Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our FAQ section! Here, we’ve gathered answers to the most frequently asked questions about tattoos to make your experience as seamless as possible. We know that getting a tattoo is a significant decision, often accompanied by curiosity and a few questions, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned collector.
To make it easier to find what you need, we’ve organized our FAQ into three sections: and added buttons below to quickly take you directly to that section.
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General Questions: The most common questions we get.
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For First-Timers: Everything you need to know before your first tattoo.
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Curiosities: Fun or unique questions you might have wondered about.
If you don’t see your question answered here, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re here to help with any additional questions you may have.
Do we offer consultations?
Yes, we offer free consultations, and it’s essential that you visit the shop in person to meet with your artist. We do not offer consultations over the phone, email, or social media, as discussing your design, placement, size, and details is best done face-to-face.
During your in-person consultation, which typically lasts about 15 minutes, your artist will help finalize your vision. If your tattoo appointment isn’t already booked, they’ll schedule it with you at that time. A deposit is required to secure your spot and will be applied to the final cost of your tattoo.
Most Asked
Questions
Do we do Piercings?
No we have not had a Piercer in 6 years. Unfortunately google has the piercing and tattoo tags together.
Do we take Walk-ins?
Yes we take Walk-ins Daily. We have 4 artists in the shop so usually have someone available.
What is a Walk-in?
Walk-ins are typically limited to palm-sized designs or smaller, though it ultimately depends on the style and design of the artwork. To determine if your design is suitable for a walk-in appointment, we recommend stopping by the studio to discuss it directly with one of our artists.
Can a cover up be a Walk-in?
Usually not, but it ultimately depends on the design. Cover-ups generally require us to assess your existing tattoo and brainstorm ideas that will work well with it. With enough time, we can create a custom piece that transforms your old tattoo into something you’ll love. For the best results, we recommend stopping in for a consultation so we can fully plan the design that meets your vision.
How much for A Tattoo?
This can be a tough question to answer, as the price varies depending on several factors: the design, size, style, placement, level of detail, choice of color vs. black and grey, and even font style or line thickness. Think of it like asking, “How much does a car cost? or how much for a bag of Groceries?”—it really depends on the specifics! The best way to get an accurate quote is to stop by the studio and let us take a look at your idea. We’ll be happy to give you an estimate based on your vision.
Tattoo Pricing?
All price quotes are given directly from the artist in person, doing your tattoo. Price quotes are honored only from the artist who gave you the price quote. We can not give an exact price quotes over the phone, or via social media or emails. Our artists need to be able to talk to you about your tattoo in person and see a picture of your reference, exact size you want it, location of your body it is going, and all the other important details so we can give your tattoo the time and attention it deserves.
Our shop Minimum
We start at $60 for simple small deigns. Pricing depends on time, location and design. For larger Session pieces are prices are between $100 -$150 an hour.
How to make an appointment?
To book an appointment, simply visit the studio for a consultation. This allows us to connect you with an artist who will discuss your design, provide a price and time estimate, and help schedule a suitable appointment. A deposit is required to secure your booking. We look forward to bringing your tattoo ideas to life!
How much is the deposit?
A $60 deposit is required to reserve your appointment time. This deposit holds your time slot and will go toward the cost of your tattoo. If you need to reschedule, just give us a call ahead of time, and we’ll be happy to adjust your appointment. Please note that a “no-call, no-show” will result in the loss of your deposit.
Do we tattoo Minors?
Yes, with their Parents, but there are restrictions.
They must be 16 and over, have a government-issued photo ID (license, state ID, passport) As both the minor and parent will have paperwork to fill out. If you have matching last names then we just need the ID's, If you do not having matching last names then we need the birth certificate as well.
We also will not tattoo any minor on their hands, face or neck, or anywhere they would have to be exposed in anyway to be Tattooed.
Where Can I park?
​Our free, parking lot is located behind our building as well as the large lot behind the Avis Rental company. Please use the front entrance to come & go.
Can I bring my kids with me?
No, children are not allowed in the shop, including the lobby, bathrooms, and during consultations. While we understand you may feel your child is well-behaved, past experiences have led us to enforce this policy.
Babies and toddlers, in particular, cannot be expected to remain quiet, and unexpected noises can disrupt the focus of artists working on other clients. This could lead to mistakes, which we take very seriously. Please respect our policy and arrange for childcare before your visit to ensure a professional and safe environment for everyone.
Do we do Cover-ups
Yes, we do cover-ups, but you’ll need to visit the shop for a consultation. This allows us to assess the original tattoo and determine what’s needed to cover it effectively.
It’s best to come with an open mind and bring multiple examples of styles or themes you like, rather than a fixed design. This flexibility helps us create a custom piece that works with the existing tattoo and ensures the best possible result.
Do we do touchups?
If your tattoo is not in a high-wear area and you’ve taken great care during the healing process, you likely won’t need a touch-up. However, healing can vary, and sometimes touch-ups are necessary.
Our Touch-Up Policy:
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You are eligible for one free touch-up within 6 months of completing your tattoo. After this period, the free touch-up offer expires, and pricing will vary based on the work required.
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Touch-ups for areas like fingers, faces, hands, and feet are not included in the free touch-up policy.
Once your tattoo has healed (at least 3 weeks after your session), stop by the shop to discuss any touch-up needs with the artist who worked on your piece. We’ll assess the tattoo and help ensure it looks its best.
First Time Tattoo Questions
Here, we’ll cover the most frequently asked questions for first-timers getting a tattoo.
Are Tattoos safe?
Yes, tattooing is safe when performed by a reputable artist who adheres to strict safety and hygiene standards. It’s important to share any medical conditions, allergies, or a tendency to faint with your artist beforehand, as factors like skin conditions, immune system issues, or allergies can impact the process. Being upfront ensures your artist can take the necessary precautions to prioritize your safety. We also use only single use cartridge needles.
Our Inks:
We exclusively use industry-supported, high-quality organic inks purchased from licensed retailers and wholesalers. Our primary ink brand is Eternal Ink, known for its organic pigments, hypoallergenic properties, and vegan-friendly formulation (free of animal by-products and never tested on animals).
If you’re concerned about how your body might react, we recommend starting with a small tattoo to observe your skin’s response. Don’t hesitate to ask us any questions—we’re here to help!
What to consider when choosing your first tattoo?
Have a good idea of what you want and where you want it before reaching out. If you’re requesting a custom design, research and come with a general concept to help your artist bring your vision to life.
Think about your budget, the size of the tattoo, and the style you like. Choose an artist whose work matches your vision and make sure you feel comfortable talking to them—they should listen to your ideas.
When you’re ready, stop by for a free consultation to get started!
Will a tattoo Artist Tattoo anything I want?
Not always we generally do not like copying others work we try to customize it a bit for you. Artists may refuse to tattoo certain areas of the body, underage clients, or designs that are offensive, such as racist imagery or anything they’re uncomfortable creating. For example, an 18-year-old requesting their first tattoo on their neck, face, hands, or a significant other’s name across their back Will be advised against it.
A good artist will guide you away from choices that could lead to regrets, cover-ups, or laser removal in the future. Tattoos are meant to last a lifetime, so careful planning is key to creating something you’ll cherish forever.
How Should I Prepare for My Tattoo Appointment?
1.Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Do not drink alcohol or take blood-thinning medications like Ibuprofen or Aspirin within 24 hours of your appointment.
2.Protect Your Skin: Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least two weeks before (and after) your tattoo.
3.Get Rest and Eat Well: Sleep well the night before and eat a full meal with some sugar before your appointment to prevent dizziness or nausea and to help manage pain. Avoid getting tattooed on an empty stomach or with low blood sugar.
4.Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
5.Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose loose, comfortable clothing that won’t obstruct the area being tattooed and is easy to adjust if needed.
Following these steps will help ensure a smooth and comfortable tattoo experience!
How painful is it getting a tattoo?
Yes, getting a tattoo does involve some pain, but it’s manageable for most people. Pain levels vary depending on the location of the tattoo and your personal sensitivity. Some areas of the body are more sensitive than others, and everyone’s pain tolerance is different.
For most, the sensation is often compared to a mild sunburn.
Here is a visual guide to help show what the General consensus is on pain level
Do you offer any numbing/anesthetic?
We do not apply numbing creams in the shop, as most require being wrapped on the skin with saran wrap for about an hour before starting the tattoo. If you decide to use numbing cream, you’ll need to apply it at home prior to your appointment.
Here are some important considerations:
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Buy from Reputable Sellers: Only purchase creams from trusted sources, as resellers have been known to sell tainted products.
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Do a Patch Test: Always test the cream on a small area of skin to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction.
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Be Aware of Limitations: Many numbing creams wear off during the tattooing process, and the area can become more sensitive once the effect fades.
Some creams can be ordered online or obtained through a doctor. If you’re considering using one, be sure to discuss it with your artist beforehand to ensure it won’t interfere with the tattoo process.
What should you bring with you?
You will need to bring a government-issued photo ID (license, state ID, passport, etc.) As you will have paperwork to fill out.
Please bring any reference material with you, if coming in for a walk-in otherwise your artist should have that already.
The day of your tattoo appointment, please bring anything your artist requested of you at your consultation. Feel free to bring your headphones, a tablet, book, magazine, bottle of water/any other non-alcoholic beverage with a lid, and light snacks if desired.
You can bring a guest with you but remember this is a tattoo procedure not a hangout, If your friend is causing you to move we might ask them to sit up front until the tattoo is completed.
What should you do while getting Tattoed?
Feeling anxious before or during a tattoo is completely normal! Here are some tips to help you stay calm and make the experience smoother:
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Stay Relaxed: Avoid tensing up or flexing while the artist is working, as it can make the process more difficult.
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Breathe Normally: Don’t hold your breath or hyperventilate (taking shallow, quick breaths). This can lead to fainting.
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Minimize Movement: Even small movements, like shifting your arm, kicking your foot, or fidgeting, can cause the chair to shake or shift your position, affecting the tattoo.
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Communicate: If you feel lightheaded or need a moment, let your artist know. Breaks are always okay!
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Find Your Focus: Some people like to watch the process, while others prefer distractions like reading or watching something on their phone (with headphones). Our shop also has plenty of artwork to help you relax and find your zen.
Everyone experiences tattoos differently—find what works best for you and enjoy the journey!
How long will your tattoo take to heal?
Tattoo heal times vary per person and per location, complexity of tattoo and amount of shading done.
Your artist will give you aftercare instructions for your tattoo. Generally takes about 2 to 3 weeks, but ultimately you will know your tattoo is healed when it is no longer flaking and is smooth to the touch.
Your tattoo is Peeling?
Peeling doesn't mean you're losing ink or that your tattoo is going to fade. It means it is healing and the top layers of dead skin are flaking off. This is normal don't pick at it just let it flake or peel off naturally.
Your tattoo is flaking off the ink! What do I do?
No worries! When your tattoo flakes and it appears that your color is peeling off, it is just the outer layer of "scabbing" shedding to reveal your healing tattoo underneath. Do not fret! It's totally normal.
Your tattoo is healed but a spot doesnt look right?
Things can happen during the healing process and we do understand that. After a piece that we have done is healed, if it needs a touchup, we will touch it up for you. This is depending on the type of damage, the time since it was done and size but it should be free.
Fingers, Faces, Hands and Feet are not Free touch ups. Come in and talk to the artist that worked on the piece to see what is needed, after it is all healed and we will be glad to help you out.
Can you shower after getting a tattoo?
Yes! Showering after your tattoo is a great way to wash it for the first time. Showering is the prefered method of cleaning yourself, Do not take baths or submerge your tattoo in water. We recommend NOT using hot water, but warm water. Hot water can burn your freshly tattooed skin and affect the healing process. We also suggest not to let the water continuously flow onto the tattoo as you do not want to over saturate it and lose any of the color.
When can you go swimming?
Once your tattoo has completely gone through the shedding/peeling stage and the skin is smooth to the touch you can absolutely hit the beach or the pool! If you are unsure, please ask your tattoo artist before hopping in the water.
When can you go tanning?
For the longevity of your tattoo, we never recommend tanning as long term tanning can affect the longevity of the tattoo, but we understand wanting that golden brown skin! In the event that you wish to go tanning, your tattoo should be completely healed plus 3 months.
Curiosities:
Fun, random, or unique questions you might have wondered about.
Should your skin be perfectly clear?
General rule of thumb: the clearer, the better. Dry, chaffed, sunburned, irritated, and/or broken out skin will not tattoo well and will ultimately hinder the quality of your tattoo once healed. If you are suffering from any type of skin issue, we may ask you to choose another area to have us tattoo or reschedule your appointment.
Should You tip your Artist?
​Tipping is a really nice gesture and are always welcome and appreciated. But, there are not hard and fast rules for tipping so use your discretion and do what makes you comfortable. If you had a great experience and you are happy with a job well done, it never hurts to show it.
How long will you have to wait for an appointment?
We have four talented artists in the shop, so wait times can vary depending on the design, size, and placement of your tattoo. However, we typically have openings on a weekly basis.
To check availability, you’ll need to come in and speak with an artist directly, as each of us has our own schedule. If we’re busy when you stop by, you might need to wait for about 30 minutes at most until someone is available to assist you. We appreciate your patience and look forward to helping you with your tattoo!
Will your tattoo Fade?
Yes, tattoos do fade over time.
The condition of your skin plays a significant role in how your tattoo will look as the years go by. For the brightest and longest-lasting results, it’s important to protect your tattoo with a high SPF sunscreen when exposed to the sun.
However, it’s natural for your skin to break down some of the ink over the years, which can lead to fading and changes in line thickness. Fine line tattoos and lettering are especially prone to these effects as they age. Below, you’ll find a guide showing how tattoo lines can evolve over time.
By taking care of your skin and being mindful of placement and design, you can help your tattoo maintain its beauty for years to come.
When is it normal for a tattoo to fade?
It's normal for a new tattoo to settle slightly within the first six months. Most tattoos won't fade significantly for 10 years, but some may show early signs of fading in as little as 2–5 years.
What causes tattoos to fade?
How long is your tattoo going to last?
1- Immune system cells: Macrophages, cells from your immune system, gradually absorb and disperse the ink in your tattoo.
2- Sunlight: UV rays from the sun can prematurely fade tattoo ink.
3- Friction: Continuous friction can cause tattoos to fade.
4- Improper care: Poor initial care, poor overall skin care, and poor overall nutrition can all cause tattoos to fade.
5- Tattoo color: Black and gray inks are the most fade-resistant colors and can last for up to 10 years or longer.
Your tattoo is designed to last a lifetime—unless you choose to have it removed via laser.
With proper care and by avoiding high-wear areas, a tattoo can stay vibrant for 10 to 20+ years before showing signs of fading or needing restoration. Wear spots—like hands, feet, and fingers—are more prone to fading due to constant friction and exposure.
If you’re unsure about the longevity of your tattoo in a specific area, ask your artist for advice on placement and care.
Can you get Tattooed if you are Sick or Pregnant?
If you’re sick it’s best to reschedule. Your tolerance to pain and stress will be low, It will slow down your healing time, and your artist probably does not want to catch anything.
If your pregnant, you will need to schedule for after baby is born. A tattoo can be to stressful on the body for a pregnant mother.
Can you get tattooed if you are on medication or have a medical condition?
In many cases, medications and medical conditions don’t interfere with the tattooing process. However, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor beforehand to confirm it’s safe for you.
While our team has First Aid and Bloodborne Pathogens training, we are not medical professionals and cannot make this determination for you.
You may be asked to provide a signed medical release from your doctor before getting tattooed. It’s also important to inform your artist about:
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Medications that thin the blood or affect clotting.
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Medical conditions that could impact your health during the tattooing process or while the wound heals.
This policy is about ensuring your safety, not reducing our liability. Your health and happiness with your tattoo are our top priorities!
Do we do inner lip tattoos?
Sorry folks! We do NOT perform inner lip tattoos.
Do we do inner ear tattoos?
Sorry, we don’t typically do novelty tattoos. Many novelty designs can be trendy or short-lived, and we want to create tattoos that stand the test of time—both in style and quality. Our goal is to give you a tattoo that will look great for years to come, not just a passing fad.
Do we use Black light ink?
No, we do not offer blacklight tattoos in our shop.
Blacklight tattoo ink doesn’t actually glow in the dark; it reacts to UV light, producing a visible glow under certain lighting conditions. The ink typically contains microspheres of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) with fluorescent dye. However, this ink can cause irritation or inflammation, and many tattoo artists do not consider it safe for use. For your health and safety, we choose not to offer blacklight tattoos.
Do we use Glow-in-the-dark ink?
No, we do not offer glow-in-the-dark tattoos in our shop.
Glow-in-the-dark tattoo ink absorbs and retains light, glowing in the dark through a process called phosphorescence. However, the phosphorus used in these inks can cause skin rashes and may be carcinogenic. Because of these potential risks, many tattoo artists consider this ink unsafe, which is why we choose not to offer it. Your health and safety are our top priority.
Will we Add cremation ashes to ink?
No, adding cremation ashes to tattoo ink is against Nebraska Health Department regulations and is strictly prohibited. Any artist offering to do this is breaking the law, and trusting them with your skin could be dangerous. For your safety, always choose a licensed and reputable artist who follows all legal and health standards.
If you want to put your family member's ashes into something there are Glass artists that can do that and give you an art piece you can wear or display.
You want your significant other's name tattooed?
Yes, we might do it for you, but we feel it’s important to explain "THE CURSE."
"THE CURSE" seems to affect the vast majority of couples—soon after getting a partner's name tattooed, the relationship often ends. This can also happen with best friend tattoos.
In the tattoo world, significant other name tattoos are often considered a bad idea and a likely future cover-up. We’ve seen people married for 15-20 years who later divorced and needed to cover up their partner’s name. While we all hope our relationships last forever, life can be unpredictable.
If you’re set on getting a couple tattoo, consider choosing a shared symbol or something meaningful to both of you instead of a name. For name tattoos, parents, family members, or pets are typically safer choices with far less chance of regret.