Studio Info & Frequently Asked Questions
I am a tattoo newbie, how do I get started?
The first question to ask yourself is what would you like to get! If you don’t know, you can always have a look at some flash (tattoo designs that are all ready to go). If you don’t like that idea, there are millions of ideas online. I cannot tell you what you should get, I can only make suggestions - most common are skulls, snakes, roses, other flowers…I could go on!
When you have an idea of what you would like, I always recommend searching for an artist that you like! Search online for different studios and artists, take a look portfolios and see what style of tattoo you are drawn to! I dabble in pretty much everything (except realism...for now!) - feel free to browse my portfolio!
When you find an artist that you like, reach out to them! Most artists have their preferred method of communication or an online booking system. Keep in mind that some artists specialize in certain styles and don’t always want to do what you want - don’t be offended, keep looking around for someone you can work with! Feel free to reach out to me here with any questions you have or designs you have in mind!
How do I get a quote for a tattoo?
Some artists charge by the hour, and some charge by the design. At the very least, your artist will need to know a few things:
Size of the tattoo (approximate measurements in inches or centimeters, or full sleeve, half sleeve, etc.)
Type of the tattoo (black and grey, fine line, colour, etc.)
Reference photos of the tattoo style you would like
Placement of the tattoo
At Ink Joy Tattoo, tattoos are generally priced by the piece, so you know exactly what to expect for your appointment. Larger scale pieces (i.e., sleeves, full back pieces, etc.) are charged by the session - the current rate for a 2-1/2 to 3 hour session is $250 (please note the rate will be increasing to $300 starting January 2025). Minimum shop rate is $80.
Is a deposit required?
Your artist will let you know if a deposit is required. Some artists require a deposit and others do not. Read the studio policy to find out if it is required, and if so, ensure you are aware of the cancellation policy and if the deposit is refundable.
Check out Ink Joy Tattoo’s Studio Policy page for the current deposit and cancellation policy.
I have made and appointment and given a deposit, what is next?
The hardest part…waiting! Your artist should be able to let you know when (or if) you will see your design before your appointment. Many artists do not show you a design until the day of your appointment - this is typical for many different reasons.
I do my absolute best to get a design over about a week before your appointment, although if I am a bit busier than normal it may be only a few days beforehand (I apologize in advance!). I am happy to make any necessary changes before your appointment, so please be open and honest! I want to ensure you are 100% happy with what you are getting!
How should I prepare for my appointment?
There are a few things you can do to prepare for your appointment. I recommend the following:
Avoid drinking alcohol within 24 hours of the tattoo, this may affect the quality of the tattoo.
Eat a good meal beforehand - bring snacks or drinks needed (for emergencies, water and snacks will be provided).
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that will allow access to the area being tattooed.
This is my first tattoo, what should I expect?
Everyone experiences pain a bit different! I like to describe it as a burning cat scratch. It is not typically a comfortable experience (although some people really do sleep!). If you are anxious, I am more than happy to give you a “dry run” - run a needle on your skin without ink so you have an idea of what to expect. There are a few things (even for tattoo veterans) that you should never be afraid to ask for:
Changing the position of the tattoo stencil
Changing the size of the tattoo stencil
Taking a break or shifting positions if you’re uncomfortable
Having a drink or a snack
Borrowing a squeeze ball
Can I use numbing cream?
I highly recommend reaching out to your artist - some will refuse to tattoo you if you are using numbing cream.
At Ink Joy Tattoo, you can use numbing cream, but I don’t offer any here. Just a warning that some folks find the tattoo process a bit more painful when the numbing cream wears off. As well, some skin reacts a bit weird to it - the skin gets a bit more tough to tattoo (please be advised the tattoo may not heal as expected and a fee will apply for any required touch ups). I recommend trying it out on a small patch of skin before using it on the appointment day to ensure it does not react negatively.
If you do decide to use numbing cream:
Find a cream that has at least 5% lidocaine.
Apply a decent layer of cream about an hour before your appointment, covering with saran wrap. Reapply another layer just before you making your way over, and cover back up with saran wrap - I will remove the saran wrap and clean the area as required.
How do I take care of my tattoo?
With some awesome, fresh ink, there are a few options you will have for protecting your tattoo. Most artists provide gauze to cover the area, some provide “second skin”/Saniderm/Tagaderm, etc. (there are many different names and brands, but they all do the same thing - it is a clear adhesive to cover the area), and some may not provide any coverage. I give the option of all three methods. If you are not allergic to adhesives, I generally recommend the second skin. I find it is very convenient, especially for the first night of healing!
Before you leave, your artist will explain their recommendations. Below are mine!
Keep gauze or second skin on until the next day (or replace the gauze before bed as you will bleed and the tattoo may stick to your sheets).
If using the second skin, peel off slowly under running water the next day.
Wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and unscented soap a couple times a day for a few days.
Avoid moisturizers or other aftercare products for a few days (if you wish to moisturize, use sparingly - too much moisturizer can trap bacteria and may lead to an infection).
Wear loose, lightweight clothing (let your tattoo breathe!).
Do not scratch or pick at your tattoo (it will itch! Give it a few light slaps instead!)
Avoid sun exposure, baths, pools, hot tubs, etc.
The tattoo WILL scab, and the scabs will fall off. Do not be alarmed if the scabs are black (or coloured if your tattoo has coloured) - this is normal! It is the first layer of skin that is coming off. Should any part of your tattoo look lighter than it should, or noticeable areas where the ink did not stay, you may need a touch up - if so, reach out to me! Touch ups are always free providing you followed my recommendations for healing.
If you have questions or concerns regarding the above, please feel free to contact Ink Joy Tattoo out anytime!