FAQ

IT'S CALLED A TATTOO, NOT A MASSAGE Let's be honest...It's called a tattoo, not a massage.It's going to hurt.Some spots are just a little spicy. Others will have you reconsidering some of your life choices.Your first instinct will probably be to clench every muscle in your body.Don't.Relaxing is your secret weapon.Your muscles aren't going to win. The tighter you squeeze, flex, clench, or try to become a human statue, the harder you're making it on yourself and your artist.When we tell you to relax your muscles, we're not just trying to sound wise. A relaxed body usually hurts less, makes the tattoo easier to apply, and keeps your artist from wrestling with your arm or leg.And don't forget to breathe.Holding your breath won't make it hurt less... it'll just make you dizzy and give your artist another problem to solve.Slow, steady breathing will help you get through even the toughest parts.If you need a minute, just tell us. We'd much rather take a short break than have you try to prove you're tougher than the tattoo machine.If you need your mom... we can't help with that.

DON'T SHOW UP DRUNK We can't tattoo you if you're intoxicated or hungover.Alcohol can increase bleeding, make the tattoo harder to apply, and turn an already uncomfortable day into an even worse one.Save the celebratory drinks for after your tattoo.

DON'T GET ROASTED If your tattoo looks like it belongs on a lobster, we're going to have a problem.We can't tattoo sunburned skin. Besides being incredibly painful, it won't heal properly and can affect the quality of your tattoo.Wear sunscreen before your appointment... just not on the area we're tattooing that day.

DON'T TATTOO ON AN EMPTY TANK Eat a good meal before your appointment. Low blood sugar can make you feel dizzy, nauseous, or even cause you to faint.Tattoos are tough enough without your stomach joining the fight.Bring some snacks, especially if you're in for a longer session. Sugar never hurts! Juice, candy, granola bars, or your favourite snack can be a lifesaver when your body needs a little pick-me-up.

WATER IS YOUR FRIEND Your skin loves water almost as much as your artist loves coffee.Show up well hydrated. Healthy, hydrated skin tattoos better, handles the process better, and helps set you up for a smoother healing experience.Water and Gatorade are both great choices. Save the energy drinks until after your appointment.Your tattoo will thank you... and so will your artist.

DON'T BE THE STINKY CLIENT Please shower before your appointment. Your artist is going to be closer to you than most of your family ever gets, so fresh is always appreciated.And while you're at it... brushing your teeth never hurts either.Your artist will thank you, your tattoo will thank you, and anyone within sniffing distance will thank you too.

DRESS FOR SUCCESS... OR AT LEAST FOR A TATTOO Some tattoo placements can get a little awkward, so help us help you by wearing loose-fitting clothing that gives your artist easy access to the area being tattooed.We'd rather not play Twister with your hoodie, unbutton seventeen layers, or perform yoga just to reach your ankle.Here are a few pro tips:• Leg tattoo? Wear shorts.• Upper thigh or bum tattoo? A bathing suit or underwear that allows easy access is your best bet.• Sternum tattoo? Nipple pasties are your new best friend, or wear a button-up shirt that can be undone enough to expose the area while keeping everything else covered.Trying to tattoo around clothing that constantly wants to snap back into place is frustrating for everyone... especially your artist.And one more thing...Don't wear white.Ink has an incredible talent for finding white clothing. While we do everything we can to keep you clean, accidents happen. Leave your favourite white outfit at home.Not sure what to wear? Give us a call before your appointment. We've seen just about every tattoo placement imaginable, and we're happy to help you figure out the best outfit.

PUT THE RAZOR DOWN Wondering if you should shave before your appointment?Don't.Your artist will shave the area if needed to make sure your skin is smooth and free from razor burn, nicks, cuts, or irritation that could interfere with your tattoo.We'll make sure your skin is tattoo-ready.You just have to show up.