Your First
Tattoo

Nobody should walk in nervous and guessing. Here's exactly how it goes.

Before the session

  • Eat a full meal about 2 hours before. Low blood sugar is the number one reason people get lightheaded in the chair.
  • Drink water the day before and the day of. Hydrated skin takes ink better.
  • No alcohol for 24 hours — it thins your blood and pushes ink back out.
  • Sleep. A tired body reads pain louder.

What to wear and bring

  • Clothing that gives easy access to the area, and that you don't mind getting ink on.
  • Headphones, a snack and a drink for anything over two hours.
  • Valid photo ID.
  • Reference images saved to your phone, even if you already sent them.

In the chair

  • The stencil gets placed first — speak up before the needle starts if the placement isn't right.
  • It's discomfort, not agony. Ribs, sternum, hands, feet and the inside of the arm run hotter than most spots.
  • You can ask for a break. Say something before you need one, not after.
  • Sit still and breathe normally. Tensing makes it worse.

Pricing and time

  • Custom work is priced per piece or per session depending on size and detail — you get the number before anything starts.
  • A non-refundable deposit holds your date and comes off the final price.
  • Large pieces and sleeves are built over multiple sessions with healing time in between.

Healing starts the moment you leave. Read the aftercare instructions before your appointment, not after.