In order to help the tattooing process go smoothly, I recommend lightly moisturising the area to be tattooed for a few days prior to your appointment. This is especially helpful for dry areas like elbows, knees, lower legs (especially if you regularly shave), backs of arms, and outer forearms.

No fake tan on the area to be tattooed.

Have a nice big breakfast/lunch before coming in for your tattoo: trying to sit through a tattoo on an empty stomach is awful and makes the process a lot more painful. Also, bringing a sugary snack is a great idea: having a sugar boost can be the difference between sitting through a whole tattoo and maybe having to do it in 2 sessions.

If you’re getting a tattoo on your torso, please wear a loose button-down shirt: this gives you plenty of coverage (the shirt can be worn backwards for back access) whilst giving me access to the area I’ll be tattooing.

Please bring headphones to your session if you’re able to: I wear my own headphones during most tattoo sessions as it allows me to focus on your tattoo without being overstimulated or getting anxious while working. While I love a chat before and after your tattoo, I generally like to stay pretty quiet while tattooing.

Please wear comfortable clothes that are appropriate to access the area that I’ll be tattooing. Also, tattooing can be a little on the messy side sometimes: while I will always try my best to not get ink on your clothes, it’s always a good idea to wear something that you wouldn’t be upset getting a little ink on.

Don’t come in if you have a hangover. I won’t tattoo hungover clients, so please let me know ahead of time if you are going to have a big night beforehand and I’ll reschedule you.

What to bring: a water bottle, photo ID, headphones, a comfy warm layer in winter, a snack.

If you plan on driving in for your appointment, the best place for all day parking would be at the Johnston st Coles, access is via Argyle st. All day parking is $14, so if you’re coming in for a longer session it’s a great place to park. If you’re catching public transport, the no.11 tram goes right past the studio: you can catch this from Melbourne CBD along Collins st, and disembark at stop no.16, Johnston st.