Frequently Asked Questions
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Getting a tattoo feels different for everyone, but most people describe the sensation as a constant scratching or stinging feeling— often compared to a cat scratch or sunburn. There is some level of discomfort involved, but many clients describe the experience as more uncomfortable than painful. How it feels can vary depend, depending on the size, placement, and length of your tattoo, as well as your individual pain tolerance. I’ll check in with you throughout the process to make sure you’re comfortable and doing okay if you need a break at any point, just let me know!
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Tattoo pricing ultimately depends on size, detail, placement, and overall complexity of the design. Once we discuss your ID, I can provide you with an estimate based on the information. I also have a size pricing guide available on my booking page that provides more information about pricing and what you can expect for different tattoo sizes. Pieces that are around hand size or slightly larger that can be completed in a single session are generally priced per piece. Large tattoos that require multiple sessions such as a sleeve or back piece or priced $150/hour.
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Cash is preferred for tattoo payments in the shop. For deposits, I accept Zelle since I understand that not everyone is local or able to pay their deposit in person. I also accept Zelle for remaining tattoo balance in the shop, but cash is still preferred whenever possible. If you plan to play with Zelle, please make sure your payment is sent to the correct account. Let me know if you have any questions beforehand.
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I finalize and present your design on the day of the appointment. This allows us to go over the design together in person and make any necessary adjustments before we begin. I find that discussing changes face-to-face as much more efficient than going back-and-forth over email and it allows me to make sure the design works properly for your body and the placement chosen. We will have plenty of time to review the design and make sure you’re happy with everything before starting the tattoo process. Nothing is permanent until we’re both comfortable with the final design!
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Wear something comfortable that allows easy access to the area I will be tattooing. You want to choose clothing you don’t mind getting a little ink or stencil on, just in case. For like tattoos, I recommend wearing shorts or loose fitting bottoms. Ideally for an arm or shoulder tattoo I recommend wearing a tank top or sleeveless shirt. For a back tattoo, a tank top, loose shirt, or button up that can be moved or worn backwards works best. For tattoos and more private areas, I provide pasties for coverage and can set up a privacy partition upon request. Your comfort and privacy are always important to me, so please don’t hesitate to let me know what you need.
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Absolutely! I understand wanting a little support during your tattoo appointment. Due to the space I have available, I typically allow one or two guests at a time. Guests are welcome as long as they are respectful, remain considered of my coworkers and other clients, and don’t distract from the tattooing process.
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The initial healing process for a tattoo typically takes around 2–5 weeks. During this time your tattoo will go through stages, appealing, dryness, and settling as the skin repairs itself. While your tattoo may look healed after a few weeks, it will continue to settle and fully develop beneath the surface of your skin for longer. For detailed instructions and everything you need to know about caring for your new tattoo, check out my aftercare page.
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Yes, in many cases! However, everyone’s skin heals differently, so whether I can tattoo over a scar or stretch mark depends on the condition of the skin and how well it has healed. Older flat scars typically take ink better than fresh, raised, or heavily textured scars. I will not tattoo over any fresh scarring. Surgical scars need a minimum of two years fully healed before I will tattoo over them. Stretch marks can be quite a bit as well, and some may require an in person assessment before I can determine what is possible. Regardless of the type of scoring a stretch marks I prefer to see the area in person so I can assess the skin and give you an honest recommendation about what will work best
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Yes! I offer one complementary touchup with one year of our original appointment, but please note this is only offered for my own work. I do not offer a touchup on tattoos done by other artists. Touchups are a common part of the tattoo process, especially in areas that experience, more friction or movement, or in pieces of heavy saturation. Some minor ink fallout can also happen during the healing. It is important to let your tattoo peel naturally and avoid picking or scratching at any flakes or scabs. Pulling up the skin while it’s healing can remove pigment and cause unnecessary patchiness. If you have any concerns about how your tattoo is healing, please reach out and I’m happy to take a look!
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Yes, you are welcome to use a topical numbing cream, but please let me know in advance if you plan to use one. Every tattoo artist has their own preferences and policies regarding numbing products, so please check with your artist before arriving with numbing cream already applied. If you choose to use numbing cream, I strongly recommend using a brand. You already know your skin tolerates well. I often recommend Zensa, as it has been a reliable option for many clients. If you have never used a numbing product before, please patch test it on a small area of your skin before your appointment to ensure you don’t have a reaction. Do not choose the area you’ll be getting tattooed. If you have significant allergies, skin, sensitivities, or certain medical conditions I recommend avoiding numbing products altogether. Some topical anesthetics also contain additional ingredients that may not be appropriate for everyone. When in doubt check with your healthcare provider before using a numbing product. Most importantly, please tell me what numbing product you plan to use before your appointment so I can make sure we’re on the same page.
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This is a personal decision, and I understand that every person has different comfort levels when it comes to getting Tattooed while breast-feeding. There is no known Direct pathway for tattoo Inc. to reach breastmilk, but getting a tattoo do involve creating an open wound, which comes with a risk of infection and requires your body to heal more. Because of this risk, I do recommend waiting until you are finished breast-feeding. Ultimately, I want you to make the choice that feels right for you and your situation. If you are breast-feeding and considering a new tattoo, I recommend speaking with your healthcare provider beforehand, so you can make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances. Your comfort, health, and healing are always more important than rushing to get tattooed.
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Yes! I’m always happy to accommodate a walk-in when I have availability. I’m incredibly grateful to be booked and busy most workday, but schedules can change, cancellations happen, and sometimes last minute spots open up. It never hurts to ask! If possible, I recommend calling the shop before stopping by to see if I have any availability that day. If there’s an opening, I’ll do my best to get you tattooed!
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I primarily specialize in black and grey, tattoos, and love working across a variety of subject matter. Some of my favorite things to tattoo include floral pieces, animals, insects, pet portraits, monsters, geometric and mandala designs, weaponry, abstract, and funky designs, illustrative interpretations of American traditional, and custom requests. Emily is open to creative ideas so if you have something a little outside the box, send it my way!
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I began my career working with color, but my current focus is black and grey tattoos. I occasionally incorporate color into select ongoing projects, but color is not something I recently offer for new bookings. If your idea falls outside of my current focus, I will do my best to recommend another artist who specializes in a similar style to what you were looking for. If you’re unsure whether your idea fits within my style or capabilities, feel free to reach out with your concept and I’ll let you know!