What is the process in getting tattooed by you?
When you have an idea of what you'd like to get tattooed please email artist with your contact info, a description of the concept, where you'd like to get it done on your body, your budget, and attach any references you may have (please limit references to 1-5 photos, do not link to pinterest board because sometimes I can not open it). You can use the contact form or email artist directly, if you want to work with someone specifically. We will be in touch with you within a week (sorry for a wait time due to correspondence volume) to schedule a consultation.
At the consultation we will talk about your ideas, price quote, look at any other references, answer any questions you may have, and figure out the appointment for your tattoo session/s. The deposit depends on the artist and is non-refundable, is non-transferable.
For the tattoo appointment, please arrive on time. If you are going to be at all late please email or give the artist a call, we understand that life can be unpredictable but to respect everyone's time and money, notice is necessary. If you are more than half an hour late without giving any notice you will lose some or all of your deposit (this pushes the schedule back and affects other appointments throughout the day). Vice versa, there will be times that earlier appointments may run a bit later than scheduled, if this happens we will do our best to notify you.
When you arrive there is a consent form to sign and we will also figure out the best sizing and placement of the design for you. A stencil is then made so that it can be tattooed.
How much does it cost?
The cost of a tattoo project depends on the concept, size, amount of detail, style, and other factors. We will be able to give you a more accurate quote for your piece when you come in for a consultation with an artist. The artists in our studio has different hourly rates and some projects may be charged by piece. We also have different minimum sitting time. Please email the artists directly to inquire their hourly rate.
How long is the wait time to get tattooed?
We mainly work by appointments only. Our wait time ranges from a couple weeks to half a year wait. This depends on the artists' schedule and also the nature of your project and how much preparation it needs.
Is it going to hurt?
A tattoo procedure involves opening your skin so yes. But instead of thinking of it like a bee sting or excruciating experience, thinking of it as someone (or your cat) scratching you. It's quite annoying and ouchy but totally not threatening. When it comes down to it, it depends on the person's pain tolerance, which part of your body you are getting tattooed, how long will you be sitting for, and also how well you've prepared yourself in coming to the tattoo session. Usually the first 10-15 minutes is the worst because your body is getting used to a new sensation. Then your endorphins will kick in and you will get more relaxed and used to it.
Can I bring moral support?
You are welcome to bring a friend or family member but please don't bring an entourage. If you do, make sure you bring a good moral support person, not someone that will make you anxious or will question your experience.
As much as babies are really cute, please do not bring your baby unless you have someone taking care of them the whole time. A tattoo studio is not a place for a baby to crawl around, picking things up and putting it in their mouth. We work on multiple bodies and are dealing with blood /biohazard products each day. We can not guarantee the safety of your baby.
No pets are allowed even though we would love to meet your cat, dog, ferret, etc. This is to keep the studio up to sanitation standards. Since we are breaking open your skin we can not have animal fur, dander, saliva, etc. drifting around in the space.
Am I suppose to tip my artist?
Since tattooing is a service based exchange (like massage, barber, etc.) it is common etiquette to tip your artist. It is not mandatory but greatly appreciated. There is a lot of work that goes into preparing for your session beyond the hourly time you spend with your artist. This include drawing time, correspondences, researching time, etc. that your artist don't get paid for. Usually the appropriate tipping percentage is 10 - 20% just as any other service industry.