Making sure you are ready for your session is an important step in the tattoo process. Here are some tips and helpful information to help you come prepared.

1. You must be 18+

   -In the state of Iowa parental consent is no longer accepted. It is a misdemeanor to tattoo a minor. It is also required we have a valid state issued driver’s license or ID on file to complete a tattoo. Make sure you bring this at the time of your appointment; without it we will not be able to tattoo you.

2. Make sure you have your design ready

   -Your artist will reach out ahead of time to discuss your design and placement. Make sure you send them any reference photos, ideas, and concepts you would like for your tattoo prior to your appointment. We ask you to do this ahead of time so that your artist doesn’t have to take up your appointment time with drawing and can have this ready for you when you arrive. It is also helpful to let them know your desired size for your design as well as where you would like it placed on your body.

3. Expect to sit very still

   -I want you to imagine drawing a completely straight line on an orange while riding a roller coaster- that’s what it’s like for your artist when you kick your feet, grab your phone, move your hair, etc. If you need to cough, take a break, grab some water or anything else just let your artist know they will accommodate your needs. Communication is important and we want to make sure you get the best tattoo possible.

4. Hydration is important

   -Your skin is a living thing, it might seem small but drinking a lot of water several days before your appointment could be the difference between your tattoo being executed and healing well and it completely falling out. Hydration makes a big difference.

5. Don’t be shy with your lotion

   -Hydrated and moisturized skin is key. Moisturize several days before your appointment. If you want to go the extra mile you can even lather the area you are getting your tattoo and wrap it with saran wrap for 30 minutes before your appointment. Your artist and your skin will thank you.

6. Don’t come hungry

   -It’s very important you do not get a tattoo on an empty stomach, this increases your likelihood of passing out and illness during your session. Make sure you eat a hearty, carb heavy meal an hour or two prior to your appointment.

7. What you wear matters

   -Wearing the correct clothing to your appointment matters. If we can’t access the place you would like your tattoo then we will not be able to put it there. See below for a more in depth “what to wear” guide.

8. Children are not allowed

   -People under the age of 18 are not allowed in the tattoo area. This is the studio’s choice for the health and safety of our clients and their guests. We use heavy duty cleaning and disinfecting materials that are not suitable for inhalation and consumption and children are especially vulnerable to this.

9. Can I bring my friends?

   -If you would like a group session reach out to the shop prior to booking. Not all of our tattoo spaces can accommodate a larger number of people. If you are the sole person getting a tattoo we have room for 1-2 guests in addition to yourself. If you bring more people than that they will be asked to wait in the lobby.

10. Not all placements are created equal

    -Some placements are harder to tattoo, more painful than, and others don’t heal or age as well- this will affect the price and recovery. Ribs, for example, are a difficult area to tattoo. Because of this it will take longer and will affect the cost of the piece. Hands/fingers/head/face/neck placement do not heal the same as the rest of the body. They are prone to fading and falling out and/or blowing out and expanding over time. Because of this these placements are not guaranteed by the studio. It is up to you and your artist to discuss the risks and rewards and decide if these are the right placements for you. Please see below for a pain scale.