How Long Does a Sleeve Take?

One of the most common questions we're asked is, "How long will my sleeve take?" The honest answer is that every tattoo is different.

The time required depends on a number of factors, including the level of detail in the design, the size of your arm, the style of tattoo, and how well you're able to sit during each session. While every project is unique, a high-quality, custom sleeve will typically take between 40 and 60 hours to complete.

At Good Neighbour Tattoo, we believe that quality should never be rushed. Creating tattoos with strong composition, smooth shading, clean line work, and lasting detail takes time and patience. While you may find studios offering to complete a sleeve in fewer hours, our focus is on producing artwork you'll be proud to wear for life, rather than simply finishing it as quickly as possible.

We carefully structure our tattoo sessions to maintain the highest standard of work while ensuring you receive the best possible value for your investment. Our aim isn't to see how fast we can complete a tattoo—it's to create a piece of art that exceeds your expectations and stands the test of time.

Pricing

At Good Neighbour Tattoo, we offer both session rates for larger projects and piece pricing for smaller tattoos.

For large-scale work such as sleeves, back pieces, leg sleeves, and other multi-session projects, we charge the following session rates:

  • Minimum charge: £70

  • 2-hour session: £200

  • 4-hour session: £300

  • 6-hour session: £450

For clients looking to make the most of a full day, we also offer extended sessions. Any tattooing time beyond six hours is charged at £100 per additional hour.

For smaller, one-off tattoos, pricing is determined on an individual basis. Every design is unique, so we'll provide a quote based on factors such as the size, placement, level of detail, and the time required to complete the tattoo.

If you're unsure which option is right for your tattoo, simply get in touch and we'll be happy to recommend the most suitable booking and provide an accurate quote.

Thank you for purchasing a Good Neighbour Tattoo Gift Voucher. Please read the following terms and conditions before use.

  1. Validity
    All gift vouchers are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. Expired vouchers cannot be redeemed or extended.

  2. Non-Transferable
    Gift vouchers are issued to the named recipient only and cannot be transferred, sold, or exchanged to another person.

  3. Using Your Voucher
    Gift vouchers may be used:

    • As payment for your tattoo booking fee to secure an appointment.

    • As full or part payment towards the balance of your tattoo session.

  4. Presenting Your Voucher
    Your gift voucher must be presented before your tattoo session begins. If the voucher cannot be produced at the time of your appointment, the outstanding balance must be paid using an alternative payment method.

  5. Cash Value
    Gift vouchers are non-refundable, cannot be exchanged for cash, and no change will be given for any unused balance unless required by law.

  6. Lost or Damaged Vouchers
    Please keep your voucher safe. Lost, stolen, altered, or damaged vouchers may not be replaced at the discretion of Good Neighbour Tattoo.

  7. Sustainable Voucher Scheme
    Our gift vouchers are designed to be reused as part of our sustainability initiative. Once redeemed, vouchers are returned to us, securely reset, and reprogrammed for future customers.

  8. Personal Information
    The recipient's name and voucher value are stored solely for the purpose of validating the voucher. Once the voucher has been redeemed and returned, this information is permanently deleted before the voucher is reissued.

  9. General
    Good Neighbour Tattoo reserves the right to amend these Terms & Conditions where necessary. Any changes will not affect gift vouchers that have already been purchased.

By purchasing, accepting, or redeeming a Good Neighbour Tattoo Gift Voucher, you acknowledge and agree to these Terms & Conditions.

Good Neighbour Tattoo – Gift Voucher Terms & Conditions

Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Your new tattoo is an open wound, and looking after it correctly is essential to ensure it heals properly and retains the best possible quality.

Before You Begin

Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo or carrying out any aftercare.

Step 1 – Remove the Dressing

  • Leave your dressing on for at least 1 hour. We generally recommend 1–3 hours, unless your artist has advised otherwise.

  • Gently remove the dressing.

  • Wash the tattoo using warm water and a mild soap.

We recommend only using:

  • Dove Soap

  • Simple Soap

Avoid using:

  • Shower gels

  • Perfumed soaps

  • Liquid soaps

These products can irritate the skin and may interfere with the healing process.

After washing, gently pat the tattoo dry using a clean, dry towel. Do not rub the area.

Step 2 – Apply Aftercare Cream

Once the tattoo is completely dry, apply a very thin layer of Bepanthen.

A good rule is to apply it as thinly as you would lip balm. Applying too much cream can prevent the tattoo from breathing and may slow the healing process.

Avoid rubbing the cream aggressively into the skin. Gently spread it over the tattoo until it forms a light protective layer.

While Your Tattoo Is Healing

Please avoid the following until your tattoo has fully healed:

  • Swimming pools, hot tubs, jacuzzis and baths where the tattoo is submerged.

  • Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

  • Sunbeds.

  • Allowing pets or pet hair to come into contact with the tattoo.

  • Picking, scratching or peeling any scabs or flaking skin.

We Recommend

  • Wash your tattoo twice a day (morning and evening).

  • Apply a thin layer of Bepanthen 4–5 times per day, or whenever the tattoo feels dry.

  • Always purchase a new tube of Bepanthen for your tattoo.

  • Never share your aftercare cream with anyone else.

  • Check that your cream is within its expiry date before use.

Remember the Three Rules

Keep it clean.

Keep it creamed.

Keep your hands off it.

Following these three simple rules will give your tattoo the best chance of healing beautifully.

Signs of Infection

Some redness, mild swelling and tenderness are completely normal during the first few days.

However, if you notice any of the following:

  • Increasing pain or throbbing.

  • A burning sensation.

  • Worsening redness or tenderness after the first few days.

  • Yellow, green or unusual discharge.

  • An unpleasant or offensive smell.

  • Fever or feeling generally unwell.

Please contact your GP or NHS 111 immediately, and also let Good Neighbour Tattoo know as soon as possible so we can advise you.

Thank you for trusting Good Neighbour Tattoo with your artwork. Following these aftercare instructions will help ensure your tattoo heals well and looks its best for years to come.