Tattoos
Do I need an appointment?
Yes. All tattoo appointments must be booked in advance as we do not accept walk-ins. This allows our artists to properly prepare for each appointment and ensures you have dedicated time with your chosen artist.
Occasionally, an artist may have a last minute cancellation and an appointment becomes available. When this happens, we’ll post the available time on our social media, so keep an eye on our socials if you’re looking for a last minute booking.
How much will my tattoo cost?
Each of our artists has their own individual day rate. Your tattoo will be quoted based on the estimated time your artist believes it will take to complete, taking into consideration the size, placement, detail and overall design.
We’ll provide you with an approximate quote before your appointment. Please keep in mind that the final price may vary depending on how long the tattoo takes to complete.
How do deposits work?
A deposit locks your date and comes off the final price of your tattoo. Deposits are paid in store. Your date can be moved once if you give us at least 48 hours notice. If you no-show, or move the date twice, the deposit will be forfeited.
What happens at a consult?
Fifteen to thirty minutes, free, no obligation. Bring reference images and a rough idea of size and placement. We'll discuss the details of your design, what might and might not work, give you an approximate quote and book your session if you're happy.
Can you cover up or rework an old tattoo?
It depends on the existing tattoo and what you'd like to have done with it. The size, colour, darkness, placement and condition of the existing tattoo, as well as the design you're wanting to cover it with, will all affect what is possible. Some tattoos may require a rework or additional laser sessions before they can be covered effectively.
Send us a clear, well lit photo of your existing tattoo along with an idea of what you'd like to have done, and we'll let you know what options may work best.
How long will it take?
A small simple piece is often a few hours. Sleeves and back pieces are multi-session projects — expect several sittings spaced a minimum of three to four weeks apart so each stage heals properly.
Does it hurt?
Everyone experiences and manages tattooing differently, so there’s no way to predict exactly how it will feel for you. Your artist will make sure you’re as comfortable as possible throughout the appointment. Eat properly beforehand, stay hydrated and tell your artist when you need a break — nobody is impressed by sitting through it silently.
What's your age policy?
You must be 18 or over to be tattooed at Halfway House. Bring valid government photo ID to every appointment and complete the required consent before we can tattoo you.
Please see our consent form here: https://www.stabpad.com/sign/halfwayhousegeneral@gmail.com/Halfway_House_Tattoo_Consent_Form
Is there anything that would stop you tattooing me?
We can't tattoo you if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, intoxicated, or have been drinking that day. Please tell us in advance if you have a bleeding disorder, take blood thinners or oral retinoids (i.e Roaccutane), have a bloodborne infection, are diabetic, have a heart condition, have a weakened immune system or have a skin condition such as psoriasis or eczema, particularly in the area to be tattooed.
Please also let us know if you have any current infection, rash, sores, wounds or other irritation in the area. Some conditions may require additional precautions or medical clearance before we can tattoo you, so it's important that we know beforehand.
Can I bring someone with me?
Please ask your artist about whether they are happy for you to bring someone with you.
Paint and Graffiti Supplies
Can I buy paint if I am under 18?
Unfortunately not. We are legally only able to sell aerosol paint to those over 18.
What paint brands do you stock?
We stock MTN 94 and Hardcore in their full colour range. We stock partial range of Loop Colors. We stock black, white and chrome Aero Art and a variety of colours in a budget tin (similar to exports).
Can I make a large or custom paint order?
Sure thing! We provide paint for a lot of mural artists or people holding graff jams. If you need a large order or custom request for paint, send us a message to our instagram or an email to Contact.halfwayhouse@gmail.com and will do our best to help you out.
What other graffiti supplies do you stock?
We stock a range of markers, dabbers, caps, stickers, refills and more.
Merch
How do your sizes run?
Our sizes start at XS and go to 2XL. Our hats are one size.
Can I try things on in the shop?
Yes — we keep most sizes on the rack. Come in Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm and try them on.
Visiting
Where are you and where do I park?
We are located at 30 Belmore Street, Penrith, NSW. There's three hours of free parking behind the shop, in Soper Place carpark. Street parking out front fills up by mid-afternoon on weekends. We are a 5 minute walk from Penrith train station.
What are your hours?
Our shop is open 10am - 5pm Monday to Saturday for paint and merch sales. Tattoo appointment times vary for each artist.
Is the studio accessible?
Our studio is ground floor with step-free entry. Let us know in advance if you have specific access needs and we'll make sure the right chair is free.