Client Guide
Thank you for considering me for your tattoo. Whether it’s your first piece or an addition to your ongoing collection, I’m here to guide you through the experience. Below, I’ve put together a brief guide to walk you through the tattoo process — from what to expect when booking a consultation to answers for commonly asked questions — so you can feel informed every step of the way.
Initial Contact & Consultation
To schedule a tattoo consultation, you can fill out my Consultation Request Form by clicking here. I personally review every message, and you can generally expect a response within 3–5 business days.
Consultations are complimentary and take place at Self-Inflicted Studios, 1325 Washington Avenue, during my work week. They typically last no more than 30 minutes and provide an opportunity to discuss your ideas in person while getting acquainted with the studio. In-person consultations allow us to collaborate, ensuring you leave feeling informed, understood, and confident about your design. * For clients traveling from a distance, phone consultations can be arranged.
During the consultation, I’ll photograph the area(s) to be tattooed, take notes, and do light sketching if needed, while answering any questions you may have. To make the most of your consultation, please wear clothing that allows access to the area you’re planning to tattoo. Following the consultation, we will schedule your tattoo appointment(s).
Tattoo Appointment
Once you decide to book a tattoo appointment, a $100 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your spot, which comes off the total cost of your tattoo the day it is done. For multi-session tattoos, the deposit comes off the total of your final session.
If you need to reschedule, please provide at least 48 hours’ notice. No-call, no-shows will lose your deposit. Emergencies happen, and I strive to be flexible, but I also ask that my time is respected.
Appointments are held Wednesday through Saturday, 12–9 PM. Please plan to arrive on time and notify me or the shop if you will be running late.
On the day of your appointment, your tattoo design will be ready for you. Minor tweaks or adjustments are no problem, and we’ll size the design to your liking before placing the stencil. The stencil will be applied and placement confirmed before we begin tattooing.
Please note that I do not send drawings prior to the appointment. This ensures your design is finalized and that we are aligned from the consultation. If you’d like to request major changes from the consultation, please email me as soon as possible, preferably at least two weeks in advance, to allow adequate time for a proper redraw. All of my work is custom-drawn for each client.
Your comfort is important. You are welcome to bring drinks, light snacks, headphones, a book, or anything that will make your session more enjoyable, so long as it does not interfere with the tattoo process. Water is provided in the studio, and longer sessions are planned with your comfort in mind.
If we need to break your tattoo session up into more than one session, I am happy to accommodate.
Pricing Guide
I work with a combination of hourly rates and flat rates, depending on the type and size of the tattoo.
Hourly work: For larger custom work, I charge hourly.
Flat-rate work: Smaller tattoos and flash from my pre-drawn flash book are offered at a set price. You’re welcome to view the flash book at the shop. I also share designs and last-minute availability for flash on my Instagram: @prettyvacantt.
If you see a design you like in my flash book but want a variation or customization, I am happy to create a drawing for you via appointment.
Please note, all appointments carry a minimum, which ensures that all sessions receive dedicated time and attention. Please feel free to reach out with any questions.
Aftercare
Proper aftercare is the most important step in ensuring your tattoo heals as intended. A tattoo is essentially trauma to the skin, so some soreness, redness, or bruising is normal and typically subsides within 48-72 hours. After that, your tattoo will begin to peel and flake, a natural part of the healing process. Do not pick or scratch your tattoo. Keep it clean, out of direct sunlight, and avoid submerging it in water for the first three weeks. Showers are fine.
Suggested Care:
Use Dial Antibacterial Soap twice daily to wash. For the first 48 hours, apply a pea-sized amount of Aquaphor or A&D ointment to protect the area post-washing. Once peeling begins, switch to an unscented moisturizer of your choosing. Apply minimally, a thin layer is all that’s needed. After about two weeks, your tattoo will appear shiny, which means new skin is healing on top of the deposited ink, and it no longer needs to be washed. Continue to be gentle with the area for the full three weeks. Once fully healed, if your tattoo will be exposed to sunlight, sunscreen is recommended to protect it.
A tattoo is an investment. If a touch-up is necessary, I offer it complimentary within the first year of your tattoo. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.