Frequently Asked Questions

Booking Your Tattoo Appointment

HOW DO I SET UP AN APPOINTMENT?

Take a look at my portfolio and see if my art meshes with the style of tattoo that you are looking for.
Review my "No List" to see that your project will align with what I do.
Look online for reference photos for tattoos you like/want for yourself, or check out my available premade designs for discounted tattoos!
Have a deposit ready (deposits range from $50-250).
Send me a consultation form to book an appointment!

Once a consultation form is received, I will reach out to you via email to confirm/decline your request. Please allow up to 3 standard business days (Monday - Friday) for a response to your consultation forms. Be prepared to answer any questions I may have regarding your piece. All communication will be conducted over email, so please plan accordingly.

If your piece is confirmed, I will communicate how much the tattoo will cost, how many sessions it will be, and review my calendar for any available appointment dates.

After you respond to me with the date and time that works for you, I will send a deposit form and instructions on sending your deposit. You will need to respond to the email with your signed deposit form and send payment within 24 hours.

Without a consultation form, signed deposit form, and deposit in-hand, your appointment is not confirmed and will be made available to the next person in line. All new appointments are booked this way to ensure no one is missed or forgotten.

What should I include in my consultation form?

In order to create a unique tattoo that you will love, I need concrete direction. Here is a list of helpful information to include in your consultation form:

Style of tattoo you want (watercolor, neo-traditional, color realism)
Multiple reference photos (you can attach more photos after I respond to your initial request)
A list of what you like or do not like about each reference you included
Colors that you want included in the piece and colors you want to avoid
Approximate size, in inches
A photo showing the whole area I have to work with, including other tattoos I may have to work around
Which side of the body your tattoo will be on (so I know which way to face the design)
Any specifics you want included in the piece (a rough idea on paper of what you want where)
Background details you want included (smoke, space, watercolor, plain color, no background)
If you have a strict budget to adhere to, please mention that in the notes
Your schedule and availability (days of the week, times, days off, etc.)
Optional: If you have a specific name, nickname, or pronouns you'd like to be referred to as, please include them

Please note, if you want a very specific image, it may not be tattooable at the size you are requesting, or at all. If you are deeply set on one specific piece, I may not be the best artist for you. I like creative freedom to do something similar to your reference photos, but not exact. Thank you for understanding!

HOW/WHEN DO I GET TO SEE MY TATTOO DESIGN?

All artwork exchanges will be conducted via email attached to your consult form. All first-draft artwork will be distributed within 24 hours of your tattoo appointment (else, day of, for reschedules, cancellations, and random chance walk-ins) along with some helpful tips/reminders for your session. If you want any changes to the piece, please respond with those before your tattoo appointment.

Due to my daily tattoo schedule, I do not and cannot send any mashups, sketches, previews, etc. any earlier. Sorry!

I WANT TO GET A TATTOO OF _____. HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL THAT TAKE?

Most small designs (4" or less) will be completed in one session.

My medium tattoos (5" to 7") can either be completed in one full day session or split into two partial day sessions (one linework/initial color, one color-layering/final details).

My large tattoos (full forearms, calves, upper arms, and thighs) are either two full day sessions (one linework/base shading/base color, and one color-layering/final details), or three half day sessions (one linework, one color, and one color-layering/final details).

My XL tattoos (chest pieces, underbusts, half sleeves) are four or more sessions.

My XXL tattoos (sleeves, back pieces) are eight or more sessions.

All forearm, calf, upper arm, and thigh pieces must be completed within 6 months of the first booked session. All sleeve, chest piece, underbust, and back piece projects must be completed within 12 months of the first booked session. Please plan accordingly.

Is there anything you won't tattoo?

Though I appreciate all consultations that come through, and your interest in my tattooing, I want this to be a beneficial and enjoyable experience for both of us! With that being said, I specialize in neo traditional linework with bright colors, glittery dot work, and watercolor backgrounds. Check out my portfolio to gauge a better understanding of the style I work in.

Regarding tattoo locations, each will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. However, in all instances, I am not the artist for you if you want a tattoo behind your ear, or on your face, neck, fingers, lower genitals, palms of hands, sides of feet, or soles of feet.

My preference is to do full color pieces; however, I will also take a very, very limited amount of black and gray only pieces if I have complete artistic freedom. I prefer pieces to not have any words, names, or numbers unless they make sense to do so. For example: Scooby Doo has “SD” on his collar, and that would make sense for lettering to be done. If you want lettering in your piece, I am happy to do it for large projects (full forearms, half sleeves, sleeves, thighs, etc.) in bubble letters, block letters, or graffiti style. I do not do any text-only lettering pieces.

Before submitting a consult form, please review my “No” List.

If you are looking for a black and grey realism, check out my mentor and friend, Brandon Blackwood.

Please be mindful of these notations when filling out a consultation form. Additionally, I reserve the right as the tattoo artist to decline any design that does not inspire me. However, I will do my best to point you in the right direction!

I want to give you complete and entire artistic freedom on a project. How does that work?

If you want to give up complete control of your tattoo, want me to pick something I want to do, and you truthfully do not care what you get as long as it is done by me, I can do that! I offer complete artistic freedom tattoos. You will fill out a brief consultation and questionnaire, and I will work with you and your budget to make something super awesome.

Do you do coverups/Reworks?

Yes! I do both coverups (changing your existing tattoo entirely) and reworks (enhancing your existing tattoo). I will always recommend starting with "fixing" your current tattoo if it is salvageable. If it is not something that can be saved, then I will recommend covering up your tattoo with a bigger, bolder idea. In all cases, coverups must use a hand-picked design that will 1) hide your existing tattoo within it and 2) actually cover it up. If you want to know what can or cannot be done with your existing tattoo, please fill out a consultation form.

I use/go by a different name than on MY government ID. Does that matter?

Please fill out the consultation form using whatever name you wish to be called by. I only need the name on the photo government ID to report to the health department, should they request documentation. If you prefer to be called something else, please let me know and I will happily take note and adjust! Also, if you have a pronoun preference, please feel free to list whichever pronouns you are most comfortable using in the description area of the consultation form. Your comfort is my priority.

Payment-Related Questions

What are your tattoo rates?

Every tattoo is quoted individually. I do not have an "hourly rate."

My tattoo shop's minimum is $100.
My partial day rate is $300.
My half day rate is $600.
My full day rate is $900.

For the most accurate quote, please fill out a consultation form with as much detail as possible.

How much will my tattoo cost?

I am able to work with most budgets. My prices vary based on size, placement/location, and design itself.

$100 - $300 (shop minimum, available tattoo flash, premade tattoo designs, tiny tattoos)
$300 - $600 (single-day sessions, custom small to medium sized designs / fillers)
$600 - $1,800 (two-day sessions, custom medium to large designs / full forearms, shins, calves)
$1,800 - $2,400 (three-day sessions, custom large designs / upper outer arms, thighs)
$2,400 - $3,600 (four-or-more-day sessions, custom XL designs / chest pieces, underbusts, half sleeves)
$5,400+ (eight-or-more-day sessions, custom XXL designs, full sleeves, back pieces)

I also offer premade designs that I want to do at a discount. Consider getting one of my available designs!

For all coverup work, please fill out a consultation form to get a more accurate quote. Please make mention if you have a budget you'd like to adhere to.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes, I require a deposit to book an appointment. Deposits range from $50-$250, depending on the size/scale of the project.

Once you fill out a consultation form and communicate with me via email, I will send you a deposit form to fill, sign, and return.

The deposit is to be sent to either of my verified business pages, via CashApp or Venmo. If you do not have CashApp or Venmo, I can take personal payments through Zelle. I do not accept any other P2P money transfer services. If you do not have any payment transfer service, I can also take a cash deposit* in-person at the tattoo shop. Please mention this in your email communication if this option is needed and we can set a time for us to meet.

Do not send any money until you have received and filled out your deposit form.

Once you have your deposit form in hand you have 24 hours to send your deposit. If you do not send a deposit within 24 hours, I will reach out to you once for a reminder. After 48 hours of no deposit paid, your time slot will be made available to the next individual in line or reopened to the general public again.

* If you need additional time to gather your deposit, or need to drop it off in-person, please discuss this with me in our email communication thread. If after one week's time your deposit is still unpaid, your time slot will be forfeit entirely.

What is your deposit policy?

All deposits are for booking your time slot. None of the tattoo deposit goes towards holding premade artwork or creating custom artwork for your piece. The deposit is included in the price of your tattoo. For multi-session pieces, a deposit is required for each session, as they are all separate appointments.

Standard Deposit Policy

All tattoo deposits are NON-REFUNDABLE.
If you do not show up for your appointment, you forfeit your deposit and you will have to pay a new deposit to schedule a new appointment.
If you need to reschedule an appointment, we require a minimum of 24-hour notice, or you will forfeit your deposit.
If you provide at least 24-hour notice to reschedule, we will transfer your deposit to hold a new appointment date, once. If you reschedule a second time, you forfeit your deposit and have to put down a new deposit to schedule a new appointment.
If you choose to not reschedule your appointment when you cancel, and you choose not to rebook at the time of cancellation, you forfeit your deposit.
Deposits are non-transferable and cannot be given to another person.
If you approve your artwork in advance of your appointment slot, and you choose not to get it tattooed (ex: significant color changes, redrawing, or declining the piece), we reserve the right to keep your full deposit and resell the artwork as a premade. A new deposit will be required to rebook your appointment and we will spend your allotted appointment time designing your piece together.
If you arrive 15 minutes late without contacting us, you will forfeit your deposit.
If you arrive over 30 minutes late, you will forfeit your deposit and appointment time slot. A new deposit will be required to rebook.
Touch up appointments do not need a deposit and are free for up to four (4) months. If you no-call-no-show your touch up appointment, you may be subject to studio minimum charge and a deposit for rebooking. If you have to move or reschedule your free touch up request more than once, you may occur a $50 rescheduling fee.

Convention Deposit Policy

All tattoo deposits are NON-REFUNDABLE.
If you do not show up for your appointment, you forfeit your deposit and you will have to pay a new deposit to schedule a new appointment.
If you need to reschedule an appointment, you will forfeit your deposit, and be required to pay a new deposit for a new time slot if you would like to rebook.
If you choose to not reschedule your appointment when you cancel, and you choose not to rebook for another time slot at convention, you forfeit your deposit.
Deposits are non-transferable and cannot be given to another person.
If you approve your artwork in advance of your appointment slot, and you choose not to get it tattooed (ex: significant color changes, redrawing, or declining the piece), we reserve the right to keep your full deposit and resell the artwork as a premade.
Designs swaps or last-minute changes to your tattoo are not allowed at convention. In the event that you want a new or different design, you will be required to pay a new deposit.
If you arrive over 15 minutes late, your convention time slot is no longer reserved, and you will forfeit your deposit.
Touch up appointments do not need a deposit and are free for up to four (4) months. No touch up appointments will be done at conventions. All touch up appointments must be booked at our permanent location. If you no-call-no-show your touch up appointment, you may be subject to studio minimum charge and a deposit for rebooking. If you have to move or reschedule your free touch up request more than once, you may occur a $50 rescheduling fee.
The convention has a per person entrance fee / charge at the door by the event holders. That fee is in addition to the cost of your tattoo/deposit. You are responsible for paying your own entry fees.

DO YOU TAKE CREDIT CARDS?

No, our tattoo shop only accepts cash. Please visit an ATM prior to coming in to the shop and bring an adequate amount of funds. I will tell you the cost of your tattoo prior to your visit, so you will have an ample amount of time to save for your new tattoo.

Do you take Venmo/CashApp/PayPAl/Etc.?

When paying for your tattoo, A Dead Anchor is cash-only. Save/plan ahead and keep your money in a secure location. Please stop at your bank or ATM to take out sufficient funds prior to your tattoo appointment. Be mindful of daily ATM withdrawal limits and fees.

As a tattoo deposit, I can accept either CashApp or Venmo. If you do not have CashApp or Venmo, I can take personal payments through Zelle. I do not accept any other P2P money transfer services.

Do you accept tips? / What can I bring as a thank you? / What do you like for treats?

I appreciate all tips - whether cash or a treat! All tips go directly to me (none are split with other artists or the shop). I've had several people ask me about other types of treats (coffee, food, snacks, etc.) so I have put some of my orders/favorite things below if you'd rather tip me that way.

Starbucks coffee order - Iced white chocolate mocha, coconut milk, vanilla sweet cream cold foam, extra caramel drizzle
Dunkin coffee order - Iced caramel craze signature latte
Favorite sweet treats - Reese's peanut butter cups, KitKat, Midnight Milky Way, Twix
Favorite salty treats - Sour cream and onion chips, BBQ chips, Goldfish crackers, Cheez-It's, Chex Mix
Favorite sodas - Mountain Dew, Dr. Pepper, Pepsi Nitro (vanilla or regular), Monster Irish Coffee, Monster Zero Ultra
Things I "collect" - button pins, enamel pins, tapestries, POP! characters, stuffed animals, coffee mugs
Crafty things I like from the "makers" - candles, stickers, soaps, bath bombs, t-shirts, scarves/hats/mittens
Clothing size - XL for most tops
Other - Everything and anything unicorn and dinosaur related! :)

Tattoo shop supplies - Amazon Wishlist
Cash tips can be brought in person.
I can also accept tips through CashApp or Venmo.

Again, tips are never expected but are extremely appreciated. Thank you!

Questions About A Dead Anchor Tattoo

Where are you located?

I am a resident artist at A Dead Anchor Tattoo in Madison, WI.

Our address is 1925 Monroe St, Suite L10. The shop is located inside, downstairs.

How to get here:
Please park on any of the side streets around Monroe, for free. Once parked, find your way to the purple 1925 sign outside of the building. You will enter the middle door, between the two street facing shops. Once inside, stay to the left and follow the signs. Take the staircase on your right to the lower level, and we are the first door on the left.

If you need elevator assistance, please stay to the left and go straight ahead until you find the elevator. We are on the lower level. When you exit the elevator walk straight until you find the women's bathroom door to your right and an opening to your left. We are directly at the bottom of the staircase.

DO YOU TAKE WALK-INS?

Our studio is by appointment only. In rare instances, we may have same-day availability. However, if you want to guarantee your next tattoo to be from me, please fill out a consultation form.

HOW OLD DO YOU NEED TO BE TO GET TATTOOED?

You must be 18 years of age or older to get tattooed. You will be asked to show proof of identity via your government-issued photo ID (driver's license, military ID, or passport) card prior to needle insertion, so please be sure to bring it along!

WHERE SHOULD I PARK?

Clients that come Monday through Friday have a few options for free parking. Clients coming northeast, past Edgewood, can park on the right-hand side residential area of Monroe St.

Clients coming southwest, past Trader Joes, can turn right on South Prospect. Go down two streets to Keyes Ave and turn left. There will be free parking all day.

Free parking is available on Saturdays and Sundays on all side streets around Monroe.

Parking Map

Getting Your Tattoo

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING TO MY TATTOO APPOINTMENT?

You will need to bring the following items to your tattoo appointment:

A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, military ID, or passport
Cash
A positive attitude!

Optional, but highly recommended advice:

A Dead Anchor Tattoo is cash-only. (We do not take credit/debit cards or checks!) Save/plan ahead and keep your money in a secure location. You may also need to stop at your bank/credit union to withdrawal funds, so you do not exceed your daily ATM limit.
Give yourself ample travel time to get to your appointment. If you arrive 15 minutes late without contacting us, you will forfeit your deposit. If you arrive over 30 minutes late, you will lose your appointment time slot and will have to pay a new deposit to rebook.
Please wear comfortable, loose clothing that has easy access to the tattooable area. For example, if your tattoo is on a thigh, wear shorts, a dress, or a speedo/bikini bottom. If your tattoo is on an upper arm, wear a tank top or sleeveless shirt. (We have a privacy divider if your tattoo is in a sensitive area. You may also bring a blanket to cover yourself, or you may request a disposable table sheet.) Avoid wearing white clothing and clothes that you are afraid of ruining. It is extremely likely that your clothing around the tattoo will get ink stained. Ink does not come out of clothes!
Keep your skin hydrated and moisturized the week prior to your tattoo session. However, avoid wearing lotion the day of your tattoo sit (it makes it harder for stencils to stay on).
Please eat a full meal prior to your tattoo. You may want to bring a light snack, as your blood sugar levels may vary as the tattoo progresses. (Full day and extended day sessions can bring a packed lunch - we have a small fridge and microwave if needed.)
Stay hydrated. Bring a sealable beverage container, such as a bottle of water or thermos.
Charge your phone and/or bring a portable battery. Free Wi-Fi is available to our guests.
Please do not come to your tattoo appointment hungover. It makes it a painful experience for the both of us! Avoid drinking alcohol before your tattoo appointment; you can have an adult beverage when you are safely home!
Please leave your children (under 18), gaggle of friends, family members, unhinged guests, and pets at home. My studio only allows space for me and the person I am tattooing.
If it will help you relax, bring headphones to listen to music/podcasts/audiobooks or to watch a video. Our tattoo artists will play music that fancies them that day, so you'll may hear anything from alternative rock, to rap, to dubstep (my personal favorite). If you're not a fan of a variety of genres, headphones come highly recommended.
Light movement activities such as reading a book/magazine, coloring, or knitting are encouraged for longer sits. However, most of my tattoos can/will be accomplished before boredom occurs. If you deem it necessary to bring an activity kit along, you're welcome to do so, but be mindful of the location of your tattoo and the space allotted on the tattoo bed for your activity to take place.
Please alert me of any allergies you have in advance of your appointment, so I can provide a safe and enjoyable experience for you.

WHAT IS THE PROCESS OF GETTING A TATTOO LIKE?

Here is a rough example of how your tattoo process will be conducted, start to finish.

Arrival & Prep

Please bring cash to your appointment! You will be provided a quote prior to your tattoo session, as part of your deposit form. If you do not carry cash, ATMs nearby include Tobacco Plus, Neuhauser Pharmacy, UW Credit Union, or Associated Bank. I highly recommend using a fee-free ATM through your financial institution prior to our appointment.
Once you get to our studio, you will be welcomed into the tattoo shop. If I am currently with a client, you are welcome to wait on the comfy couches up front until I am able to bring you back to my station.
All artwork will be verbally confirmed once more, prior to a stencil being made.
I will scan your government-issued photo ID for record keeping purposes and you will fill out a consent form.
If the tattoo station is not already set up, I will complete the finishing touches. (This is a great time to use the restroom, if you haven't already.)
Once confirmed, I will make the stencil, and will shave any hair around the area. Note: If you are getting a behind the neck tattoo, I will be shaving a decent chunk of your hair out. You have been warned! :)
I will lay the stencil until you are in agreement with the placement. The stencil will need to sit on your skin for 10-15 minutes (slightly longer for larger pieces).
We will select the final colors and get the ink set up for tattooing.

Tattoo Time

I will run a test line to see how the ink takes to your skin and make adjustments accordingly.
All black outlining will be completed first (or black under-shading for color realism/galaxy).
I will conduct a quality check and make any touch-ups.
If inspection passes, then we will move to black/grey shading (if there is any in your piece).
I will conduct a quality check and make any touch-ups.
For full color and watercolor tattoos, we will end with color stacking and packing.
I will conduct a quality check and make any touch-ups.
Last but not least, I will add any white highlights and finishing touches.
I will conduct a quality check and make any touch-ups.

If at any time during the tattoo you need a break, please let me know and I will make any final lines or sweeps before finding a good stopping point. There may be an area that does not take well, or that may require additional time. To ensure the quality of the tattoo, check points will be made throughout the duration of your tattoo process. To avoid tattoo blowouts and cuts, I will not run over the area more than a certain amount of times. I want your tattoo to look good and feel good, so, a free touch-up scheduled at a later may be required.

Final steps

Once we've passed the quality inspection, you'll get to take a final look at your tattoo.
I'll get you cleaned up and snap some photos of your finished tattoo for my personal records, portfolio, and social media platforms.
If any other weeping occurs, I will clean you once more and bandage you up for departure.
Payment will be exchanged for an aftercare sheet with instructions to keep your tattoo clean and safe.
If you don't already have my contact information, it will be provided via business card.

You're welcome to text/message/email any questions you may have regarding your tattoo. I look forward to creating a lasting relationship with you as a tattoo client. Please, don't be shy!

How long does it take?

Each tattoo is unique, so the time will vary per design. Please set aside a minimum of 2 hours, even if it's for a small piece, to account for paperwork, set-up, stencil laying, physical tattooing, clean-up, and photography. Humans also need to use the restroom, eat, and stretch. ;)

For medium tattoos, please plan on being here for 3-4 hours.

For large tattoos, please plan on being here for 5-6 hours. (You are welcome to bring or order food for long tattoo sessions.)

I'm Running late, what is your late policy?

Please contact me via email as soon as you think you will be running late. We understand that traffic and finding parking can be tricky in our area. If you arrive 15 minutes late without contacting us, you will forfeit your deposit. If you arrive over 30 minutes late, you will lose your appointment time slot and will have to pay a new deposit to rebook.

I have allergies to _____, do you use _____?

I take allergies very seriously! If you are allergic to something, please let me know in advance of your appointment so that I am able to provide you a safe and enjoyable experience.

I use latex-free, non-powdered nitrile gloves.
For soap, I use diluted, unscented Dr. Bronner's pure-castile liquid soap.
I use InkAura tattoo butter as my ointment during sessions. InkAura is made with all natural ingredients and is vegan-friendly. This product does contain essential oils and mango butter; however, I will always have A&D ointment on-hand for those with sensitive skin!
I strictly use Eternal Ink for my ink supplier, and you can review their ink safety information publicly, online. Most ink ingredients are organic pigment, deionized water, hamamelis water (also known as witch hazel), and alcohol. Eternal Ink is carcinogen-free, cruelty-free, free of animal by-products, vegan, and made in the USA.
For needles (cartridges), I use a mix of Peak, Quelle, and Katana. Tattoo needles are made out of stainless steel (and cartridges include abrasion-resistant medical plastic).
I wrap tattoos in Recovery Derm Shield, a clear film adhesive bandage similar to second skin. However, I will always have an alternative for those who have allergies and sensitivities! We can wrap you with Dri-Loc pads and Co-Flex bandage instead.

If you have severe allergies or have sensitive skin, always consult a dermatologist prior to getting tattooed.

Aftercare Instructions

What should I get to heal my new tattoo?

The two main items you will need to heal your fresh tattoo are:

Antibacterial unscented liquid soap (Softsoap, Dial, Equate, Dove, Dr. Bronner's, CeraVe)
Moisturizing gel (InkAura) or unscented lotion (Lubriderm, Jergens, Eucerin, Palmers Cocoa Butter)

Other items you may find useful:

Tattoo balm (InkAura) or ointment (A&D, Aquaphor)
Clear, medical-grade dressing (Recovery Derm Shield, Saniderm, Tegaderm, SecondSkin)
Self-adhering bandages (to hold your clear, medical-grade dressing in place)
Pain relief (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, ice pack)

DO NOT DRY HEAL ANY TATTOOS DONE BY ME
My work is meant to be moisturized throughout the entire healing process.

I LOST MY AFTERCARE SHEET, HELP?!

I likely wrapped you up in a clear film bandage. Please follow the "If used as part of the aftercare process" steps below. If your bandage is leaking/peeling and you can't make it the full 3-5 days of wear, please use the "If worn as a bandage" steps. If you are allergic to adhesive or did not wear the wrap, please follow the traditional aftercare procedures. Make sure your hands are cleaned thoroughly before removing the bandage and cleaning your tattoo.

Clear Film Bandage Aftercare

If worn as a bandage:

Leave on for 8-24 hours. BANDAGE MUST REMAIN INTACT.
To remove bandage: Peel it back SLOWLY, starting from an edge or a corner. Stretch the bandage with the skin (like a command strip), TAKE YOUR TIME. Do not rip off quickly.
Once bandage is removed, clean and wash the tattoo and surrounding area with antibacterial unscented soap and water. Using just your fingers to clean the area is sufficient. Do not use a loofa or washcloth! Rinse the tattoo and surrounding area with cool water. Keep your tattoo out of the direct spray of the shower head or faucet.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel. (A clean towel fresh out of the laundry is okay. As long as there is no pet hair/dander, bodily fluids, or dirt/grime on the fabric, it is okay to use.) Be CAREFUL not to rub the tattoo.
Before applying any aftercare (tattoo balm or ointment), allow the tattoo to air dry for 3-5 minutes, then dab with a clean, wet paper towel to remove any weeping. Then pat dry completely, again.
Apply a thin coat of tattoo balm (InkAura) or antibacterial ointment (Aquaphor, A&D) to the tattoo. Dab off any excess ointment. You should NOT look overly shiny or goopy (thin layer like Chapstick). Clean and apply a new coat of tattoo balm or ointment 3-4 times a day.
Switch to applying an unscented lotion (InkAura, Lubriderm, Jergens, Eucerin) to the tattoo. Clean the tattoo and close surrounding area with soap and water 3-4 times a day for the first 3-4 days the bandage has been off.
Apply the lotion 6-8 times a day (approximately every 1-2 hours). The lotion should be applied at least 2 times after a cleaning before the next cleaning. Once you start, apply lotion for 10-14 days.

If used as part of the aftercare process:

Leave on for 3-5 days as directed by your tattoo artist
If redness occurs outside the tattoo (itching, burning, hives, etc.), take the bandage off and discontinue use. Redness will clear up during tattoo healing process once bandage is removed.
To remove bandage: Peel it back SLOWLY, starting from an edge or a corner. Stretch the bandage with the skin (like a command strip), TAKE YOUR TIME. Do not rip off quickly.
Once bandage is removed, clean and wash the tattoo and surrounding area with antibacterial unscented soap and water. Using just your fingers to clean the area is sufficient. Do not use a loofa or washcloth! Rinse the tattoo and surrounding area with cool water. Keep your tattoo out of the direct spray of the shower head or faucet.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel. (A clean towel fresh out of the laundry is okay. As long as there is no pet hair/dander, bodily fluids, or dirt/grime on the fabric, it is okay to use.) Be CAREFUL not to rub the tattoo.
Before applying any aftercare (tattoo balm or ointment), allow the tattoo to air dry for 3-5 minutes, then dab with a clean, wet paper towel to remove any weeping. Then pat dry completely, again.
Apply an unscented lotion (InkAura, Lubriderm, Jergens, Eucerin) to the tattoo. Clean the tattoo and close surrounding area with soap and water 3-4 times a day for the first 3-4 days the bandage has been off.
Apply the lotion 6-8 times a day (approximately every 1-2 hours). The lotion should be applied at least 2 times after a cleaning before the next cleaning. Once you start, apply lotion for 10-14 days.

Traditional Aftercare

Unwrap your tattoo after 2 hours.
Immediately clean and wash the tattoo and surrounding area with antibacterial soap and water. Using just your fingers to clean the area is sufficient. Do not use a loofa or washcloth! Rinse the tattoo and surrounding area with cool water. Keep your tattoo out of the direct spray of the shower head or faucet.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel. (A clean towel fresh out of the laundry is okay. As long as there is no pet hair/dander, bodily fluids, or dirt/grime on the fabric, it is okay to use.) Be CAREFUL not to rub the tattoo.
Before applying any aftercare (tattoo balm or ointment), allow the tattoo to air dry for 3-5 minutes, then dab with a clean, wet paper towel to remove any weeping. Then pat dry completely, again.
Apply a thin coat of tattoo balm (InkAura) or antibacterial ointment (Aquaphor, A&D) to the tattoo. Dab off any excess ointment. You should NOT look overly shiny or goopy (thin layer like Chapstick). Clean and apply a new coat of tattoo balm or ointment 3-4 times a day.
For the first 3-4 days of your tattoo healing, you should be repeating steps 2-4. (Clean your tattoo 3-4 times per day, and applying ointment after the cleaning).
After your fourth day of ointment, you can switch to unscented lotion (InkAura, Lubriderm, Jergens, Eucerin) to the tattoo. Clean the tattoo and close surrounding area with soap and water 3-4 times a day. Apply the lotion 6-8 times a day (approximately every 1-2 hours). The lotion should be applied at least 2 times after a cleaning before the next cleaning. Once you start, apply lotion for 10-14 days.

During the healing process, your tattoo will peal or flake, similar to a sunburn. DO NOT pick, itch or scratch at these flakes. When you clean, some of these flakes will come off the tattoo and the rest will be removed from the tattoo in additional cleanings. Wearing loose fitting clothing around the tattoo area can reduce the amount the tattoo is rubbed unnecessarily. Tattoos generally take 10-14 days to heal completely, but this may vary from person to person.

If at any time you notice that your tattoo is dry and starting to scab, it needs more moisture. Regularly apply ointment/lotion to your piece, depending on what stage you are at in the healing process.

A touch up is a small amount of ink or imperfection due to the healing process. NOT ALL TATTOOS NEED TOUCH UPS. After your tattoo is healed, contact your artist with any questions regarding a touch up. If a touch up is needed there is no charge within the first 4 months of receiving a tattoo.

Our studio is sponsored by InkAura, and we recommend using their products for the aftercare process. InkAura products can be purchased from EpiQue Tattoo Supply: epiquesupply.com.

I HAVE AN INK SACK! WHAT DO I DO?!

Most ink sacks are normal. You are healing in your own plasma, so it's to be expected that you will have some bodily fluids sloshing around under your bandage. It will not harm your tattoo.

When you should be concerned about an ink sack is if it leaking or about to burst.
Go to your local Target/Walgreens/CVS/Walmart and look for "Nexcare Tegaderm Waterproof Dressing, Hospital Grade Bandages" or a similar off-brand match. You may also want to pick up some self-adhering wrap to hold your bandage in place. To drain your tattoo, you have two options:

If your bandage is leaking from the top/bottom/corner: Wash your hands prior to and directly after managing your leaking bandage. Drain the liquid out the side over a sink with paper towel. Then, use your new patch to hold the corner of the bandage down. You can also wrap your arm in self-adhering wrap to keep the bandage in place.
If your bandage is overwhelmingly full in the middle, but not close to any corners, you will need to patch it in the middle. Wash your hands prior to and directly after managing your leaking bandage. Use a mildly sharp object (tweezers, back of an earing, etc.) to poke a hole in your bandage and drain the liquid over a sink with paper towel. PLEASE CLEAN YOUR "POKING" ITEM OFF WITH RUBBING ALCOHOL BEFORE USING IT AGAIN. Stick your patch over the hole to make your bandage last another day or two.

If your bandage is peeling, rolling off, or barely holding on, you may need a new bandage entirely.

Wash your hands and remove the bandage.
Clean your tattoo and surrounding area with antibacterial, unscented soap and water.
Rinse your tattoo with cool water and pat dry with a paper towel. Let air dry for 3-5 minutes.
At this point, you can either use traditional aftercare instructions (on the aftercare sheet I provided). Or, you can re-wrap your tattoo with a new bandage (Tegaderm, Saniderm, SecondSkin, Recovery Derm Shield).
If you re-wrap your tattoo, make sure your tattoo and surrounding surface area is dry before applying your new dressing. If you use multiple bandage pieces, make sure to have at least 1 inch of overlap where the bandages come together, or your bandage may leak again.

If you still have concerns about what to do, please email me! I am here for you throughout your healing process.

I think I'm having an allergic reaction. What should I do?

Sometimes people are allergic to the bandages that we use. The area around the outside of the bandage may become red and inflamed, sometimes itchy and hot to the touch. This is an allergic reaction to the adhesive in the bandage itself. You may also notice yourself bruised or swollen. This happens when the bandage is tugging on the "pull points" of the, now tightened, bandage. This is NOT a sign of infection.

Please contact me immediately before taking off the bandage. This is especially important for full day and extended day sessions who got large tattoos. Depending on how far along on your tattoo heal you are, I may ask you to come into the studio where I will remove the wrap and replace it with a new non-adhesive barrier.

If you contacted me, and I have instructed you to remove the bandage, please follow these steps:

Take off the bandage in the shower (the warm air will help release the adhesive from your skin). Remove the bandage slowly, pulling on the corners like a command strip. This is NOT the type of bandage you want to quickly rip off.
Using your bare hand, wash the tattoo with antibacterial unscented soap and rinse with cool water.
Coat your tattoo in a thin layer of ointment (A&D, Bacitracin, Neosporin). You do not want the ointment to be thick and goopy, it should feel Chapstick thin.
Take some Ibuprofen for the swelling.

You can also apply a cool compress to your tattoo (ice, ice pack, cold dampened wash cloth) as long as you place a barrier between your fresh tattoo and that compress. For example: wrap your tattoo with some cling wrap, place an ice pack over top to calm your tattoo. Once cooled and relaxed, unwrap your tattoo and wash it off, then reapply a new layer of ointment.

Tend to your tattoo for the next 48-72 hours washing it regularly (3-4 times per day) and applying ointment between washes. Your bandage redness will gradually go away with time. The longer the bandage was worn, the longer the redness will persist. Sometimes, this can take up to a week for the redness to fully go away.

HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO WAIT BEFORE I CAN GO SWIMMING?

Please wait a minimum of 2-3 weeks before submerging yourself in water (lakes, rivers, oceans, pools, hot tubs, waterparks, and the like). Your fresh tattoo is an open wound and is prone to infection. Even with the wrap on, water can seep through and contaminate your tattoo, which can lead to infection. Be safe, not sorry!

HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO WAIT BEFORE WORKING OUT/PLAYING SPORTS?

Refrain from working out for at least 2-4 days following your tattoo appointment. Avoid excessive sweating and intensive workouts or sports practices for at least one week after receiving the tattoo. It is essential to care for your new tattoo, especially since you just paid a lot of money for it. :)

Note: If you choose to work out while wearing the wrap, you will get extremely stinky under your bandage. As soon as you are home from the gym, immediately shower and remove your bandage. Clean your tattoo very well with antibacterial unscented soap, rinse your tattoo with cool water, and follow appropriate aftercare instructions.

HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO WAIT BEFORE I CAN GO OUT IN THE SUN/WEAR SUNSCREEN/GO TANNING?

Tattoos can be damaged by prolonged exposure to the sun’s or tanning bed's ultraviolet (UV) rays. I do not recommend any form of tanning, especially immediately after getting tattooed. You could severely damage your new ink, or worse, your health.

You need at least 2-3 weeks of heal time before you can apply sunscreen or spray tanning. So, it's best to stay out of the sun and away from tanning salons when healing a fresh tattoo.

Note: You can sunburn through your clear bandage! Be mindful of sun exposure during your healing process.

How long do I have to wait before waxing, shaving, sugaring, or exfoliating?

Please wait at least 3-4 weeks before you start exfoliating, shaving, sugaring, or waxing the tattooed area (longer for laser hair removal).

Touch Up Policy

What is your Touch Up policy?

By getting tattooed by me, you are entitled to one, free touch up, up to 4 months since your last tattoo session. If your tattoo is over 4 months old, additional charges apply. All touch ups are done on weekdays/weeknights, by appointment only. I do not offer free touch ups on weekends.

HOW DO I know if i need a TOUCH UP?

Not all tattoos need a touch up. It all depends on your skin's healing process. You will know if you need a touch up or not after 4-6 weeks of heal time.

A touch up is not a color "refresh," additions or changes to your existing tattoo, recoloring your piece, adding a new tattoo on top of or next to your existing piece, making black "blacker" or white "whiter" in your tattoo. If your new tattoo has been severely damaged (by yourself, your child, your line of work, a pet, risky behaviors, cuts/scrapes, etc.) you may not be entitled to a free touch up.

Reasons you may need a touch up include:

A portion of your tattoo's linework is faded or inconsistent.
The color in your tattoo looks washed out or "patchy."
Your tattoo scabbed over and is missing a spot where the ink used to be.
A follow-up appointment was requested by your tattoo artist.

If you are still unsure if you need a touch up, please fill out a touch up request form, attaching a photo of your tattoo, and selecting the days and time that work for you. I will email you back with my availability.

How do I book my touch up?

In order to guarantee your free touch up, please fill out a touch up form, attaching a photo of your tattoo, and selecting the days and time that work for you. I will email you back with my availability. Do not wait until last minute to book your touch up appointment.

Please only fill out the form once your tattoo is healed, or nearly healed. I am unable to tattoo over top of a fresh/healing tattoo. Tattoos generally take 10-14 days to heal on the outside, and 6-8 weeks to heal under the skin. After about a month of heal time, you will know if you need a touch up or not.

If you have to move or reschedule your free touch up request, you may occur a $50 rescheduling fee.

My Tattoo was Done By Someone Else, Can You Touch it up?

I strongly encourage individuals to request a touch up from the original tattoo artist when applicable. Your original tattoo artist will have the same ink colors, tattoo style, and an understanding of how your skin tattoos. They may even have free touch ups offered/included as part of their process.

However, I understand there are extenuating circumstances where individuals are unable to contact the artist, the artist/individual has relocated and are no longer able to go, or simply feel uncomfortable going back to the artist. In those cases, I am happy to take a look at your existing piece.

Each piece will be priced on a case-by-case basis. I do not offer free touch ups on other people's work. For a more accurate quote, please fill out a consultation form, using the "TBD (My piece is a re-work or cover-up)" field. Include a photo of your existing piece. In the description area, please explain what you like/dislike about your current tattoo, and what you want changed, added to, fixed, or touched up.

Please be mindful of my style (watercolor, neo-traditional, color realism) when requesting a rework of someone else's original tattoo.