Frequently Asked Questions
Booking your Appointment
How do I book an appointment?
To schedule an appointment, you can reach out through email, the inquiry form, text, or opt for an in-person consultation. Prior to booking a tattoo appointment, clients are required to have a conversation with me. Consultations are open to anyone interested.
During consultations, we discuss your tattoo idea, design preferences, placement, and any additional details you have in mind. Appointments can be made by using the button below. We can also discuss your tattoo by texts, you’ll just need to fill out the tattoo inquiry page and completing the form. Please note that I operate on an appointment-only basis, including consultations. Consultations are available from 11 AM to 1 PM every 15 minutes, Tuesday to Sunday (excluding Thursdays). If you're interested in booking a consultation, please use the link provided below.
Communication with me
There are three delightful ways to reach out to me! For a truly personalized experience, I warmly recommend an in-person consultation. If you prefer the convenience of online booking, appointments can be made through my inquiry form or via email. You can also send a text to my phone number, keeping in mind that I'm more responsive to messages than calls. I make it a point to check messages every morning from 9 to 11, Monday to Sunday. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Email: ashbutterstattoos@gmail.com
Phone: 407-310-6586
What is the deposit and how do I pay it?
Booking Deposit Policy
A booking deposit is a nonrefundable sum of money that is mandatory for securing an appointment and is always credited towards the total cost of your tattoo. This deposit is essential to cover preliminary work conducted before your appointment and to ensure that our schedule accommodates your session. Additionally, it helps offset any inconvenience caused in the event of appointment rescheduling or cancellation.
Deposit Amounts:
For tattoos with an estimated cost below $150, a $50 deposit is required for booking.
For tattoos with an estimated cost exceeding $150, a $100 deposit is required for booking.
Rescheduling Policy: You are allowed one reschedule of your appointment per deposit. Please provide us with at least 48 hours' notice if you need to reschedule. This allows me to adjust my schedule and potentially accommodate other clients. Failure to provide adequate notice for the rescheduled appointment may result in the forfeiture of your deposit.
Deposit Expiration: Deposits for appointments canceled with no reschedules will expire after three months from the date of cancellation. After this period, the deposit will no longer be valid or applicable to any future appointments.
Multi-Session Tattoos: In cases where a tattoo requires multiple sessions, the deposit will be applied towards the final session.
Nonrefundable and Nontransferable: Please note that all deposits are nonrefundable and cannot be transferred between different tattoo designs or clients. Once paid, the deposit is solely allocated to the scheduled appointment and will not be refunded under any circumstances.
What are your prices?
I charge by the piece so when inquiring please provide as many details as possible for the most accurate quote. For pieces that are four hours or longer, I charge $200 an hour. My minimum is $100.
Would I be able to see my drawing before the appointment?
Yes! I recently adjusted my schedule to accommodate drawing proof appointments. Please note, this is a separate appointment from your actual tattoo appointment and do require for your to come in person to see the drawing. Drawings will not be sent digitally including texts, emails or Instagram. To book one, please fill out the tattoo Inquiry form and let me know you’ll like to schedule a drawing proof appointment. A non refundable $100 deposit is required to book one and will be applied towards the tattoo once it is finished.
What do I need to do if I need to reschedule?
Life is full of surprises! I understand if plans change, but I kindly ask for a 48-hour notice to fill the slot. If you reschedule or cancel within 48 hours, a new deposit may be needed. One reschedule per deposit is allowed to be fair to all clients. Thank you for understanding! No-shows are not tolerated.
Do you tattoo minors?
I do tattoo minors, and the required documentation is detailed below. However, there are specific areas, including anything beyond the wrist, fingers, and hands, that I refrain from tattooing on minors. Additionally, no tattoos above the collarbone, including the face, neck, or behind the ear. I also avoid tattooing in areas covered by a swimsuit or bikini.
For minors, a consultation in person is mandatory, and they must be accompanied by their legal guardian or parent. Your understanding and adherence to these guidelines are greatly appreciated.
What will you not tattoo?
I reserve the right to decline tattoo requests that I am not comfortable with. This may include refusing to tattoo hands on individuals who are not heavily tattooed or declining face tattoos. Additionally, certain designs that do not translate well to tattooing will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. I do not tattoo the inside of someone's lips or the inside of someone's finger.
Furthermore, I have the freedom to refuse to work with any client who makes me feel uncomfortable. This policy ensures a positive and comfortable environment for both myself and my clients. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
What is your availability?
You can book consultations between 11 AM and 12 PM from Tuesdays to Saturdays, and from 10 AM to 11 AM on Sundays. Appointments are available from 11:30 AM to 8 PM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. On Thursdays, appointments are offered from 11 AM to 4 PM, and on the first Sunday of each month. If you're planning ahead for a specific date a few months in advance, feel free to reach out to inquire about my availability.
For your appointment
What do I need to do before my appointment?
Taking care of your skin before getting a tattoo is essential to ensure a smooth and successful tattooing process. Here are some guidelines:
Hydrate: Well-hydrated skin is more resilient. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment to keep your skin hydrated.
Moisturize: Apply a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer to your skin regularly weeks before your appointment. Healthy, moisturized skin allows the tattoo needle to glide smoothly.
Avoid Sun Exposure: Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure, as sunburned or damaged skin is can not be tattooed. Use sunscreen on exposed areas if you cannot avoid sun exposure.
Avoid Tanning: Do not get a tan or use self-tanning products close to your tattoo appointment. Even skin tones are better for achieving the desired tattoo outcome.
Avoid Alcohol and Blood Thinners: Refrain from consuming alcohol and blood-thinning medications a day or two before your appointment. These can increase bleeding during the tattooing process.
Get a Good Night's Sleep: Ensure you get adequate rest the night before your appointment. Fatigue can affect your body's response to the tattooing process.
Eat Well: Have a balanced meal before your appointment. This helps maintain your energy levels and provides your body with the nutrients it needs.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose loose-fitting and comfortable clothing for easy access to the tattoo area. This helps both you and me as the tattoo artist during the process.
Communicate Any Concerns: If you have any skin conditions, allergies, or health concerns, inform me beforehand. They can take necessary precautions or make adjustments to ensure a safe process.
Remember, everyone's skin is different, so it's crucial to follow the specific instructions given by your tattoo artist. They may have additional recommendations based on their expertise and the type of tattoo you're getting.
I am 16/17 what do I need?
If you're aged 16 or 17 and wish to book an appointment, it's necessary to schedule a consultation. This allows for a discussion involving both you and your legal guardian. During the actual appointment, it's crucial that you bring a government-issued ID with a photo. Additionally, your parent must be present, accompanied by their own ID.
A Florida Health Department minor consent form needs to be notarized and completed before your appointment. While practices may vary among tattoo artists, I personally require the parent to be present throughout the entire tattoo process. This ensures a comprehensive understanding and a smooth experience for all parties involved.
Payment Options
I accept all major forms of cards and take cash. I also take cash app, venmo, zelle and apple pay
What do I need to bring for my appointment?
It's always a good idea to bring a snack and a drink with you for your tattoo appointment. The process can lower your sugar levels, and having a soda and some candy can help replenish them. While eating is not allowed in the tattoo room, I do provide breaks during your appointment for you to take a moment and enjoy a snack. I also provide water and soda in the shop.
If you bring drinks, please ensure they are in a bottle with a securely screwed-on lid. Additionally, the shop might get chilly, so consider bringing a blanket for your comfort. Some clients would prefer to listen to music, so you are more than welcome to bring headphones.
Can I bring a guest?
Yes you may bring up to one guest!
What should I wear?
It's recommended to wear comfortable and loose clothing for your tattoo appointment. While efforts are made to maintain cleanliness, it cannot be guaranteed that your clothes won't get dirty during the tattoo process. Therefore, it's advisable to avoid wearing new pieces of clothing. Additionally, keep in mind that I will require access to the specific area you are getting tattooed, so choose clothing that allows for easy access and comfort during the session.
Taking care of your tattoo
Soap and Lotion provided to clients depend on inventory availability
How do I take care of my tattoo?
Soaker Pad Aftercare Instructions
Congratulations on your new tattoo! Proper aftercare is crucial for a successful healing process. Please follow these instructions:
1. Initial Bandage:
Leave your bandage on for 1 hour or until you get home.
Wash your hands thoroughly before removing the bandage, and always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
2. Washing Your Tattoo:
Use unscented liquid hand soap to gently wash your tattoo in a circular motion.
Pat dry with a paper towel (avoid using rags or bath towels).
3. First 24 Hours:
For the first 24 hours, only wash your tattoo two to three times a day.
Ensure you wear clean clothing to prevent any irritation.
4. Applying Lotion:
After the initial 24 hours, you can start applying lotion.
Apply only a thin layer of lotion, and blot with a paper towel to remove any excess.
Your tattoo area should be dry within 10 minutes. If it remains glistening or wet, you've applied too much lotion.
Do NOT over-lotion your tattoo.
5. Lotion Choice:
Under no circumstances should you use Aquaphor or A&D ointment.
Only use unscented white hand lotion. Recommended options include cocoa butter, Aveeno hand lotion, or Lubriderm lotion.
6. Continue Care:
Follow these instructions for at least two weeks after getting your tattoo to ensure proper healing and vibrant colors.
Remember, the key to a beautiful, well-healed tattoo is consistent and gentle care. If you have any concerns or questions about your tattoo's healing process, don't hesitate to reach out to your tattoo artist for guidance.
Aftercare Instructions for Saniderm or Second Skin:
Saniderm or Second Skin serves as a protective covering for your tattoo, acting like a large sticker. It shields your tattoo from potential contaminants and supports the natural healing process within your body. In the initial 24 to 48 hours following the tattoo application, your body expels blood, plasma, and excess ink, forming an ink sac under the Saniderm.
Here are essential guidelines to follow:
Monitoring the Ink Sac:
If the ink sac starts to leak from beneath the bandage or becomes excessively swollen, it is vital to promptly remove the Saniderm.
Avoid allowing it to remain in place if it leaks, and refrain from using alternatives like cling wrap, scotch tape, gauze, or other materials, as they can increase the risk of infection.
Redness or Rash Around Saniderm's Edge:
If you observe a red line or rash developing around the edges of the Saniderm, consider removing it.
This is more likely to occur in sensitive skin areas. If you can peel it away from the affected area while still covering your tattoo, you can trim the excess rather than removing the entire sheet.
Please leave the Saniderm in position for 3 to 6 days unless you encounter any of the issues mentioned above.
When it's time to remove the Saniderm, follow these steps:
Removal in the Shower:
Remove the Saniderm while in the shower, as it can be messy. Hot water and soap will help loosen the adhesive.
Gentle Cleaning:
Clean the tattoo with gentle circular motions, using clean, washed hands.
Drying Technique:
Pat the tattoo dry using a paper towel, avoiding rubbing with a bath towel or cloth.
Lotion Application:
Apply an extremely thin layer of lotion to your tattoo. Over-application of lotion can have adverse effects on your tattoo. If the lotion is not dry within 10 minutes of application, you have applied too much.
Patting your tattoo with a paper towel can help prevent excessive lotion application.
Lastly, remember to avoid bodies of water or beaches for the two weeks following your tattoo application, as this can lead to infections or complications in the healing process.
Ink Sack
It is common to observe ink sacks with Saniderm. An ink sack consists of your blood, plasma, and excess ink naturally expelled by your body during the healing process. It's crucial for the ink sack to remain inside the Saniderm. In case of a leak, the Saniderm must be removed promptly. Failing to do so after a leakage can lead to potential infections. Therefore, it's important to monitor the Saniderm closely and address any leaks promptly to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.
Ink Sack
Recommended Lotions:
Things to watch out for when healing a tattoo
Avoid the beach and the sun, even if you don’t plan on going in the water. Sand and sun is terrible for a new tattoo
Avoid bodies of water. This includes the ocean, baths, pools and water parks for at least two weeks after receiving your tattoo.
Careful around pets and animals with your new tattoo. Animal dander is terrible for tattoos and can lead to infection. Wash your tattoo right away if an animal brushes against it. If you sleep with a pet please change the sheets out the day you got your tattoo.
Unless using the second skin, do NOT bandage your tattoo after the first night. Sleeves and pants are fine.
Too much lotion has the potential to blow our your lines and push out more ink than necessary. It’s always better to under lotion than over lotion.
Things that can happen while your tattoo is healing.
Bruising
Peeling
Do you offer touch ups?
Touch-Up Appointment Policy
Yes, touch ups are complimentary on tattoos that I did myself and once the tattoo is 2 months older, but younger than two years. This is the touch up policy along with rescheduling a touch up. At Ash Butters Tattoos, we understand that sometimes schedules can change unexpectedly. I am committed to providing excellent service to our valued clients. Here's our policy for touch-up appointments including those that were cancelled within the 48-hour window:
1. Complimentary First Touch-Up:
We want you to look and feel your best. Therefore, the first touch-up appointment is always complimentary. You won't be charged for the touch-up service itself.
2. Deposit Requirement:
If you need to reschedule a touch-up appointment that was cancelled less than 48 hours ahead of the original appointment, a deposit of $50 will be required to secure your new booking.
3. Subsequent Changes or Cancellations:
Any subsequent changes or cancellations made within the 48-hour window before your rescheduled appointment will also require a new deposit.
4. Loss of Deposit:
Failure to provide at least 48 hours' notice for a cancellation or rescheduling (after the initial cancellation) will result in the forfeiture of the $50 deposit. This policy is in place to respect both our clients' time and our service providers' schedules.
We are here to enhance your beauty and self-confidence. Thank you for choosing Ash Butters Tattoos. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to contact us.