, and destinations further north leave earlier.
We aim to finish all tattoo appointments prior to our closing time of 6pm, allowing ample time for you to make your onward travel arrangements.
Can I bring someone with me for my tattoo appointment?
Yes! You’re welcome to bring a guest with you. Our studio features a reception area with magazines, refreshments, and merchandise for your comfort while you wait.
We do not allow under 18s or pets in our studio.
Do you have disabled access?
Yes, we have parking and a step-free entrance at the back of the studio to accommodate disabled access. However, please note that our toilet is located downstairs, which may present challenges for longer sessions or larger tattoos.
When you make your booking, please inform your chosen tattoo artist of any access requirements in the any other questions or comments section at the bottom of your booking form. They will do their best to accommodate your needs and answer any questions.
Can you accommodate clients with hidden disabilities?
Chimera Studios is an inclusive and welcoming space for all clients. Our artists are understanding and committed to accommodating a variety of needs, visible or hidden. If you have any specific requests or accommodations, please mention them in the any other questions or comments section at the bottom of your booking form. Your chosen tattoo artist will do their best to support you and answer any questions you may have.
Looking for something else?
You can learn more about Chimera Studios, explore the Gallery or view Tala, James and Harry’s artist pages.