Frequently Asked Questions About Tattoos at Lethe Tattoo NYC
What styles of tattoos does Lethe Tattoo specialize in?
Lethe Tattoo is a custom tattoo studio in the East Village known for dark art and surrealism, Japanese and neo-oriental work, and black and grey realism and portraiture. Every piece is drawn from scratch for the client - we do not work from flash sheets. We also take on cover-ups and large-scale sleeve and back projects.
Where is Lethe Tattoo located in NYC?
We are at 61 4th Avenue, Suite 201, New York, NY 10003, in the East Village between Astor Place and Union Square. The studio is a short walk from the 6 train at Astor Place, the N/Q/R/W and 4/5/6 and L trains at Union Square, and the B/D/F/M at Broadway-Lafayette.
What are your hours?
Lethe Tattoo is open Tuesday through Sunday, 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and closed on Mondays. Appointments are recommended for larger pieces.
Do you accept walk-ins?
Yes. Walk-ins are welcome during open hours and we will fit you in with an available artist whenever we can. For custom or large-scale work, booking ahead guarantees the artist and the time slot you want.
How do I book a tattoo appointment at Lethe Tattoo?
Use the Appointment page on this site, call 646-398-8839, or email lethetattoonyc@gmail.com with your idea, placement, approximate size, and any reference images. We will match you with the right artist and schedule a free consultation.
Is the consultation free?
Yes. Every consultation at Lethe Tattoo is free. We talk through your concept, placement, sizing, and budget before anything is booked or drawn.
How much does a tattoo cost at Lethe Tattoo?
Price depends on size, placement, level of detail, and how many sessions the piece needs. We quote after a free consultation so you get a real number instead of a guess. Ask about the shop minimum when you book.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes. A deposit is required to reserve your appointment and it is applied to the final price of your tattoo. Full details are on our Deposit Policy page.
What is your rescheduling and cancellation policy?
Give us at least 72 hours notice if you need to move your appointment and your deposit carries over to the new date. Less than 72 hours notice or a no-show forfeits the deposit.
How old do you have to be to get a tattoo in New York?
You must be 18 or older. New York State law does not allow tattooing minors, even with parental consent. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID to your appointment.
Who are the tattoo artists at Lethe Tattoo?
Philipus Murdijanto has been tattooing since 2001 and specializes in dark art surrealism, illustrative work, black and grey realism portraiture, and neo-oriental styles; he previously founded Styx Tattoo in Queens, NY. Gusti Negara has been tattooing since 2015 and focuses on Japanese and dark art oriental work. Portfolios for both are on our Artists page.
Do you do cover-up tattoos?
Yes. Cover-ups and reworks are one of our strengths - dark art and heavy black and grey styles are especially effective at hiding older tattoos. Send a clear, well-lit photo of the existing piece when you book your consultation.
Do you tattoo in color or only black and grey?
Both. Our artists work in traditional Japanese color and full-color illustrative styles as well as black and grey realism. Bring your references and we will tell you honestly which approach will hold up best on your skin over time.
How do I take care of a new tattoo?
Keep the bandage on for 1 to 24 hours as your artist directs, then wash gently with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap and apply a thin layer of tattoo ointment. Moisturize 3 to 4 times a day for the first few weeks and avoid soaking, pools, and direct sun. Full instructions are on our Aftercare page.
Is the studio licensed and sterile?
Yes. Lethe Tattoo is a licensed New York City tattoo studio. We use single-use needles and disposable setups, sterilized equipment, and hospital-grade surface disinfection for every client, in a private, clean, low-traffic space.