Questions. Answered.

If you have specific preferences, please describe them in detail and send as many references as possible, so I fully understand what you want. I'll show the design on the day of the appointment. If needed, we can make changes and adjustments on the spot. If I don't have enough information, I will contact you in advance via WhatsApp.

A standard session is up to 7 hours. Approximate estimates: Full sleeve: usually 8–10 sessions. Shoulder: 2–3 sessions. Forearm: 1–2 sessions. Colour work and cover-ups usually take longer than black & grey. Exceptions depend on the design, detail level, and your size.

My hourly rate is £140. A forearm piece might take 5–7 hours (£700–£980), a half sleeve 2–3 sessions, and a full sleeve 8–10 sessions. I provide a time estimate after reviewing your concept so you can plan your budget before booking. No deposit required until we've agreed on the concept.

Get a good night's sleep — being tired makes pain feel stronger. Eat a proper meal 1–2 hours before your appointment and stay hydrated. No alcohol or recreational drugs for at least 24 hours (ideally 48). Keep caffeine moderate. If you take regular medication or have medical conditions, let me know in advance. Bring fully charged headphones and download films or series to watch during the session.

Wear comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area — for shoulder work, a vest is better than a T-shirt; for legs, wear shorts. Prep your skin with gentle exfoliation 1–2 times per week and regular moisturising. Shave the area the day before (with a small margin). If it's on the inner bicep, shave the armpit too. If you're not confident, leave it — I can do it on the day. Avoid oils, self-tan and harsh scrubs for 2–3 days before.

I don't recommend numbing creams by default: there is a risk of allergy (including to lidocaine), the skin can react unpredictably, and healing can sometimes be less stable. The effect is often inconsistent — it can suddenly stop, and strong pain may hit abruptly. Cream is applied only to unbroken skin at least 40 minutes before we start and usually lasts about 1 hour. The first hours are often the least painful, while the most sensitive part is usually the last hour — when the cream has worn off. Make sure you are not allergic to lidocaine before using any numbing product. I can use calming sprays/gels (secondary numbing) during the session — this is usually a gentler and more acceptable option.

If you have allergies (latex, plasters/adhesives, antiseptics, medications, etc.), tell me in advance so we can choose suitable products. If you've had strong reactions to tattooing or cosmetics before, please let me know before booking.

If you are unwell (fever/cold), have active skin issues in the area, serious medical conditions, blood-clotting problems, or if you are pregnant/breastfeeding, please message me in advance so we can confirm whether it's safe to proceed.

Yes. A dark tattoo can only be covered with something darker and usually larger. The result depends on the old tattoo's colour, density, size, placement, and healing. Send a clear close-up and a wider shot in good natural light. Read more about cover-ups →

Yes. You can come with a friend or partner — they can stay with you until we start the actual session. For large projects, preparation can sometimes take up to a couple of hours.

Yes, I film parts of the process and take final photos of the tattoo, usually without showing your face. If you don't want this, please tell me in advance.

Surface healing: 10–14 days. Full healing: 4–6 weeks (sometimes longer). Gym: light activity fine, avoid heavy sweating and friction for 7–10 days. Sauna/steam: avoid for 2–3 weeks (ideally 4). Pool/sea: avoid for 2–3 weeks (ideally 4). Sun: avoid until fully healed, then always use SPF. Full aftercare guide →

UV is the main reason tattoos fade. Avoid sun exposure until fully healed. After healing, always use SPF on your tattoo, especially in summer and on holidays. Tanning reduces contrast and speeds up fading.