Frequently Asked Questions

How long have you been tattooing?

I’ve been tattooing since January of 2011. I started tattooing in Brooklyn, New York… out of my basement. Sometimes you just have to go for it!

Before tattooing, I worked as a nurse for four years. (A really bad one. 😅) I eventually realized I was a much better tattoo artist than I ever was a nurse.

Do you use a stencil?

Sometimes.

Rarely.

Most of my work is drawn freehand directly on the body. This allows the design to flow naturally with your anatomy and your curves, rather than forcing your body to fit a drawing.

My goal is to honor the natural curves and contours of your body. I truly believe freehand is the best way to do that.

What does “freehand” mean?

Freehand means I draw your tattoo directly onto your body rather than placing a printed stencil first.

Every person’s anatomy is different. Your muscles, curves, posture, and proportions are uniquely yours.

Drawing directly on the body allows me to create a design that moves with you instead of asking your body to fit a flat piece of paper.

Once we’re both happy with the drawing, I tattoo exactly what we’ve created together.

Will I see my design before my appointment?

Since everything I create is freehand, I don’t send the drawing ahead of time.

Every design is created directly on your body, the day of your appointment, allowing it to flow naturally with your anatomy.

We take our time during together, making any adjustments you’d like before I begin tattooing.

How much drawing time is included?

Half day appointments include approximately 2 to 3 hours of drawing time.

Full day appointments include approximately 2 to 4 hours of drawing time.

This time is built into your appointment so we can create something completely accustomed together.

There is never any rush.

Can I make changes to the drawing?

Absolutely!

This is your tattoo. 🖤

The drawing process is collaborative, and we’ll make any adjustments you’d like before we begin tattooing. My goal is for you to leave with something you genuinely love.

We don’t start tattooing until we’re both excited about the design.

What should I do before my tattoo?

Eat a nourishing meal.

Stay hydrated.

Get a good night sleep.

Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed.

Please avoid arriving under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs.

Moisturizing the area daily for the two weeks leading up to your appointment really helps.

Do tattoos hurt?

Everyone experiences getting tattooed differently.

Some areas are more sensitive than others, but most clients are presently surprised by how manageable the experience is.

We’ll take breaks whenever needed.

Can I use numbing cream?

Yes.

Please let me know ahead of time if you plan on using one.

I’ll recommend the products I trust and explain exactly how to apply them for best results.

Can I bring someone with me?

Because my studio is intentionally quiet and intimate, I ask that you let me know ahead of time if you’d like to bring a guest.

This way I can have the environment prepared.

No children please.

This helps create a calm and focused experience for everyone.

Can you tattoo over scars?

Often, yes.

Every scar heals differently, so I’ll need to see clear photos before determining whether the area is ready.

In most cases, scars should be at least a year old before being tattooed.

Do you do coverups?

Yes.

I’ll first evaluate your existing tattoo to determine whether a cover-up is the best option or whether laser removal would create a better long-term result.

Sometimes a few laser sessions can open up far more beautiful possibilities.

Can I bring my own design?

You’re always welcome to bring inspiration.

Whether it’s photos, flowers, architecture, artwork, or a feeling you’d like to capture, those references help me understand your vision.

Rather than copying other artist’s work I’ll create a custom design that’s uniquely yours.