Frequently Asked Questions
- I’m getting a tattoo/piercing what should I bring or how should I prepare for the experience?
- We require that you bring proper ID. Proper ID includes 1 of the following:
- Valid State License or State issued ID
- Valid Military ID
- Valid Passport
- We recommend that you dress for the occasion. So for example if you want a tattoo on your upper arm, don’t wear a long sleeve shirt, maybe wear a long sleeve shirt with a tank top underneath, so that you feel comfortable and the artist does not have to work around your clothing.
- We also recommend that you eat a solid meal 2-3 hours before.
- Most of all RELAX!!
- Even though we have the highest standards in our art, we do enjoy what we do and have a crazy sense of humor!
- If you are feeling faint / lightheaded / dizzy / nauseous, tell the artist right away. Please don’t try to be “Mr. Tough Guy”. There is nothing wrong with taking breaks. We are prepared for these scenarios and know how to handle them. Even if you need to move positions, stretch, use the restroom, use your cell phone, sneeze, or cough, please let us know. These types of unexpected movements can be bad for your nice new tattoo. It is permanent!
- Remember that we will not tattoo or pierce anyone who is or even appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol!
- We will not tattoo or pierce those who are pregnant.
- We do have all clients fill out a disclaimer and sign for consent.
-- Other things to keep in mind --
- We require that you bring proper ID. Proper ID includes 1 of the following:
- I’m under the age of 18 will you tattoo or pierce me?
Yes we will, please visit "Our Policies" for more detailed information.
- I’ve heard that people can “pass out” or vomit during a tattoo/piercing? Is this true? Will I?
Most experiences that we’ve had with people that vomit or “pass out” have all been for basically the same reason. Usually, the cause is too much anxiety. Make sure you eat a solid meal about 2-3 hours before your tattoo or piercing, and remember to RELAX and BREATHE!!
- I have a medical condition (HIV/AIDS/Diabetes, etc.) will you tattoo/pierce me?
First and foremost we recommend that you speak to your family physician about your medical condition before receiving a tattoo or body piercing and then make the artist aware of the condition. Having certain medical conditions is critical for your artist to know for reasons like: a slowed healing process or other complications. However we take all necessary precautions when it comes to blood borne diseases, with or without disease we treat everyone as equal.
- My friend just bought a tattoo kit and wants to practice on me. Should I let them?
NO! Your friend could be putting both of your lives in danger by foolishly trying to learn this at home. Tell them they need to get a proper apprenticeship, and they can start practicing on you when their mentor feels they are ready. If they don't know how to get an apprenticeship, read Apprenticeship: On the Hunt!
- Do you have a minimum charge?
Our minimum charge is $60. We accept cash, debit cards, Visa, Master card, and Discover. We will not accept any personal checks.
- How much do tattoos cost?
This varies on a number of factors, such as size and the complexity of the design. Our studio minimum is $50. For custom work we require a nonrefundable deposit. This deposit is not an additional charge; it is subtracted from your final tattoo price. When it comes to tattoos, you get what you pay for. We feel that we are very reasonable when it comes to our prices. Yes, there are plenty of people tattooing out there that will ink you really cheap, and you'll be crying to a real artist to have it covered up. Look for quality, and be willing to pay for it. NEVER haggle over the price of a tattoo, it is disrespectful to the artist. If you can't pay for quality, don't bother. This is not a bargain bin. It is a piece of art you will wear for life.
- Can you quote me a price over the phone? How about via e-mail or social media?
It usually is impossible for us to give an accurate quote without speaking to you directly and seeing the design, where you want your tattoo and how much time will be involved. Our idea of a small star is usually different than your idea of a small star. We can give an estimated price range, but we prefer that you call or message our studio with your ideas so we can give you a more exact price. We will be happy to discuss your ideas.
- Do I need an appointment?
Appointments are required. Please call or message the studio. Same day appointments may be available. We suggest that if you have a particular date and time in mind that you are available to get your tattoo, that you schedule an appointment to be on the safe side. We do have a policy on appointments; please see "Our Policies".
- What is the most/least painful spot to get a tattoo?
Everyone’s pain tolerance is different, so obviously there is no certain spot that is the least painful or the most painful. Typically, parts of the body that have “less meat” or more nerve endings are more sensitive (i.e. sternum, hands, feet). We suggest that you pick the spot that you WANT to have tattooed, and realize that is the more important decision. Most people find that that it is not nearly as bad as you anticipate.
- Do you do touch ups?
Yes we do, please visit "Our Policies" for more detailed information.
- If I draw a design can you do that as a tattoo for me?
Absolutely! Even if it is not the exact tattoo you want and even if you are not an artist, it’s an idea on paper that helps us to give you the perfect tattoo. We do not charge more this service. For custom drawings, we do require a deposit, but the deposit is subtracted from the total tattoo price.
- I just got a new tattoo on my leg - can I shave?
After a couple days of stubble and bristly skin, the urge to shave can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, at this point, shaving is about as brutal on your new tattoo as a weedwacker. The wound is still fresh, and especially if you have any scabbing or raised areas, you run the risk of damaging your artwork by running a razor across it. Chemical hair removers are just as bad if not worse - you never want to put anything like that on a fresh tattoo.
Of course, you can shave the area around the tattoo. Be sure any and all creams, gels and/or hair follicles are cleaned away from the tattoo immediately afterward, and then apply your ointment or lotion as directed on your aftercare sheet. - So, when is it safe to shave again?
Your tattoo will go through several different stages, one of the last being the peeling stage. Once the peeling has finished, your skin will start to regenerate and produce a new protective layer over your tattoo. Once this new layer has appeared, it is usually safe to shave again. Depending on your tattoo and your own body's ability to heal, this can take anywhere from 7-14 days in most cases.
Once a tattoo is completely healed, you can shave like normal without worry. - How can I spot a good tattoo artist?
Good tattoos should have clean, even lines and smooth, solid colors. Just because the artist works in or owns a tattoo studio does not mean that he/she is a good tattoo artist. This is why it is so important to look and compare tattoo artists work before getting a tattoo. Check out their portfolio in the studio, online galleries, facebook, etc.
- What's an autoclave? How is it used in tattooing?
An autoclave is a sterilizer which uses heat and pressure to kill any microbes and/or pathogens on equipment. Always feel free to ask to see this equipmenet.
- How can I tell that the needles being used are new and clean?
Ask your tattooist to show you the equipment. Needles are typically packaged and pre-sterilized from the manufacture, however some studios still make their own needles, but they should still be taken out of a sterile package. So watch the artist take your needles and tubes out of sterilization pouches with sterile indicators on them. Watch them put together their machines. Don't assume anything when your health is on the line.
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