Question: "I’m new to tattooing, where do I start?"

Walk-ins are taken, however it's best to plan ahead. Have a few concrete ideas about what you want done and how you want your tattoo to look. You are invited to come into the shop and browse through our many references, examples, and photo books for inspiration or clarification. Afterwards you will be ready to come in or set up a consultation with the artist. She will be glad to help realize your vision.

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Question: "Once I’ve decided I want a tattoo, how does the process work?"

After your initial consultation as a walk-in, the artists will draw a design for your tattoo. Process work will be started if time allows. Otherwise, place a $20.00 deposit and set up an appointment to begin your new (or first) piece. If you change your plans, please call and give at least one days notice, so the artists can adjust schedules accordingly. If the appointment is missed without notice, the $20.00 deposit is not refundable.

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Question: "How do I prepare for my appointment?"

On the day one comes in to be tattooed, it is important not to consume alcohol or take any aspirin. Please be clear-headed, healthy, and not have an empty stomach. These conditions will help ensure the best possible conditions receiving the tattoo, and help make the experience positive. Successful tattoo healing depends on how well it is cared for afterwards. Be prepared to follow the aftercare instructions your artist provides. The artists want you to be absolutely satisfied with your new tattoo.

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Question: "How safe is tattooing? "

Many people have concerns about the safety of being tattooed. At Peter’s Skin Art Tattooing, we are very serious about our cleanliness and sterilization procedures. Needles are never reused, and only the highest quality inks and pigments are used. Our artists will be happy to discuss any concerns that you may have about tattoo safety.

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Question: "Does it hurt?"

In general, receiving a tattoo is painful. However, people experience the pain in different ways. Some places on the body hurt more than others. Most people find that the fear of being tattooed is far worse than the pain they actually experience. All kinds of people get tattooed, and almost everyone is able to tolerate the sensation. Some people even find that they really like being tattooed.

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Question: "How much does it cost?"

The charge is $150.00 an hour for large work. Otherwise an appropriate price by piece, with a $20.00 minimum, is charged. This is the standard rate for reputable shops in the Bay Area. The artist will give a cost estimate. The actual cost will depend on several factors including the size and complexity of the design, how long it takes to place it on the body, and how well the skin takes the ink. We recognize that tattooing is not inexpensive. We are certain that your positive experience and satisfaction with your permanent ink, will be worth the expense.

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Question: "How do I pay for the tattoo?"

The deposit will be applied to the last session, and you pay for each session when it is completed. Major credit cards and (preferably) cash are accepted.

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Question: "How should I care for my new tattoo?"

Please refer to Aftercare under About Us and read the instructions.

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Question: "What are some of the possible complications of tattooing?"

Many people are worried about the possibility of getting an infection from being tattooed. It is very, very rare for a person in good health, who takes good care of the tattoo, to get an infection. However, some people do have a reaction to the inks, or (more often) to the ointment or lotion used during the healing process. When this happens, the tattooed skin may become itchy, or a pimply rash may develop. These reactions are not serious, but they can affect the way the tattoo looks when it heals, and they are sometimes uncomfortable. People most commonly react to red inks.

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Question: "Can I bring a friend with me for support?"

We will try to include any support person you bring along. Sometimes our space is limited and we are not able to fit another person in the tattooing room, however.

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