All images on this site copyright © 2006-2009 Mark A Manley
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
