About Me
Hi I`m Chris Toms
Tattooing professionally since 2006, I focus on well-executed tattoos built to last. My work includes American traditional, black and grey, blackwork, and cover-ups and reworks, with an emphasis on clean structure, readability, and longevity.
Each project is approached with careful planning and clear communication to ensure the final tattoo fits the body properly and holds up over time. I work by appointment only so every piece receives the attention it deserves, without rushing or shortcuts.
With years of experience behind me, my goal is simple: provide a professional, straightforward tattooing experience from the first conversation to the finished work. If you have an idea you’d like to discuss, I’m happy to see if it’s a good fit.
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Appointments and Pricing
All Appointments require $100 Non refundable deposit.
48 hour notice for rescheduling
To make an appointment submit an appointment form or e-mail me ChrisTomsTattoo@gmail.com
Questions, please e-mail me at ChrisTomsTattoo@gmail.com
Tattoo Minimum $100
Get In Touch
Chris Toms a thin line tattoo
9 e. Wilson st Batavia, il
(224)236-2633
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20% Off Your Next Tattoo! (except minimum) New Designs, Convention and guest spot locations, Discounts and Specials!
Deposits
A deposit is required to secure all appointments.
Deposits:
• Apply toward the final cost of your tattoo
• Are non-refundable
• Can be transferred with proper notice
Rescheduling & Cancellations
At least 48 hours’ notice is required to reschedule an appointment and transfer your deposit.
Appointments canceled with less than 48 hours’ notice may result in deposit forfeiture.
No-shows forfeit their deposit.
Lateness
Please arrive on time for your appointment.
Arriving significantly late may shorten your session or require rescheduling.
Age Requirement
You must be 18 years or older to receive a tattoo.
A valid government-issued ID is required at your appointment.
No exceptions.
Health & Safety
If you are feeling sick, have a contagious illness, or have skin irritation in the tattoo area, please reschedule.
Your health affects both the quality of the tattoo and the healing process.
View Guard Healing Method
• Leave the film on for 5 days.
• Fluid buildup or “pooling” under the film is normal.
Remove the film early if:
• The seal becomes broken and fluid leaks from the edges
• You experience redness or irritation in the shape of the adhesive
After removing the film (around day 5), your tattoo should be approximately 80% healed.
For the next 3 days:
• Wash once per day
• Apply fragrance-free lotion 2–3 times per day
Do not soak, scratch, or expose the tattoo to direct sun while healing.
Traditional Healing Method
• Keep the initial bandage on for approximately one hour.
• After one hour, remove the bandage and gently wash with warm water and mild soap (Dial Gold recommended).
Day of Appointment
• Wash the tattoo after removing the bandage.
• Wash it again before going to sleep.
• Do not apply ointment the first day or night.
Week 1
• Wash the tattoo 2–3 times per day
• Gently pat dry with a clean paper towel
• Apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor 3–4 times per day
Do not apply thick layers.
Do not allow the tattoo to dry out completely.
How much ointment should you use?
Apply a small amount, then gently press a clean paper towel onto the tattoo and remove it.
The thin layer remaining on the skin is usually the ideal amount.
The tattoo should look lightly moisturized — not shiny or heavy.
Week 2
• Wash once per day
• Switch to fragrance-free lotion
• Apply lotion 2–3 times per day
Key Healing Principles
• Keep the tattoo clean
• Do not let it dry out completely
Allowing the tattoo to become overly dry can lead to heavy scabbing, skin tightening, and in some cases splitting of the healing surface.
A lightly moisturized tattoo heals more comfortably and more evenly.
What to Expect During Healing
Healing happens in stages. Some changes in appearance are completely normal.
Surface healing typically takes about 2 weeks.
A fully healed and completely settled tattoo usually takes around 4 weeks.
Do not worry if your tattoo still appears to be healing at week 3 — this is normal.
Day 1
• Tattoo will look bold, bright, and slightly raised
• Mild redness and warmth around the area is normal
• Light bleeding or fluid release is common
In some areas of the body, mild bruising can occur.
This is uncommon but possible and typically fades within a few days.
Days 2–3
• Redness should begin to decrease
• Tattoo may feel sore or tight
• Light peeling may begin
The tattoo may appear slightly dull during this stage — this is normal.
Days 4–7
• Peeling and flaking will increase
• The tattoo may look dry or cloudy
• Mild itching is common
Do not scratch or pick at peeling skin.
Proper moisture prevents heavy scabbing.
Week 2
• Peeling should be mostly complete
• Tattoo may appear slightly dull or “milky”
This is part of the deeper healing process.
Weeks 3–4
• Surface healing should be complete
• The tattoo will continue settling beneath the skin
• Clarity and vibrancy will return as healing finishes
It is normal for the tattoo to still feel slightly dry or sensitive during this phase.
Infection & Safety
Infections from properly performed tattoos are very rare.
In over 20 years of professional tattooing, I’ve seen fewer than five infections — and those were primarily related to improper aftercare.
Follow the instructions above and healing should be straightforward.
Contact me if you experience:
• Severe swelling that worsens after 48 hours
• Spreading redness beyond the tattoo area
• Excessive discharge or unusual odor
• Fever or flu-like symptoms
During Healing
• Do not soak
• Do not scrub
• Do not pick or scratch
• Do not suntan or sunburn the area
• Avoid tight clothing rubbing on the tattoo
Full healing takes time — be patient and allow the process to complete properly.
Long-Term Tattoo Care
Healing is only the first phase. How you treat your tattoo long term determines how it looks years from now.
Sun Protection
The number one reason tattoos fade is sun exposure.
Always use sunblock on your tattoos when they are exposed to the sun — especially during extended outdoor time.
UV exposure breaks down pigment over time and causes fading.
Protecting your tattoo from the sun makes a significant difference in how it holds up.
Skincare & Moisture
Basic skincare goes a long way.
Applying lotion regularly keeps the skin healthy and helps tattoos maintain vibrancy and clarity.
Well-moisturized skin reflects light better, which keeps tattoos looking sharper.
I have clients with tattoos done over 10 years ago that still look nearly as bold as the day they were done — simply because they consistently use lotion and protect their tattoos from the sun.
Small habits make a big difference over time.