✦ What is a handpoked tattoo?
Handpoked tattoos (also called stick & poke or machine-free tattoos) are permanent artworks in the skin made without the use of a machine/motor. A tattoo needle is used to place ink one dot at a time into the outer layer of the skin. Handpoked tattooing is practiced all over the world using a wide range of tools, materials, and methods. In my practice, I use individually packaged and sterilized tattoo needles and high quality vegan tattoo inks.
✦ How do I get a tattoo appointment with you?
Join my mailing list. You’ll receive an email with a booking link immediately and periodically receive info about flash events and new tattoo flash. My books are always “open” to my mailing list subscribers and existing clients. Alternately, keep an eye on my Instagram stories! Spontaneous availability (cancellations, reschedules, additional days) will be posted there and filled via Instagram DM or direct booking link. No Good Tattoo Studio also hosts walk-in flash events every now and then which will be posted about in advance on Instagram!
✦ What do you mean by booking request?
My booking form is available to all members of my mailing list. If you want to be tattooed, you’ll be asked for some basic information (name, pronouns, appointment type you’re interested in, size [in inches], placement on the body). I review requests as frequently as I can and accept as many as I can accommodate. Submitting a booking request does not guarantee you a spot, and response times can be longer when I have less availability on my calendar. Thank you for your patience and continued interest in my work.
✦ What is ‘flash’?
‘Flash’ refers to repeatable designs prepared by an artist in advance for clients to choose from. My flash reflects the themes I am most interested in and the imagery that I love to tattoo. For the most part, flash designs can be scaled to different sizes to fit with the placement you choose. These designs can also be lightly customized and your appointment will include time to do so. However, it is always better to request adjustments in advance of your appointment. New flash designs will be sent out to folks on the mailing list and posted to Instagram (@eltriotattoo) periodically.
✦ Can I get a design you’ve tattooed already?
All of my flash designs are my original art and are available to be tattooed repeatedly. I will typically tattoo a design anywhere from 2-5 times before removing it from the website/flash book. Some small, simple designs remain available indefinitely (sticker flash). Regardless of repetition, your tattoo and experience will be unique to you. If it is important to you to have a totally unique design, consider booking a custom appointment. Custom designs are not repeated.
✦ Can i get a custom tattoo?
I am open to collaborating with clients when projects are within my wheelhouse, expectations are flexible, and concepts are clear. Clients who are interested in working together on a custom design should be familiar with my work, interested in my visual language, and trust my execution. In most cases, you will see the design on the day of your appointment at the studio, at which point there will be time to revise and work on the design further collaboratively.
✦ How much will it cost?
Tattoos are priced by the hour (sliding scale available). My session minimum is 200 for anything under and up to an hour. Tattoos of over an hour will be charged an additional 100 per hour. (1 hour = 200, 2 hours = 300, 3 hours = 400.) You will be able to opt-in to sliding scale on your booking form. If you opt in to a sliding scale appointment, you will be able to choose a total up to 25% off from the full price. (150-200 for one hour, 225 to 300 for 2 hours, 300 to 400 for 3 hours).
✦ How does tipping work?
Tipping is greatly appreciated in all service oriented industries, tattooing included. 10-20% of total service cost is considered standard. I love non-monetary tips such as flowers, plants, crafts, snacks, coffee, and trinkets. If you would like to tip and have a sliding scale appointment, please choose a total that allows you to comfortably do so. Tips are by no means required and should only be given if it is within your ability!
✦ Do I need to do anything prior to my appointment?
Please regularly moisturize the area we’ll be tattooing in the weeks leading up to your appointment. Please arrive to the studio well rested, hydrated, and having eaten. Plan to be in the studio for your entire appointment time. Do not drink alcohol prior to being tattooed. Do not plan on swimming, soaking, or exercising after being tattooed. It helps to have a clear or flexible schedule for your day. Be sure to follow all aftercare suggestions.
✦ How does my deposit work?
When your booking request is accepted, you’ll be asked to make a $100 deposit toward the final cost of your tattoo. Deposits are non refundable and will be applied to the final cost of your tattoo on the day of your appointment. Appointments can be rescheduled with 3 days advanced notice. Rescheduling with less notice may forfeit your deposit. No-shows will not be rescheduled or booked again in the future. Cancellations can be made at any time, though you may forfeit your deposit if the spot cannot be filled.
✦ Can I take your design to another artist?
I understand that it can be hard to get an appointment, and that for some the cost of travel can be prohibitive, however I ask that you do not take my design to another artist to be tattooed. I do not offer tattoo vouchers, nor am I able to accept commissions for custom tattoos to have done by other artists. I apologize for the inconvenience and disappointment. Thank you for respecting this boundary!
✦ How do touch-ups work?
Once your tattoo is fully healed and settled (~2 months), you can email me at rie@elriotattoo.com to inquire about a touch-up. If you are unsure if your tattoo needs a follow-up appointment, feel free to send in a well-lit photo with any questions. Touch-ups are free, tips are appreciated.