Booking & F.A.Q

All of our artists handle their own bookings and schedules. If you’re interested in booking an appointment we recommend reaching out to the artist of your choice directly. Any pricing questions should be directed to your artist.

  • We are located at 96 Wharf Street in Salem Ma 01970. Our shop is in between our neighbors Enchanted and SEA LEVEL.

  • We recommend parking in the garage located on the corner of Congress and Derby (just 2 blocks away from the shop). Wharf parking is limited to 2 hours and the management strictly enforces.

  • The deposit acts as a retainer for the appointment, and is credited towards the total cost of the tattoo at the end.  ALL DEPOSITS ARE NON- REFUNDABLE. 

    Should you need to cancel or reschedule a future appointment we ask for a MINIMUM of 72 hours notice or otherwise you forfeit your deposit. 

    Please note- any ‘no shows’ will not only lose their deposit, but will also be required to pay an additional deposit to reschedule.  

    If an artist has drawn for your appointment and you no longer wish to get tattooed, your deposit is non-refundable.

    If your tattoo requires multiple sessions, the deposit will be subtracted from the final appointment.   

    Why is this in place?  -The deposit policy is in place to protect our artists time and efforts put towards your tattoo.  Any cancellation requires us to fill the open position, and can be quite difficult to fill on short notice.  We ask all of our clients to please take this into consideration when booking an appointment.  

  • You will pay your artist directly. Please reach out to your artist before your appointment to inquire about acceptable forms of payment.

  • Our shop is small, and HEMLOCK encourages our artists to create their own schedules, travel as desired, and to take time off WHENEVER it’s necessary for them. In this format there are no set shop hours and artists generally work whenever they want.

    If you intend to ‘pop by’ the shop, your artist of choice will likely be working or unavailable. We encourage clients to connect with your artist directly to schedule consultations or appointments.

  • When preparing for your appointment it is always recommended to connect with your artist the week of to confirm the appointment.

    Often artists book out a few weeks in advance so a quick ‘touch-base’ is great if your artists hasn’t already checked in.

    - You MUST bring a valid, government issued ID to show proof of age. You must be 18 years or older to be tattooed in the state of Massachusetts. If you forget your ID you will not be tattooed, no exceptions.

    -You will be required to fill out a tattoo consent form which includes having an emergency contact

    -Make sure you’re well rested, hydrated, and that you’ve eaten a meal before you come in for your appointment.

    -Feel free to bring water, snacks and comfort items for the appointment (Please do not bring in large meals).

    -Headphones if you don’t like the shop music and sunglasses to shade bright lights can be helpful.

    -Make sure the clothing you wear corresponds to the tattoo you’re getting in such a way that you’re completely comfortable.

    -Your artists will review aftercare instructions after your session is completed.

    -Our shop is handicapped accessible, however space can be tight. If you require additional accessibility please reach out to your artist to inquire about scheduling for a day with fewer tattooers in. We are always happy to acommodate.

  • Friends or partners are welcome to drop you off at your appointment, however please double check with your artists beforehand.

    We prefer any companions hang-out for check in and possibly for the stenciling, but then we will request they go out an enjoy exploring Salem.

    Our shop is small and we do not allow guests to accompany folks into the tattooing stations.

  • Should you need to cancel or reschedule a future appointment we ask for a minimum of 72 hours notice or otherwise you forfeit your deposit.

    Deposits are generally transferable 1 time for a new appointment if a reschedule is necessary. Any additional rescheduling after that may result in a new deposit. All deposits are non-refundable.

    Be sure to check with your artist on rescheduling policies as it may vary from artist to artist.  

  • Tipping your tattooer is a customary practice as it is in restaurants, bars, or hair salons. While it is never expected, it is always appreciated! Most people tip between 15-25% of their tattoo, but anything is always deeply appreciated.

  • Please consult your artist regarding aftercare instructions. Different styles of tattooing may require a different approach to healing (e.g. Colorwork vs. Fineline). Your artist will provided you with proper aftercare in accordance with the style of tattoo you are getting.