Tattoo FAQs + Answers | Adorn Body Art

Q: GENERAL TATTOO INFO

Do I Need An Appointment?Our artists work on an appointment-basis, ensuring you receive your tattoo at your preferred time with your chosen artist. Many of our artists have busy schedules and may book weeks or months in advance, so planning ahead is key! Please note that appointments require a non-refundable deposit, which will go toward the final cost of your tattoo. Being late or canceling without notice may cause you to forfeit your deposit.Does It Hurt?The experience varies from person to person. Many describe the sensation as similar to scratching a sunburn. While discomfort is a part of the process, we recommend staying relaxed—this helps both you and the artist. Remember, the experience is temporary, and the beauty of your tattoo will last for years!Can I Bring In My Own Drawing?We encourage you to share your artwork, references, and ideas for a custom tattoo! Our artists love collaborating with clients to create unique designs that perfectly fit your vision and body. Please keep in mind that your design may need some adjustments for “tattoo-ability.” A deposit is required for custom designs, which will go toward the final cost of your tattoo. If you choose not to proceed, the deposit will serve as a drawing fee.Can You Fix/Cover-up A Tattoo I Have?Possibly! While not every tattoo is suitable for fixing or covering up, many can be. Our artists have the skills necessary for cover-ups, but we’ll need to conduct a consultation to discuss your specific needs. Consultations are free and usually take 10-30 minutes.Can You Tattoo Over A Scar?It depends on the scar’s severity and maturity. Generally, scars should be at least one year old for tattooing. Come in for a discussion, and we’ll assess your options together.

Q: AGE REQUIREMENTS

How Old Do You Have To Be To Get Tattooed?In Oregon and Washington, it’s illegal to tattoo anyone under 18. We also reserve the right to refuse service based on our experience. Tattoos in highly visible areas—often referred to as “job-busters”—will be assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure your long-term happiness. Our goal is to provide a positive experience, so if we say “no,” it’s coming from a place of care.Can My Parent Sign For Me?Unfortunately, all clients must be 18 or older and present a valid, state or federally-issued photo ID for their tattoo session. We take these regulations seriously to ensure a smooth and professional experience.Can I Bring Children Into The Shop?For everyone’s comfort and safety, we kindly ask that children remain under your supervision at all times. While we understand the challenges of finding childcare, we highly recommend arranging for a babysitter during your appointment. This allows both you and our artists to focus without distractions. If a child’s behavior poses a problem, we may need to reschedule your appointment at your expense.

Q: TATOO PREPARATION

Should I Eat Before I Get Tattooed?Absolutely! We recommend eating a healthy meal about four hours before your appointment. You want to avoid being too hungry or overly full. Stable blood sugar levels will help your body manage the endorphin fluctuations during the tattoo process. For longer sessions, feel free to bring along some snacks like fruit or trail mix, but try to steer clear of caffeine, alcohol, and painkillers.Can I Have A Drink Before I Get Tattooed?It’s important to be sober for your tattoo appointment. Aside from being illegal, getting tattooed under the influence of alcohol or other substances can complicate the process and increase the risk of issues during and after the session. What Can I Do To Prepare For My Tattoo?Preparation is key! Take the time to choose the right artist and design that resonates with you. Consider the timing of your appointment—it’s best not to get tattooed right before a beach vacation, for example. Being healthy and in a good mental space will contribute to a better healing process. If you have any health conditions that could affect your tattoo, such as a compromised immune system, it’s essential to discuss this with us beforehand.

Q: AFTERCARE & HEALING

How Do I Take Care Of My Tattoo?Your artist is your best source for aftercare advice, so be sure to follow their instructions closely. They are committed to ensuring your tattoo heals beautifully, so trust their expertise! For more detailed information, please see our Tattoo Aftercare section.How Long Can I Expect My Tattoo To Take To Heal?When cared for properly, tattoos typically take about three weeks to initially heal, though complete healing may take a couple of months. After three weeks, you can usually resume normal activities, but we recommend being gentle with your new tattoo during this time.Is It Normal For My New Tattoo To Scab?Scabbing, flaking, peeling, and dryness are all normal during the healing process. However, if you notice severe scabbing, it may indicate that adjustments are needed in your aftercare routine. Please reach out to your artist if you have concerns.Do You Do Free Touch-Ups?Our artists are committed to ensuring you love your tattoo and typically offer one free touch-up within the first year for most areas. Hands, feet, and neck tattoos are exceptions, as they require specific care. It’s important to respect your artist’s time and follow their advice to qualify for touch-ups; obvious miscare may cause you to lose this free opportunity. What Happens If My Tattoo Gets Infected?Infections are rare, but if you notice signs of irritation, it’s essential to talk to your artist. Most often, what feels like an infection may simply be irritation. If an actual infection occurs, you may need to see your medical care provider.

Q: LIFESTYLE

Can I Tan?We advise staying out of the sun and tanning beds during the healing process, as they can damage and fade your tattoo. If you love the sun, invest in a quality SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect and preserve your tattoo after it’s fully healed!Can I Get Tattooed While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding?We advise against getting tattooed while pregnant or breastfeeding due to the physical changes your body is undergoing. The potential risks to both your health and that of your baby are simply not worth it. Your well-being is our priority!

TATTOO INFO

Adorn offers a wide range of tattoo styles, including traditional, neo-traditional, new school, photorealism, Japanese, script, black and gray, and custom designs. Our experienced artists focus on health, safety, and precision to create high-quality tattoos that last a lifetime.

Choose the artist who’s right for you.

At Adorn, we prioritize art over attitude. Our artists will work closely with you to ensure you have the most comfortable and personalized experience.

Check out our Tattoo Artists here!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

GENERAL TATTOO INFO

Do I Need An Appointment?
Our artists work on an appointment-basis, ensuring you receive your tattoo at your preferred time with your chosen artist. Many of our artists have busy schedules and may book weeks or months in advance, so planning ahead is key! Please note that appointments require a non-refundable deposit, which will go toward the final cost of your tattoo. Being late or canceling without notice may cause you to forfeit your deposit.

Does It Hurt?
The experience varies from person to person. Many describe the sensation as similar to scratching a sunburn. While discomfort is a part of the process, we recommend staying relaxed—this helps both you and the artist. Remember, the experience is temporary, and the beauty of your tattoo will last for years!

Can I Bring In My Own Drawing?
We encourage you to share your artwork, references, and ideas for a custom tattoo! Our artists love collaborating with clients to create unique designs that perfectly fit your vision and body. Please keep in mind that your design may need some adjustments for “tattoo-ability.” A deposit is required for custom designs, which will go toward the final cost of your tattoo. If you choose not to proceed, the deposit will serve as a drawing fee.

Can You Fix/Cover-up A Tattoo I Have?
Possibly! While not every tattoo is suitable for fixing or covering up, many can be. Our artists have the skills necessary for cover-ups, but we’ll need to conduct a consultation to discuss your specific needs. Consultations are free and usually take 10-30 minutes.

Can You Tattoo Over A Scar?
It depends on the scar’s severity and maturity. Generally, scars should be at least one year old for tattooing. Come in for a discussion, and we’ll assess your options together.

AGE REQUIREMENTS

How Old Do You Have To Be To Get Tattooed?
In Oregon and Washington, it’s illegal to tattoo anyone under 18. We also reserve the right to refuse service based on our experience. Tattoos in highly visible areas—often referred to as “job-busters”—will be assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure your long-term happiness. Our goal is to provide a positive experience, so if we say “no,” it’s coming from a place of care.

Can My Parent Sign For Me?
Unfortunately, all clients must be 18 or older and present a valid, state or federally-issued photo ID for their tattoo session. We take these regulations seriously to ensure a smooth and professional experience.

Can I Bring Children Into The Shop?
For everyone’s comfort and safety, we kindly ask that children remain under your supervision at all times. While we understand the challenges of finding childcare, we highly recommend arranging for a babysitter during your appointment. This allows both you and our artists to focus without distractions. If a child’s behavior poses a problem, we may need to reschedule your appointment at your expense.

TATOO PREPARATION

Should I Eat Before I Get Tattooed?
Absolutely! We recommend eating a healthy meal about four hours before your appointment. You want to avoid being too hungry or overly full. Stable blood sugar levels will help your body manage the endorphin fluctuations during the tattoo process. For longer sessions, feel free to bring along some snacks like fruit or trail mix, but try to steer clear of caffeine, alcohol, and painkillers.

Can I Have A Drink Before I Get Tattooed?
It’s important to be sober for your tattoo appointment. Aside from being illegal, getting tattooed under the influence of alcohol or other substances can complicate the process and increase the risk of issues during and after the session.

What Can I Do To Prepare For My Tattoo?
Preparation is key! Take the time to choose the right artist and design that resonates with you. Consider the timing of your appointment—it’s best not to get tattooed right before a beach vacation, for example. Being healthy and in a good mental space will contribute to a better healing process. If you have any health conditions that could affect your tattoo, such as a compromised immune system, it’s essential to discuss this with us beforehand.

AFTERCARE & HEALING

How Do I Take Care Of My Tattoo?
Your artist is your best source for aftercare advice, so be sure to follow their instructions closely. They are committed to ensuring your tattoo heals beautifully, so trust their expertise! For more detailed information, please see our Tattoo Aftercare section.

How Long Can I Expect My Tattoo To Take To Heal?
When cared for properly, tattoos typically take about three weeks to initially heal, though complete healing may take a couple of months. After three weeks, you can usually resume normal activities, but we recommend being gentle with your new tattoo during this time.

Is It Normal For My New Tattoo To Scab?
Scabbing, flaking, peeling, and dryness are all normal during the healing process. However, if you notice severe scabbing, it may indicate that adjustments are needed in your aftercare routine. Please reach out to your artist if you have concerns.

Do You Do Free Touch-Ups?
Our artists are committed to ensuring you love your tattoo and typically offer one free touch-up within the first year for most areas. Hands, feet, and neck tattoos are exceptions, as they require specific care. It’s important to respect your artist’s time and follow their advice to qualify for touch-ups; obvious miscare may cause you to lose this free opportunity.

What Happens If My Tattoo Gets Infected?
Infections are rare, but if you notice signs of irritation, it’s essential to talk to your artist. Most often, what feels like an infection may simply be irritation. If an actual infection occurs, you may need to see your medical care provider.

LIFESTYLE

Can I Tan?
We advise staying out of the sun and tanning beds during the healing process, as they can damage and fade your tattoo. If you love the sun, invest in a quality SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect and preserve your tattoo after it’s fully healed!

Can I Get Tattooed While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding?
We advise against getting tattooed while pregnant or breastfeeding due to the physical changes your body is undergoing. The potential risks to both your health and that of your baby are simply not worth it. Your well-being is our priority!