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Answers Before You Book at Premier Tattoo

Premier Tattoo is a locally owned tattoo and piercing studio at 1959 East Pershing Road, Decatur, Illinois 62526, open Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 7 PM. The questions below cover the most common things clients ask before their first visit—pricing, age requirements, walk-in policy, deposits, payment, and more. If your question isn't here, call us at (217) 475-1108.

Everything You Need to Know Before You Book

  • How much does a tattoo cost at Premier Tattoo in Decatur?

    Tattoo pricing at Premier Tattoo depends on the size, placement, and complexity of the design. Simple small pieces start lower; detailed custom work and sleeves are quoted individually after a consultation. We give honest estimates before any work begins — bring your idea in and we'll walk through what it involves and what it'll cost.

  • Does Premier Tattoo take walk-in clients?

    Yes. We accept walk-in clients Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 7 PM, at 1959 East Pershing Road in Decatur. No appointment is needed to walk in. Booking ahead guarantees your preferred artist and time slot, but we do our best to accommodate everyone who comes through the door during business hours.

  • What is the minimum age to get a tattoo at Premier Tattoo?

    The minimum age for a tattoo is 18 — no exceptions. Illinois law does not allow parental consent to override this requirement. We verify ID for every client before beginning any tattoo work. Piercings are available to clients under 18 with a parent or guardian present and valid photo ID for both parties.

  • Does Premier Tattoo require a deposit to hold an appointment?

    Deposit requirements depend on the type of work being booked. Custom designs and cover-up consultations that involve significant artist prep time may require a deposit to secure the booking. We explain the deposit policy clearly when you schedule — call us at (217) 475-1108 or stop in to discuss your specific appointment.

  • Can I get a tattoo or piercing outside of normal business hours at Premier Tattoo?

    Yes. After-hours appointments are available on request. Our regular hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 7 PM, but if your schedule doesn't work during those times, reach out and we'll do our best to find a time that does. Contact us at (217) 475-1108 to ask about availability.

  • What payment methods does Premier Tattoo accept?

    We accept cash, credit and debit cards, and Cash App. We recommend confirming payment options when you book, particularly for larger pieces where a deposit may be involved. All pricing is discussed before work begins so there are no surprises when you're done.

  • What does Illinois law say about tattooing people under 18?

    Illinois law prohibits tattooing anyone under the age of 18 — period. Parental consent does not create an exception. Premier Tattoo follows this law strictly and will not tattoo a minor under any circumstances. Clients must present valid government-issued photo ID showing they are 18 or older before any tattoo service begins.

  • How long does it take for a new piercing to heal?

    Healing time varies by placement. Earlobe piercings typically heal in 6 to 8 weeks. Cartilage, nostril, and body piercings can take 3 to 12 months depending on the site and how well aftercare instructions are followed. We provide written aftercare guidance with every piercing and are available to answer follow-up questions after your appointment.

  • Can any existing tattoo be covered up at Premier Tattoo?

    Not every tattoo can be fully concealed with a single cover-up pass — it depends on the size, ink density, and colour of the original piece. We assess every cover-up individually before committing to a design. Bring your tattoo in for a consultation and we'll give you an honest evaluation of what's possible and what to expect.

  • How should I prepare for a tattoo appointment at Premier Tattoo?

    Eat a full meal before your appointment — low blood sugar makes the experience harder than it needs to be. Stay hydrated, get a good night's sleep, and avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours beforehand. Wear or bring clothing that gives easy access to the area being tattooed. Arrive on time and bring a valid photo ID.

  • How long does a tattoo session take at Premier Tattoo?

    Session length depends on the size and complexity of the design. A small simple piece may take 30 to 60 minutes. Larger custom work or detailed pieces can run 2 to 4 hours or longer. We give you a time estimate before we start so you can plan your day. Larger projects are sometimes completed across multiple sessions.

  • Does Premier Tattoo offer consultations before starting a custom tattoo design?

    Yes. Custom tattoo consultations are part of our standard process. You can walk in during business hours or call ahead to schedule a dedicated consultation. Bring reference images, sketches, or a description of what you have in mind — the more we understand your vision upfront, the better the final design will reflect it.

Artist outlining a black ink tattoo on a person’s upper thigh with blue-gloved hands

Your Question Is Answered — Now Take the Next Step

If something above cleared up what you needed to know, the next step is easy. Walk in Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 7 PM, or reach out to book a specific time. After-hours appointments are available on request. We're at 1959 East Pershing Road, Decatur, IL 62526.