Frequently Asked Questions
How old do I have to be to get a tattoo?
In Boston the legal age to receive a tattoo is 18 years old. We cannot tattoo minors even with parental consent. Adults of any age must present a government-issued ID (like a driver's license, state ID, military ID, or passport) in order to be tattooed, no exceptions.
How much does a tattoo cost?
Asking "How much does a tattoo cost?" is similar to asking "How much does a house cost ?" It varies hugely based on what is in it, how big the house is, and where you're buying it. Many factors go into the price of a tattoo, including design, placement, and size. Your idea of "small" or "simple" may not be the same as mine, so we do not want to give anyone inaccurate information. As the artist I can give you a price estimate only after a comprehensive discussion at your consultation appointment. The minimum price to set up for a minuscule tattoo is $100 and they go up from there. I can not give you a price range for a tattoo over phone or email.
What is your hourly rate?
My hourly rate is $200 an hour and I do a flat rate of $1,100 for full day session. This way I can offer big project clients the most work for their money.
What is your style of tattooing ?
I focus primarily on ornamental, nature inspired and I love doing folklore related subject matter. I'm open to ideas and not closed minded for new projects as long as we can find a happy medium were we can collaborate. Creating something new and original is what inspires me, so I need your help as well.
What type of availability do you have ?
My availability fluctuates, it depends on the time of the year but for the most part I like to book no longer than 2 months out.
Are you able to sketch something up (ahead of time)?
I like to be honest and upfront about my process. Due to the amount of clients and other projects my time is limited but well spent. Depending on the project I will start a week away from the appointment, if its a medium to small piece I usually design it a day or two away from the appointment. I am starting to offer a drawing consultation, where we get to share ideas, find inspirational references for your tattoo and get to sketch a rough draft to put everything together. This way you can have the comfort of knowing where the design is going.
I've started another piece with someone else, would you finish it ?
Personally I'm not a fan of finishing someone else's work, but I try to be compassionate and understand that at times we don't make the best decisions. It all depends on the project, if I see that it has the potential to be transformed into something that brings happiness to you as a client, then we can look into partnering together. Otherwise I will recommend to get laser treatment as an option, sometimes removing a segment can open opportunities to make the whole thing a lot better.
How do I go about booking my tattoo?
All tattoo inquiries are made through email, due to the amount of request I advise to be brief and descriptive about what you would like to get as a tattoo. If your idea (style) is not what I specialize on I can make a referral and suggestions of other fellow tattooers that could be a better fit for you.
Do I have to leave a deposit ?
All tattoo appointments need a deposit depending on size and length of session. The deposit starts at $200 and caps at $500 for a full-day tattoo session. This deposit is non refundable, goes towards the drawing and other time spent for your project. This can be made the day of the consultation or via Venmo.
How long does it take my tattoo to heal?
It usually takes 4 to 6 days for the tattoo to start peeling, this layer is the old skin shedding and the tattooed skin will be completely healed by the 6 - 8 week mark. Some areas may take a bit longer to heal, mainly areas that have a lot of elasticity like, near the armpits, ditch , stomach and neck , etc.
I just got a tattoo, now what?
Make sure to remove the plastic wrap gently, wash it with antibacterial unscented soap. Let it breath for 10-15 minutes before applying some ointment, it is key to keep it moisturized the first few days. Depending on the tattoo and amount of trauma to the skin I will recommend to cover it again for a few more days, large areas of black and grey or color tattoos should be covered for at least 3 days in a row.
What should I apply to my tattoo for aftercare ?
At our store I have created an organic, all natural ointment as an aftercare for any tattoo.
I recommend keeping the tattoo moisturized with an organic ointment, something like coconut oil or such (if you have no allergies). Another option can me Aquaphor or A&D ointment.