Getting a tattoo is a serious decision. It is important to arm yourself with as much information as possible and education is of the utmost importance to us at The Inkwell. Health regulations vary from state to state, city to city and in some cases, there are no health regulations in place at all. This can make tattooing a dangerous practice indeed. However, by taking precautions based on a combination of professional expertise, common sense, research and extensive clinical practice we here at The Inkwell strive to provide you with the safest body modification experience possible.

The mission of The Inkwell is to foster equal involvement and care in each aspect of the studio. We encourage our customers to be a part of the creative process, as this is our passion, and total client satisfaction is our ultimate goal. We also encourage our customers to ask any and all questions they may have about their body art experience, including health and safety practices. As an active member of the A.P.T. (Alliance of Professional Tattooist), Kate is well educated, not only in the art of tattoo, but in maintaining a safe and sterile studio environment. Please check out www.safe-tattoos.com for more information on the A.P.T.

Tattoos should reflect who you are and what you like. Take your time and make sure your tattoo will be something that you can live with forever. Don’t be limited to what a studio has on hand; Sometimes part of finding the perfect tattoo involves explaining your ideas to the tattooist, and/or bringing in reference materials. Kate can draw a custom design for you. Discuss size, color, and placement. Sometimes designs that work on paper may not work on your skin. Also make sure to give the placement of your tattoo alot of thought. Most people have a gut feeling about where they would like to have their tattoos placed. Choosing where your tattoo is placed should not necessarily be based on fear of how much it might, or might not hurt. Every person’s body reacts differently, so the sensation will vary from person to person. Size is another issue. Starting small is not always best. As tattoos age they spread a little, so get the tattoo the size that it will look the best over time. Discuss these, and all other aspects of your tattoo with your tattoo artist. They can share their experience with you.

You should never “price shop”. Tattoo prices are based on quality as well as time and prices vary from artist to artist. This is not a trade where there are fixed prices. Look at portfolios showcasing examples of tattoos by the artist that will be working on you. Look at line quality and smoothness of blends of color. These photos are the best way to determine if an artist is worth what you pay them or is capable of the style you seek.

Please, don’t gamble with your skin.

A cheap tattoo now, may cost you hundreds of dollars to fix later or even worse, may cost you your health.