
Should I Tip My Artist?
There are no set ground rules for tipping in this industry, but tips are
a nice gesture and are always greatly appreciated. Artists have
families to feed like anyone else.
Can I Bring In A Picture of What I Want?
Reference photos are often helpful and I encourage you to bring
them to your consultation. After discussing with you what you desire
in a tattoo I will draw a custom piece of artwork that I feel will satisfy
your needs and will flow well with your body and the placement you
have chosen. Keep an open mind and remember that a great piece
of art doesn't always translate into a great tattoo, it is a unique form
of expression. I am going to do my best to come up with a
one-of-a-kind tattoo that we can both be proud of. I am not going to
do a tattoo that I wouldn't want my name associated with.
Should I Get Tattooed If I'm Sick?
If you're immune system isn't 100% when you get your tattoo it can
affect the healing process. You may also put your artist and others
at the studio at risk of illness. It's much better to reschedule your
appointment if you're not feeling well.
How Should I Prepare For My Tattoo?
Sleep well the night before. Eat a good breakfast and don't skip any
meals because you're nervous. It's important that you're well
nourished when you come for your appointment so you don't get
light-headed or dizzy. It's also wise to bring candy or fruit juice with
you. Sugar can help to counter-act that light-headed woozy feeling
should it occur. Always ask your artist for a break should you feel
any of these symptoms. If you continue they will worsen, but usually
with a short break and some sugar you'll be feeling 100% in no time.
I will NOT tattoo anyone under the age of 18 for any reason! It is
against the law in the state of NH and against the morals of any
reputable artist. Remember, tattoos last a lifetime.
Healing Your Tattoo
A couple hours after getting your new tattoo, remove the saran
wrap and gently wash your tattoo with HOT (turn water temp up
slowly) water and antibacterial soap. Rinse with HOT water for 10
minutes. Gently pat dry and apply a very very very small amount
of A&D ointment leaving no sticky layer, then reapply new saran
wrap. Keep tattoo wrapped for the first 3-4 days removing wrap
twice a day to wash and then re-apply tiny amount of ointment and
new saran wrap. After this period a high quality non-scented lotion
(curel or lubriderm are recommended - look for the dermatologist
logo) can be applied a couple times a day for the rest of the
healing. Again, be sure to wash the tattoo each time before lotion
is applied (generally twice a day will suffice). You may notice
flaking or peeling (like you get after a sunburn but the skin flakes
may contain ink) around this stage of the healing process, this is
normal. Remember not to touch, pick or scratch at your new tattoo
and avoid sun exposure/tanning . If you damage your new tattoo
you risk scarring and will incur needless touch-up costs.
How Much Does It Cost?
All of my tattoos are charged by the hour. When it comes to
tattoos you usually get what you pay for. That's not to say that the
more money someone wants to charge you the better your tattoo
will be. Look for quality first and be willing to pay for it. A
respectable artist is not going to haggle over price and asking
them to do so is disrespectful. These are tattoos, not
second-hand clothing; this is something you wear for life.