Frequently Asked Questions
Aftercare instructions and other FAQ
AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS:
In the first 24 hours, there may be a build up of plasma under the adhesive bandage. This is completely normal. Leave it on for an additional 1-3 days. If only saran wrap was used to cover the area, remove within 3 hours.
Do not touch the healing area. Your hands may have bacteria on them and can create an infection.
Always wash your hands first. Wash your tattoo with a gentle cleanser. Use your fingertips to wash the area, pat the area dry with a clean paper towel or tissue. Do not scrub or rub forcefully.
Apply a very, very thin coat of healing ointment 2-3x times/day after cleansing for 10-14 days post bandage removal, or until you are done peeling. You may discontinue after peeling has completed. Do not smother in aftercare- apply a thin coat & wipe off any excess.
If a slight crust or scabbing appears on the pigmented surface, do not force removal by picking or scratching! You will remove pigment along with the crusting and create potential for scarring.
Keep showers quick and avoid submerging your tattoo. Avoid excessive sweating/exercise, sun, saunas, and swimming (including chlorinated pools or jacuzzies, the ocean, or recreational bodies of water) for at least 2 weeks.
Do not apply makeup over healing areas.
Use a broad spectrum sunblock after the area has healed to slow fading.
FAQ
Where are you located?
We are in the heart of Quakertown, located in the Shelly Law Office Building at 527 W Broad Street, across from Rita’s waterice. There is off street parking behind the building near St. Issadores elementary school.
Do you tattoo minors with parent/guardian consent?
No, we only tattoo people that are 18 years or older.
What is the shop minimum?
$100
When can I expect to see my drawing and why?
Our artists are booked daily with various different projects, therefore in order to give each piece the time and energy it deserves (and to keep the idea fresh in their minds) our artists draw the day before or day of your appointment.
Our artists are working for hours before the shop opens to ensure that they are creating a quality piece that you will love and time is allotted in the beginning of your appointment so minor changes can be made the day of. Email communication is best prior to your appointment and we recommend sending as many ideas/photos as you’d like to help give the artist a good idea of what you are looking for.
We do not send designs via email at the risk of our artists’ hard work being stolen. If you’d like to discuss your piece you are able to set up a consultation in person (for larger pieces only). Stopping in to chat with your artist beforehand is highly recommended. As always, please refer to your chosen artists’ portfolio to make sure it is the style you are looking for.
Why are deposits non-refundable?
Our artists are commission based, meaning they do not get paid hourly, but rather by the job. They work for several hours prior to your appointment researching, drawing & preparing for your tattoo. If you do not show up for your appointment, not only is that artist not getting paid for the tattoo they were scheduled to do, but often they can not fill the spot with such short notice, meaning someone else who is on the waiting list is still stuck waiting. We ask that you give us at least a week's notice if you need to change an appointment for any reason. The deposit rolls over and is always applied to the last session, unless forfeited due to a no-show or last minute cancellation.
Do you do walk-ins?
Short answer- sometimes. Our artists typically book their schedules weeks or even months in advance. With that being said, Jake still has some scattered openings throughout the next few weeks. We always recommend booking an appointment though, as this gives ample time for your artist to draw and prepare for your appointment. Keep an eye out for flash specials (pre-drawn designs) that will be offered as first come, first serve appointments on FLASH DAY the first Saturday of every month.
Who can NOT get tattooed?
If you are pregnant, nursing, on blood thinners or have had a reaction to tattoo ink before. If you have a medical condition you are unsure of please consult with your doctor prior to scheduling.
How much does a tattoo cost?
Each tattoo, depending on placement, style, color vs b&g, size and detail can vary greatly in cost. Our artists work at an hourly rate ranging between $125-175/hr. as well as by half and full day rates. Estimates can not be given via phone/email. It is best to see the space & design ideas in person to give you the best estimate. We do have a $100 shop minimum.
How should I prepare for my tattoo appointment?
Make sure that you have sent any reference photos you like. Also, if there is existing work that the artist needs to work around then please send a photo of the area. Stopping in to chat with your artist at least a week beforehand is highly recommended.Â
We ask that you please refrain from consuming caffeine & alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to your appointment; both thin the blood and will make you bleed more, which will cause pigment loss in your tattoo.
For the day of your appointment wear loose fitted clothing and be sure to eat a full meal & hydrate.
We recommend bringing water & sugary snacks.Â
*If you are getting tattooed in an especially painful area we do recommend using Hushâ„¢ prior to use (see instructions below)
How do I use Hushâ„¢ gel?
At least one hour prior to your appointment, evenly spread a thick layer directly onto your skin where the tattoo is going to be applied. Cover with plastic wrap. For best results, start 2 hours prior, allow one hour for absorption & repeat process.
What can I expect (the process)?
When you arrive you will fill out our consent form. The artist will go over the design with you in detail to make sure it is exactly what you want. *This is the time to make any small changes. Please do not be afraid to ask!*
They will then prep the skin by shaving the area to be tattooed, and applying stencil ointment. Once you have decided on the perfect placement of the stencil, you will wait until the stencil is completely dried before your artist begins.
We have comfortable massage chairs to sit you in a comfortable position during the tattoo procedure. Pain varies from person to person, but once the skin is broken open (after the first pass), then your artist can apply a topical numbing agent to help take the edge off. Sitting still is the most important thing so keep that in mind during the process when it comes to talking, coughing, etc.
When the session is complete, your artist will let the area calm down after a final spray of the numbing agent before taking a picture and wrapping you up- depending on the placement of the tattoo your artist will either apply an adhesive bandage or saran wrap. See aftercare instructions at the top of this page.