Interested in learning a little more? We could talk forever about tattoos and the tattooing process, but here’s some basic questions with the answers. If you have any questions that were not covered here, please feel free to give us a call, send an email, or stop by the shop.
– Your tattoo is a reflection of you. Getting a tattoo is a personal and a big decision, especially if it’s your first. It’s an experience that will last a lifetime. There are many reasons why people get tattoos. Keep in mind the permanency of the tattoo. Think of yourself in ten or 20 years. It’s true that skin and flesh may sag in some places as you age, but that doesn’t necessarily mean your tattoo will look bad depending on location. Removing tattoos is difficult, painful, and costly if you choose laser removal. At MTC, our goal is to create art that fits exactly what the client is looking for. All of our work is custom and may take the artist quite some time to draw the tattoo just the way you envisioned. The environment at MTC is clean and friendly. We offer each client the same great service whether you are a collector or a first-timer. Check out the shop and the artist portfolio’s either online or in person. We believe the quality of our work speaks for itself.
– All tattoo shops must be licensed by the Department of Health. In Miami, all artists must take a class and pass a written test about blood-borne pathogens, sterilization, and precautions. This education keeps tattooing and piercing safe. The Health Department randomly checks up on shops to enforce regulations. Because new needles and disposable products are used for each and every customer, there is no chance of contracting a blood-borne disease. Please feel free to ask questions and to see the unopened packages before the tattooing begins. Our artists not only take pride in their work, but also their own personal safety and the safety of the clients.
– Needles come new, packaged, and pre-sterilized from the supply companies. Disposable tubes are used for ease and further reducing any risks in cross-contamination. They come pre-packed individually in sterilization packs with indicators that it has completed sterilization procedures. All used needles and items are disposed of in special biohazard containers. All bottles, power supplies, machines, and power cords are covered in disposable covers. All inks and any materials used are thrown away after each client. The artists take all measures to insure everything is disinfected to prevent cross-contamination. We also have on-site autoclave sterilization equipment.
– You must be 18 years old. But in the state of Florida a minor that is 16 or 17 years old can be tattooed or pierced with a signed and notarized consent form and the parent must be present with you. We will not tattoo or pierce anyone without a valid I.D. Regardless of what the law says, we feel that it is inappropriate to tattoo a minor. The older you are when you make the decision to get your tattoo, the less likely you will regret it later on!
– Thankfully, now days, tattoo machines are far advanced. The needles pierce your skin very rapidly. Not to say it will not hurt, but everyone has a different tolerance for pain. Your body releases endorphins to ease the pain. Depending on where on your body you get the tattoo, the amount of discomfort is different. Usually the skin where there is little flesh or fat (over bone), hurts a little more. Never drink alcohol, use drugs, or take aspirin before your tattoo appointment. They thin the blood and excessive bleeding will occur.
– The possibilities are endless. Spend some time Googling the ideas that inspire you. Use them as “reference” to convey your idea when the artist designs your custom tattoo. There are many varieties of styles. There are Celtic, tribal, Japanese, traditional “Sailor Jerry”, bio-mechanical, realism and portraits. These are just a few of the most popular styles. Then you have to consider whether you want a black and gray piece that requires more advanced shading techniques or bright colors. Look online at the artist portfolios or stop by the shop to get a consultation. The artists are happy to talk to you about your design ideas. Choose the artist that can best create the style YOU want. There are two basic types of tattooing—flash and custom. We only do custom work at MTC. Flash are stock, pre-drawn, limiting designs you see on walls of some shops. There should never be a reason to pick a design off the wall. A tattoo is personal. You might find some “flash” while doing your research to build ideas upon. Our artists are not only talented in tattoos, but are skilled in different mediums of art such as oil paintings, watercolors and sketching. The brilliant artists at MTC are eager to create spectacular art that defines each individual client; our ambition is to exceed all expectations.
– Inks are far more advanced these days. No need to worry about the black ink turning greenish with time. The colors contain richer pigments. Consider the tone of your skin. Think of your skin as a filter over the tattoo. Darker skins will mute or obscure the color. Lighter skin will allow the color to be more vivid. It is possible to get an allergic reaction to anything, however allergies to the ink are rare. If you think you might be susceptible to an allergic reaction, consult your doctor for proper tests.
– Tattoo prices vary depending on the size, design and location. The minimum at MTC is $100. Even though the artwork may be very tiny, we still have to cover the cost of new needles and all new materials for each client. The best thing to do is bring in the design or idea so we can give you a quote. We can’t give quotes over the phone because there are so many factors when creating and pricing a custom tattoo. This is a piece of art that you will wear for life. Look for quality and be willing to pay for it. At MTC, not only do you pay for the ink and artwork performed, you pay for our knowledge and our experience as artists. It’s safe to say that you get what you pay for. In the long run, it will cost you more to have a great artists fix or cover up a bad tattoo then to have a quality tattoo done the first time.
– The artists at MTC are skilled in retouching old tattoos and also covering them up. All tattoos will age. Sun and improper healing will affect the appearance the most. Colors can be added to brighten the existing tattoo, or turn the old tattoo into a new and completely different tattoo.
– If you work, or are planning to work in a very conservative career, consider if others will look at it in a bad way. Will it be easy to hide if needed? You’ll probably have to get the tattoo where your work attire easily covers it. In this day and age, it probably won’t matter if you can’t keep it completely covered. Tattoos are a lot more socially acceptable than ever before and in most workplaces you are judged on the basis of your ability. There are exceptions, of course; there are tattoos that are so prominent and controversial in terms of their appearance or content that they may cause problems for you, just as there are workplaces that are exceptionally conservative. You need to make sure that all aspects of your appearance fit your objectives and that includes tattoos.
– Getting a tattoo when you’re sick is a bad idea. Your immune system is down and you need your white blood cells to heal your tattoo. Obviously, it wouldn’t be smart to pass the virus and germs to the shop and others. Please call and reschedule your appointment.
– We all know that UV rays are damaging to the skin, but it’s also damaging to your tattoos. The more you are exposed to the sun without protection, the more your ink fades and discolors. If you must go work on your tan, grab the highest-level SPF you can find and apply it to your tattoo. You can purchase sunscreen that is made specifically for tattoos.
– Everyone heals differently. The initial healing time usually takes about three weeks. A tattoo is usually considered well healed after about three months. Don’t put sunblock on a new or fresh tattoo. Follow your artists’ aftercare instructions and keep your tattoo covered or shaded with clothing for the first few weeks to protect against UV rays. You can use sunblock once your tattoo has finished peeling and has grown its first protective layer of skin. Your tattoo is an investment. Properly care for it. It will look great for years to come and you won’t have to worry about touch-ups.
– We have a form here on our website that you can complete and submit for your convenience. CLICK HERE TO BOOK APPOINTMENT. You may also call or stop by the shop. We cannot give price quotes over the phone because of the complex factors involved a custom tattoo. We do require a NON-REFUNDABLE deposit that is deducted from the price of the tattoo. We must have sufficient notice if you need to reschedule your appointment so we can fill your time slot.
– Tattooing is a service like any other. All of the artists take pride in their work and love what they do. Tipping is not required, but always truly appreciated. If you love your tattoo and think your artist deserves something extra, show some love. After all, I’ve heard tipping makes it hurt less!