FAQ

How do I find the right Tattoo Artist?

You can ask someone who has a tattoo in the town or city you wish to get your tattoo in or you can go to the studio(s) and ask to see the artist(s) portfolio. Ask any and all questions you have regarding sterilization, inks, experience, etc. Most important is to feel comfortable with the environment and the artist who will be doing the tattoo.

Does it hurt?

The tolerance to pain varies from person to person. We say "pain is your aversion to the experience" so sit back, relax and remember to breath. It is also a good idea to be free of alcohol or drugs while receiving your new tattoo as this usually enhances the discomfort.

How much does it cost?

The cost of your tattoo will vary on a number of factors: size, detail, colour, and the amount of time the artist estimates it will take to accomplish the design. You can ask the artist ahead of time for an estimate of the cost, but this must be done in person.

Can I bring my own design?

Yes, absolutely. Bring in your own drawing or a photograph. If you need help drawing your thoughts, book a consultation appointment first.

Is it safe?

Yes, as long as the studio is following their Health Board Regulations (Autoclave, gloves, ink caps, disinfectant, etc.) so risk of any blood related diseases are eliminated. You must also follow ALL after-care instructions. Putting other creams or salves on your tattoo may affect healing, as well as, keeping it free from dirt, dust, grease, etc..

How long will it take to heal?

This can depend on the health of the client. The average tattoo will heal in 7 to 10 days, but the After-care instructions must be followed for 2 weeks.

Can I get my tattoo removed?

First off be sure that the tattoo you pick is something that means something to you personally, then it will always mean something. Then if you really want to get rid of it think "cover-up". A cover-up is a better way to go, as the other option, being laser removal is more painful and expensive ($200-$300/per treatment - needing 2-3 treatments) So ask your artist about covering the old with a new tattoo.

Is "Saran Wrap" good to cover my new tattoo?

First the dressing is unsterile. Saran Wrap raises the temperature of the skin and traps moisture, making it an ideal breeding ground for any bacteria left on the skin or transferred from the unsteril wrap. Even the use of antibiotic cream under the dressing is not enough to ensure that microbes will not grow. Lastly, it just looks nasty too.

Disposable Tattoo Studio?

The way of the future with tattoo shops… NO sterilizer, everything disposable?
I say NO…

I believe that tattooing is a sacred right of passage…a personal healing experience for the individual. I believe that client’s rights are to be respected in every aspect. I believe that by having a studio that is completely disposable that some of that is not happening.

By ordering needles pre-made and sterilized you actually have no quality control, you have no way of knowing what grade of needles were used, what type of solder was used, who made or packaged them, who, how and when did they get sterilized and who has handled them since they were made and sent to you. Sure you can check them with an eye loop and not use them if they are defective, but to me it is just a lazy way out. I believe that as a tattoo artist you should care about the craft as well as the art. I believe that as a tattoo artist you should make your own needles, clean your own grips and tubes and do your own packaging and sterilizing, being accountable for every aspect of the tattooing process.

As an inhabitant of this planet Earth and with climate change and all I cannot justify using hard plastic disposable tubes. I cannot justify throwing even one into the trash to end up in the garbage dump for a hundred years or more? Never mind the manufacturing of the plastic in China. We already contribute enough plastic and paper waste with tattooing. I know there is still some pollution with the manufacturing of the metal tubes and grips, but I believe that the re-use of them out weighs this process. Again in my opinion it comes down to not caring about the craft from start to finish. Sure there are some who would argue that the disposable tube is safer because it is only used once, but if you actually take the time to properly clean and sterilize your equipment it is just as safe.

My guess is that the studios that are trying to save time and money are the ones that don’t properly dress the tattoo after, instead using plastic wrap to cover a fresh tattoo leaving the client with a non-breathable, non-sterile dressing that can be an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. And at what cost to the client are these tattoo studios actually saving by using these disposable items? My feeling is that the savings are going into the studios or tattoo artists pocket with only profit in mind, again only my opinion.

Yours Sincerely,
Ojas Cats
Owner of Cats Tats Skin Art Studio
Nelson, BC

Safety in Body Art

Are you ready?

Are you sure you want body art? Tattoos are permanent. Think 20 years down the road.

What will the body art look like and where will it go on your body? It should say something about YOU. not somebody else.

BUDGET! Take the time to save money for your tattoo or piercing. Great looking, safe body art is worth the price.

Make sure you know of any severe skin allergies you may have, and be sure your skin is clear of cuts or rashes.

Be sure not to drink alcohol just before your appointment, because it makes you bleed more!

Shop Inspection

Things to look for in a body shop:

• Packaged, sterilized needles and tubes.
• Ask if they use new needles every time. HIV and Hepatitis can be passed on through re-used needles. Used needles develop barbs, micro bumps and hooks, which cause skin infections.
• Does the artist have experience? Does the artist wear gloves?
• Make sure the ink is in little disposable caps.
• Plastic 'sharps' containers.
• Is the work area clean and tidy?
• Ask how their equipment is cleaned. Do they use an autoclave?
• Evidence of health board approval and a business license