DOES IT HURT?
Getting a tattoo feels like a unique blend of sensations that can vary depending on your pain tolerance, the location on your body, and the artist's technique. Most people describe it as a sharp, persistent scratching or stinging, as the needle rapidly punctures the skin to deposit ink. It's often likened to a hot, vibrating pinprick that buzzes against your flesh, sometimes accompanied by a mild burning feeling as the skin reacts. For some, the initial shock fades into a dull, tolerable ache after a few minutes as endorphins kick in, while areas over bone or sensitive spots—like the ribs or inner arm—can amplify the discomfort into a deeper, more intense throb. The experience is as much mental as physical, with anticipation and adrenaline often shaping how you perceive the pain.

CAN I GO SWIMMING AFTER BEING TATTOOED OR PIERCED?
Swimming after getting a fresh tattoo is a gamble you don’t want to take. Your new ink is essentially an open wound, vulnerable to infection from bacteria lurking in pools, lakes, or oceans—think of it as a welcome mat for germs like staphylococcus or worse. Submerging it in water, especially chlorinated or salty stuff, can irritate the skin, slow healing, and even fade the design before it has a chance to settle. The moisture can break down the protective scab, leading to ink loss and a blurry, disappointing result after all that needle-induced bravery. Plus, if you’re caught cannonballing into a public pool with a raw tattoo, you might just get some side-eye for potentially turning it into a petri dish. Give it a couple of weeks—your tattoo will thank you.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Tattoo pricing is determined by a combination of factors that reflect the artist’s time, skill, and resources. Steve's Tattoo shop hourly rate is $175, or set a flat rate for smaller, simpler designs, starting at a shop minimum of $100. Intricate pieces requiring detailed line-work, shading, or color can drive up costs, as can custom designs that demand extra prep time. The size and placement of the tattoo also play a role; larger tattoos or those in tricky spots like the ribs or hands take longer and may cost more. It’s always best to consult with your artist upfront for a clear quote.

CAN I DRINK BEFORE OR AFTER GETTING TATTOOED OR PIERCED?
Drinking alcohol before getting a tattoo is a bad idea for several reasons. Alcohol acts as a blood thinner, which can increase bleeding during the tattooing process. This not only makes it harder for the tattoo artist to work, as excess blood can obscure the design, but it can also lead to a messier healing process. Additionally, alcohol dehydrates the body, which can slow down your skin’s ability to recover and potentially affect the vibrancy of the ink. Being intoxicated might also impair your judgment, leading to rash decisions about the design or placement that you might regret later. For the best results and to avoid extra discomfort, staying sober before sitting in the tattoo chair is the smart move.

WHEN CAN I GET MY TATTOO TOUCHED UP?
You will want to wait at least 1 1/2 to 2 months before you get your tattoo touched up. This will give your skin enough time to regenerate and will make your touch-up very simple. Most tattoos will not require a touch-up for many years, if ever.

WHAT KIND OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?
We accept cash, VISA, MASTERCARD, DISCOVER, traveler's checks and gift certificates. The gift certificates make excellent gifts for Christmas, Birthday, Wedding, etc...

HOW OLD DO I HAVE TO BE TO GET A TATTOO?
You have to be at least 18 to get a tattoo. NO EXCEPTIONS!