T3XTURE's Tattoo FAQ

What to expect when getting a tattoo

Even a simple tattoo can take a few hours to complete. Here is a description of the process and why it takes time to get a quality result.

1. How do I come up with a design?

Have an idea about the design of the tattoo and where on your body you want it.

If you don't have your own design drawn yet, that's perfectly OK

T3XTURE doesn't have the regular "flash" (standard tattoos) on the walls. We want your tattoo to be unique and special because you're going to have to wear it for a long time and it will become a part of you.

Our artists will help you design something just for you and that looks good on the part of the body that you want.

We can help you find ideas. If you know you want stars, for example then we listen to your ideas and draw your design from that. Some people come with a few simple ideas while some arrive with a very detailed design already prepared. Either is fine.

We do have some online databases available at the studio that you can look at to help get ideas.

2. How long will it take to make a design?

Allow time for the artist to draw up your design. This can take from about 30-45 minutes to several days, depending on how complicated and detailed the design is (and also how busy the artist is).

3. Are there any formalities?

The artist will need time to do formal paperwork with you so bring your ID and be over 18.

4. How does the design get put on my body?

Once the paperwork is done the artist will sterilise the equipment and prepare the stencils (transfer the drawing to an outline that can be placed on your body.) At this point you should carefully review the design.

The artist will check...

Have you eaten recently?
Have you been drinking?
Are there any health conditions that might affect the procedure?
Do you have any questions?

5. Will I get a chance to change my mind?

Now we're nearly ready to go! The artist will postition the stencil on you, and ask for your approval. The stencil will be an outline, the colors and some of the detail may not be there.

You need to check...

Is it in the right place?
Is it straight?
Are the words spelt correctly?
Do you have any second thoughts?

6. How long will the tattoo actually take?

The artist will help you position yourself in the chair with the body part to be tattooed in a good position for the work to be done.

The procedure may take some time. From twenty minutes up to several hours. You need to be comfortable and try not to move too much.

If you need a break, ask. Expect that the artist may need a break too, especially for longer sessions.

Some artists find chatting distracting. They want your tattoo to be a good one, so if you're talking away and they're not answering or just giving short answers don't worry or be upset.

It's OK to read a book or a magazine, listen to music, some people even bring computers and do their assignments.

It is fine for your friends and companions to come to the shop, but while you are getting the procedure, the number behind the barrier should be agreed with the artist. The artist needs room to work with few distractions.

7.Will it hurt?

... YES!!

All sorts of factors affect this: The part of your body being tattooed, how your pain tolerance is, even your mood. Don't forget that nearly 20% of the US population have at least one tattoo, so it's not untolerable for a lot of people.

Many factors affect how long a session can be. For large tattoos the artist may discuss with you about doing the work over several visits.

8. What happens afterwards?

Of course you should follow the aftercare instructions as well as explaining what lotion to use etc they explain what you may expect.

Once the skin has healed, you may notice some areas that need a touch up. Things like a line that is noit complete, or a small area that the color or shading needs completing. This is quite normal. Your artist should give you a phone number and be prepared to do the touch-ups needed to finish the work.

9. Do I need to tip my artist?

The artist does not get all the money charged for a tattoo. If you felt that you had good service please do let them know that you appreciate that.

10. Do you have more questions?