Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I schedule a tattoo appointment?
A: My first preference for booking is through email—it's the easiest and fastest way to get in touch with me. You can reach me at nicolesedef@gmail.com. However, you can also contact me through my social media platforms if that's more convenient for you.
Q: When can I expect to hear back from you after contacting you for an inquiry?
A: I usually respond within 1-3 days, sometimes even on the same day. However, if I’m busy, it may take up to 3-5 days. If you don’t hear back from me soon, please feel free to follow up to ensure your message didn’t end up in my junk folder or wasn’t accidentally missed.
Q: How does the process work after I find you?
A: Once you’ve found me, I expect you to contact me right away via email or social media. For the fastest results, if you’re ready, send me your design idea (exact image or reference images), along with the size, placement idea, and the date you have in mind for your appointment. If you’re unsure about the design, we can brainstorm together, and I’ll help you find references and ideas. After we finalize all the details, I’ll ask for a deposit fee to confirm your booking. The deposit usually ranges from $100 to $200, depending on the tattoo's price. This deposit secures your appointment and will be deducted from the total fee on the day of your session. Please note that the deposit is non-refundable and is solely for confirming your appointment, not for the design itself.
Q: Can I see the design before the session?
A: While I typically don't send out designs beforehand to keep the creative process streamlined, you'll get to see and approve your tattoo design when you arrive for your appointment. This approach allows us to make any final adjustments together, ensuring the design is exactly what you envision. If it’s crucial for you to see the design earlier, we can arrange this with an additional deposit.
Q: How does your design process work?
A: Before we book an appointment, I’ll gather all the details about the tattoo you're envisioning. I'll ask for reference images, your ideas on size, and where you'd like the tattoo placed. Any images are okay, and if you don’t have anything specific in mind, don’t worry—I’ll help guide you through the process to create a custom design that’s perfect for you.
Q: Can I get a tattoo of a design created by another artist or illustrator?
A: Yes, but with a condition! If you want a design that belongs to another artist or illustrator, I’ll need their permission before I can tattoo it. Respecting the original creator is super important to me.
Q: Can I remove or cover up an unwanted tattoo?
A: Absolutely! I specialize in cover-ups and love working on them. My first preference is usually to touch up and tweak the old tattoo to save it, but if you'd prefer to completely cover it up, we can always come up with a cool new project together. I just need to know what you'd like to get on the old tattoo. For cover-up projects, face-to-face consultations are also a great idea to ensure we get everything just right.
Q: How does pricing work, and what’s your general pricing for tattoos?
A: My pricing depends on the size, complexity, and time required for the tattoo. My minimum price is $200, and I provide total prices, not hourly rates. The total price includes one design option, as well as the consultation. If a touch-up session is needed within the same year I did the tattoo, that’s included too. Smaller tattoos or simple designs are priced lower, while larger or more detailed pieces will cost more. We’ll discuss pricing during the consultation once we have a clear idea of what you want.
Q: How can I pay for my tattoo?
A: Payment can be made using cash, credit, or debit cards. Full payment is due on the day of the appointment.
Q: Can I bring a friend or family member to my appointment?
A: You are more than welcome to bring one person along for support during your tattoo session. It’s always nice to have a familiar face around, and I understand that it can enhance your experience. I just ask that your companion respects the workspace to ensure a smooth and professional process for everyone.
Q: Do you do walk-ins or is it by appointment only?
A: I do not accept walk-ins for custom design projects or larger pieces that require consultation. I only accept walk-ins for small, ready-made flash designs. However, if you specifically want a tattoo from me, even for a small design, it's best to inform me beforehand. This ensures I can accommodate you on the day you plan to come in.
Q: What should I expect during a tattoo session?
A: During the session, I’ll start by prepping the area and applying the design to your skin. Then, I’ll use a tattoo machine to create the tattoo, with breaks as needed. Almost everyone finds the pain manageable, and I’ll be with you throughout the session to assist with anything you need.
Q: Are there any specific precautions I should take before getting a tattoo?
A: Yes! Make sure you’re well-rested, hydrated, and have eaten before your appointment. Avoid consuming alcohol or blood-thinning medications. If your session is a long one, I recommend bringing snacks and something to keep you busy, like a book or headphones. Also, be sure to discuss any medical conditions or allergies with me beforehand.
Q: How long does a tattoo typically take to heal?
A: Tattoo healing times can vary, but on average, it takes about 2 to 3 weeks for a tattoo to fully heal. If it’s a tattoo that took a couple of hours to make, healing might extend up to a month. My aftercare instructions are easy to follow, but if you ever feel unsure or notice any issues, feel free to reach out to me. The key is to keep the tattoo clean, moisturize with a small amount of ointment when needed, and protect it from the sun and conditions like loofahs or waxing.
Q: Do you have any specific aftercare products you recommend?
A: For tattoo aftercare, I recommend using special tattoo ointments or coconut oil. These options are specifically designed for tattoo care and ensure optimal healing.
Q: What happens if I need to reschedule or cancel my appointment?
A: If you need to reschedule or cancel, please inform me at least a week in advance, or at most, three days before your appointment. This helps me manage my schedule and accommodate other clients effectively.
Q: How do I take care of my tattoo in the long term?
A: Long-term care is crucial for maintaining your tattoo. Keep it moisturized, protect it from direct sunlight with sunscreen, and consider touch-ups if needed to keep the colors vibrant and the lines sharp.
Q: How do I choose the right tattoo artist for me?
A: Finding the right artist is key! Check out their portfolios, look at their style, and don’t hesitate to book consultations to see if their vibe and expertise match what you're looking for.
Q: Is it normal for a tattoo to fade over time?
A: Yes, tattoos can fade over time due to sun exposure, aging, and skin changes. But with high-quality ink and proper aftercare, you can keep your tattoo looking vibrant for longer.
Q: Can I bring my own design for a tattoo?
A: Of course! I love seeing your ideas. Just keep in mind that I might need to tweak it a bit for things like size, placement, or how well it works as a tattoo.