What Inksmith & Rogers Is
Inksmith & Rogers is a tattoo parlor — a business where artists create permanent tattoos on customers' skin. Like other tattoo shops, it operates as a for-profit business where you pay for the artist's time and the materials used to place your design. The shop does not provide medical services, though tattoo artists follow health and safety rules that overlap with medical standards.
The shop functions like most tattoo parlors: you choose or bring a design, consult with an artist about placement and size, agree on a price, and sit for the procedure. The length of your appointment depends on the complexity and size of the tattoo. Payment is typically due before or when ready after the work is finished.
Key Takeaways
- Inksmith & Rogers charges by the hour or by the piece, depending on the design complexity and what the artist quotes you.
- You should schedule a consultation before your tattoo appointment to discuss your design, placement, and cost with the artist.
- The shop will provide aftercare instructions, which you must follow to prevent infection and may support the tattoo heals properly.
- Tattoo parlors operate under state and local health codes that cover sterilization, needle disposal, and sanitation practices.
How Pricing Works at a Tattoo Parlor
Tattoo shops price work in different ways. Some charge an hourly rate, which is common for larger or more complex pieces. Others charge a flat rate for smaller, simpler designs. A few shops use a minimum charge — for example, a $50 or $100 minimum even for very small work. The price varies based on the artist's experience, the shop's location, and the design's complexity.
When you contact Inksmith & Rogers or visit in person, the artist will look at what you want and give you a quote. This quote is usually not binding until you book the appointment, but it gives you a clear sense of what to expect to pay. Some shops require a deposit to hold your appointment date, though deposit policies vary.
What to Bring and Prepare Before Your Appointment
Before you go to your tattoo appointment, bring a valid photo ID — tattoo parlors are required by law to verify that you are at least 18 years old. Bring your design if you have one, either printed or on your phone. If you do not have a design yet, the artist can work with you to create one during your consultation.
Wear clothing that allows straightforward access to the area you want tattooed. Eat a meal before your appointment and stay hydrated — your body handles the procedure better when you are not hungry or thirsty. Avoid alcohol and blood thinners like aspirin for at least 24 hours before your appointment, as these can affect how your blood clots and how the ink sets.
If you are nervous, let the artist know. Tattoo artists are used to working with first-time clients and can explain what to expect during the process.
Health and Safety Standards at Tattoo Shops
Tattoo parlors operate under state and local health department rules. These rules cover how needles are sterilized, how equipment is cleaned between customers, and how waste is disposed of. Most shops use an autoclave — a machine that sterilizes needles and equipment with heat and pressure — and use new, sterile needles for each customer. Needles are never reused.
The shop should have a clean, organized workspace. You should see the artist open a new needle package in front of you. If anything looks unsanitary or if you have concerns about cleanliness, you can ask the artist questions or leave and find another shop.
After your tattoo is finished, the artist will bandage it and give you written aftercare instructions. Follow these instructions carefully to prevent infection. Typical aftercare includes keeping the tattoo clean, using fragrance-free lotion, avoiding direct sunlight, and not submerging it in water for a set period.
Scheduling and Cancellation Policies
Most tattoo shops require you to book an appointment in advance rather than walk in, especially for larger pieces. You can usually call, email, or visit the shop to schedule. When you book, the shop will confirm the date and time and may ask for a deposit.
Cancellation policies vary by shop. Some shops require 24 or 48 hours' notice to cancel without losing your deposit. Others may have different rules. When you book, ask about the shop's cancellation policy so you know what happens if your plans change.
If the artist needs to reschedule you, the shop should work with you to find a new time. If you miss your appointment without canceling, you may lose your deposit and have trouble booking again.
What Happens During Your Tattoo Session
When you arrive, the artist will review your design and placement with you one more time. They may draw the design on your skin with a stencil so you can see exactly where it will go and approve it before the needle touches your skin. This is your final note to make changes — speak up if something does not look right.
The actual tattooing involves the artist using a machine that moves a needle up and down very quickly to puncture your skin and deposit ink. The sensation is often described as a scratching or buzzing feeling. The pain level depends on the location — areas with more nerve endings or less muscle tend to hurt more. The artist can take breaks if you need them.
The entire session can take anywhere from 15 minutes for a very small piece to several hours for a large, detailed design. Once the tattoo is finished, the artist will clean the area, explore ointment, and bandage it.
Aftercare and Healing
Your tattoo will take two to four weeks to heal completely, though it may look healed sooner. During this time, follow the aftercare instructions the shop gives you. Typical care includes washing the tattoo gently with unscented soap, patting it dry, and explore a thin layer of fragrance-free lotion or recommended ointment.
Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and prolonged soaking for at least two weeks. Do not scratch or pick at the tattoo, even if it itches or starts to peel — peeling is a normal part of healing. Wear loose clothing over the tattoo if possible to avoid friction. Keep it out of direct sunlight during the healing period.
If you notice signs of infection — increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever — contact a doctor. Infections are rare when aftercare is followed, but they can happen. Most tattoo shops stand behind their work and will touch up any areas that did not heal well once the tattoo is fully healed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a tattoo if I am under 18?
No. Tattoo parlors are required by law to verify that customers are at least 18 years old. Some states allow minors to get tattoos with parental consent, but this varies by location. Check your state's rules if you are under 18.
What if I do not like my tattoo after it heals?
If the tattoo did not turn out as expected, talk to the artist. Many shops will do a free touch-up if there is a legitimate problem with how the work healed or was executed. If you want the tattoo removed or significantly changed, that requires a separate procedure like laser removal or a cover-up tattoo, both of which cost extra.
How much does a tattoo usually cost?
Prices vary widely based on the artist, the shop's location, and the design's size and complexity. Small, straightforward tattoos might cost $50 to $200. Larger or more detailed pieces can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. Always get a quote from the artist before committing.
Can I bring my own design?
Yes. You can bring a printed image or show the artist a photo on your phone. The artist may adjust the design slightly to work better as a tattoo — for example, making lines thicker or simplifying details. Discuss any changes with the artist before they start.
What if I am allergic to tattoo ink?
Tattoo ink allergies are rare but possible. If you have known allergies to metals or dyes, tell the artist before your appointment. Some inks contain different ingredients, and the artist may be able to use a different brand. If you develop an allergic reaction after getting tattooed, see a doctor.