FAQ

Pricing is based on size, complexity, placement, and estimated time required. Smaller pieces are typically priced per piece. Larger work, sleeves, and multi-session projects are priced per hour. Steve does not post fixed rate sheets — pricing is discussed during consultation after reviewing your application. Submit your application for a personalized quote.

Yes. There is a shop minimum that applies to all tattoos regardless of size. This minimum covers materials, preparation, sanitation, and Steve's time. The minimum will be communicated during your consultation.

Payment plans are not offered. Full payment is due at the time of each session. For large multi-session projects, each session is paid for individually, making the cost more manageable over time.

Deposits are collected securely online via Stripe (credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay). Session payments are discussed and confirmed during your consultation.

A deposit of $250 or $500 is required to book, depending on the scope of your project. You can select your deposit amount in the booking form. For large-scale or multi-session pieces, the $500 deposit will be required — this will be confirmed during consultation.

All deposits are non-refundable. Your deposit compensates Steve for the time spent designing your custom artwork and reserving your appointment slot. If you need to reschedule, notify Steve at least 7 days in advance and your deposit will transfer to the new date once. Rescheduling a second time or canceling without notice forfeits the deposit.

All appointments are by application only. Submit your booking application and Steve will personally review it, then contact you within 1 to 3 business days to discuss your project, provide a quote, and schedule your appointment. Do not arrive at the studio without a confirmed appointment.

Cancellations must be made at least 7 days before your appointment. Late cancellations or no shows forfeit the deposit. If you need to reschedule notify Steve as early as possible. Your deposit can transfer once to a new date with adequate notice.

Steve works from a private studio and requests that clients attend appointments alone when possible. If you need a support person for comfort or accessibility reasons, please let Steve know in advance so arrangements can be made.

Before your appointment:

• Eat a full meal within 2 hours of your session
• Stay well hydrated the day before and morning of
• Get a good night's sleep
• Moisturize the skin in the tattoo area for 1–2 weeks prior
• Avoid sunburn on the placement area
• Wear or bring clothing that gives easy access to the placement area
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before your session
• Do not apply numbing creams without discussing with Steve first

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that provides easy access to the area being tattooed. If you're getting a back tattoo, wear a top that opens easily. For leg work, wear shorts or loose pants. Comfy is key. Long sessions can be tiring, so dress accordingly.

Surface healing typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. During the first 2 weeks, avoid sun exposure, swimming, soaking, and picking or scratching the tattoo. Steve will provide specific aftercare instructions at the end of your session.

Steve will give you detailed aftercare instructions at your appointment. Generally: keep the area clean with unscented mild soap, apply a thin layer of unscented lotion (Lubriderm, Aveeno, or similar), and keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight. Avoid petroleum-based products (Vaseline) on fresh tattoos.

Steve's primary specialties are blackwork, neo tribal, sacred geometry, mandala, blackout tattoos, large-scale compositions, full and half sleeves, cover-ups, blast overs, dotwork, geometric, and fine linework. See the portfolio for examples of each style.

Steve's primary focus is blackwork and black and grey. He works predominantly in solid black, black and grey, and all variations of dark blackwork styles. For projects requiring full color, reach out through the booking form and Steve will let you know if it's a good fit.

Steve tattoos most body areas including arms, legs, torso, back, chest, ribs, thighs, and more. Certain placements like hands, necks, and faces require prior tattoo experience and are assessed case by case. Mention your desired placement in the booking application.

Yes — 100%. Every tattoo Steve creates is custom designed from scratch. There are no flash sheets, pre-made designs, or templates. He does not copy or replicate other artists' work. Your tattoo will be drawn specifically for your body and your vision.

Absolutely. Reference images are helpful and encouraged — they give Steve a sense of your style, aesthetic preferences, and elements you like. You can upload reference images directly in the booking form. Keep in mind, Steve uses references as inspiration, not as exact copies.

Steve presents the custom design on the day of your appointment — this is standard practice for custom tattoo work, and part of what makes the experience special. Designs are not sent in advance unless previously discussed and agreed upon during consultation.

Yes. Steve specializes in cover up tattoos. Feasibility depends on the size age color and saturation of the existing work. Submit clear photos of the existing tattoo in your application and Steve will assess what's possible.

A blast over is a tattoo placed over or around an existing piece without trying to hide it. The new design incorporates and transforms the old one rather than covering it completely. This often results in dramatic large scale blackwork compositions. Steve is highly experienced in blast overs and they are one of his signature specialties.

In many cases, yes — Steve has experience tattooing over scar tissue. Results depend on the type, age, and texture of the scar. Raised keloid scars require special consideration. Submit photos in your application and Steve will provide an honest assessment.

Yes. All bookings begin with a consultation either in person or via email or DM. The consultation covers your design concept placement size style estimated time and pricing. Submit the booking application to start the process and Steve will reach out to schedule a consultation.

Steve personally reviews all applications and responds within 1 to 3 days. If you haven't received a response after 5 business days feel free to follow up via email at stevesherickco@gmail.com or on Instagram at @steveshericktattoo.