Q. How do I find the right tattooist for me?

A. The best way is to ask around. Especially ask other tattooed people where they get theirs from. If you like the look of the work you see on them, you can follow up with a consultation at these places. Most people are happy to share their tattooing experience.

Q .Where do I start?

A. The first thing is to research a design or at least have some idea of what you want. It is of no use talking to a tattooist with absolutely NO idea of what you want. The tattooist cannot make that decision for you and won't want to! If you are seeking advice on how to proceed with say, a ‘cover up' then that is different. The good tattooist would be more than willing to guide you through the process and point out any ‘pit falls' before you start the process and advise on what the restrictions are.

Q. How much do tattoos cost?

A. The prices vary enormously depending where you go. You may have seen the slogan “Good tattoos aren't cheap, cheap tattoos aren't good” used on many web sights these days. This is true to some extent as “you usually get what you pay for”, but don't just assume that the most expensive is the best. Some use the above slogan to justify overly priced work. If in doubt then refer to my first Q and A above.

Q. Why do you not charge an hourly rate?

A . An hourly rate seems fair and is very common especially for ‘sleeve' work or other large pieces. But you can work very slowly if you were unscrupulous and bump the price up. I prefer to either quote a price for the job or charge for a session based on amount of work done (as an hour is nothing when you work on large pieces) as this works out cheaper for the customer and I am happy to work this way. It's all down to personal choice.

Q.Why do you not have a shop?

A . I set up originally to work from a private studio as I prefer to work by strict appointment and it is more private for the customers. There is no chance of being disturbed by people traffic that some shops have and the phone is not answered whilst I am working, so no disturbances. My clients prefer it this way and again it's down to personal choice.

Q .Why is a consultation often required?

A .Most tattoos need to be scaled and customised to your requirements.

This takes time and if you are not prepared to put some effort into your tattoo, why should the tattooist?

Q. Why do you not give prices over the phone or internet?

A . A price quoted in this way is nothing more than a guess at best.

As you need to meet the tattooist at some point to discuss the job on question there is no point. As consultations are free why not get all the info. you need on that visit then make your decision then? You may be given a guide to price policy if you phone but that's about as accurate as any tattooist can be, not having seem the job in question.

Q .Why do you not tattoo hands neck or head?

A. I have seem this trend come and go several times over the years and up to now it's followed the same pattern for most. They are great when you first get them and then as the years roll by many people regret having them in places that they cannot easily cover. For some it causes problems in their social life and so I will not put people in this position in the first place. It's just company policy.

For any other queries please feel free to call and I will do my best to answer them.