Does a Tattoo Touch-Up Hurt More Than the First Time?

Michael Hollman
You're looking at your healed tattoo. It's been over a month, and you love it, but you've noticed a couple of small spots that need a little perfecting—a line that...

How to Tell if Your Tattoo Artist is Using High-Quality Ink

Michael Hollman
Tagged: artist
You're doing your research for a new tattoo. You're looking at artists' portfolios, checking out studios, and thinking about your design. You're focused on the skill of the artist, but...

Why You Should Never Haggle on the Price of a Tattoo

Michael Hollman
Tagged: artist
It's a beautiful afternoon here in Portland, a city that truly values its artists and craftspeople. When we commission a piece from a local artisan, we expect to pay a...

How Much Does a First Tattoo Usually Cost? A 2025 Pricing Guide

Michael Hollman
You've got a design in mind, you've found an artist you're following online, but before you book that consultation, there's a big, practical question you need to answer: "How much...

A Checklist for Your First Tattoo Appointment: What to Bring and How to Prepare

Michael Hollman
The day you've been waiting for is finally here—your first tattoo appointment! The excitement is high, but it's often mixed with a healthy dose of nerves. You've picked your design...

Preparing for a Long Tattoo Session: A Pain Management Checklist

Michael Hollman
Tagged: artist pain
You're booked for a full-day, 6+ hour tattoo session to work on your sleeve, back piece, or another large-scale project. The thought of the incredible art you'll have at the...

How Much Does Tattoo Removal Hurt? An Honest Pain-Level Guide

Michael Hollman
Tagged: artist pain removal
As this article is being written, many people are out getting new tattoos, others are contemplating the opposite journey: removing one. Whether it's a tattoo from a past life, a...

Can a Tattoo Artist Copy Another Artist's Work? A Guide to Tattoo Etiquette

Michael Hollman
Tagged: artist
You're scrolling through Pinterest or Instagram, and you find it—the absolute perfect tattoo. The design, the colors, the flow... it's exactly what you want. The thought seems simple enough: "I'll...

How Much Should You Tip Your Tattoo Artist? A Guide to Proper Etiquette

Michael Hollman
Tagged: artist
The final wipe-down is done. Your artist turns you towards the mirror, and you see it—the perfect tattoo you've been dreaming of. You're thrilled with the result. As you walk...

What Should You Bring to a Long Tattoo Appointment? Your Ultimate Survival Kit Checklist

Michael Hollman
Tagged: aftercare artist
You’ve booked a full-day session for your new sleeve, back piece, or other large-scale tattoo. You’ve prepared mentally for the commitment, but have you thought about the practical challenges of...

How to Find a Tattoo Artist That Matches Your Style

Michael Hollman
Tagged: artist design
Let's start with the single most important truth in the world of tattoos: the most critical decision you'll make isn't the design—it's the artist. Think of it this way: you wouldn't...

What to Wear to Your Tattoo Appointment (Based on Placement)

Michael Hollman
You’ve booked your tattoo appointment, sent your deposit, and you’re mentally prepared for the needle. You've planned for everything, but then a simple, practical question pops up: "What am I actually...