Let’s get that tattoo
Booking an appointment with one of our award winning artists is only a few clicks away.
if this ain’t your first time, you can click the button below and find your artists request form. You know the drill.
if you’re a first timer, we’ve outlined all the steps and what to expect during the process below.
appointments are always preferred. If you’re trying to get a walk-in tattoo, you can check availability by calling the shop or stopping in 11am - 8pm Tuesday through Saturday.
FAQs
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
Show up on time and ready to go. Don't come in on an empty stomach. eat something beforehand so you don't get lightheaded mid-session. Wear something comfortable that gives easy access to wherever you're getting tattooed, and do us a favor and shower first.
In strict compliance with new York State laws and adult safety regulations, documentation is mandatory to check in. You must bring a physical copy of a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport). pictures or copies of your ID are not accepted.
How long do I have to wait before going swimming?
Give it a minimum of 2 to 4 weeks before dunking your new tattoo in a pool, hot tub, lake, or the ocean. bacterial infections aren’t cool. Everybody heals differently, so when in doubt, give it more time rather than less.
I just left Sink or Swim Tattoo. What an unbelievable experience. Everyone was friendly, and considerate. My artist Autumn was upbeat and excited. The shop is comfortable, and clean. They even have snacks for u if u want or are needed.
~ gina t.
what do I need to do to prepare for my tattoo?
Getting ready for your appointment is pretty simple, but a little prep goes a long way toward a smooth session and a better healing tattoo. Eat a full meal within a few hours of your appointment. never come on an empty stomach. Low blood sugar plus needles is a rough combo, and it makes for a longer, tougher session for everyone involved. Get a good night's sleep beforehand as A well-rested body handles tattoo sessions (especially longer ones) noticeably better. Stay hydrated in the days leading up to your appointment since well-hydrated skin takes ink more easily and heals faster. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your session. Alcohol thins your blood, which means more bleeding, less ink retention, and a rougher time for your artist. Skip blood thinners if you can (aspirin, ibuprofen) unless medically necessary — same reasoning as alcohol. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is fine if you need something.
how much is a tattoo?
Our tattoo artists hourly rates vary. based on placement, complexity, and final detail. when you arrive for your appointment you can talk to your artist if you’re concerned about having enough that day to complete your project or tattoo.
additional information
Advanced safety techniques
Every tattoo at Sink or Swim is performed with single-use, sterile needles and cartridges that are opened in front of you at the start of your appointment. All required equipment is sterilized using a hospital-grade autoclave, and our artists follow strict bloodborne pathogen safety protocols outlined by the health and safety department. Our studio is fully licensed and inspected by the Niagara County Health Department.
If I could give ten stars I would. Keith is a master of his craft. He’ll make sure your vision comes to life while also offering his guidance and expertise along the way. Trust in him and trust the process, you will be 100% satisfied. The entire shop is just great vibes and even greater people. So many talented artists, you’re in good hands no matter who you choose to work with. This place is truly special.
~ joseph c.
Shannon Kuzara is one of the best tattoo artists I have ever seen. Her work is amazing and I couldn’t ask for better! Everyone at the shop is friendly and seems to happy to be there.
~ ronda g.
Sam is the wonderful and friendly person who did my sabres piece. Keith is also amazing and did my redo of my 13 year old hydra that always looked awful. Aside from their obviously skill, the shop vibes are immaculate. These are good people who surround themselves with good people, and I firmly believe the quality of the art is raised by it.
~ devin k.
Ink & Materials
We only run top-shelf inks. Eternal, Industry, Intenze, Solid, and Dynamic. all vegan and cruelty-free, some even EO gas sterilized. Better inks mean brighter colors and smoother healing, and it's not something we cut corners on. We're also a sponsored studio with “Miss Pillsbury” tattoo aftercare and use their glide during every session. needles and Cartridges are single-use, every time.
Custom Design Process
Almost every tattoo we do is fully custom. you won't find pre-made stencils or flash work off the wall, aside from Flash Day events. Once your request form comes in, your artist reviews your photos, ideas, and placement, then starts building a design around your vision, your body, and how it'll age over time.
Cover-Ups & Reworks
Have an existing tattoo you've outgrown, or one that didn't turn out the way you hoped? Our artists are experienced in both cover-up work and reworking older pieces into something new. When filling out your appointment request form, mention that you're interested in a cover-up or rework and include a clear, well-lit photo of your existing tattoo. Your artist will review the size, placement, ink saturation, and color of the piece to determine what's realistically possible — cover-ups often require a larger or darker design than the original to fully conceal old ink, and your artist will walk you through your options and set honest expectations before your tattoo. In some cases, a consultation appointment may be recommended before your actual tattoo session, especially for more complex or heavily saturated pieces.
Booking steps
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You’ve got your idea brewing, some reference photos, and know where you want it. You’ve already checked out all of our artists work and you know exactly who you want to book with... So, let’s get your name and design over to them! Every artist has their own request form that can be found on their about page. send them all that info and they will get back to you as soon as they can.
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Every artist sets aside a day or two every week to respond to new request forms. It’s totally normal for you to go up to a week before initially hearing back from your artist and a few days between emails. If it has been over 7 days and you haven’t heard back, you can call the shop, but please give it that full week before doing so.
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Here’s where you and your artist will communicate about your design and placement. the best way to ensure things move quickly and smoothly is to provide as much information as possible when you fill out the request form. Once things look good for everyone, your artist will send you the secure deposit link, and get you on their schedule .
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you will receive a secure booking link from your artist. a $100 deposit is required to book your tattoo here at sink or swim. this deposit is removed from the final cost of your tattoo at your appointment. it ensures that your artist is compensated for the time and effort that goes into designing your artwork in the event that you no show (but you’d never do that, right?)
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your tattoo artist will work with you to lock down a date and time that works best for both of you. this happens after the artist confirms that your deposit has been paid. once on the schedule, you’ll get a text and email confirmation.
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when your appointment date comes, please arrive on time and be ready for your tattoo. that means don’t come on an empty stomach, wear comfortable clothing that allows access to your tattoo location, and ensure proper personal hygiene. You will need a physical copy of a Valid ID (license/passport) in order to check in for your appointment.
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We offer some amazing aftercare products in the shop that we’re happy to recommend. head to the aftercare page for more information.
reviews
Sink or Swim is one of the coolest places. I was greeted by extremely friendly staff. The process for signing a waiver is easy. They are extremely professional and organized. Truly a great location. Extremely clean and the decor is pretty damn cool.
I’m extremely happy with the work that Shannon did for me. It’s a drawing that my kids made and she truly made it look like it was drawn on my skin.
Price in my opinion was more than reasonable.
I will definitely be back !
~ vincent l.
Had a half-day session with Kieth and it could not have gone better. I arrived to a fully thought-out design based on the images that I sent in advance. He took my idea/vision and fully realized it. The line-work and shading is spot-on! The final product is stunning and is better than my wildest imagination. I cannot recommend Keith enough.
~ andrew s.
I’ve always been afraid of needles but wanted to get my ears pierced again, Iggy walked me through the whole thing and was absolutely fantastic! Since that visit I’ve gone back twice and now have my nose pierced and I love it! I 100% trust Iggy in all things piercing!
I’ve been tattooed by Shannon, Krista, and Paige and all of them have been awesome and the final pieces are works of art that I’ll love forever! They all listened to my ideas and brought them to life!
I’ll definitely be back!!!
~ devin k.
The shop is incredibly clean and beautifully decorated, and it smells amazing as soon as you walk through the door. Everyone there is extremely friendly and welcoming, which made the whole experience even better. My artist, Shannon, did an amazing job with my cover up. I’m so happy with how it turned out. It’s clear that everyone there is very talented. I’ll definitely be back!
~ lexi h.
