FAQs
How long will my tattoo take, and how much will it cost?
This is one of the most common questions I receive, and one of the hardest to answer. As shown on the ‘services’ page, I can provide an estimation of how much I can get done in a particular period of time, however this can be affected by a number of factors including skin type, pain tolerance, emotional state, physical state, medication, hydration, and skin health.
How much a tattoo or project will cost depends on how long it will take. There is also a common misconception that size affects this duration. A general guideline is that the more detail or information you would like included in your piece or project, the longer it will take to complete. So if you have a budget to adhere to, I may limit what I put in the design to ensure that I stick to it.
How much for a sleeve?
Again, this is a difficult question to answer, but I can provide a ballpark idea at the very least.
Generally speaking, a full arm sleeve can take 5-9 full day sessions to complete, depending on the level of detail involved in the design. This is if the client sits for a full day each time, but it also depends on all the factors listed in the answer above. Please take this figure with ‘a grain of salt’, and understand that the larger (or more intensive) the project, the more difficult it is to value. This also applies to other, larger areas of the body such as the leg and back that will require more sessions, therefore will likely be more costly.
In saying this, a tattoo from me will take as long as it takes. I will not rush the project and risk the quality of the final product to fit a financial limit, which is why it is important for you to communicate this with me during the booking process so that I can design the piece accordingly.
Why do you need a deposit, and what if I change my mind?
A deposit not only shows me that you are dedicated to the session, but it also provides me with a financial buffer in case the appointment falls through.
You are welcome to change your mind about your design, but to an extent. This must be communicated to me at least two weeks prior to the session, especially if it is a drastic style or content change. Any such changes within 72 hours of the appointment will lead to a reschedule, and I will request another deposit from you.
If you change your mind about the tattoo completely, you are welcome to transfer your spot and deposit to another person, but I have to approve their idea first, and this must be done at least 72 hours prior to the date.
A deposit should only be made once your plans and ideas have been considered thoroughly. It is not my responsibility to pay for a potential client’s whim.
Can I get tattooed while I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
As a personal preference, I will not tattoo a pregnant or breastfeeding client.
Will it hurt?
In short, yes. But it’s likely not as bad as you think it is.
Getting tattooed is different for everyone, and every person (and every body part) has a different pain threshold. Do your best not to psyche yourself out beforehand, and if you’re concerned about sitting well (or otherwise), let me know and we can plan your session accordingly.
Can I see my design early?
Unfortunately not, for a number of reasons.
First, I have designed your piece to suit what was discussed through email or consult, so when it is shown to friends and family members who may not have an artistic eye or understanding of why I’ve done something, peripheral requests can sabotage the effectiveness of the design and/or your opinion of it. In the end, it is your tattoo, not your mum’s, dad’s, dog’s etc. and I have designed it with you and your specific requests in mind.
Secondly, this idea can sometimes apply to you. It’s easy to overthink something, and once you’ve looked at it for too long, struggle to make sense of it. Understand that, assuming you have communicated your ideas to me effectively, I will be drawing your design based on these ideas and you are welcome to guide me on the day with any changes or tweaks.
Thirdly, the issue of plagiarism is a prominent reason. I do not want a potential client taking my design to another artist to complete it ‘faster’ or for ‘cheaper’. I am doing my best to provide clients with my best work and service, and will not allow my time to be undervalued in such a way.
Do you do coverups, or can you rework my old tattoo?
Sometimes.
A coverup is easier with a few sessions of laser removal. We can discuss this in depth during a consult, as it is often difficult to gauge how dark an existing piece in through photos.
A rework is a little more difficult. I am hesitant to touch the work of another artist if they are still trading. However in particular cases, I will do so, but I will respect the original artist by not posting the final product unless I have permission to do so.
Do you tattoo fingers, hands, or the face?
Fingers: sometimes. Only when it is part of a larger hand piece or sleeve. I no longer do fine line or symbols on fingers.
Hands: yes, but only if the client already has tattoos on their arms.
Palms: no.
Face: no. This includes ears.
I’m 16 with parental permission… why can’t I get tattooed? It’s not fair…
Because it is against the law in South Australia. I could get in big, big trouble for doing so, and that’s not fair either.