The Inkwell

How long does a tattoo take?

Anywhere from 30 seconds to hours.  It all depends on how large the design is, how detailed it is and how well you and your skin do through the tattoo process.

What if I don’t like my tattoo after it’s done?

It depends on why you don’t like it.  If you  decide you no longer like the imagery of the tattoo, then you’re shit out of luck. Make sure everything is satisfactory BEFORE you begin.  And keep an open mind — tattoo artist aren’t Xerox machines and tattoos are a handmade product. A little artistic influence from your tattooist is a good thing. Best to let her/him do their stuff.

However, if the tattoo needs touch up (there are light spots) then talk to your artist.  Touch-ups are free for a year at The Inkwell, but not all artists are the same.  Make sure you take proper care of your tattoo while it is healing and this shouldn’t be a problem.

Will a tattooist work with me on a design?

If you want them too.  A good tattoo artist will be willing to help you design the tattoo that is right for you.  Don’t be afraid to voice your ideas. However, you should listen to there suggestions. This is what they do for a living and they should have a good idea of what works and what doesn’t.

How can I spot a good tattoo artist?

Good tattoos should have clean, even lines and smooth, solid colors. Always look at photographs of a tattooist work before getting tattooed.

How can I see examples of a tattooist’s work?

Ask. Any qualified tattooist will have a portfolio showcasing what they can do for you. 

Do they let anyone in tattoo parlors?

No drunks, drug addicts or bums. We prefer people who bathe regularly.

Can I choose the colors or should I leave that up to the artist?

Give them input, but let them decide which colors would be best for your tattoo. Remember they have years of experience, but don’t be afraid to voice your opinion

Will you tattoo people’s faces? How about hands?

Every artist is different.  We only tattoo hands/faces of heavily tattooed people who know what it is like to have very visible tattoos already.  Having very visable tattoos can/will close doors for you.  It is unfortunate, but it is the truth.  Always remember that a tattoo is forever, make sure you will still want your tattoo when you are 80+.

How much do tattoos cost?

This varies on a number of factors, such as size, placement and the complexity of the design.  Remember:

“Cheap tattoos aren’t good and good tattoos aren’t cheap.”

How long can I expect the colors to last?

A long time if done correctly. If you follow our aftercare instructions and protect it from the sun your tattoo will last a long time.

What are the different styles of tattoos?

Tribal, Fineline, Portrait, Traditional, New school, etc. Don’t feel restricted by styles. Do what you want and go to a tattooist who can do what you want, regardless.

How can I tell if a shop is clean?

Ask to see sterilization equipment. Make sure autoclave indicators on all bags have changed color to show sterilization. Never let an artist tattoo you with equipment they don’t open in front of you. Ask questions.  You can check out www.safe-tattoos.com for more ways to make sure your studio and artist are clean.

What’s an autoclave? How is it used in tattooing?

An autoclave is a sterilizer which uses heat and pressure to kill any microbes and/or pathogens on equipment. If a tattoo shop doesn’t have one, leave.

How can I tell that the needles being used are new and clean?

Ask your tattooist to show you sterilization equipment. Watch them take your needles and tubes out of sterilization pouches with indicators on them. Watch them put together their machines. Don’t assume anything when your health is on the line.

Can I request a custom design?

Absolutely, mostly anything can be done.

I have an idea in my head. How do I get the idea tattooed on me?

Find a tattooist whose style you like, talk to them about your idea and let them draw it for you (or draw it yourself), and let the tattoo begin.  Having some reference imagery is very helpful to the artist.

Can you quote me a price over the phone? How about via e-mail?

It usually is impossible for us to give an accurate quote without speaking to you directly and seeing were you want your tattoo and how much time will be involved.

Do those tattoo kits you can order in the magazines really work?

No. Don’t even think about tattooing. Leave it up to the professionals.  Tattooing WELL takes alot of experience and education.  Do not become another neighborhood scratcher!

Should I get drunk before getting tattooed?

No. Drinking thins the blood, making you bleed more, and drunks rarely sit still.

What can I do to keep my tattoo from fading?

Follow your artists aftercare advice while it is healing.  Use a strong sunblock whenever you are exposed to the sun, and generally take good care of your skin.

What if my tattoo fades over the years?

Old tattoos can be redone. Then take really good care of it.

I have an old discolored tattoo. What can I do to make it look better?

Come by, let us take a look, and the chances are we will be able to fix it up and make it look brand new again.

Do you do cover-up work?

Yes, all the time. People are always coming in with a poor tattoo that they want fixed up.  Kate specailizes in cover-ups and reworks.

How can I get started in tattooing?

Don’t. There are better things for you to do. These aren’t the droids your looking for.

In all seriousness though, the ONLY way to learn the craft is to apprentice under a well experienced artist.  Find a reputable artist and speak with them about an apprenticeship.  They are not easy to get…for a good reason. 

Why do you have tattoos?

The same reason as everyone else… so I can look good.

Can you send me a picture of what I’m looking for?

We do not send out any drawing, flash or pictures of our artwork or tattoos. Not in the mail, not in e-mail, not in a box, not with a fox.

Is there anything else I should know?

Tattooed people don’t care that you aren’t tattooed, however we are way more cool.