Straight answers.

For custom work and cover-ups, yes. It is free and takes about 20 minutes, in person or on video. Walk-in flash and most small fine-line pieces don't need one.

Once your artist accepts the project, you pay a $100 deposit (pieces under 3 hours) or $200 (longer work). It holds the date, pays for drawing time, and comes off your last session.

Yes, for flash on Thursdays from 2 to 7 p.m., and for lobe piercings when the piercing room is free. Custom work is by appointment.

One guest, 18 or over. No children in the studio, for their safety.

18 or older for tattoos and piercings. No exceptions, even with a parent present.

A current government photo ID: driver's license, state ID or passport. Photos of an ID on your phone don't count.

We'll wait. It's a small risk, but not one we take. Your deposit can move to a date after.

Often yes, but talk to your doctor first and tell us at the consult. Some conditions change how skin bleeds and heals.

$120 for any tattoo. It covers setup, single-use supplies, and most pieces under an hour.

Both. Flash and small pieces have a set price. Larger custom work is hourly, $170 to $200 depending on the artist, and you get a range at the consult.

Never required, always appreciated. Most clients tip 15 to 20 percent if they're happy.

Cards, tap and cash at the studio. Deposits are paid online through a secure link.

Honestly, it stings. Fleshy spots like the outer arm or thigh are easier; ribs, feet, spine and the inside of the elbow are harder. Most people say it's more annoying than awful.

Ask your artist before you buy any. Some creams change how skin takes ink. If they agree, follow the product's directions exactly.

The surface heals in 2 to 4 weeks. The deeper layers take 1 to 3 months to settle. Our aftercare page walks through it day by day.

It happens. One touch-up within 90 days is free if you followed aftercare. Hands, fingers, feet and lips are not included.

Never. Every needle is a sealed, sterile, single-use cartridge, opened in front of you and thrown out in a sharps container.

Barrier film is replaced, stations are disinfected with a hospital-grade disinfectant left wet for the full contact time, and gloves are changed throughout.

Yes. The studio and each artist hold current state body art licenses, posted by the front door, and everyone renews bloodborne pathogens training each year.