Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book an appointment?
For booking requests, I ask that you fill out a booking form so I can get all the details for the tattoo you’re imagining. I don’t accept any booking requests over email or Instagram DMs.
Please keep in mind I do NOT tattoo anyone under the age of 18, no exceptions.
What is your deposit policy?
I require a $100 deposit for most tattoos, and a $200 deposit for large products such as sleeves, back pieces, etc. The deposit payment is required at the time of booking in order to secure your appointment. I will email you the deposit form which will also contain a link for payment.
The deposit is applied to the final price of the tattoo. If it is a multi-session project, the deposit will cover each appointment and be applied to the total at the last session.
Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferrable, no exceptions.
I require a minimum of 48 hours notice before the day of your appointment for reschedules. A new deposit will be required if you reschedule within 48 hours leading up to your appointment. If you reschedule twice in a row, regardless of when you notify me, you will need to pay a new deposit.
If you cancel outright, your deposit is forfeited and will not be returned, regardless of when you cancel.
Do you do cover-ups/ scar covers?
I do take on cover up/scar cover projects on a case-by-case basis. Typically, I like to have an in-person consultation so I can see the tattoo/scar in person, and we can go over your ideas and options.
Do you tattoo people with darker skin tones?
Absolutely. I can do black and gray or color. Color tattoos on darker skin are completely possible, despite what you may have heard otherwise.
I do recommend color tests so we can get an idea of how the colors you want will heal and if we need to make adjustments. These are very small patches of color we can place in an inconspicuous area on the body or wherever you would be comfortable. You can keep it simple with lines or circles, or you can get creative with it!
Color tests are ALWAYS free.
Below are some examples of color tests for tattoos:
If you would like to see tattoos I have previously done on darker skin tones, I’ve compiled some here:
What are your rates?
My current rate is $180/hr.
I offer flat day rates based off my hourly rate.
For smaller tattoos that take less than 3 hours, you will be quoted a price based on the design. I have a $100 minimum. Pricing includes 30 min. set up/stenciling time plus active tattoo time. If we are drawing on the design, that time will be charged with my hourly rate. I never charge extra for short breaks or a lunch break for full day sessions.
❤ Half Day Rate (3-4 hrs) - $550 - for tattoos about 3-6 in. tall (roughly hand sized and smaller), depending on detail.
❤ Long Half Day Rate- (5-6 hrs) - $750 - for tattoos 7-10 in. tall (inner arm, partial outer bicep etc.), depending on detail.
❤ Full Day Rate (6-8 hrs) - $1100 - for larger, more detailed tattoos (half sleeves, sleeves, larger back/chest/abdomen, etc.)
For large scale pieces, I do prefer to schedule multiple sessions in advance so we can work on the project on a consistent basis. This allows for optimal healing/aging for your tattoo. Of course, I will do my best to work with your budget and help you get a tattoo that you will love forever.
Will I see the design beforehand?
Typically, no. Time to go over your design is built into the appointment. Small changes are totally okay and can usually be easily done on the spot. Large changes or a complete design pivot will require rescheduling the appointment, so please make sure you are thorough with your ideas so we are on the same page, and you are comfortable with my style of drawing/tattooing.
Exceptions are rare, but I am willing to be flexible if the situation calls for it. Always feel free to ask.
Do you use vegan ink/products? Do you accommodate allergies?
I use predominantly Eternal, Solid, and Fusion Inks, which are all vegan. Other products such as soaps, glides and ointments, stencil paper etc. are all vegan as well.
If you have any allergies to certain products/ingredients, skin conditions, or take any medications that can impact how your tattoo applies/heals, please make sure I am aware!
I am not a doctor, therefore I cannot give medical advice. If you have any uncertainties about how your skin/body will react to tattooing, please talk to your doctor.
I only use latex free gloves.
To add - I will not mix ashes in any ink.
How can I prep for my tattoo appointment?
I recommend getting a good night’s sleep, being well hydrated and eating something filling beforehand. I also ask that you do not put any products on your skin, i.e. lotions, ointments, self tanner, glitter, etc. Exfoliating your skin is helpful too!
Avoid alcohol for a few days before and after your appointment. Trust me, getting tattooed hungover isn’t enjoyable. Alcohol will also impact the quality of your skin as it dehydrates you.
I also ask that you check with me before using a numbing cream. Not all brands are created equal, and they can impact how your skin handles being tattooed and how it heals. I do have a brand I recommend, but be sure to discuss numbing with me first.
I cannot tattoo you while you are taking antibiotics, or have a sunburn/rash on the area you want your tattoo. If you come in with any of the above, we will have to reschedule your appointment and potentially pay a new deposit.
Feel free to bring snacks and some kind of entertainment (music, books, video games, etc.) and definitely bring water!
What forms of payment do you take?
I accept cash, all major credit cards, debit, Apple Pay, and Samsung pay.
What should I do if I have any other questions?
Any questions/ inquiries can be sent to my email at tsimmsart@gmail.com. You’ll receive an auto-response initially, but I will reply as soon as I can!