Frequently Asked Questions
And More
How painful are tattoos?
How painful a tattoo is a multilayered question. It truly depends on each individual persons own pain threshold and can even depend on the artist, type of tattoo, machine used, and even whether it is on the left or right side of your body. I did try to create a general outline of how painful areas can be on a scale from not bad to ouch please make it stop. However, this is again all subjective. Some people think getting their calf tattooed is easy while others find it one of the most painful spots there is! Just always make sure to come in with a full stomach, well rested, hydrated, and listen to your body! If somethings too painful make sure to let your artist know. They are always willing to work with you. We know tattoos hurt, and will try to make sure you're as comfortable as possible.
What should I wear for my tattoo appointment?
Can I use numbing cream?
Using a numbing cream for your tattoo always depends on the artist, and is usually not recommended. It can cause adverse reactions to the tattoo site and make the skin difficult to tattoo in some cases as well. It can also wear off quickly in some cases, and because your body wasn't able to naturally adjust to the pain of the tattoo from the beginning, it usually ends up feeling more painful than if you had not used it from the start. A lot of artists use a numbing spray that can be applied to the tattoo after the tattoo has been started to help with the discomfort. But if you feel like you need to be number beforehand just ask your artist! There are no such things as heroes in tattooing so if it hurts, we understand. Just always be sure to ask the artist your working with before coming in with numbing cream on or thinking of using it. Some artists will turn clients away if you come in with it without informing them beforehand.
What should I do before I come in for my appointment?
Before getting your tattoo make sure you're well rested. A good nights sleep can make all the difference! The week prior its also recommended that you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Make sure to stay out of the sun in the summer before your appointment as well, sun damage or a sunburn (even if you don't see it) can make a tattoo a lot more painful and even make the area more difficult to tattoo. 24-48 hours before the tattoo refrain from any alcohol consumption and try to avoid caffeine as well. The day of the tattoo eat a filling meal, it's important fuel to help with pain management and possible dizziness! Bring any snacks, drinks, books or headphones if needed as well. Some shops provide snacks for their clients but it's never a bad idea to plan ahead. Make sure to dress appropriately for the tattoo as well (refer to 'what to wear'), this will ensure the tattoo process goes smoothly as well! And if you have any questions never be afraid to reach out to your artist! They're always happy to answer any questions you may have.
Can I bring a guest to my appointment?
Always ask your artist beforehand. Some artists are okay with you bringing one person with you as emotional support, but remember to be respectful of the artist and the other people getting tattooed in the shop! Some studios are too small to accommodate more than just the client, and some artists prefer to just focus on you. Getting tattooed can be uncomfortable and is a very personal experience. As artists we always try to focus on making sure we are giving you best tattoo possible and sometimes it's hard when theres a large group of people or a person distracting from the process. Again, this is all individual to each studio and artist. I always allow one guest if we have the room and I'm given a heads up!
Can I see my design before my appointment?
I do not show designs before the appointment . This is to help avoid theft of my art or someone going to another artist to get it done. I do allow consults before the appointment scheduled at the studio to go over the design if needed though! Just message me and ask and we can set up a time to go over the design. I also always allot some time during the appointment to make minor design changes. Remember, never be afraid to speak up if you don't like something about the tattoo design!
How do I take care of my tattoo after it's done?
Your artist will go over aftercare after your appointment, but you can always refer to my aftercare page
What hygiene/safety precautions do you take?
We use a variety of single use sanitized items for each tattoo. All needles are single use and only taken out of the package for your tattoo and disposed of into a sharps container after the tattoo is completed. Hands are washed and gloves worn for all steps and the non disposable items (chair, tray, machine, soap bottles) are sprayed down with a solution to disinfect all surfaces. Every licensed tattoo artist is required to be up to date on blood borne pathogens, CPR and first aid as well.
Do you tattoo minors?
I only tattoo individuals 18 years and older with proper identification.
What styles do you do?
Currently I tattoo in a variety of styles, mainly focusing on traditional, illustrative, and ornamental tattoos. I'm always open to doing a variety of styles, but I do not do things like realism/hyper realism.