+ How do I choose an artist?

Some artists at Safe House Tattoo have a specific style and prioritize projects that meet certain criteria while others are ready to take on any idea thrown at them, no matter the size. To help determine if an artist’s style is in line with the tattoo you are looking to get, we encourage you to read through each artist's profile to get a better idea of whether or not an artist is a good match.

We have artists who take on a variety of styles that may not be captured in each artist portfolio. Shoot us an inquiry form, and we'll help you get connected with an artist that best suites your request and availability.

We occasionally have walk-in availability. Check out our Instagram @safehousetattoo for more information or call the shop, Tuesday-Saturday, 11am - 6pm, to check on walk-in availability.

+ I've selected an artist, now what?

Depending on which artist you selected, their artist page may direct you to email them, complete an online form, or be on the lookout for when books may reopen. Due to the volume of inquiries and each artists communication schedule, it may take up to a week or more for some artists to get back to you. Once they do, you can expect to either discuss your specific idea a bit further, instructions on how to make a deposit, or receive a link to schedule through our booking software. If it turns out that the artist is not a good match for your project, they’ll let you know and you can email the shop safehousetattoo@gmail.com for other artist recommendations.

For the fastest response, complete the inquiry form and our front desk staff will try to process the request as quickly as possible.

The process of getting a tattoo can sometimes take time! We thank you for your patience.

+ How do I book an appointment?

Artists at Safe House Tattoo have a variety of client communication practices ranging from online forms, direct emailing coordinating with the shop to arrange for scheduling, or subscribing to a newsletter to receive updates about when books open. Please review each artist's profile for more information.

Once an artist confirms they are able to take on your request, you will receive a link to schedule your appointment through our booking software. Many artists require a deposit which will be paid at the time of booking through the provided link.

Don't have an artist in mind? Complete this inquiry form and we’ll work on getting you connected.

+ How far out should I expect to schedule my tattoo?

Scheduling can range anywhere from a few days to many months depending on the artist you select. Most smaller tattoos can get in within a week.

If you are traveling to Nashville, TN, we highly suggest you reach out well in advance to ensure we can accommodate your limited availability. While the shop takes walk-ins, these are not always guaranteed.

In 2012 when Safe House Tattoo Studio opened in Nashville, TN, owner Ian White sought to create a tattoo shop whose operating hours were conducive to having a family life. Because of this, Safe House Tattoo Studio became the first shop in Nashville to open at 10am and close at 6pm, Tuesday - Saturday. Taking this idea a step further, each artist is given the flexibility to determine the days and hours they work within our operating hours. Often times this requires our clientele to take off work for a tattoo appointment or book further in advance to snag a Saturday appointment. We greatly appreciate our client's understanding and patience.

+ Do you take walk-ins?

Safe House Tattoo is generally by appointment only. Last minute openings sometimes occur and when they do, they are posted to the Safe House Instagram as well as the Instagram of the available artist. Follow @safehousetattoo if you’re hoping to snag a last minute opening or call the studio at (615)-866-9810 to check on availability.

Many folks traveling to Nashville reach out to Safe House Tattoo Studio looking for last minute availability. Being close to downtown Nashville, this is understandable! Unfortunately, we cannot always guarantee same day availability so we highly encourage making appointments well in advance.

+ I scheduled my tattoo, what should I do prior to my appointment?

Start upping your hydration game 1 to 2 days before you appointment, and bring a water bottle with you. Eat a decent meal the night before your tattoo and within 2 hours of your appointment time. For longer sessions, bring some snacks with you – preferably something calorically dense. Get a good night sleep and limit alcohol the night before, coming in tired and hungover can really effect the pain level.

+ What happens if the artist I’ve reached out to doesn’t take on my piece?

We’re very grateful you considered Safe House Tattoo for your next tattoo experience in Nashville - we’re sorry if it didn’t work out! If you’d like, email us at safehousetattoo@gmail.com and we’d be happy to suggest other high quality, reputable tattoo shops within the Nashville area who may be available. While Safe House Tattoo Studio has some of the best tattoo artists in Nashville, our shop doesn't have them all! We're happy to help you find another artist that may fit your requests.

It may have come as a surprise to not have the artist you selected take on your project. Within the tattoo industry, it’s fairly common for artists, as they gain more experience, notoriety, or build a solid clientele base, to begin focusing solely on specific styles, imagery, techniques, or size preferences. Matched with a high demand market in Nashville, artists are able to become more selective, prioritizing projects that fit within their own interests.

We hope you’ll consider Safe House Tattoo in the future when our artists are a better fit!

+What is the shop minimum?

Our shop minimum is $100. Some artists have higher minimums, though, so you should inquire with your artist.

+ Where are you located in Nashville?

Safe House Tattoo Studio is located in East Nashville/Inglewood at 4303 Gallatin Pike, Suite 102, Nashville, TN 37216. We are abouta 15 minute drive from downtown Nashville, TN. There is free and plentiful parking behind the building.

+ What forms of payment do you take?

We accept cash and all major credit cards.

+ How do I take care of my tattoo?

• If tattoo is wrapped leave one for about an hour (can be left on longer if needed).
• Always wash your hands first! Then wash your new tattoo 2-3 times a day with warm water and an unscented antibacterial soap (ex. Dial Gold), Pat dry with a clean paper towel, apply a thin layer of ointment (Redemption, A&D or Aquaphor).
• If your tattoo becomes dry between cleaning apply another thin layer of ointment. (after your tattoo starts to peel if you like you can switch to a fragrance free lotion, to replace the ointment).
• Avoid any direct sunlight on your new tattoo (including tatting of any kind).
• DO NOT touch your tattoo with dirty hands, or let anyone touch your tattoo! (always wash your hands before).
• DO NOT pick, scratch, go swimming (including pools, hot tubs, bath tubs and anything alike).
  

+ What is the minimum legal age? And can my parent sign?

You must be 18 years old to get tattooed in the state of Tennessee. Even with parental or legal guardian consent, you cannot legally get tattooed under the age of 18 in the state of Tennessee.

+ Can I bring someone with me?

You may bring a guest, but we prefer that they remain mostly in the lobby. They are welcome to pop back from time to time and check on you though. As for children, we love children, but please leave them at home.