Before Your Appointment

Once we have set up your appointment, make sure to put the time and date in your calendar or somewhere that you keep important dates. This will make sure that you don’t no-show me on accident because you may have forgotten about the appointment.

The day before your appointment, do all of the things that you need to make you and I comfortable – getting plenty of rest the night before, properly hydrating throughout the day, ensuring personal hygiene, and prepping any food or comfort items you might bring with you for the tattoo session.

This would be a perfect time to check with me about existing accommodations or if you want to request an accommodation for your appointment, such as a quiet session, any physical or mental needs, etc.

Day of Your Appointment

If you are going to be late to your appointment, or you have to reschedule your appointment, please let me know in advance. I will never be mad at you if you let me know ahead of time – life happens, and that’s okay. What isn’t okay is when you know you aren’t coming and don’t bother to let me know (p.s. that is a great way to ensure I will not want to work with you in the future). I spend a lot of time and resources working on your tattoo before you even walk into the shop – it takes time to draw the tattoo out while making sure everything is perfect, setting up my station to guarantee that you are comfortable during your tattoo, and getting my room ready for our session. Imagine working all day only to find out afterward that you aren’t getting paid for it.

Please wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed. For example, if you’re getting a sternum, ribs, or stomach tattoo, a button-down shirt might be ideal. If the work is near your hips or thighs, consider wearing shorts or tie-side swimsuit bottoms. Loose, comfortable clothing that can be layered is recommended, as body temperature often fluctuates during a tattoo session.

Before your appointment, make sure to eat a substantial meal. You’re welcome to bring water, snacks, and a sugary beverage to keep your energy up. However, avoid consuming too much caffeine beforehand, as it can affect your experience during the session.

Finalizing the drawing and stenciling process (which I’ll share with you at your appointment) typically takes 15 minutes to an hour, depending on whether adjustments are needed. Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts on the design; we can make as many changes as necessary. It’s important to me that you’re completely happy with your tattoo, and I’ll never pressure you to proceed with a design you’re not 100% in love with.

After Your Appointment

If you have tattoo film:

  • Leave the film that I place on you for 4-5 days. 
  • After 4-5 days, or if the film begins to peel or become uncomfortable, take the following steps:
    • Under warm running water or during a shower, find an upper corner of the bandage and start slowly pulling it back over itself (like how you would peel a banana from the top down)
    • Clean the tattoo with warm water and a gentle, fragrance-free antibacterial soap
    • Pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel and allow for it to fully air dry
    • Gently massage in a small amount of unscented lotion to the tattooed skin in small circular motions. Keep in mind that a little bit of lotion goes a long way – too much lotion can drown the ink, delay healing, promote unwanted bacteria growth, or clog the pores.
      • This routine can be followed for 1-2 weeks or until the tattoo is no longer dry and flaky

If you do not have tattoo film, the steps are generally the same except they will start the same day you get your tattoo:

  • Clean the tattoo with warm water and a gentle, fragrance-free antibacterial soap
  • Pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel and allow for it to fully air dry
  • Gently massage in a small amount of unscented lotion to the tattooed skin in small circular motions. Keep in mind that a little bit of lotion goes a long way – too much lotion can drown the ink, delay healing, promote unwanted bacteria growth, or clog the pores.
  • This routine can be followed for 1-2 weeks or until the tattoo is no longer dry and flaky

Keep your fresh tattoo away from pet hair, saliva, tight clothes, or anything that could bring bacteria near it. Avoid swimming, hot tubs, saunas, and direct sunlight for at least two weeks while it’s healing. Full healing usually takes about 2–4 weeks. Expect some redness, swelling, and soreness at first, but after a few days, it’ll start to tighten up and dry out. A thin, flaky scab will form—resist the urge to pick it. Let it heal properly for the best results!

If you have any problems with your tattoo healing, the sooner you reach out the better!