TATTOO FAQ
Where can I see your available flash?
I release new flash via my newsletter, just before I open my books. I render all of my flash by hand. This process takes a long time but I feel it's the most accurate way to represent how these drawings will appear as tattoos. Because of this detailed step in my art process I am only able to open my books seasonally.
Can I reserve a specific piece of flash?
YES, BUT! You absolutely must be 100% committed to getting that specific piece tattooed. I tattoo each drawing once only. If I reserve a piece for you, that means it becomes unavailable to everyone else.
Do you offer custom tattoos?
Sometimes. I am only able to take on a *few* custom projects each cycle as I spend the majority of my drawing time creating new flash for the next booking cycle. I only accept custom requests that align with my current interests and style.
Custom tattoos are original works of art made at your request and this is reflected in the pricing of these works. They are more expensive than flash tattoos. Custom drawings will be shown to you when you arrive at your appointment, I do not send drawings in advance of the appointment.
Do you offer touchups?
Yes! Before you reach out for a touchup please know:
- My tattoos are handmade and they are designed to heal with varying textures, values and lineweights. My work embraces the look of handpoke!
- Sometimes tattoos may heal unevenly, or certain parts of the design may need a second pass to bring out the desired contrast. If this is the case, please come on in for a touchup!
Necessary touchups are free. Hand and finger touchups require a materials fee as this area is exposed to more wear and tear. If you think you need a touchup don’t be shy; please email me at birthdaebiz@gmail.com with an in-focus and well-lit photo of your tattoo.
Do you offer color tests?
Yes! Anyone can get a color tattoo. Typically a color test is a small rainbow of different colored dots tattooed to see how color heals on your skin. I feel it should be noted that the way I apply handpoked color may heal differently than color applied by machine (color in my tattoos is sometimes softer and less saturated).
- Color tests are free for Black folks and anyone with darker skin pigmentation.
- All other tests are $30 to cover materials.
- If you are getting an all-red tattoo and don’t have any red ink yet, I strongly suggest coming in for a red color test prior to your appointment.
If you want a color test before you get a tattoo from me we will schedule two appointments, the first one being the color test and then about 1.5 months later we’ll see how the colors healed and we can create your tattoo with desired colors.
What is the difference between a handpoke and a machine made tattoo?
Handpoked tattoos are made of a series of small, singular dots put into the skin with a tattoo needle poked by hand. No machine is involved in this process. Ink is being depositied into the same layer of skin as a mchine-made tattoo and handpoked tattoos are just as permanent. Handpoked tattoos can take a while to create, which is why it is not my preference to tattoo medium to larger pieces on sensitive areas such as the side ribs.
My handpoked tattoos have a more speckled, hand drawn feel to them. My tattoos are designed to incorporate the subtle variety of inconsistencies and textures that are natural to this tattooing process. I find the building up of dotwork and textures to be very sculptural. I am able to talk with my clients throughout the process and I absolutely enjoy sharing this ritual with them!