FAQ
Can I get tattooed at the Expo?
Yes, you can. Check out the list of attending shops on our Artist page. From there you can view artist websites, portfolios, and contact information to schedule appointments at the Expo. In accordance with Washington State Law, you must be 18 or older to get a tattoo. No tattooing can begin prior to or extend beyond our posted event hours under any circumstances.
How does booking an appointment work?
Each artist at the Seattle Tattoo Expo books their own appointments for the event. Some artists will be taking walk-up appointments as well throughout the weekend. We recommend looking at our Artist page and if there is an artist you are interested in booking with - reach out to the artist or shop directly to pre-book where possible.
Is a ticket required to get a tattoo?
Yes – tattoo appointments at the Expo does not guarantee admission into the event. A ticket must be purchased to enter the facility. Please be sure to secure your tickets in advance of the event if you are scheduling an appointment on site. Tickets can be purchased HERE
What are the event hours?
Friday August 19th 2pm – 10pm
Saturday August 20th 12pm – 10pm
Sunday August 21st 12pm – 8pm
No tattooing can begin prior to or extend beyond our posted event hours under any circumstances.
How much do the tattoos cost?
Each artist at the Expo sets their own pricing. If you are interested in a specific artist – we highly recommend reaching out to the artist directly to confirm availability and pricing.
Can I bring my camera?
Small personal cameras are allowed. All we ask is to please respect the tattoo artists at work. Professional cameras will not be allowed. Media and publication please contact [email protected] for media credentials.
Is there anything besides tattoos at the Tattoo Expo?
Yes! We also have live music, tattoo contests and burlesque performances on our main stage by our Tattoo Expo Burlesque Review. Additionally, we have a vendor village, concessions area, and beer/spirits garden for those over 21 years of age.
Where can I purchase tickets for the Expo?
Tickets for this year’s Expo will available in advance online on our Tickets page and at the door. Please note the price increase on the day of the event. We encourage attendees to purchase tickets in advance.
What methods of payment are accepted at the Expo?
For admission into the Expo we will accept cash, VISA, Mastercard and American Express. Please confirm with your artist if they accept credit/debit cards or Cash App payments in advance. ATMs will be available on-site as well for our patrons’ convenience.
Are children allowed at the Expo?
Yes! The Seattle Tattoo Expo is a family friendly event. Admission is free for children under 12 accompanied by an adult.
Are pets allowed at the Expo?
Only service dogs, escorted by their handlers, are allowed within the Expo grounds. Pets are not allowed in booths while artists are tattooing.
What is the re-entry policy?
Re-entry is allowed throughout the course of the event as long as you have the proper credential.
How do I enter a tattoo contest?
To enter a tattoo contest there is a $10 entry fee and you must fill out an entry form on site with the following details:
- Contestant Name, Address, Email and Contract Number
- Description of your Tattoo
- Artist Name, Shop, City or Country
- Amount of hour to complete
Waiver to utilize photography of your entry for future Seattle Tattoo Expo publications or promotions
Entry forms will be available at the Contest/Merch tent next to the main stage. For the contest schedule, descriptions and restrictions please visit our Contest Page
Can I volunteer for the Seattle Tattoo Expo?
Yes! There are a variety of positions available for this year. If you are interested in joining our volunteer team – please send an email to [email protected] with VOLUNTEER in the Subject Line.
If I am an attending artist, what do I need to bring with me?
All attending tattoo artists and body piercers must have a valid Tattoo Artist/Body Piercing License, Permit, or Certification, and a Blood-borne Pathogen Certification (BBP) in accordance with WA State licensing requirements to participate in the Seattle Tattoo Expo. Details below.
Washington State Artists
- Current Tattoo/Piercers Washington State License
- Current Business License
Out-of-State Artists / Shops in the U.S.A
(choose the license that applies to how you operate in your residing state of origin)
- State License
- Artist Certification
- City Tattoo License
- Certification
- County License
- Tattoo Shop Business License
International Artist
(choose the license that applies to how you operate in your residing country of origin)
- Tattoo Shop License
- Business license
- Certification
Simply take a picture of your license and send it to us. Questions about your licensing/permitting process at the Seattle Tattoo Expo? Email [email protected] or call (206) 447-7725. It’s a lot simpler than it sounds, give us a call to talk about which documents you should submit.
What is your COVID safety policy?
Due to the varying nature of COVID policies, we ask that all attendees and artists agree to comply with local city, state and federal mask and vaccination policies at the time of our event. As of March 2022, masks are no longer required in the State of Washington for indoor events. We fully encourage our attendees to wear masks while indoors at the event, and we will support any artists who would like to require masks be worn in their booth while working. Any artist or attendee who does not comply with local city, state and federal policies at the time of the event will be asked to leave. Refunds will not be issued.
