FAQ

We are conveniently located in between Minneapolis and Saint Paul. We are just off of I94, at University and Hwy 280.

Via the METRO Green Line, you will find us between the Raymond Ave. Station and the Westgate Station.

It’s pretty easy, really!  Look at the artist portfolios to see who you’d like to work with.  Then simply fill out a TATTOO REQUEST FORM.   Please keep in mind that many of our artists are very busy.  If often take a few days to hear back.  We thank you in advance for your patience!  

 

Having trouble deciding who would be best for your tattoo? Then just select “HELP ME FIND AN ARTIST” on the form.  We’ll try and match you up with an artist that is perfect for your idea!

That is a very tough question to answer!  Sometimes a tattoo is priced per piece; sometimes, per session, and sometimes hourly.  All artists have their own pricing, so you will need to contact them directly to see if they can give you an idea of the price.

Many artists here have an $100 minimum, some are even higher.  This is often subject to size, detail, placement, and artist discretion.  All artists charge at their own rates and set their own minimum prices, so for an estimate, you’ll likely have to contact them directly.

 

Hourly rates vary from artist to artist, and depending on the type of work being done.  The hourly can range between $100 and $250 per hour.  Contact an artist directly to find out more, via our contact page.

A few artists use day rates, and half day rates to manage their workloads.  These often range from $600 to $1,500. 

It really varies on who you choose to work with, and what you want to have done.  

Getting a new tattoo can take it’s toll on your body.  It is best to be well rested, and in a healthy state.  Also, having a full stomach will aid you in sitting through your session.  We recommend bringing some headphones, as well.  If you are able to take Ibuprofen, feel free to take it per the label.  This can help with swelling, but keep in mind that it won’t do much for the direct discomfort of the tattoo.  Distractions can be nice, so bringing a friend is fine!

If this will be your first tattoo, or even the first in a long time, there are some things to know.  All artists here are licensed by the State of Minnesota Health Department.  We undergo annual specialized training and continued education.  You will be receiving a tattoo from a qualified, professional artist, so try not to worry!

Does it hurt?  Well…. yeah. They do.  But not too bad!  Some areas are definitely more sensitive than others.  Of course size and detail can have an effect on the pain level as well.  For the most part, the tattoo process feels similar to a bad sunburn, being applied with some moderate pressure.  But don’t fret.  You will survive!

Tattoo aftercare can vary from artist to artist, and even from tattoo to tattoo.  It really isn’t too complicated though!  First advice is to ALWAYS FOLLOW YOUR ARTISTS RECOMMENDATION.  They know your skin.  They know how they put the ink in.  Uncle Bob’s friend, Randy does not, we assure you. Depending on what type of bandage you have, there are different processes to healing your tattoo.  If your artist used a standard GAUZE type of bandage, read below.  If your artist used a “Second Skin” type of bandage, skip below to the bullet points.

Generally speaking, the bandage is usually left on for up to 4 hours.  Sometimes, overnight is OK, too.  Once the bandage is removed, the tattoo should be cleaned with warm water, a mild soap, and just your <em>clean</em> fingertips.

At this point, patting it dry with a clean towel should suffice.  Now you can put on your lotion that was recommended to you by your artist.  Often times, this is either H2Ocean, Aquaphor, Eucerin, and Cetaphil, or Lubriderm. Applying thin coats, working it into the skin, as to not leave any excess on the tattoo, about 3 times a day.  Use clean hands!

Continue this process for about two weeks.  Once your tattoo peels (usually around day 5) the skin regenerates over the top of your tattoo.  Refrain from picking at your tattoo, at all costs.  The skin will fall away when it’s ready to. Sometimes there will be a shine on this new skin.  Don’t worry, though, as it will go away.  If you have any questions, call the shop and we’ll be happy to answer them!

During this process, it is important that you do not soak your tattoo.  This means no swimming, baths, hot tubs, saunas, etc.  Showering, however, is great!  Wash your tattoo daily at minimum, and keep it clean!

 

 

• Your artist may have your tattoo bandaged in what we call a “Second Skin” type of adhesive.  You’ll know if you have one, as it is clear, much like a Saran Wrap product.  We assure you that this is very different, indeed.
• Your bandage will collect fluid.  While visually displeasing, this is very common.  It is a collection of blood, plasma, and residual ink.  Don’t worry though!  Your ink isn’t falling out!  It’s just a little extra ink.  Often times, this appears as a discolored “blister”, or an ink sac.  Again, this is totally normal!  Where it can become an issue is if any of this liquid leaks out.  If it does, this breaks the “seal” of the bandage.  The bandage should then be removed.  If your artist provided you with an extra bandage, you may put it on.  See below for “Installation Instructions”.
• Ideally, these bandages stay on from 5-7 days total.  Sometimes this just isn’t practical.  But the longer you leave the bandage on, the quicker you will heal.  Feel free to get them wet in the shower.  That won’t affect anything.  However, stay out of bath tubs, saunas, pools, lakes, etc.  While it’s ok to get it wet, submerging it is a different story.  So don’t do it!
• WHEN TO REMOVE THE BANDAGE
• If your bandage has leaked, remove the bandage.  (Apply another one if your artist gave you some)  If you notice ANY redness on the outside of your bandage.  Look carefully, especially in the under arm or inner thigh, if your bandage is applied in those areas.  The skin is much more sensitive there.
• HOW TO REMOVE YOUR BANDAGE
• Make sure your in the shower when you remove it.  It’ll be a little gross after a few days of collecting fluids. Wash it off gently.  Fell free to use a mild soap, ideally an antibacterial soap if you have some.  Peel it off SLOWLY…  It’s not a race!  And you can damage your skin and new tattoo if you rip it off.  You may still need a little moisturization, so feel free to apply Hustle Butter, or even a small amount of white hand lotion, such as Lubriderm.  Stay away from petroleum based products such as Aquaphor, Vaseline, Neosporin, or Bacitracin.
• INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
• If your artist supplied you with extra bandages, fell free to take the first one off after 24 hours, or whatever is convenient.  Wash your tattoo and surrounding areas off with water, and get all of the fluid off of it.  Make sure you pat it dry, and don’t use any lotion at this stage, as you don’t want anything trapped under your bandage.   With clean hands, peel off the hard paper backing, and gently lay the clear part across your tattoo.  Be careful, as it’s super sticky.  The bandage should cover your tattoo and extend by 1 inch over the edges of your tattoo.  Next peel off the shiny backing.  This can be tricky!  If you have little strips of bandages, lay the next one on and repeat.  Make sure that you DON’T STRETCH YOU SKIN OR PULL THE BANDAGE TIGHT!!!
• If you have any questions, reach out to the studio or your artist.  As always, if you show any sign of infection, contact your health care provider!  Signs  of infection may include, but are not limited to fever, abnormal and excessive  swelling of the tattooed area, pus, red lesions, red streaking from the area, and excessive, prolong heat emanating from the tattoo.

Naturally, we need a to find a design for you first!  We will gladly help you determine a design that might suit your needs.  Your artist will advise you on what a design needs to make sure it looks great for years to come, and implement this in your tattoo.  We want your tattoo to look as great as you want it to, as well!  Often times, a consultation between you and your artist will accomplish this.  There is no fee for a consultation, but a deposit to secure your appointment is often required.

Once we have the design info, your artist will start their design process.  This can take anywhere from a few minutes, to several hours, or even days.  For this reason, deposits are non-refundable.  They do however, get applied to your tattoo cost in the end.

On the day of your appointment, you’ll need to be on time.  Come well rested, with a full stomach.  Bring some headphones and some Jolly Ranchers!  Your artist will go over the final design with you, and make any adjustments deemed necessary.  Then, it’s tattoo time!!!

Usually, yes.  However, due to overwhelming demand, you will need to call in advance to check availability.  We have plenty of artists!  We are open 7 days a week, as well.  That being said, walk ins are taken on a first come, first served basis.  Many of us work by appointment only, but there is usually someone around ready to tattoo you!  It is recommended to call ahead, just to make sure that someone will be available.

Feel free to call and talk to Beckett or Jaymes, and they’ll get your info.  If an artist becomes available, they’ll be sure to reach out!

Also, keep in mind that we have a “Get What You Get” box at the studio.  

“Get What Ya Get” is a recent trend in tattooing.  It’s where you let luck decide you tattoo for you!  While this may not be for everyone, there certainly is a lot of excitement for it!  We have a setup supplied by @mrflashmachine .  For $150, you let fate decide your tattoo.  But for $200, you can pick which one ya want!  You decide… or let fate!!! Call and inquire ahead to make sure we can get ya covered!

For any piercing of a minor, a parent or legal guardian must be present to sign a consent form. Proof positive, state issued photo identification is required from the legal guardian, and a bona fide form of identification from the minor. This may include, but is not limited to a state issued ID card,  a birth certificate,  and/or valid school ID.  In the event the parent has a different last name and/or address from the child, court documentation is needed to prove the relationship, i.e., divorce papers, or a remarriage certificate.

Under no circumstances is it acceptable or appropriate for a piercer to perform piercing on the nipples or genitals of an individual under 18 years of age. 

Minors, age 8 to 15, may get their ear lobes pierced by appointment only. However, minors age 13+ may also get nostril, helix, septum, and eyebrow.  We will limit the piercing to 2 per session.

Minors, age 16 and 17, may get any piercing with the exception of genital and nipples.