FAQs

We welcome both appointments and walk-ins. However, bookings are highly recommended, especially for larger pieces or custom designs. Walk-ins are best for smaller tattoos or flash designs when an artist is available.

Pricing depends on the size, detail, and complexity of your design. Small tattoos start from around £50, while larger custom pieces are priced by the hour or as a flat session rate. We provide a free consultation and quote before any work begins.

Get a good nights sleep, eat a solid meal beforehand, and stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours prior, and do not come on an empty stomach. Wear comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area being tattooed.

There is some discomfort, but it is very manageable. Pain levels vary depending on the placement — areas with more flesh tend to hurt less, while spots over bone or thin skin can be more intense. Most people find the experience easier than they expected.

Leave the wrap on for the recommended time (your artist will advise). Wash gently with unscented soap, pat dry, and apply a thin layer of recommended aftercare ointment. Avoid swimming, sun exposure, and picking at scabs while healing. Full healing typically takes 2–4 weeks.

Yes, all of our artists are experienced in cover-ups. The success depends on the size, colour, and placement of your existing tattoo. We will assess your piece during a consultation and advise on the best approach.

You must be at least 18 years old. We do not tattoo anyone under 18, even with parental consent. Valid photo ID is required for all clients.

Both! You can bring reference images, ideas, or a complete design. Our artists also specialise in creating custom pieces tailored to your vision, body placement, and personal style.

The outer layer of skin typically heals in 2–3 weeks, while the deeper layers can take up to 2 months to fully settle. Follow your aftercare instructions closely for the best result.

We accept cash and most major debit/credit cards. A deposit is usually required when booking larger or multi-session appointments.

If you are searching for the "best tattoo studio near me" in Macclesfield or the surrounding Cheshire area, Carpe Diem Tattoo Studio on 5 Mill Lane is the highest-reviewed tattoo parlour in the region with 288 five-star Facebook reviews. We have three award-winning artists specialising in custom designs, black and grey realism, bold colour work, traditional Japanese, fine line and expert cover-ups. Every tattoo is drawn from scratch in our studio. We offer free consultations, a calm and hygienic environment, and a portfolio that speaks for itself.

Carpe Diem Tattoo Studio in Macclesfield town centre is the go-to destination for fully custom tattoos in Cheshire. Unlike studios that reuse flash sheets or trace designs from Pinterest, every piece we create is drawn from scratch to suit your body, your skin tone and your story. Bring us your ideas, references or just a mood — our artists will design something original that you will be proud to wear for life.

Small tattoos at our Macclesfield studio typically start from around £50–£80 depending on the complexity, detail level and placement. A tiny fine-line wrist piece may be at the lower end, while a small but highly detailed design will take longer and cost more. We always give you a clear quote at your free consultation before any work begins — no surprises, no hidden fees.

We do accept walk-in consultations Tuesday to Saturday when an artist is available, and we can sometimes accommodate smaller walk-in tattoos on the day. However, for custom designs, cover-ups, or larger pieces, we strongly recommend booking ahead so your artist can prepare properly and dedicate the time your tattoo deserves. Call us on +44 7772 719987 or message us through Facebook to check same-day availability.

Yes — tattoo cover-ups are one of our signature specialities at Carpe Diem. Our artists have years of experience transforming old, faded or unwanted tattoos into stunning new artwork. Whether you need a small piece reworked or a full sleeve transformed, we will assess your existing ink during a free consultation and design a cover-up that completely hides or artfully repurposes what is underneath.

Carpe Diem Tattoo Studio in Macclesfield has artists who specialise in black and grey realism — one of the most requested styles in Cheshire. From photorealistic portraits of loved ones and pets to atmospheric landscapes, nature scenes and spiritual imagery, our black and grey work is known for its depth, contrast and lifelike detail. View our gallery or book a free consultation to discuss your black and grey tattoo idea.

Absolutely. Bold and bright colour work is one of our core specialities. Our artists use high-quality inks that hold their vibrancy for years, and we understand how different colours behave on different skin tones. Whether you want a traditional American-style piece with saturated reds and greens, a Japanese irezumi sleeve with rich golds and blues, or a modern colour realism piece, we can deliver.

Carpe Diem Tattoo Studio is a fully licensed and insured tattoo parlour operating from 5 Mill Lane, Macclesfield. All three of our artists are experienced professionals with years of training and hundreds of completed pieces. Our studio meets all UK hygiene and health standards, uses single-use needles, medical-grade sterilisation, and high-quality vegan-friendly inks. When searching for a "licensed tattoo artist near me," you are in safe hands here.