⊱꒰☆꒱⊰Frequently Asked Questions ⊱꒰☆꒱⊰

Also known as stick and pokes, electric-free or machineless tattoos. The technique is completely manual meaning every dot is individually poked in. Linework and shading us all done my hand with the same tools traditionally used with machine tattoos. 

Only handpoke. That’s what I first learned and I’ve just stuck with it. Don’t get me wrong, my Aquarius placement probably plays a part in wanting to go away from the mainstream (ugh I know lol) but the technique has also served as a personal tool to reconnect with self and the intentionality that goes with the practice. I’ll pick up a machine in the future but for now I’m happy and still learning through this technique.

Handpoke is a slower process. Typically I take about 30-45 minutes per inch on a tattoo. Although it’s longer, most people say it’s a lot less painful than a machine. Pain is subjective and different factors can increase the sensitivity such a placement and size. However, most of my clients are pleasantly surprised at the experience as well as how quickly the tattoos heal. It’s a less abrasive process, so the healing is a lot gentler.

It’s best to book with my booking form: https://form.jotform.com/241165842745157 

You can also messaging me directly through email and dms but I do prefer the booking form first. If you’d like a video or person consultation just send me an email.

Minimum: My minimum at is $140, designs that take within an hour will be around this rate. Minimums for guest spots will differ depending on the shop's policy. Rate will be posted on the scheduling section.

Rate: My rate is $120/hour after the first-hour minimum.

Handpoke is a slower process so keep that in mind. For example, a design under 3 inches can range between $140-$200. Above that can range <$200+ This is just a ballpark estimate. Factors that will increase the time/price are placement, shading, and color. Feel free to message me directly if you want a quote.

For budgeting or larger pieces, I'm flexible to split the design up into multiple sessions in the case that you can't pay for everything in one sitting. 

Pricing may change for guest spots. I try my best to work with budgets while considering how much of my time a design will take. 

Deposit: Be ready to put down a $40 nonrefundable deposit/$50 for guest spots. The deposit will go into the total price of the piece. I will communicate more details through a direct email once you submit this form.

Yes. Tattoos can be powerful additions to our bodies. I want to make it accessible for people to get them. The issue is that we live in an exploitive, capitalistic world that creates socioeconomic barriers. I offer a sliding scale for Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) who have financial disparities to mitigate some of those barriers. This is based on the honor system and will not require any proof. If you can afford the full price, please consider doing so as it helps me continue to stay accessible to others. Read more about the sliding scale model here: https://www.abmtattoo.com/sliding-scale-policy.

My hourly rate for sliding scale is $20-$30 off my hourly rate. My minimum is still $140 for the first hour and cannot accommodate below that. When you fill out the booking form, click the sliding scale option.

I can take Zelle, Venmo, or PayPal for the deposit. The remaining amount will need to be in cash at the end of the appointment. Please be prepared.

Flash: Most flash designs are a set price unless it is specified on my post that it is set to an hourly rate. Designs are updated in the instagram caption and posted in my highlights. Flash designs can only be done once unless stated otherwise. If the design you are interested in has already been claimed, a variation of it can be done. 

Customs: I'm happy to take on a custom design related to my style. I recommend looking through my page and referencing the pieces I tend to work with. Botanicals, animals, and nature are some of my favorite things to design. Most of my work is in black and gray but I can add small accents of color to designs.

I DO NOT take requests for hand or face placements, anything under two inches, symbols outside of my culture/spirituality (respectfully, I just rather not), or full-color tattoos.

You will see the design at your appointment to approve and provide any comments. I am not entitled to what will be on your body forever so don’t be afraid to speak on anything. I respect your expectations for these services. You are not hurting my feelings if you need changes or decide to not go through with the design. I am only entitled to my time, hence, the reason I request a non-refundable deposit. If you would like to see the design ahead of time then please include that in your proposal request.

Handpoked tattoos can take 3-4x longer than machine tattoos. Wear comfortable clothing, and make sure to eat at least two hours before your appointment. Stay hydrated before, during, and after your appointment. If you plan on using numbing cream, make sure to notify me before the appointment.

TEXT/DM me if you are running late. If you are 15 minutes late and have not reached out to communicate this, I will assume you are not showing up. The deposit will then be used as a late fee. If you need to reschedule, please tell me 48 hours in advance, otherwise you will need to put down a new deposit. Any cancelations forfeit the deposit. Any "no call/no show" will be blacklisted because that straight up hurts my feelings and I don't want to continue working with people who do that. These policies are in place mostly so that you keep me in the loop in case anything changes. Life happens, I get it, so just communicate.

I’m fully vaccinated & boosted, and get routinely tested for COVID. Face masks are optional during the appointment. I can wear a mask during your appointment, just include that in your proposal request. If you are experiencing any COVID/cold symptoms, communicate this with me. I want to prioritize everyone's health. Rescheduling for this reason will NOT require another deposit.

They are free within the first year of receiving the tattoo. Just DM or email me to schedule that. are free within the first year of receiving the tattoo. Just DM or email me to schedule that. 

If second skin is applied: leave bandage on for 3-5 days. (Easiest to take off in the shower when the adhesive is less tacky. Remove second skin pulling the bandage up like a commandstrip)

If plastic wrap was used: take off by the end of day or after a few hours with clean hands.

• • Once wrap/bandage is removed, wash your new tattoo with anti-bacterial or non-scented soap. Pat dry with a paper towel and apply a light layer of unscented lotion. Repeat all this twice a day.

  • Keep your new tattoo out of the ocean/pool/bath and direct sunlight for two weeks while it heals.

  •  It’s normal if it starts to feel itchy or begins to scab. Don’t pick or scratch. Instead lightly tao or reapply moisturizer.

  • If you have any questions or concern you might be developing a reaction to the second skin, DM/email me ASAP.