FAQ

Where are you located?

I tattoo at Bone and Blossom Tattoo Studio in Lombard, Illinois.

How do I book with you?

Previously, I have booked through text message and a form on my website. As of July 2026, I am moving to Venue Ink for all booking requests. When my books are open, you can visit my Venue Ink profile to request a tattoo.

How does Venue Ink work?

When my books are open, you may submit your tattoo requests via the link above (also found on my Instagram profile). It asks a series of questions about your specific tattoo request. After reviewing all of the requests, I will accept projects that I feel most creatively aligned with and move forward with booking. You should be notified vie email and text message about the status of your request as it updates.

What information is needed for the tattoo request?

When the Venue Ink link is active, it will require: your tattoo idea, size estimation in inches, location of tattoo, color or grayscale shading preference, budget, and whether it’s a cover up (if so, a photo of your current tattoo will be needed). Additionally, there will be an optional image upload section to add inspiration pictures, if relevant to your tattoo. 

When are your books open?

The next date my books will open is TBD. My non-work life is a little chaotic, so I’m letting things wind down first.

Do I need to use the Venue Ink link if I’m a return client?

Returning clients seeking a NEW tattoo should fill out a tattoo request form when the booking period is active. However, returning clients with unfinished tattoos or ongoing projects can simply text me to book additional appointments to finish their tattoo.

What days are appointments available?

I take appointments Tuesday-Friday at 11 am. All appointments will end at 5 pm or earlier. I do not currently work evenings or weekends. I know many lovely tattoo artists who may be able to accommodate your schedule if mine doesn’t match yours - happy to recommend a friend.

If someone cancels, can I get in sooner?

This is a rare occurrence, but when it happens I post about cancellations and reschedules on my Instagram stories.

Do you need a deposit?

Yes, it’s $100, which is paid upon booking. I apply this toward the final cost of the tattoo. 

What is your deposit policy?

Deposits can be returned if the appointment is canceled with one week or more of notice before the appointment date.

What is your rate?

I charge $200/hr. You can always ask me for an estimate when I reach out to book your appointment; I’m happy to discuss! This discussion is not the guaranteed final price, which could be more or less. My minimum is also $200.

How do you accept payment?

My preferred payment is Zelle or cash, as neither incur a transaction fee. I also use PayPal Business, which allows me to create a digital invoice that can be paid with: Venmo, PayPal (and PayPal Pay in 4), credit/debit card, ApplePay, and Afterpay. I do not have control over split payment options like Afterpay; PayPal determines your approval status. There is a 3.5 % card fee for these payments.

Can I see my design before the appointment?

No, but I show designs on the day of the session and we have time to make adjustments, if needed. I’m very flexible and will never pressure you into a design that you are not happy with. If you really need to see the design before booking, I might not be the best fit for you as an artist.

Why won’t you show me early? 

• Designs are stolen and taken to other artists. I’ve seen in happen in real life. I only charge for tattoo time, not drawing, so I’d be getting ripped off for my custom drawing for you.

• Texting is the least expressive way to communicate and easiest to misinterpret. I don’t want you to misunderstand my communication style and vice versa. It’s just easier to talk in person. 

• If you show the design to your family and friends, they’ll give their unprofessional opinion on the design until you don’t even like it anymore. The design is on YOUR body, and you are the expert decision maker of your own body, not them.

Should I get a sketch of the tattoo design done before coming to you?

That is not necessary. I love to design from scratch without a sketch that limits our options. Sketches to show placement are totally fine. Also, do not pay another person, purchase a “tattoo ticket” for your design, or generate an AI image. These are not drawn by a tattoo expert and will have to be redrawn by me anyways. Save your time and money and let me do the thing I’m excited to do!

What kind of tattoos are you best at?

Check my Instagram and portfolio to see my previous work. If you need inspiration, check my tattoo wishlist page to get an in-depth feel for the things I would love to tattoo. I also have unique pre-drawn designs available, as well as flash designs.

I tattoo in color and grayscale. I like anything from girly to spooky to tough to silly. My style is sometimes considered neotraditional and/or illustrative. To me, the official name of the style isn’t as important as the feeling towards it. If you like what I tattoo, then you like my style!

What styles will you not tattoo?

I do not typically take on hyper-realistic or photo-realistic grayscale work, very dainty or micro fine line style, line work only (tattoos with no shading), geometric or graphic patterns, logos, silhouettes, and word/script tattoos (handwriting is fine). I have tattooed these styles in the past and may be interested in them again in the future - but I am not looking to book these styles currently. Thank you for your interest!

Do you cover up old tattoos? 

Yes; I enjoy the creative challenge. Your existing tattoo should be at least a year old before covering it with a new one. Realistic expectations and flexibility are key to the success of a cover up. They can also be a time commitment: two or more sessions are often needed.

Do you accept tips?

Tips are a nice gesture, but never required. I also love homemade gifts, bakery treats, salty snacks, and any type of iced decaf coffee.

Do you sell gift cards?

I do sell gift cards, specifically for use with me. They can be picked up in person at the shop. No max or minimum value required. I do not currently offer a digital gift cards.

Can I bring a friend with me on appointment day?

Yes, there is space for one friend in my studio space. No one under 18 is allowed in the shop.

How do I prepare for my appointment?

Day of appointment, eat breakfast: you need to raise your blood sugar so you don’t pass out. The weeks prior to your appointment: drink water to help your skin stay hydrated; exfoliate and moisturize your skin for better heal and less pain. Hydrated, moisturized skin accepts ink easier.

Should I shave before my appointment?

If the tattoo is going on a body part that you regularly shave, it is fine to shave, but not required. If it’s not common for you to shave that body part, don’t go out of your way to accomplish it, as I like to avoid tattooing over razor burn and accidental nicks. I shave everyone before applying a stencil, no worries.

Can I get a tattoo if I have sunburn/mosquito bites/a cat scratch in that area?

If you have sunburn, I cannot tattoo you at all. Please monitor your sun exposure prior to your appointment. Large, deep cuts and most rashes should not be tattooed over, either. Smaller scrapes and individual blemishes may be possible to tattoo over. If you’re unsure, simply text me at 815-345-5219 before your appointment to verify a plan of action. 

Can I use numbing cream?

I would prefer that you do not. It is expensive, inconsistent, and you feel worse when it wears off. I use Bactine, an OTC spray that has 4% lidocaine, on my clients during the appointment. This provides temporary pain relief. 

If it eases your mind, I’ve been told I’m a fairly gentle tattooer. I check in frequently about breaks, snacks, and water. Plus, I love to chat to distract you, as much as possible. Tattoos are tough, but so are you!

Do you use AI?

Absolutely not. Generative AI is lazy, wastes precious resources like fresh water, and wildly inaccurate. My brain is perfectly creative and capable of designing your tattoo without the use of generative AI. On that note, I write all my content and blogs myself. Every word typed by me is entirely my own with absolutely no AI assistance (unless you count spellcheck).

Do you have merch?

Sure do! Buying merch is a great way to support your favorite artist between appointments, or if you’ve run out of space (or budget) for any new tattoos. Check my fashion and art offerings by clicking the corner menu, then merch, to see each individual collection. Or check out this recent merch drop here.

How do I care for my new tattoo with the clear sticker bandage?

Keep the bandage on for 3 to 5+ days. When you take it off, peel gently in the shower with soap and water. You may have a little sticky residue or plasma left behind; you can scrub it off in the shower with more soap and water and your finger pads (not nails). You can wash it each morning and evening for the next 3-7 days, and let air dry - no lotion is needed. However, if you are especially dry skinned or itchy, you may use a lightweight lotion that absorbs quickly. Do not use heavy ointment like Aquaphor after removing Dermshield bandage, no matter your skin type.

Scam question: I received a weird email/DM from you to book? Is this you?

Scammers are rampant. I will never pressure you to book something, rush you into a decision, or demand a deposit more than $100 - scammers often do all of these. I will only book appointments in person or during formally announced booking dates. If the message you receive feels off, send me a text 815-345-5219 and I will confirm if it’s me or not.

How do I contact you?

My work number is 815-345-5219, please only text in regard to existing appointments, previous work I’ve tattooed on you, or scam verification. Tattoo inquiries can be submitted through Venue Ink when the link is active.