Q:  Are Tattoos Safe?

A:  Yes, as long as you go to a reputable, clean artist that is following all recommended safety

     precautions.

Q:  Does it hurt?

A:  Pain is relative.  Everyone tolerates pain differently, but yes, it does hurt.  It is a needle going

      in and out of your skin.  The beauty of the tattoo outweighs the pain.  We've all heard the

      saying, "No pain, No gain!!!"

Q:  Can I use some kind of numbing cream?

A:  No.

Q:  How much is it going to cost?

A:  When it comes to tattoos, you get what you pay for. Make sure you find an experienced artist

      with a good portfolio.  Ask to see examples of their work, they won't be offended.  Don't look

      for bargains.  Cheap tattoos look cheap, and you may spend more money in the end trying to

      get it covered or removed.  There is a saying, "Good tattoos aren' cheap, and cheap tattoos

      aren't good."  Don't try to haggle with your artist, that can be an offensive gesture on your

      part. 

Q:  Should I tip my tattoo artist?

A:  Tipping is always appreciated, but is never required.  If you are in a shop with multiple

      artists, consider this, they may be working for someone else, the shop owner, so some of their

      fees go to the owner.  Tipping in this situation is considered appropriate.  Use your best

      judgement, if you are happy with your tattoo, tip!!!

Q:  What should I get? And where?

A:  This is all a matter of personal taste. You can get whatever you want, and whatever your artist

       is willing to do. You can choose flash off of the wall, or have the artist create a custom piece

       for you.  The only limits you have are your imagination.  Be considereate of the artist though,

       some artists won't tattoo certain body parts (necks, faces, hands, genitals, etc.), and most

       won't tattoo anything that could be considered offensive.

Q:  What is the best time of year to get a tattoo?

A:  You can get a tattoo any time of the year.  However, keep this in mind, during the summer

      months your skin is exposed to the sun and elements more so than in the winter. 

Q:  Is it OK to get a tattoo if I'm sick?

A:  No, for a couple of reasons.  When you are sick, there is the possibility of passing that

       sickness on to others.  Although the artist is clean and protects themselves and the clients,

       you never know when a germ is going to get away and infect someone else.  Another reason is

       you need to be healthy to heal.  Your skin is damaged and needs to heal.  If you are sick, your

       white blood cells are working to heal your illness, so wait to get the tattoo. 

Q:  Where can I find pictures of (skull, teddy bear, lion, etc.) tattoos?

A:  Wherever you want.  There are magazines, internet sites, television shows, people, and flash

       on walls at shops.  But, keep one thing in mind, a tattoo is an expression of you, when looking

       at other tattoos, use them as a starting point for ideas, don't steal anyone else's work.  Be an

       individual. 

Q:  Is it OK to lay out in the sun or go to the tanning bed when you have tattoos?

A:  Please refer to the aftercare link for information on tanning.