FAQ

What is the cost of getting a tattoo done ?

The price varies depending on the piece you’d like to have done. To provide an accurate estimate, please submit reference images, approximate sizing, and the desired placement of your tattoo. This information allows me to consider factors such as compositional complexity, ink usage, and the time required to complete the piece. Providing clear references ensures that your tattoo is executed as envisioned. The more details you provide, the better I can bring your vision to life.


Why do your tattoos cost more ?

Short answer: more accuracy, more detail, more time.

Single-needle tattooing is a practice unlike traditional tattooing. Traditional tattoo needles typically use a gauge range of about #10 to #14 to create heavier, thicker lines—the look most people associate with tattoos. Even #3 to #5 gauge needles are considered “fine needle,” but using more needles makes it easier to correct mistakes.

Sounds like a good thing, right? Not always. Heavier needling can result in disproportional or harsher lines that stray from the intended design. With a single needle, I have the precision to achieve finer details and depth that are difficult or impossible with traditional methods. This meticulous craft requires a steady hand, sharp focus, and extensive experience to execute properly. When done well, single-needle tattoos retain intricate detail and avoid “blowouts”—a technical term for the smudging or blurring that can occur in tattoos.

Single-needle tattoos also take roughly twice as long to complete as traditional tattoos. This additional time is an investment in creating a piece of art that is intricate, lasting, and unique.

In short, single-needle tattoos are like couture: the care and dedication devoted to each piece produce results unlike anything from a standard tattoo parlor. If your budget is limited, I recommend considering a traditional tattoo instead.


Do you do cover-ups ?

I get this question quite often, and unfortunately, I do not perform tattoo cover-ups. Single-needle tattoos have recently gained popularity, but covering an existing tattoo with this technique is not straightforward. Most clients seeking cover-ups are trying to conceal traditionally inked pieces, which is similar to trying to fix a painting mistake with pencils—the underlying artwork can overpower the fine line work that single-needle tattoos are known for.

While it is theoretically possible to design a piece to cover an existing tattoo, I do not recommend it—especially with single-needle work. Covering a tattoo generally requires going darker and larger than the original ink, which conflicts with the clean, delicate lines that define this style. Additionally, cover-ups can draw more attention to the area, as the resulting composition is often thicker and visually busier, rather than seamlessly blending in.

For these reasons, I advise clients considering a cover-up to explore laser tattoo removal or consult a local tattoo parlor that specializes in cover-ups. Advances in laser removal have made it a highly effective and noninvasive option for anyone looking to remove an existing tattoo before investing in new artwork.


Why did you stop offering finger tattoos ?

Finger tattoos require multiple touch-up sessions to maintain. The skin on our hands is very different from the skin on other parts of the body due to its texture and constant movement. Fingers, in particular, have a unique, uneven consistency, making tattooing more challenging—it’s like drawing on a moving, irregular surface.

Our hands are in constant use: we touch, wash, work, greet, and communicate with them every day. This frequent activity can affect the ink, leading to faded lines or “blowouts” over time. As a result, finger tattoos are especially prone to wear and tear from daily routines.

While single-needle tattoos are possible on fingers, the fine-line detail may not be as refined as on other areas of the body. Achieving the best results often requires multiple passes during the session and several follow-up touch-ups. Traditional tattooing on the fingers is an alternative that can hold up better over time, but the outcome will differ from the delicate, intricate style that single-needle work provides.


Can I bring moral support ?

Getting a tattoo for the first time can be an intimidating experience, and I completely understand that. At Feather & Mink, I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment for all clients. To help maintain focus and a productive workspace, I ask that you limit your support person to one (1) guest. While I work, having a large group in the studio can be distracting. Your designated support person is welcome to wait in the studio’s waiting area to ensure both hygiene and a smooth tattooing process.