How do I book an appointment?

If you have an idea of who you would like to get tattooed by, follow the information on their artist page for their preferred method of booking. All artists require a deposit to book which goes towards the cost of the tattoo.

Can I just walk in and get a tattoo?

Of course! We are open 11-7pm and operate every day except Monday. We recommend calling the shop beforehand to make sure someone is on hand but we almost always have someone on staff who can take walk-in requests. Call us at (503)349-7813.

How can I pay for my tattoo?

Every artist has different types of payment platforms they can accept. While all of us can accept cash, please talk to your artist before your tattoo about which digital payment platform they prefer. Keep in mind there may be a service fee for card or digital transactions. The nearest ATM is a few blocks away at the Rivermark bank on 30th and Belmont.

What types of tattoos do you guys do?

Every artist at the shop has different talents! If you’re looking for bold traditional, fine line or portraits we can work with you to pair you with the artist whose work speaks to you, or you can check out everyone’s artist page to find out more about the kind of work they enjoy doing.

I’m shy and don’t want to be exposed in a big area! How can I get some privacy?

We have many privacy measures we take here at the shop, everything from pasties, hospital gowns and privacy screens to curtains if requested. We want everyone to feel seen (and remain unseen if desired) and take consent seriously. If you need something else don’t be afraid to ask!

How much is my tattoo going to cost?

We have a $100 minimum which covers base costs for even the smallest and simplest of tattoos. We are budget friendly if you have a price cap, just ask! We can also split larger projects into multiple sessions to be gentler on your wallet. Smaller pieces are typically priced flat (palm size designs can be around $300 depending on size and detail) and larger projects are typically an hourly rate. Each artist might have a different hourly rate that reflects their experience but we are all happy to be transparent about pricing before your tattoo so you know what to expect. Hand size tattoos can be around $500-600 for example but it is dependent on location and detail, and can also be split into two sessions. For example a tattoo on the forearm will be less expensive than a tattoo on the ribs because of the level of difficulty of the application of the tattoo.

What is a deposit and what are the rules?

With any tattoo, if you leave a deposit with your artist to hold your spot that money goes towards the cost of your tattoo. Most tattooers require between $50-$100 for a deposit in order to book your tattoo depending on their particular policies. This is applied to your very last session of your tattoo and is non-refundable. If you no-show your tattoo appointment or even cancel last minute, your deposit is forfeit and you must put down a new one to rebook the tattoo. We do this to protect our time and energy as we do not get paid an hourly wage. Each artist is an independent contractor that has a deposit policy that they include on their booking pages.

How painful is a tattoo?

Everyone is different! While we can’t say that tattoos DON’T hurt, pain levels vary based on body part, individual pain thresholds, etc. For first-timers, we often describe it as a sustained cat scratch, but it’s hard to pin down exactly since the sensations are so subjective. Your brain sends down chemicals like adrenaline, etc after the first few minutes of tattooing which allow most people to settle in for a relatively comfortable experience until they either get sore or hungry after 2-3 hours. Always make sure to eat prior to your appointment! Most people are stronger than they appear physically, and we find that pain is largely attributed more to mental fortitude and a positive attitude can go a long way! We know things like environment, anxiety and stress can affect pain levels so we strive to put your mind at ease and have amenities like heating pads, bottled water, candy, and pillows to increase client comfort.

Please do not apply prescription-strength numbing creams before your appointment before first discussing with your artist, the market is unregulated and there are serious adverse health effects that can affect your body or your tattoo. We do carry Bactine at our stations which can numb after the lines are first applied and the skin is broken, and most people do really well with this method.

What makes Mortal Emblem so special?

Our shop stands out by being an energetic, body positive atmosphere in which upholds the traditions of tattooing in a street shop while being contemporary in its standards and ideals. Here you won’t have to worry about being bullied into getting something you don’t want, or seeing racist flash on the walls under the guise of “history”. We are welcoming of our LGBTQIA+ clients and staff, and are happy to tattoo any and all skin tones and body types. All that and quality tattoos by professionals who CARE about you and your body, not just your tattoos!

Can I have tattooing at my party/event?

Yes you absolutely can! The Oregon Health Licensing office requires permitting which costs $150 and needs to be filed 1 month ahead of the event. We are equipped with our own portable hand washing sink, and have done pop ups ranging from fundraisers to markets to grand openings! Any celebration you can think of we can find a way to bring experienced tattooers to make it a SAFE and LEGITMATE tattoo pop up!