Your Questions, Answered

Have questions about booking a tattoo appointment, deposits, consultation, custom tattoo designs, walk-ins, or choosing the right tattoo artist? Here are answers to some common questions about getting tattooed at Black Cat Tattoo in Chinatown Honolulu.

  • Our artists work in a variety of tattoo styles, including Japanese tattoos, American-traditional, black and grey tattoos, color realism, floral , illustrative tattoos, fine art-inspired , Polynesian, floral and all custom tattoo design.

    Each artist has their own strengths and artistic voice, so we recommend looking through the portfolios and choosing the artist whose work best fits the feeling and direction of your tattoo.


  • A tattoo consultation gives you and your artist a chance to talk through the idea, placement, size, style, budget, and expectations before the appointment.

    It also allows the artist to guide you toward what will work best as a tattoo, not just as an image. A good consultation helps create trust, clarity, and a stronger final piece. and more importantly it gives you a chance to feel comfortable with your artist when going over your ideas.

  • Yes. Most of the work we do is custom tattoo work. We believe a tattoo should be designed with the individual client in mind, taking into consideration the idea, placement, body flow, size, style, and long-term readability of the piece.

    Reference images are always welcome, but we use them as direction rather than something to copy directly. Our goal is to create something personal, intentional, and made specifically for you.

  • yes. In many cases, tattoo designs or concept sketches are shown before hand where input can be given on both sides. other artist might provide fully rendered designs to show and others will prefer to freehand the design straight on you the day of the appointment.

    your artist will discuss their design process with you during the consultation. whatever the method, rest assured, you will decide and have final word on what goes on your body.


  • Our shop minimun is $200, and most artist here will be within the $200 per hour range and some offer full day or flat rates on designs and that can be discussed with your artist during the consultation

  • Get a good night’s rest, eat a solid meal before your tattoo appointment, and stay hydrated.

    Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed. you can bring a friend if you want,

    Food, snacks and drinks are ok to put in our refrigerator for your session.

    Tune out with headphones and personal entertainment or converse with your artist and others around.

    Please avoid drinking alcohol the night before.

  • At Black Cat Tattoo, we take pride in approaching tattooing as both a craft and an art form. We are one of the few shops that actively studies fine art alongside tattooing, because we believe it helps us create stronger, more thoughtful, and more visually powerful work.

    Our goal is not just to make tattoos, but to create pieces that are carefully designed, artistically considered, and built with respect for the craft. We value hard work, growth, professionalism, and the kind of artistic environment that pushes everyone to keep improving.

  • You can book a tattoo appointment by emailing us, calling the shop, or stopping by Black Cat Tattoo in Honolulu. If you already have a specific tattoo artist in mind, we can help you connect with them directly. If you are unsure who would be the best fit, we are happy to guide you toward the artist whose style and experience best match your tattoo idea.

    A deposit is required to secure your tattoo appointment.

  • Tattoo deposits are typically $200 and are usually taken after an in-person consultation. For out-of-state clients or clients who are unable to come into the shop, consults and deposits may be online at the artists discretion, deposits may be sent through Venmo or another approved online payment method.

    Your deposit goes toward the final cost of your tattoo. Deposits are non-refundable, so we recommend booking only when you feel ready to move forward with your appointment. This policy helps protect the artist’s time, design preparation, and scheduling.

  • Take your time, look at their work and if possible healed work in real life outside the digital world. choose an artist whos work, work ethic, and bedside manner speaks to you the most

  • Payment options may vary by artist, so we recommend confirming with your tattoo artist before your appointment. In general, cash is preferred, and some artists may also accept Venmo, cards, or other digital payment options.


  • Walk-in tattoos are welcome when time is available, but availability depends on the artists’ schedules and the type of tattoo you are looking to get.

    For smaller tattoos, walk-ins may be possible. For larger, more detailed, or custom tattoo pieces, we recommend booking a consultation so the artist has time to properly plan the design.