1. Why can’t I just drop by for a tattoo or consultation?
We work strictly by appointment. Studio Palermo specializes in custom-designed tattoos, which means each project is prepared with care in advance. Walk-ins are likely to be turned away simply because we want to give each client the full attention they deserve. Booking a consultation ensures we have the time and space to explore your idea properly and provide tailored advice.
2. Why do I need to send a letter as a first-time client?
Discussing visual, personal concepts over the phone can be limiting. Your letter allows us to thoughtfully assess your idea and determine whether our studio is the right fit—saving you a potentially unnecessary trip. When we meet, we’ll already have something to build on. Reviewing your design in advance also helps us decide whether Sven is the right artist for your tattoo.
3. Can I email instead of sending a letter?
We don’t accept tattoo requests via email. Surprising, we know—but we’ve found that traditional letters work best for our creative process. Letters feel more intentional and give us a better sense of your story and vision.
Send your letter to:
Studio Palermo
Lange Nieuwstraat 63
2000 Antwerpen
Belgium
4. What should I include in my letter?
Please include:
Your full name and contact details, including a phone number
A detailed description of the tattoo(subject, size, placement, and preferred style)
Reference images or sources of inspiration (no original photos—copies only)
Let us know if you’re travelling from abroad and when you'll be in Antwerp
Note: We work exclusively in black and grey—no colour tattoos.
Appointments are not made via phone or email. Letters must be sent at least four months in advance due to the waiting list.
5. I sent a letter but haven’t received a reply—what now?
We receive many requests and it can take a few weeks to respond. If it’s been over four weeks, feel free to call us during our phone hours.
Common reasons for delays:
Missing contact information
We called you, left a voicemail, but didn’t hear back
Your letter got lost in the mail (rare, but possible)
If you're unsure, just give us a call.
6. Can I get a black and grey tattoo with a small touch of colour?
No—Studio Palermo works only with black, white, and grey. We do not use colour ink at all.
7. I can’t draw—can you still help me with a design?
Absolutely. Sven prefers to design the tattoos himself. Many of our clients come with only an idea—no drawing needed.
8. My friend designed something—can you tattoo it?
Not necessarily. A great drawing doesn’t always translate into a great tattoo. Sven rarely tattoos designs made by others.
9. I found a tattoo on Pinterest—can I get the same one?
We don’t copy tattoos. Your tattoo should be unique to you.
We do make exceptions for fan tattoos, but only with explicit permission from the original artist. Universal symbols and text-based tattoos are fine. Not sure? Just ask.
10. Can you copy a tattoo from a famous artist who’s too far away?
No—we don’t copy. Instead, we’ll help you develop a design that’s inspired by your idea, but truly your own.
11. Can you recreate a tattoo in another artist’s style?
Every artist has their own style, much like handwriting. We do not imitate other artists. The goal is to create something original that reflects you, not someone else's work.
12. Can I get the same tattoo you made for someone else?
No. Out of respect for our clients and the custom nature of our work, we do not repeat existing designs.
13. How much does a tattoo cost?
Prices vary based on size, complexity, style, and placement. Please call us for more information. (Phone hours: Tuesday afternoons.)
14. How much is the deposit? Can I pay by card?
Deposits are usually €150. You can pay by cash or debit/bank card.
We do not accept credit cards at this time.
15. I want a realistic portrait tattoo—what should I send?
Please send high-quality copies of your photos—never originals.
Make sure the image is sharp, well-lit, and shows the full face.
Blurry, dark, or overexposed photos won’t work.
We recommend sending multiple options so we can choose the best one.
16. Can I get a realistic portrait tattoo that’s only 3 cm?
No. Photorealistic portraits need to be at least 6 cm tall to capture sufficient detail.
17. Can you change the clothing or hairstyle in a portrait tattoo?
No. We work directly from the image provided. Altering features reduces the likeness. A portrait should reflect the person as they are.
18. Can I get a small tattoo (5 cm) with many elements?
Complex designs require space. If you want multiple detailed elements, the tattoo needs to be larger. Small tattoos are better suited to simpler concepts. Keep in mind how your tattoo will age over time.
19. i just got a tattoo, what should I do with it?
We gathered all the do's and don'ts on our Tattoo After Care Page. Have a look!
20. I still have questions—what should I do?
Please call us during our phone hours. We're happy to help.
For Appointements click HERE.
All Images and texts - © 2023 Sven Rayen
