Things to know before you get tattooed

It won’t be cheap. Getting a tattoo is a medical procedure and the results are permanent.  My hourly rate is $180. I cannot predict what a tattoo will cost because it is almost impossible to determine what will happen during the tattoo process and how long it will take. It’s always wise to plan for at least 3 hours of work, and let your artist know in advance if you are working with a budget.

Please avoid haggling with your artist. We need clean needles, fresh ink, gloves, and all the chemicals and tools needed for hospital grade sterilization, which costs a pretty penny. You’re also paying for the skills and talents of an actual artist with years of experience and several certifications. If your tattoo quote seems low, that should be a warning sign to check their credentials.

I prefer people not bring company to their appointments unless the company is also getting tattooed. We have a small waiting area and need to make room for our clients and have limited space with the current COVID-19 precautions set in place.

If you want to bring a water or drink to your appointment, please feel free. Hydration before and during tattoo procedures is a must!

However, please try to eat before your appointment. Tattoos inflict trauma to the body and it is important that you have a full stomach and your blood sugar is stable during the procedure. Not eating before your tattoo can lead to overwhelming addrenaline, nausea, fainting, or dizziness. It’s best to consume some protein and vitamin C as well as a good amount of water to help prevent your Sympathetic Nervous System from activating a “fight or flight” response and ending the session early.

Tattoos will hurt no matter where you put them on your body, this cannot be avoided. The placement of your tattoo shouldn’t be determined by pain, but where it looks best to adorn your body and where you want to wear it.

For the curious, the most painful spots tend to be ribs, feet, hands, and generally anywhere on the front of the torso.

Getting plenty of rest the night before your session is a must! Try to avoid aspirin, alcohol, and caffeine the day before and day of your tattoo as they can thin your blood and make you extra bleedy.
If you want to go the extra mile, moisturizing and shaving the area of your tattoo the night before is a great idea. If you plan on sitting for several hours, bring a water bottle and some granola bars for snacks. A blanket can be comforting and help make the experience a little easier. Make sure to dress appropriately for the area being tattooed, and also dress comfortably. I personally recommended pajamas, you want to try to be as comfortable as possible. 

Tattoo timing is hard to predict, but it’s a good idea to keep the rest of your schedule for the day open when you get a tattoo. Some artists are very quick, and some are a little slower. Every artist works at a different speed to achieve a great end product. Needle time can also vary depending on skin type and conditions, as well as complexity and detail of the design And a tattoo can take anywhere from a half hour to several hours over several sessions. This is a permanent change to your body, so be prepared to sit for it. 

Yes! All of the products I use are cruelty free, tested on friends and family- not animals!

Tipping is completely optional but it’s a highly appreciated gesture for any artist.

While it may seem like the total cost of your tattoo is enough to live luxuriously, a large percentage of that total goes back to supply cost, booth rental, shop utilities, etc. You absolutely do not need to tip, but if you loved your tattoo, it is a great way to show your gratitude. The same way you would with any waitress or bartender.

A general rule of thumb is 20%, or $20 for every $100 spent. Again, this is not necessary but your artist will definitely be grateful for the extra coffee money.

I really prefer not to. I don’t feel comfortable working on other artist’s work, but I am flexible when it comes to reviving old work and the circumstances.

I will have your design drawn and ready at the time of your appointment. I won’t be sending out copies of my art in advance.

You definitely should avoid going places and doing activities that would put your new tattoo at risk for sunburns, excess sweat, soaking or waterlogging, and other potentially hazardous situations. You’ll want to reschedule your vacation to at least 4-6 weeks after getting your tattoo, or goi on your vacation first. It’s always wise to plan accordingly so make sure you know what your future plans are when booking for a tattoo.