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Tattoo Information & Pricing

Professional Tattooing Since 2006

This page outlines the booking process, pricing structure, preparation guidelines, aftercare instructions, and cover-up information.

Clear expectations create better results — for both the artist and the client.

If you’re considering booking an appointment, review the information below before submitting your tattoo request.

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The Tattoo Process
Tattoo Pricing Guide
Preparing for Your Appointment
Aftercare Instructions
Cover-Ups & Lightening
Frequently Asked Questions
Studio Policies

The Tattoo Process
 

1. Submit a Tattoo Request

The request form is the fastest and most efficient way to start the process.

All required details — including description, size, placement, and reference images — are built directly into the form to keep everything organized.

If you prefer, you may also email your request. When emailing, please include:

• A clear description of your idea
• Size and placement
• Reference images

If additional details are needed, I’ll follow up to clarify before moving forward.

2. Review & Response

Every request is reviewed personally.

You’ll receive a response within 48 hours with availability, next steps, and deposit information.

3. Deposit

A deposit is required to secure your appointment.

Deposits apply toward the final cost of your tattoo.

They are non-refundable but transferable with proper notice.

4. Consultations

Most projects can be planned and finalized through the request form and email communication.

In some cases — particularly large-scale or more complex work — an in-person consultation may be recommended before scheduling.

If a consultation is needed, it will be discussed during the review process.

5. Appointment Day

Your design is prepared in advance.

We’ll review it together and make any necessary adjustments before beginning.

The goal is clear communication and a smooth, professional experience from start to finish.

6. Age & Identification Requirements

In Illinois, you must be 18 years or older to receive a tattoo.

A valid government-issued ID or driver’s license is required at your appointment to complete the consent and release form.

No exceptions.

Tattoo Pricing Guide
Pricing is based primarily on time, detail, and overall complexity.​

Hourly Rate: $160
Minimum: $100
Full Day Session (6 Hours): $750

A deposit is required to secure your appointment and applies toward the final cost.

Minimum Tattoo – $100

Best for:

• Names
• Small script
• Tiny symbols

Estimated time: 30–45 minutes
Approximate size: 1”–3”

1 Hour Session – $160

Best for small detailed pieces.

Estimated size: 2”x2” to 3”x3”

1–2 Hour Session – $160–$320

Best for small to medium tattoos.

Estimated size: 3”–4”

2–3 Hour Session – $320–$480

Best for medium-sized tattoos.

Estimated size: 4”–6”

3–4 Hour Session – $480–$640

Best for larger detailed pieces.

Estimated size: 6”–8”+

4–5 Hour Session – $640–$800

Best for:

• Large forearm pieces
• Upper arm work
• Thigh tattoos

Full Day Session – 6 Hours – $750

Designed for large-scale work and clients ready to make major progress.

Best for:

• Full pec pieces
• Full outer arm
• Large thigh designs
• Starting sleeves
• Multi-session projects

Important Notes

• Pricing is based on time and detail.
• Size ranges are approximate and vary by design complexity.
• Larger projects may require multiple sessions.
• Exact quotes are confirmed after reviewing your idea.

Preparing for Your Appointment
Proper preparation helps ensure a smoother session and better healing.

Before Your Appointment

• Eat a solid meal within a few hours of your appointment
• Stay well hydrated the day before and day of
• Get a full night of sleep
• Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours prior
• Avoid excessive sun exposure or sunburn on the area
• Do not take blood-thinning medications unless prescribed (consult your doctor if unsure)

You’re more than welcome to bring snacks or drinks, especially for longer sessions.

Arrive clean and wearing comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed.

If You Need to Reschedule

If you are feeling sick, overly fatigued, or have skin irritation in the tattoo area, rescheduling is recommended.

Your health directly affects the quality of the tattoo and the healing process.

Aftercare Instructions

Proper aftercare is essential for clean healing and long-term results.

Healing is done one of two ways:

• View Guard method
• Traditional healing method

Follow the method used for your appointment.

Cover-Ups & LI-FT Lightening

There are two primary options when dealing with an existing tattoo:

• Cover it
• Lighten it (with the goal of removal)

The right approach depends on your goals.

Tattoo Cover-Ups

A cover-up replaces an existing tattoo with a new design built strategically to conceal it.

Successful cover-ups depend on:

• Size of the existing tattoo
• Darkness and saturation
• Placement
• Skin tone and condition

In most cases, the new design will need to be larger in order to properly conceal the original tattoo.

The goal of a good cover-up is simple:

It should not look like a cover-up.
It should look like a strong, intentional tattoo.

What Makes a Cover-Up Successful

The only consistent issue I’ve ever run into with cover-ups comes down to design choice.

As long as you’re open-minded and willing to work with me on the right design direction, I’ve been able to successfully cover every tattoo I’ve taken on.

The keys to a strong cover-up:

• Avoid large open spaces
• Use strategic saturation
• Incorporate proper contrast

Color is often recommended because it provides stronger coverage.

If you prefer not to use color, grey tones can be used effectively.

It’s important to understand the difference:

• Grey wash is diluted black pigment. It heals lighter and allows underlying pigment to show through.
• Grey tones are created by mixing black with white ink. This is not diluted pigment and provides stronger coverage over existing ink.

Design strategy is everything in a cover-up.

Pricing

There is no additional charge for a cover-up.

Pricing is based on time and complexity — just like any other tattoo.

Submitting a Cover-Up Request

When submitting your request, include:

• Clear photos in natural lighting
• Approximate size
• How old the tattoo is

It is also helpful to include 2–3 ideas of what you’d like to use for the cover-up.

Typically, one of those ideas will work extremely well for properly concealing the existing tattoo.

Having multiple concepts allows for better flexibility and stronger results.

LI-FT Tattoo Lightening

I am certified in LI-FT® saline tattoo lightening.

LI-FT is a non-laser tattoo lightening method used to fade pigment in the skin.

It’s important to understand:

All tattoo “removal” methods — including laser — work through lightening the pigment over time.

The term “removal” is commonly used for advertising purposes, but the process itself is gradual lightening through multiple sessions until the pigment is no longer visible.

How LI-FT Works

The saline solution is tattooed into the skin using a method similar to traditional tattooing.

During the healing process, pigment is drawn toward the surface and lifted out of the skin.

Unlike laser removal, LI-FT:

• Does not use heat
• Is not color-dependent
• Works through the body’s natural healing response

Multiple sessions are typically required depending on the depth and saturation of the pigment.

Choosing the Right Option

Some clients choose to cover an existing tattoo.
Others choose to lighten it gradually with the goal of removal.

Both are valid approaches.

During the review process, we can determine which direction makes the most sense for your situation.

Questions & Pricing

If you’re considering LI-FT lightening and would like more information, please email me directly with your questions.

Pricing and session recommendations depend on the size, depth, and saturation of the pigment.

I am currently in the process of adding detailed pricing information and before-and-after photos here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it hurt?

Yes — but it’s manageable.

Pain levels depend on placement, size, and individual tolerance. Most clients handle sessions without issue, especially when properly rested and fed.

Numbing creams are allowed if you prefer to use one.

Most numbing creams advertise 4–6 hours of relief, but in my experience they are closer to 2–3 hours. When they wear off, the sensation can feel more intense than if no cream was used at all.

If you choose to use a numbing cream, the best results I’ve seen have been with a product called “Tattoo Numbing Cream.”

I also use lidocaine ointment during longer sessions (as long as you are not allergic to lidocaine). I’ve found this method to be more consistent and effective than topical creams applied beforehand.

It won’t completely remove sensation, but it does a great job of taking the edge off.

I’ve also been told by most clients that I have a light hand.

How long will my tattoo take?

Time depends on size, placement, and detail.

Smaller pieces may take 1–2 hours. Larger or more detailed work may require multiple sessions.

I base pricing primarily on the estimated time a tattoo will take.

In my experience, time-based pricing is the most accurate and fair way to price tattoos. It keeps things consistent and ensures you’re paying for the actual time and work involved in your piece.

Some artists prefer flat-rate pricing, but I’ve found that pricing based on time provides clearer expectations and better transparency for both the artist and the client.

Exact timing and cost are confirmed after reviewing your request.

Do I see the design before my appointment?

For most projects, designs are finalized the day of the appointment.

Minor adjustments can be made at that time to ensure everything looks and feels right before we begin.

I’ve found it’s more productive to make adjustments in person rather than going back and forth through email. Changes are faster, clearer, and easier to visualize when we’re reviewing the design together.

For larger or more complex work, additional planning or consultation may be scheduled if needed.

Can I bring someone with me?

Yes — you’re welcome to bring someone with you.

I try to cap it at two guests due to space limitations.

It’s simply a matter of keeping the area comfortable and organized during the appointment.

What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept:

• Cash
• All major credit cards
• Zelle

Deposits are required to secure appointments and are applied toward the final cost of your tattoo.

What if I need to reschedule?

At least 48 hours’ notice is required to transfer your deposit.

Last-minute cancellations may result in deposit forfeiture.

How long should I wait before swimming or working out?

Avoid soaking the tattoo (pools, hot tubs, baths) for at least 2 weeks.

Light exercise is generally fine, but avoid excessive sweating or friction on the tattooed area during early healing.

Do tattoos fade over time?

All tattoos naturally soften over many years.

Sun exposure is the primary cause of fading.

Using sunblock and maintaining healthy skin dramatically improves long-term results.

Studio Policies

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.

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