APPOINTMENTS

Do I need an appointment to get a tattoo?
If your tattoo is going to require a good deal of preparation or multiple sessions, you need an appointment. If you are getting a smaller tattoo (one session) that requires minimal drawing, you can come in on a Saturday as a walk-in. No hourly work will be done on a Saturday, tattoos will be priced before we start. Keep in mind that Saturdays are somewhat chaotic. For greater privacy and a more relaxed atmosphere, an appointment is suggested.

I would like to make an appointment, what’s the best way to go about that?
To make an appointment, you will need to come in to the shop. We require a deposit in order to set aside time in the book for you. Sorry, we can not take appointments via email, myspace, or telephone.

How long is the wait for an appointment?
The waiting period fluctuates. It is best to call the shop for the most up to date information.

I have to cancel or reschedule my appointment, what should i do?
Please call the shop (202 337 5469) to cancel or reschedule an appointment. You can not do this via the internet. We require 24 hour notice to avoid the forfeiture of deposit.

CONSULTATIONS

I would like to meet with you for a consultation, what should I do?
Please call the shop and we will make sure that time is set aside for you. Just dropping in randomly can result in long waits or multiple visits.

I have some questions or ideas about a project, will you help me with this through email?
Eric: I can help you sort out all of the preliminary stuff through email. The final step will be coming in to the shop to book time, get the area measured, drop off any reference, etc.
Susan: I am not internet-oriented and prefer to meet in person. Please bring any reference you might have with you.

What information will you need from me?
We will need a good description of what you would like to get. It is a good idea to write this down ahead of time and to prioritize all of the various details that you wish to see in your design. Often, size constraints require that a few ideas or details fall by the wayside. Having a prioritized list will help us focus on what is most important to you.

Any reference that is pertinent to the design should be brought with you. If this reference is in the form of an expensive book, personally valuable photograph, etc., please bring a color copy of the item instead of the original.

GETTING TATTOOED

What should I bring with me on the day of the appointment?
First and foremost, arrive rested and having recently eaten a decent meal.
The clothes you wear should be comfortable, expendable (ink stains), and should allow access to the body part being tattooed. It is often a good idea to bring a pillow and some energy providing snacks for long sessions.

Cell phones, etc. ?
Don’t even think about it.

MP3 player?
Don’t forget your headphones.

What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, credit cards, and traveller’s checks.

HEALING AND CARE

How long will it take for my tattoo to heal?
It usually takes about two weeks to fully heal. Expect a few days of tenderness followed by several days of peeling and flaking skin. Tattoos heal more like sunburns than cuts or scrapes, so scabbing is usually minimal.

How do I care for my healing tattoo?
You will keep the tattoo clean and moisturized throughout healing. You will also have to avoid direct exposure of the new tattoo to sun, tanning beds, etc. for three weeks. Soaking in tubs and/or swimming must be avoided for two weeks. A detailed, written description of the healing regimen will be provided for you after your session.

Will I need a touch up? What do I do if I need a touch-up?
It is not expected that you will need a touch up, but we will gladly take care of it if you do.
Give your tattoo at least a month for the skin to fully recover, then call the shop and we will set aside time for you. Touch-ups typically take less than thirty minutes.