FAQ

What is the booking process like?

To book a tattoo with me, please refer to the 'BOOKING' tab above. 

Typically, I book two months in advance. The information about when my books are open and closed is specified in my bio on instagram. At the beginning of each booking period, I will share a calendar with my available dates. In order to secure an appointment date, I require a non-refundable deposit of $100 which can be sent through either Venmo or Zelle. The deposit information will be given to you after we have discussed a date and time for your appointment. 

tip: if you send me a booking request and my books are closed, I will still respond. At the beginning of the next booking period, you will receive an email back from me with the available dates before I announce it on instagram. 

When will I see my design?

Most of the time I will present the design to you when we meet in person at the shop. I realize this may seem last minute, but I prefer to talk about the design and any potential adjustments with you in person. This makes the process much easier on both sides. In your initial email to me, describe your vision as thoroughly as you can. Please keep in mind I am always open to making adjustments on the day of our appointment. 

What method of payment do you prefer?

I accept cash or digital payments on the day of our appointment. 

Deposit payments may also be sent through either Venmo or Zelle. 

Are deposits non-refundable?

Deposits are non-refundable. Please make sure you can keep our appointment before sending the deposit. If you decide to reschedule, I can transfer your deposit to the new appointment date. However, if we cancel your appointment at any time, you will lose your deposit. 

Are your flash designs repeatable?

Yes. Most of my flash designs are repeatable, although I will still decide against repeating a design depending on what it is. You might be matching with some strangers:) I am usually open to making some changes in order to make a design unique if that is preferred. 

Why do you have a minimum payment?

I have a minimum payment to ensure that I get compensated fairly for the varying costs that are required of tattoo artists. Tattooing can be stable and secure, but my schedule changes week-to-week. Having a required minimum payment allows me to gauge my income with more certainty. 

Do you do cover ups?

I only do cover ups after I've seen the tattoo you want covered, and we've talked about what we can tattoo over the top of it. I will only do cover ups if I think it will genuinely look better than the original tattoo. That being said, ask me and we'll see. 

Where are you located?

Our shop is called Dark Water Ink. We are located at 2035 San Pablo Ave. Berkeley, Ca. When you book an appointment with me, I will send you an instruction guide that includes information about our shop's location, parking, and pre-care and after-care. 

What is the best way to describe my custom tattoo?

Be specific and don't be afraid to get creative. The more you say about what you want your tattoo to look like, the better idea I have of what you want. Including reference images and screenshots of tattoos that I've done also helps me to understand what you're looking for. More is better.

What do I need to know about Aftercare?

Aftercare is very important and the instructions given to you should be followed precisely. On the day of our appointment, we will talk about the most important aftercare guidelines and my personal preferences with different remedies. 

Do you provide numbing cream?

I do not provide numbing cream for tattoos. There is extensive research on the effects of numbing cream on the skin and your overall health that makes me more cautious about using it. However, during the tattoo, I will often use over-the-counter bactine or low-grade lidocaine spray for some pain releif. This works quite well even though it is not technically pre-applied numbing cream. If you would like to ask me more about why I don't use numbing cream, do not hesitate to reach out.