Walk-In or Custom Appointment: Which One’s Right for You?

Mitchell Stals • April 15, 2025

Walk-In or Custom Appointment: Which One’s Right for You?

At Silver Ghost Tattoo, we know that every tattoo journey is unique. Whether you're walking in on a whim or planning your next big piece down to the last detail, we've got you covered.

Located in the heart of Old Strathcona at 10422 81 Avenue—just a stone’s throw from the University of Alberta—we’re proud to serve a vibrant, creative community. With a team of skilled artists offering both walk-in tattoos and custom tattoo appointments, we aim to make getting inked as easy (and exciting!) as possible.

So… which route is right for you?


✍️ The Case for a Custom Appointment

If you’re after a one-of-a-kind design, booking a custom session is the way to go. This option is perfect if you:

  • Have a vision or concept in mind
  • Want a larger or more detailed piece
  • Need time to collaborate with your artist on style, placement, and symbolism
  • Prefer to work with a specific artist who specialises in a certain tattoo style (like realism, Japanese, or illustrative)

Booking a custom tattoo gives you time to build a relationship with your artist and ensures your design is tailored to your story, your body, and your style.

At Silver Ghost, we’ve got a diverse team of artists who each bring something special to the table:

  • From irezumi and American traditional to realism and walk-in flash, our team can do it all.
  • We’ll pair you with the right artist for your design, or you can request someone directly.
  • You’ll get time to collaborate, refine, and perfect your design before the needle ever touches skin.


⚡ When Walk-Ins Make Sense

On the flip side, sometimes spontaneity is part of the magic. Walk-in tattoos are a great choice when:

  • You want something small to medium-sized
  • You're feeling spontaneous or inspired
  • You're looking for flash designs or have a simple concept
  • You don’t need a detailed consultation or major design prep

Walk-ins are especially popular with students, tourists, and locals who are out exploring Whyte Ave and decide today’s the day for a new tattoo. Our resident walk-in artist, Sly, is ready to bring your ideas to life—whether it’s a quick, clean design or a fun flash piece from our available collections.

Just swing by—we’ll do our best to get you in that day, or let you know the soonest availability.


🖤 Still Not Sure? That’s Okay!

Choosing between a walk-in and a custom tattoo doesn’t have to be stressful. If you're unsure, stop by the shop or give us a call—we’re happy to chat about your idea and guide you in the right direction.

Sometimes, what starts as a walk-in turns into a custom piece. Other times, a simple idea is best done on the spot. Either way, we’ve got the flexibility and talent to make it work.



🎯 Final Thoughts

Whether you’ve been planning your tattoo for months or you just decided over coffee that today’s the day, Silver Ghost Tattoo is here for you. Our doors are open to both planners and spontaneous souls.

Come visit us in Old Strathcona, right near the University of Alberta. Let’s bring your next piece to life—your way.

📍 Silver Ghost Tattoo
10422 81 Avenue NW
Edmonton, Alberta
Walk-ins welcome. Appointments encouraged.

By Mitchell Stals April 22, 2025
First Tattoo? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
By Mitchell Stals April 9, 2025
The Art and Meaning of Japanese Tattoos
By Mitchell Stals April 1, 2025
How Scalp Micropigmentation Can Restore Your Confidence and Masculine Edge
By Mitchell Stals March 26, 2025
Meet Steve: Black Gold Tattoo Co’s Realism & Portrait Tattoo Specialist
By Mitchell Stals March 25, 2025
Meet Kevin: Black Gold Tattoo Co’s Expert in Illustrative, Realism, and Cover-Up Tattoos
By Mitchell Stals March 24, 2025
Meet Jess: Black Gold Tattoo Co’s Expert in Illustrative & Floral Tattooing
By Mitchell Stals March 23, 2025
Meet Jackson: Black Gold Tattoo Co’s Realism Tattoo Specialist
By Mitchell Stals March 22, 2025
Meet Ian: Master of Fine Line Tattooing at Black Gold Tattoo Co
By Mitchell Stals March 21, 2025
Meet Chris L: Bringing Pop Culture to Life at Black Gold Tattoo Co
By Mitchell Stals March 20, 2025
Meet Brian: Japanese and Realism Tattoo Artist at Black Gold Tattoo Co
More Posts