Last updated February 19, 2024
What is Sliding Scale?
Sliding scale is something I like to offer so the client can adjust their final price within the limits I set. I do this to make my tattoo work more accessible to people of different classes. I know my scales may still be hard to pay for, so I am open to work out payment plans for folks who are low income. However, I do ask that you respect my labor and craft and do not take advantage of this offering.
Example of Sliding Scale: I charge $80-100 for a piece, so you get to choose which number between $80-100 you can afford / are willing to pay, and that’s your final amount!
How did you get to your current rate?
It was advised to raise my rate by my mentors in the tattoo shop because of my experience. I also don’t make all the funds from a tattoo, so even if it may seem like a lot, the breakdown ends up not being as much as you may expect.
Am I supposed to tip?
I am never going to force you to tip and it will not affect the work I do if I don’t get a tip, but it is greatly appreciated, especially as an apprentice. I don’t charge as much for my work currently because I am learning, but it’s still a large amount of labor and has an impact on my body which I have to often pay for later. Additionally, all of the money made does not go to me; I also spend funds on materials, physical care, and 30% of every tattoo I do goes to the studio.
Other tips I love: Groceries (fresh vegetables, meat, etc LOL), handmade clothes, handmade ceramics
Why do I have to pay a deposit / how does a deposit work?
A deposit is made so that I can ensure that you will show up to your appointment! This way people are less inclined to bail last minute on me, which can put me in a hard place financially. It’s also to show that you are committed to this time with me. Please refer to my Policies for information about cancellations /reschedules. Deposits are amounts that go toward your final payment. I currently take $50 deposits, so if your tattoo total ends up being $100, you would only pay $50 (plus tip if you want) on the day of the tattoo.
What should I expect since you are an apprentice?
I am still a beginner, so during your appointment it is likely that a mentor from the shop will watch over from time to time and make comments / teach me in the moment if necessary. We will ask permission before they watch, adjust, etc. I apprentice at Thorns Studio in Berkeley, so feel free to check out their page if you are curious who would be around. Additionally, I may go a bit slower because I am learning, so mentally prepare for a bit longer than you may be expecting. Of course message me with any questions on timing!
Why are you only tattooing arms and legs right now?
I am currently focusing on tattooing arms and legs to develop my skills with tattooing and getting the right depth of needle and clean linework. I am waiting to tattoo more sensitive areas like chest, ribs and stomach because there is a higher risk for blow out, and I want to have more experience before tattooing those sensitive areas.