FAQs

Our artists are passionate about tattooing and want you to have the best possible experience you can while getting tattooed. We strive to provide a safe, clean, and fun environment for our clients and our staff. We ask our clients to respect our space by conducting themselves in a civil and polite manner. Please arrive sober (not under the influence of alcohol or drugs) and be mindful of your personal hygiene and physical decorum.

Not sure where to start the tattoo process? Take a look at our artists’ portfolios here!

Need more info? Check out the frequently asked questions below. If you can’t find an answer you’re looking for, give us a call at (314) 776-2307 or email us here!

  • You do not need to have an appointment to get tattooed at Trader Bob’s. We offer walk-in tattoos and consultations all day, every day on a first come, first serve basis.

    All of our artists manage their own appointments. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with a specific tattooer, please reach out to them directly. Contact information can be found on their portfolio pages here!

  • You must be 18+ and have a valid, non-expired government issued photo ID to be tattooed at Trader Bob’s. We will not, and cannot, tattoo anyone — regardless of age — without proper identification.

    Acceptable forms of ID include:

    • Driver’s license

    • Non-driver photo ID

    • Passport

  • Some, but not all of our artists will tattoo minors by appointment only. We require valid IDs for both the minor and parent/guardian as well as a consent form.

    • Our studio minimum is $100, and pricing increases from here. Factors such as placement, size, and color preferences will effect price.

    • Deposits are required for appointments. We only accept deposits in person, at the shop. We will NEVER ask for a deposit online.

    • Please stop by the studio to consult with an artist about general estimates. Under no circumstances will we give you a price estimate via phone, email, or direct message.

    • On a budget? We are more than happy to let you know what is possible within the parameters you set for your tattoo! Just let your artist know ahead of time!

  • Tips are appreciated, but never expected.

  • Please discuss the usage of numbing cream with your artist prior to arrival. Numbing cream can make the skin spongy, making the skin harder to tattoo effectively. Because of this, some tattooers prefer not to tattoo on skin with numbing cream.

    Note: If you have gotten the okay from your artist, please apply it prior to your arrival, as it takes 45-60 minutes to be effective.

  • We do not offer piercings.

    Please check out our sister shops — Allstar Tattoo and Easy Street Tattoo — for your body piercing needs!

    Allstar Tattoo:
    (314) 692-7827
    2803 S. Big Bend Blvd
    Maplewood, MO 63143

    Easy Street Tattoo
    (314) 395-5759
    8768 St. Charles Rock Road
    St. Louis, MO 63114

  • If you are sick, please contact your artist and reschedule your appointment. If you are feeling under the weather, please wait to come in for a walk in tattoo as well. We want our staff and clients to stay safe and healthy!

  • We highly recommend arriving for your tattoo well rested, hydrated, and having eaten a meal.

    If you want to bring a snack, we ask that you eat in the lobby only.

    We recommend snacks with sugar and/or protein.

  • We understand getting tattooed can be an intimidating experience. While we do our best to make sure you are comfortable, we understand wanting to have someone with you who can provide moral support.

    Many studios will not allow anyone to accompany you during your appointment (and it’s prohibited by law in some states!). If you feel you need someone with you, please limit it to one person at the most. Please understand it is at the artist’s discretion if they will allow your guest to be with you while you are getting tattooed, your guest may be asked to wait in the lobby.