freQuently asked Questions

Q: How long will my tattoo take?

A: It depends, there are several factors that go into making a tattoo efficiently; size, color, placement, skin type, etc. And even my best guess is still dependent on how well the client sits for the session. I typically schedule half or full day appointments. If your project is larger, it may take several sessions to complete. I ask that clients come in at least every other month to work on ongoing pieces. Waiting longer than 6 months will require a new deposit to continue. My ultimate goal is to make the best tattoo possible for my clients and I will never rush to complete something at the cost of quality.

Q: Do you do consultations?

A: I do offer free in-person or zoom consultations upon request. Occasionally, I will reach out and ask that you come in for a quick consultation before scheduling your tattoo. These typically take around 30 minutes and help make sure we’re on the same page. Sometimes, I’ll draw on you with markers and take a tracing of the empty space if there are tattoos to design around. Feel free to bring any imagery you’d like to help convey your ideas to the consultation!

Q: I’ve scheduled an appointment, now what?

A: Once you’re in my books, I will draw up your tattoo and show you on the day of your appointment. I do not send designs to clients before then. Typically, I draw tattoos a day or two before the session so the project has my full attention from the beginning of the design through the actual tattooing. There is trust involved in this process, and small adjustments can always be made on the day of the tattoo. I will never tattoo something that you aren’t 100% happy with.

Q: How should I prepare for my appointment?

A: Be sure to get a good night’s sleep prior to your appointment. Eat and drink plenty of water and shower beforehand. There’s no need to pre-shave the area being tattooed, as 99% of the time I’ll go over it anyways. But make sure it is clean and free of large cuts or scrapes. Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothes that allow easy access to the area. Bring snacks, headphones, a book, whatever you’d like to keep your attention during the appointment. I’m also always happy to chat during a session!

Q: What if I need to reschedule?

A: I understand that life happens and things come up that may require rescheduling your tattoo. I allow rescheduling at least a week before the date of your appointment. This allows me a reasonable amount of time to try to fill the slot with another client. If this happens more than twice, I will require a new deposit to put you back on my books. Only in emergency cases will I allow rescheduling during the week of the appointment.

Q: How do I take care of my new tattoo?

A: Most tattoos are covered with a latex-free adhesive bandage that stays on for 3–4 days. After taking it off, it's best to keep it clean and moisturized using plain, unscented soap and lotion such as CeraVe. Don’t scratch itchy or scabby spots, and avoid tight fitting clothing that might rub or irritate the area if possible. Sun exposure fades tattoos quickly, so always wear sunscreen to protect them long-term. And remember, touch-ups are free for a year!

Q: What are your favorite things to tattoo?

A: I love tattooing all sorts of subjects, mostly Japanese themes such as Yokai, masks, and animals like frogs, fish, tigers, and dragons. I’m also a big nerd and love Star Wars and sci-fi themes, especially cyberpunk. I think my style is somewhat neo-Japanese, and I love doing bold colors or blackwork. I am still very new to tattooing and my interests may change over time, so feel free to send in any and all ideas!

Q: Do you do cover-ups?

A: I have minimal experience doing cover-ups, however, I will do them in some circumstances. Generally, the design will have to be larger than the old tattoo to help hide it effectively. It’s very difficult to completely hide an old tattoo, but we can do alot to distract from it. Depending on the existing tattoo, I may suggest laser removal to help lighten it, or recommend an artist with more experience with cover-ups.

Q: Are there tattoos you won’t do?

A: Because I am still new, I generally say yes to most requests. I want to gain as much experience as possible making a variety of tattoos. That being said, if something is so far out of my wheelhouse, I may recommend someone more suited to your idea. I also will never tattoo offensive or hate symbols. I don’t tattoo heads or genitals. All clients must be 18 or older and bring a valid photo ID.

Q: Do you take walk-ins or only work by appointment?

A: Both! I’m currently working Mondays and Thursdays by half or full day appointment for custom designs. Fridays and Saturdays are reserved for Flash or small 1–2 hour pieces either by appointment or walk-in. If you’d like to reserve a timeslot for Friday or Saturday, check my “Flash” highlight, otherwise walk in to check my availability. I also post about openings and last-minute cancellations on my stories, so keep an eye out!

Q: Can I use numbing cream?

A: I ask that clients not use any form of numbing cream prior to their appointment. It can make the skin harder to tattoo and heal poorly. Also, the effects probably won’t last throughout your appointment, meaning when feeling comes back it will really SUCK! We do have Bactine, which contains Lidocaine, and can help take the edge off when applied to an open wound. I’m happy to use it for larger tattoos when appropriate. Applying numbing cream for your appointment will result in forfeiting your deposit and rescheduling to a later date.

Q: How can I pay for my tattoo?

A: While we do accept card payments at the shop, we prefer cash. There is a nominal surcharge on credit card payments over $50.