How do I make an appointment?

If my books are open for submissions (check contact page), I will select the projects that are the best match to my tattoo style, capabilities, & subject matter preferences. I have to pass on many projects I love, and don't get the chance to read every email before my schedule fills, so please don't feel rejected. This is the hardest part of my job! If you don't hear back within 3 weeks of submitting your request, it's best to assume that my schedule filled before I was able to read your request, or your idea was not a good fit for my skillset. I open my books quarterly and you're welcome to try again.

What to include in your submission:

A succinct description of the design you're interested in, and general size/placement
References or photos of tattoos I've done that are relevant to your idea
Wether you are local or traveling from out of state for this tattoo
If you need a sliding scale rate because cost is prohibitive

*What I don't do: Heads, fingers, script/text, custom color tattoos, religious symbols, cover-ups or reworks other artists work.

How much will my tattoo cost?

My rates are determined by the city I work in, booth or studio rent, current industry standards for 10+ years experience level, and demand.

My current hourly rate in Austin and Taylor, TX is $280. My hourly for guest spots in different cities may fluctuate.
A non-refundable deposit of $150 is required within 48 hours of booking. This deposit will be deducted from the total cost of your final tattoo session. If you need to reschedule, you may do so once with proper notice. Multiple reschedules will result in forfeiture of your deposit, and a new one will be required.
I always provide an hourly estimate during the booking process, so you can plan accordingly and calculate the cost based on the time required.
For reference: Small 4x4ish= 2hrs, Medium 6x6ish= 4hrs, Large 8x8ish= 6-8hrs (2 appointments)
I offer sliding scale rates if cost is prohibiting you from your dream tattoo- please discuss before booking.

Will you send me the design before my appointment?

Very rarely- only if it's complex and I feel unclear about an element that is too difficult to change in person. Small changes can be made in person, but please send me all the information I need to create the design you're envisioning.

How do I prepare for my appointment?

Moisturize the area you're getting tattooed for several days before your appointment, but not the day-of
Shave the night before or morning of your appointment
Eat a good meal before your tattoo, and feel free to bring snacks/drinks for break-time
Bring something to occupy you for long sessions, I can get a little quiet while I’m working! Headphones or a book are great!
While I try my best to keep ink off of your clothes, I recommend wearing black or dark colored clothing
Be prepared with payment. I am $280/hr, flash is done at a discounted rate depending on customization
I accept debit/credit cards, and cash payments receive a 10% discount

If you feel anxious or uninformed, please bring it to my attention. I want you to be as comfortable as possible!

How do I take care of my new tattoo?

Traditional plastic wrap method:

Leave wrap on for 3 hours. When you take it off, wash your tattoo with very warm water (as hot as is comfortable) and mild liquid hand soap (like Dr. Bronner’s, Dial or Softsoap). Pat it dry gently with a paper towel, and let it air dry the rest of the way. Apply a very small amount of tattoo salve or plain lotion (like Lubriderm, Palmers cocoa butter, or Aquaphor) to the tattoo, just enough to lightly moisturize. For the next few days, wash your tattoo morning and night, and apply lotion when it feels dry or tight.

Recovery Derm Shield:

Leave your bandage on for 3 days (if no irritation around the perimeter is present). Gently peel the Derm Shield by pulling it slowly from the edge back over itself. Do not pull the bandage upwards. Removing it in a hot or warm shower will soften the adhesive making it easier to remove. It is normal for blood/fluids to collect under the bandage. Gently clean and completely dry your tattoo, then apply a thin layer of lotion or salve. Moisturize when dry or itchy for 3 weeks.

Other tips:

Avoid wearing clothing that may cause excessive rubbing to the area during the recovery process
Avoid exposure to the sun, especially in the first month after getting a new tattoo
Avoid soaking the area of your tattooed skin for at least 2 weeks
Avoid touching the area of your tattoo with dirty hands, even if it is itchy, applying lotion or salve with clean hands can help alleviate itchiness