FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
SCROLL DOWN FOR SOME OF MY MOST WANTED ANSWERS
@e.hayes.art
How do I book in with you?
I take my enquiries via my booking form (click here) where we begin the consultation process through a few emails & then discuss a date/time
When should I expect a reply to my enquiry?
I endeavour to reply to enquiries as quickly as I can, whilst also being present and accurate with my response. Admittedly, a busy week can mean it typically takes 3-4 days to hear from me - but I always post to my instagram story if I am delayed for any reason (the best place to find any of my updates)
Do you offer in-person consultations?
Absolutely! I fully appreciate that sometimes emails don't feel like enough communication to ensure I understand your vision, so am more than happy to meet in person, have a chat, and flesh out a few more details (especially for larger/ongoing projects). I typically do my consults in the morning/evening, so if you'd like to organise one, please add that to the 'design description' portion of your enquiry form
How long will my appointment take?
The answer to this question is rather nuanced, as it depends on a few factors including: the size & intricacy of the design, placement on the body, if symmetry is involved, your skin & how you/your body reacts to being tattooed, etc. I also approach every appointment with priority towards comfort, connection & excellence - all of which can't be rushed, so time isn't the motivating factor in a session with me, rather your experience being the best it absolutely can. Typically, I would recommend against booking anything shortly after our appointment/until the evening, to allow time for breaks, photos, and attention to detail. If you do, however, need to be somewhere at a particular time, please let me know at your earliest convenience so I can facilitate that as best I can.
If your tattoo is quite small/simple, this does reduce the need to clear a full day, but I'm happy to quote a (rough) estimated time upon enquiry
Can/should I use numbing cream?
The use of numbing cream is always something you should discuss with any artist prior to a session together - as numbing cream's active ingredient: 'lidocaine' dramatically changes the texture of the skin and makes it more difficult to tattoo. Typically, we apply numbing cream when the potential pain anticipated (largely dictated by placement) outweighs a client's ability to sit for a considerable duration of the tattoo. This also means the artist understands that their canvas will be compromised, and they can alter their plan accordingly. My pieces use very small needles which require a significant amount of feedback from the skin to achieve our desired style, which is made complex by the application of lidocaine (those small needles also tend to hurt a bit less than more traditional pieces, so you will likely find less of a desire to use numbing agents in general).
This is essentially an informative way to explain that I prefer my clients not to use numbing cream, and will always strive to make the experience as gentle and comfortable as possible. There is also never any pressure to sit for the entire duration, with the option to continue at a later date always being open. If you're worried about the pain aspect of a tattoo with me, please don't hesitate to let me know before your session and we can have a chat about what to expect!
I need to cancel/reschedule my appointment, what do I do?
Sometimes, life is hard! I understand that things happen and our paths aren't meant to align just yet. So if you find yourself in the position where you need to reschedule, or (sadly) cancel, I ask you let me know asap via email, instagram or phoning my studio. Deposits are refundable up to 48 hours prior to your appointment, so if you reach out before that window, I can return your deposit, or keep it for a rescheduled session.
Is there anything I should do to prepare for our appointment?
Funny you ask... I have actually dedicated an entire section of my website to pre-appointment tips! Click here for all of the ins and outs of how to ensure a session of smooth sailing! It will prove especially helpful if this happens to be your first tattoo (exciting), or you're just looking for a gold star from your artist haha! P.s. the more preparation you do, the easier it'll be for me to create a piece to my full ability - so help me, help you, and have a read!
What about aftercare? What's your regime?
I couldn't have a 'before your appointment' section, and not include an aftercare page too now could I? Click here for an in depth look at my recommendations on how to take the best care of your new addition, and have it looking as gorgeous as possible for as long as possible! A good tattoo is made better by adequate care, so flick through my tips for a well-rounded experience!
When will I see my design?
Every artist designs and alters their pieces differently - typically, I won't show my client their design until the day of the appointment. While this may seem frustrating (which I truly understand), it is to ensure I don't spend countless hours throughout my busy week altering designs on top of a long list of tasks & commitments. When we are in an appointment together, I can give you my undivided attention, so I'm happy to make small changes on the day until you are fully satisfied with your new addition (as I will always hold the respect for this being your body & canvas, not mine). I will show the design in advance under special circumstances, but not necessarily 'at request', but there is never any pressure to commit to anything you aren't in love with.
