How long is a typical session? (how long can most people take?)
Everyone is different. For larger pieces, some set up full-day sessions… others break up larger pieces into several smaller sessions (3-6 hours at a time). Many pieces can be completed in a few hours. It all depends on the person and the complexity of the piece.
Can I take breaks during my session?
Absolutely! Just let your artist know anytime you feel you need a break.
Will you create a design for me?
Yes. We encourage people to come in for a free consultation before scheduling a tattoo appointment. You can discuss your ideas with your artist and he will design a custom piece for you.
Will you copy an existing tattoo design?
Yes. But it’s up to you to explain yourself if you ever run into the other person with the same design. 😉
Can I bring my own design?
Yes. We’ll work with you to make sure your original design can be translated to a tattoo that fits your vision.
Can you cover my old tattoo?
Yes! We offer an innovative two-part process for beautiful cover-ups with none of the dark bulkiness that most people associate with traditional cover-ups. We also offer tattoo removal sessions with a removal light that is not as damaging to the skin as laser removal.
Is there any place you won’t tattoo?
No, but there are certain areas that we cannot guarantee the ink to stay successfully, such as palms and soles of the feet. We’ll advise you before tattooing areas that might not hold ink well, but the final choices (and the consequences) are yours.
Is there any design you won’t tattoo?
That would be up to the individual artist, but we haven’t turned anyone away yet!
Is there any place you won’t pierce?
There are some piercings that are unsafe due to the presence of nerves, glands or blood vessels. Your piercer will discuss any possible issues with you and will only perform piercings that are safe for your individual anatomy. We will pierce “anything that is safe to pierce”, including exotic piercings for both females and males. We do not currently offer dermal anchor piercings.
What sterilization methods do you use and why should I care?
Your health and safety are of utmost concern. Infection and cross-contamination are important issues in the tattoo and piercing industry, and it is of supreme importance that the shop you choose be in complete compliance with all health requirements, every session. We use all pre-sterilized “one customer” materials, and meet or exceed all state requirements in every area of our body modification processes.
Are there tattoo considerations for any specific skin tones?
Darker skin can be prone to forming keloids (raised scars). Most people know if they have this issue and to what degree it affects them. If you do, make sure to bring it to the attention of your artist so that you may discuss possible risks and the end result.
What should I bring to my session?
We require that you bring a valid driver’s license or alternative picture ID the day of your appointment. Snacks or juice are a good idea, especially if you have a long session or you are prone to low blood sugar. Many find a distraction (such as handheld video games, music, books, magazines) to be helpful. You are welcome to bring virtually anything that will make you more comfortable. Some people even bring a pillow and blanket!
What should I wear to my session?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to the area you are having tattooed or pierced. Layers are also good, since some people find that they get warmer and colder throughout the tattoo process and will want to put on and take of clothes as needed. It’s also wise to wear something that won’t be damaged by ink or blood staining (or something that you won’t care if it is damaged).
Will my tattoo hurt? How much?
Yes, absolutely… but you can almost certainly handle it. The pain from tattoos varies significantly by the area being worked on and by the pain tolerance of each individual. What is at the upper limit of one person’s tolerance might simply be “an annoying buzzing” to another, but most people describe the pain to be around a 4 on the 0-10 scale, with occasional spikes to 6 or 7 on more sensitive areas. Meaty areas such as the thigh or shoulder are typically among the least painful, while sensitive areas such as the underarms and ribs, or bony areas like the spine or collar bones will hurt significantly more.
Most people become used to the sensation of the work being done after a few minutes and can tolerate things well enough to carry on a conversation, or to zone out with distractions. Your favorite music, an audiobook, a game or movie on your phone or tablet, texting a friend, or zen meditation are all great ways to manage pain… find what works best for you!